Goodbye Riley

[DenverGP]

Had to say goodbye to Riley, my 17 year old black lab / greyhound mix. She blew out both knees about 7 years ago. Recovered from that, and lived with bad lab hips for many years.

I know some had discussed an in-home vet service to be able to put a pet to sleep in your own home. I think that was one up north a bit. We used Caring Pathways http://www.caringpathways.com/ The vet was very good, the whole process took about an hour. Wonderful to avoid all the stress on my pup that goes along with going to the vet hospital.

I'd definitely recommend this service for anyone in the tough situation of having to let an old/sick pup go.

Here she is back in 2004, when my son was only 15 years old. He's now 28, and got to be here to say goodbye to his pup.

[funkymonkey1111]

Always a hard and terrible day, but take comfort in the care and good life you gave her. In-home definitely is the way to go

[pickenup]

Sorry to hear it. It is never easy.

[Fentonite]

Rest in peace, Riley. Run with good hips now.

Sorry for your loss. It's clear that you gave her a great life, and it's so good that your son was able to say goodbye.

[BPTactical]

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.



RIP Riley

Sincerest condolences GP

[StagLefty]

Always a tough loss-condolences !!

[newracer]

My condolences. 17 years is a good long life for a dog but it is never easy.

[Bailey Guns]

Sorry for the loss of your friend.

[Zundfolge]

Condolences ... 17 years is pretty darn good, and I have to agree that the at-home services are the way to go.

[ChadAmberg]

The last several years I've made a couple of these types of posts. Never regretted a single minute.

I'm very sorry your buddy has left us.