She's declined so rapidly I'm devastated.
Started with weakness in her back legs in spring time which steadily progressed to losing the ability to jump. She stayed comfortable over the summer however, and had her last holiday with us in July. Since then her legs have got steadily weaker until a few weeks ago she couldn't manage the stairs anymore.
Despite this she was still eating and drinking and still continent, still wanting a walk even though it was only to the end of our cul-de-sac and back. She still seemed interested in her usual life and liked a sniff and a bark outside albeit a very slow version so we didn't think it was quite her time yet. We started preparing ourselves though and had an appointment booked for next week as we thought it was coming but not quite time.
However in just 12hrs things have changed and over the course of the day she now can't walk or hold herself up and has stopped eating or drinking. Shes had a few treats and some rice. She's peacefully sleeping next to me right now but I'm phoning the vet in the morning to have her put to sleep as soon as possible.
I'm absolutely devastated for her. I thought we were going to do it before it got bad for her but I think we are now beyond that.
She's been my best friend for 16 and the best of dogs. I really wanted to get it right for her and I'm going to miss her little yappy self so much.