We inherited a dog from a family member who passed away 8 years ago. He wasn't treated very well but has been treated like royalty since becoming ours. I'm just sad I didn't know the circumstances beforehand as I would've done everything in my power to have had him sooner.
We simply absolutely adore him. He was our baby when we didn't have babies then continued to be afterwards. He's just wonderful.
The past week has seen him decline significantly. He's struggling to walk. He is vomiting bile regularly and has barely been eating. He's passing urine when he stands up after lying down. His breath smells cancerous - sounds silly but my MILs both dogs had the exact same breath; both of whom had cancer. He's not interested in eating the past two days and has lost weight. His beautiful coat has lost its shine. He's a very very active dog but has been struggling to get out of the door for his walks which are his favourite thing. We took him to see the vet on Monday and she'd spoken about putting him down. He's outlived the life expectancy of both breeds (he's a cross) at 15. We declined, hoping for a miraculous recovery as this has all happened so very quickly.
We are going abroad for three weeks - our flight is early hours on Monday morning. We are getting married there next week, so can't postpone. He was booked to be at a dog sitter's house for the duration - she lives in a farm house amongst sprawling fields which he loves. But I just know he won't be here when we get home. His little body is so, so tired and he's lost his zest for life.
I've noticed a decline for months but the past week I've seen a dog I don't recognise. My children utterly adore him and he loves them too. He's been my rock in so many ways and for so long.
Would the right thing be to have him put to sleep tomorrow, so he is with us? We have contacted a vet who are able to do it but the thought just shatters my heart in to a million pieces. The decision just feels so rushed but I don't want him to suffer any more than he already has been. I can't even look at him tonight. My poor baby.