IthinkIsawahairbrushbackthere ·
06/11/2020 10:48
On Monday my beautiful elderly terrier died in my arms on the way to the vet. He and I had such a close bond I knew he didn't have long (although I had hoped it would be longer) and I had spent a lot of time thinking about what I would do when he went.
In September at his annual health check we were told he had a serious issue with his lungs but because of his age (13+) we chose not to investigate it further then two weeks ago he had an enormous fit. Bloodwork showed no reason for the fit but he had kidney failure. Aside from the fit he was bright and cheerful, eating well, keeping the other dogs in their place - he was fine but I knew he wouldn't last long.
On Sunday he was bright and happy but on Monday he was too weak to move. He had another fit and died in my arms as we took him to the vet.
Even though we still have two dogs my house is so empty without him and we have decided to get another terrier as soon as possible. The local rescues won't consider us because one of our dogs is not neutered. He isn't strictly ours - he belongs to my mum but she is unable to care for him. For us to have him neutered against her wishes would be cruel to her. She keeps hoping she will be well enough to have him back even though we doubt it will be possible.
So we are looking for a puppy.
I have a found a litter of small terriers locally - nothing at all like my old boy - and we are going to visit them on Monday (Wales lock down ends) and all being well will bring our dog home the following week.
I feel like I am walking a tightrope between heartache for my old boy who could never be replaced and excitement about the new life I will be starting with the pup.