I'm at the vets. My dog is very ill. Help me get through this.

[ApolloandDaphne]

My beautiful 12 year old lab has been slowing down a lot lately but today she was visibly very unwell. I'm at the vets and they have done tests. She has a mass on her liver. I don't think she is coming home. I'm on my own at the moment and am struggling to cope. How do I manage this?

Tell me about her?
You manage by knowing you have done your best for her and by knowing that right now, you are doing the best you can for her.
But, do tell me about her - her name, her bad habits? The bits that always make you smile? She knows she is loved and none of us can ask for more.
Big hug

@ApolloandDaphne I'm so sorry to hear that op just giving you a handhold

Here she is in her favourite spot in the garden.

Her name is Sadie. She was a little rascal as a pup but grew into a loyal dependable friend.

It's awful isn't it. You get through because you have to, I found the all the staff at the vets were really kind and supportive when I lost my old fella, hopefully you can lean on them. Is there anyone who can come to you?

Beautiful girl

She's beautiful. Labs are wonderful dogs aren't they

She’s gorgeous and you’ve clearly given her a beautiful life. Handhold from me OP.

My DH is away on business and my Dads live a long way from us. My DM can't drive as far as mine. So for the moment I'm on my own. They are all aware though.

My DDs that should say.

She’s beautiful. Big hug. She will know right until the end how loved she is x

oh no!
I do hope it is not the worst news you are expecting. Big hugs.

First of all be led by the vet. They will explain what they've found and what the next steps are.

Unless absolutely dire news meaning immediate kindness, you may be encouraged to bring your darling dog home for a night before bringing her back to the vet, or the vet might offer coming to you at home to reduce stress on her and you.

It's the price we pay for all the love (my eyes are prickling for you)

It's such a hard thing to go through, hand hold from me too.

Sadie knows how much she is loved and how much joy she has brought to your life.
Sending big hugs to you, this is the moment all pet owners dread ... you have given her an incredible life I'm sure of that.

Hand hold here for this awful moment. She’s a beaut. Remember it’s awful for you but she’ll be looked after and accompanied better than had she been a human 😢 God bless amazing Sadie

She is very loved. All my neighbours adore her too. She is the granny of the neighbourhood dogs and has special status bestowed upon her! Like the queen dog.

Awww OP, this is absolutely the worst part about having such lovely pets. We pay such a big price for loving them so much.

Thinking of you. I’ve been there, with various dogs and other pets that I have loved over the years, there’s nothing worse. Sending so much love to you both. Sadie is absolutely beautiful x

I'm so sorry. Sadie is beautiful. What a lovely photo of her.

I’m so sorry to read your post about your beautiful girl and I hope you feel the love and support of us all through our messages here. There’s a website and Instagram account called A Touch Of Moxy which may be helpful, there have been some really comforting stories and thoughts shared on there for anyone who loves their pet. Take care and give precious Sadie a kiss from me. 💔🐾

Sending virtual hugs for you and Sadie.

A queen of doggies.
I hope the vets can help

I'm dealing with a poorly dog at the moment so I can completely understand how you are feeling. I think you will know in your gut what the right thing is to do. I'm sorry your family aren't with you just now. That's really hard.

So sorry OP. Sadie is a beautiful girl bless her. Looking very regal there
The worst part of having our lovely furry friends as part of our lives is definitely having to say goodbye.
Best wishes to you ♥️

Here are two more photos.

I love the grey distinguished muzzle of an older dog. Bless you, it is heart breaking but you can let her go knowing she only knew love right till her final sleep. I still miss my girl who we lost last year at 14. It is such a huge loss. I'm sorry you are going through it.

Been there with 2 labs. It's shit.

Being brutal - she's 12 and has a mass. Don't keep her hanging on. Made that mistake with my first lab and regret it bitterly. Vets tend to give you 'options' and don't want to suggest putting to sleep. This is your opportunity to do one last thing for her - make her end quick and peaceful.