Just got back from the vet’s office. Sparky, our pet cat for the last 19 years apparently had a clot go into her brain last night; this morning when we came downstairs, she was staggering, unable to walk, stand, or function in any way.
At her age, the best alternative was euthenasia—which was what the doctor recommended.
She was put down at about 1:00 pm today. We just buried her in a small plot next to the fish pond she loved to visit—and next to the grave of Cat.
Sparky had the distinction of having had her picture in the New York Times (with me and the aforementioned, Cat) back on April 10, 1994. The picture and story accompanying it were on the front page of the second section—above the fold.
We'll miss her—she truly was a sweetheart.
Sparky comes in at the very end of a story I wrote for OS. If you have time to read it, do so. I think you will like it.
Here are some pix taken during the last week:
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Comments
Frank,I am with you and your family because I have had to euthanize a young dog,2 1/2 years old.
Later on,I had a dog that died at age 12 after 6 years of diabetes.It is very hard,I know.
Now I have a dog,11 years old,and I hope he is going to stay well for some time to come.
Your sparky is probably thankful for you taking the step.I have heard that animals tend to hide their weekness so they would not be killed by the clowder.
"Time to say Good bye..."
nothing but tears and hugs for you..
HUGGGGGGGG
♥
My condolences, Frank.
I lost two cats to fip last year (brother and sister), we were in shock. They become such a large part of our lives those little critters.
Best wishes.
I'm sorry, Frank. I know this pain, I've had to say that last farewell for three beloved cats, now. I view it as the last, most loving act of responsible pet care, to put a suffering animal out of pain.
But it sure is hard to come home to an empty house, unable to stop yourself from looking around for that cat.
It's obviously too soon right now, but my advice is, when it feels right, find yourself a new cat friend. There are lots of cats who need a friend, these days.
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...thank you all—from me and Nancy. Our little girl is gone, but still in our hearts. We'll take a bit of time to feel the loss...and more than likely soon give a home to a couple of kittens needing a place to stay.
Don't want to get too philosophical here, but the pain we feel right now is the result of the love and enjoyment we derived from the little bundle of fur in the past. Can't really have one without the other.
When Cat and Sweet Pea left us (from the linked story) it was heavy, but for some reason, the loss of Sparky (the runt of the group) has hit especially hard.
Your kind words, and the kind words of everyone here, has heartened Nancy and me. Thanks.
Condolences on your loss.