Dog lovers I need your prayers. I had a just horrible week. My husband and I had to make the decision to put down our beloved golden retriever, Holly this week. Holly was almost 14 years old and had been treated for severe arthritis for 5 months. Monday I noticed that she had massive swelling on her leg, paw and elbow and the vets x-rays showed full bone involvement of cancer. Not only were we unprepared for the decision to put her down, but my daughter who is dealing with depression and hospitalized, doesn't know yet that we had to put her down. The only other option would have been amputation and we just couldn't do this to our girl. Her quality of life had been minimal and we didn't think it would be fair to put her thru anything else. I am heartbroken. This girl was my kids constant companion when they were younger, and my companion in my office these last few years. Luckily I am feeling well 2 weeks post op for lap band surgery. Weight loss has been steady and I am having no complications. Leslie 250/216/140ish

I am so sorry at your loss. God will send you comfort in knowing that you released her from pain and suffering. And as time heals, I am sure you will be finding a new friend to share the love you have with. Not to replace her, but to honor her by giving another one the love you gave her, and she gave to you. Hugs, Lynda

I am so sorry for your loss. It's terrible when pets die and more terrible when people don't realize that to some people, a pup is part of the family as much as a child. You are in my thoughts and prayers. It may sound funny or strange, but when we had our dog put down, we didn't want to deal with the void in our lives and went out and got another pup the next day. Stormy can't replace Tiny Ebbs, in our heart, but we realized our heart was large enough for Stormy to be in there too. Again, sorry. Stay healthy Phil

Hi Leslie, I am so sorry for the loss of your Golden. I know how hard it is. I agree with the first two posts, and that is what I did. It is a difficult time. Only animal lovers know that the pup is part of the family. We now have 2 Bichons and they are family. My sympathy to you and your family. On a brighter note, congratulations on you lap band surgery. Sounds like your weight loss is ahead of the game. I wish you the best. Lee

Thank you all for your support. We told our daughter about the loss of her dog and she is dealing with it as well as expected. On a brighter note, we have decided that once she is out of the hospital we will look for a new pet for her. Nothing brings a smile to your face faster than a puppy. I truly appreciate all of your kind words. Leslie 250/214/140ish