10/13/2010

We'll miss you old man...


Tonight we made the right decision. Tonight we cried. Tonight we gave dignity and grace to our oldest cat, Roo. He had been battling with intestinal issues for months now and reluctantly taking meds for it... VERY reluctantly. After 14 years it was time to say goodbye to him. Just a few nights ago, in the wee early hours, I rushed him outside so he didn't puke all over our bedroom. He did not come home until late that night and our minds went into a tailspin and I felt like the biggest heel in the world. "What ifs" consumed our minds. When he did finally come back home, the decision became much clearer. He didn't want to be touched. He walked past the food dish with disinterest. He hid on a shelf in the laundry room. Most importantly though, he was not smiling anymore. It was time.

So this evening, after he snarfed down a nice big plate of tuna with the rest of the gang at the Kit Kat Klub, our wonderful sister-in-law and veterinarian came to our house and humbly did her job. Roo went peacefully and left our home in her loving arms. I can't say enough good things about this lady. We are SO extremely blessed to have her in our lives.

I have had pets put down several times in my life, but I really never remember being there for the final moments. As hard as it was, it truly was a beautiful moment to see him at complete peace. I have long understood that the best things in life, the biggest gifts your heart receives, will NEVER come to you easy. Words from my daughter today were right on the mark. She quoted French writer Anatole France, "Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened."

You will be greatly missed old man. Thank you for being a part of our lives.