Cherise

Hi,

My name is Alex, I'm a college freshman at Penn State. Recently my dog Cherise has been diagnosed with bone cancer in her leg. I am about to head home for spring break, and it will likely be the last chance I get to spend with my dog. I had a very up and down childhood with my family. My parents got divorced at the age of 7. At age 8 I got Cherise, who would ultimately become one of the biggest influences in my life. When she was a puppy there was a breaking period, where she was really immature like a child and would be disobedient to me, but not my father. As I grew so did she and we followed oddly similar paths as we grew up. I had issues during my teen years with my dad, typical power struggles some times ending in brutal arguments. All the while Cherise would be there for me, a friend, a person I could talk, cry, and vent to. If I hadn't had her I don't know if I would have kept myself as grounded academically, as I was. As I'm nearing the end of my first year I am faced with the fact that one of the most important family members in my life is dying. For the first time, after all the disobedience from her, and the nurturing while I was struggling, it is my turn to return the favor for her in the most critical time of her life. I am very down about this, and I have yet to even see her. When I actually see her I have a feeling it will be bad. I was told that not showing stress in front of your dog during this period of passing is important. I know dogs can sense stress obviously. But if anybody has any help I would appreciate it.

Benpaws

Dear Alex,
Your story indeed brought tears to my eyes. Dogs often come into our lives at a time when we have nobody else in whom we can confide and they will "keep our secrets, share our pain, lick away our tears and keep us grounded with their unconditional love."
I am so sorry to hear that Cherise has bone cancer and yes, your Spring Break will be difficult with Cherise ill with this terrible disease.
I can only tell you to love her and give back all the love she gave to you during your difficult times. She is living in the moment and does not understand what is ahead of her as you do. Dogs do know our every mood and so it is important to stay focused and positive when you are with her.
She would want you to be happy and continue your studies and do well. She got you to this point and it is up to you to let her "know she is loved, has made a difference in your life, will never be forgotten and if the time has come to say goodbye, you must let her go with dignity."
My prayers go out to you at this sad time.
You need to be strong for the sake of this beloved companion who has been strong for you and never let you down.

Blessings,
Joanne & Puppy Shadow

TJandDante

Yes, your spring break will be hard for you but you will be so glad that you have been faithful to this dog and do not want to let her down in any way. Your dog knows you probably better than anyone and knows your heart. Even though you will try to hide your sorrow, your dog will know. She will also know your joy in seeing her and being with her.

Expect her to have weight loss and look much older and more tired. Our son (who is in the Air Force)came home in August and saw what we did not-that Dante was skinnier and old-looking. Since we saw him every day, we didnt notice the decline but he did. He had this dog growing up, from the time he was 12 until he went into the military.

Just give lots of love and make sure she is comfortable in her last days. She knows you love her.

We are here for you.

Alicia

Dear Alex,

I'm sorry to hear about your Cherise. I am currently going through the same heartbreaking pain that you are. My best buddy was just diagnosed with Lymphoma and was given a mear 3 months to live and he is only 7 years old. Our family is completely devestated.

You have been so blessed to have him around for a long time. You should feel at peace that you have given him a great life and that he has lived a long and wonderful life. I know saying goodbye will be heartbreaking, but you don't want him to suffer. I know vets always say that we owe it to our pets, to let them go with dignity and not to let them suffer. It's a terrible thing, one that I'm not looking forward to.

My heart breaks for you and I just pray that you can find peace in knowing that you have given your friend and great life.

Regards...Alicia

Cherise

Thank you guys. When I got home today I managed initially. She doesn't have use of her right hind leg anymore and hops along. I was ok, until it became time to feed her and let her out. After putting her food down I broke down and couldn't help but let it all out. She fell in the snow and it made me feel awful. She is still happy and runs on her hobble as best she can, wagging her tail and acting seemingly happy. I hope this continues for a while. Again thanks for your support, it's helpful.

Raymond

Sounds like you are holding up pretty good. What type of dog is your fur baby?

When feeling super emotional with her, go into another room or outside. She doesn't know she is dying, you do. If she is with your father, there may be some special bonding between the two of you. This would make Cherise happier than anything else...except a treat.

Cherise

Thank you guys all. It's getting better. She is a Black Lab Labrador Retreiver mix. We gave her a steak tonight which she really loved. She is happy, just hobbled.

TJandDante

She is probably overjoyed to see you, enjoy her good spirits. Dante wagged his tail until the end. As long as she is having quality of life and enjoyment, that's all you can ask for. She will let you know when she has had enough of this life.
Enjoy your sweet pet.
TJ