My two kids and I used to go to the Orange County Animal Shelter on Saturdays for something free to do. We always wanted a dog, but didn't have the room. One Saturday, there was a cute brown and white, medium-sized guy on death row leaning on the bars of his cage just watching us go up and down the row. I noticed him because he was the only dog not barking and going crazy in his cage. We asked if we could visit with him in the visiting area. My daughter sat down on the only chair in the room and he ran directly at her, buried his nose in her lap as if to say, "Please, please get me out of here." That's all it took for me to slap down $50.00 and save his life. We had him almost 13 years. He was the sweetest, most lovable, huggie guy. He was so smart, we could swear he knew English!
When the vet told me that he had blown out his ACL on his good leg (his other leg was useless), I was devastated. I knew it was time. Something I had been in denial about for some time. The kids and I discussed our options that day and realized we really didn't have any options. I never knew there was at home euthanasia and was so glad I found Dr. Annie's website. I called her and made the appointment for the next night. On his last day, Buddy did everything he absolutely loved. We took him bye-bye car all day, played tennis ball with him and gave him an 8 oz. raw steak for dinner. He was so happy!
Before Dr. Annie got there, my sister and her kids came over to say goodbye. As Dr. Annie prepared him for the final injection, we all laid hands on him. He was so calm and relaxed. As he received the final injection, I held his face to mine and told him, "Look at me, Buddy, we love you so much." As he closed his eyes for the last time, my sister and I both saw what looked like a smile from him. No more pain.
Dr. Annie was so kind through it all. She told us to take our time with him and she waited outside while we said our final goodbyes. This last month has been extremely difficult without him here. It has helped that my son brought home a puppy.
Thank you for all you did for Buddy and for us. You helped make his passing so peaceful. I wasn't sure what to expect since I have never had to put a dog down before. The thought of him going at the vet's office was too much to bear. This was the kindest thing we could have done for him and I'm so glad I found your website.
When we talk about how much we miss Buddy, we say we picture him up in heaven running after his beloved tennis balls without any pain!
Thank you again for everything.
Regards,
The Saccios
Rancho Santa Margarita