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Saying Our Goodbyes

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Today will be the day.

We’ve prayed and we’ve watched her decline rapidly. In the past few days, she has had hardly anything to eat.

We’re beside ourselves with grief and we haven’t even taken her to the animal hospital yet.

She’s in a lot of pain and she’s telling us it’s time. I’m home. I’m here. And I couldn’t not be here when we say goodbye. So it’s time.

Please pray for our girl and for us today as we take this journey.

ClaudiaSignature140X93

 

Comments

    • I was going to text you. I’m glad you know. My heart is breaking, Mere. My heart is breaking.

      • Three weeks ago today I had say good by to my fifteen year old Maine Coon Cat, Manytoes. I feel your sadness along with you today. There is a peace that comes when you know that they never have to suffer. I wish none of us had to go through the sadness that we must face in our lost of them. I had rather have them and feel the lost than have never had them in my life. So sorry this day has come for the three of you. I will remember all of you in my prayers.

  4. My prayers are with you. We just recently had to put our dog to sleep and there is nothing harder. I’m so sorry.

  5. You have my prayers & thoughhts.
    I wish there was something I could do.
    Bless Scout & her beautiful memories.
    I known she has a beautiful soul.
    (((((Claudia)))))
    Monica

  8. Praying for you. Know that it is so much harder for us. I can hope that our Molly girl, whom we put fown 2 weeks ago, will greet her at the Rainbow Bridge.

  10. With every fiber of my being I send you love and peace. Helen Keller said “everything that we have loved becomes a part of us”….Scout, forever a part of you.

  11. Just know I’m thinking of you all and praying hard. You knew in your heart when it would be time and now you are doing the right thing for that lovely girl. There’s a special beautiful place awaiting her I’m sure.
    Hugs – Mary XXX

  14. Claudia, tears are flowing down my face. I just knew for some reason it was today. Just as you sensed it for me Saturday. My love to all of you and I share in your grief and loss with you.
    Sending hugs and holding your hand,
    Linda

  15. I am so sorry. You are good and brave. Your hearts may be heavy but Scout’s spirit is light. Thinking of you.

  17. Oh I am so sad for you and Don today. Scout is such a part of so many of Us out here in Blogland. We have enjoyed her antics over the years. she will so enjoy her reunion with dear Riley and all your dogs will be waiting for you at Rainbow Bridge! Prayers for your broken hearts today and for your strength and courage.

  20. I am so sorry Claudia and Don. My prayers are with you today and into the future. I recently had to make this decision with my 17 year old cat. Not easy at all.

  22. I’m so sorry, Claudia. You’ve had so many losses recently. Life can be so hard at times. Much love and prayers for you, Don and Scout.

  23. Claudia I am so sorry. I have been in this same situation before and see your heart is breaking. Find peace in knowing how beautifuly you and Don have cared for her. She will forever be in your heart.

  27. Claudia…I don’t comment often, but our family reads you every day. You have influenced our lives in so many ways we feel like we know you, Don and dear Scout like neighbors. Our whole family is thinking of you and holding you in our hearts during this sad, sad time. I wish I could send you a big hug and a veggie casserole thru the internet. May you find comfort and grace.

    Much love…

    Karen Ramos & family

  29. Claudia I am so sorry this day has come. I’ve had to do the same with my beloved dog and I know how heart wrenching it is – my thoughts to you and Don.

  30. So sorry that this special girl’s outer light is dimming as the inner one flares before going out. So lucky she, Winston and Riley had you and Don as parents. So many animal spirits on the other side of the rainbow bridge will be there to greet her and share their special places to romp. And your parents as well to give her rubs behind her sweet ears. And she will make a tunnel there and dream of you. No dog could have been more loved and she thanks you for releasing from her pain. We are there for you, Tina and Noble

  32. I think I knew, after I ‘talked’ to you yesterday. I discussed it with my husband and we sadly revisited something of what you’re going through. It is the worst; just…the worst. I am so, so sorry, Claudia. My deepest sympathies to you and Don from every beat of my heart. I respect very much the love and care you’ve given to your beloved pet. This was a dog who was adored. You honor her by being her voice, her advocate, her family in her greatest time of need. Somehow be washed with a little bit of relief that she will no longer struggle and that you’ve given her dignity at her ending. And that you’re both there, you and Don, to send her to her next destination in the journey, with loving words and loving touch, from your arms to God’s. Please know that although none of your readers can be with you to hold you and give comfort at this difficult time, we are here with our words, here in thought, shedding tears along with you; here to listen when you need to talk this out as days pass. No word of condolence is good enough but please know that my thoughts are with you and Don on this unbearable day.

  33. Oh Claudia, I am so sorry. I pray that she will be pain free and have peace today. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. -Heather

  34. You’ve made many decisions for Scout with love; this is the greatest one and the hardest one and the one requiring the most love. You have each other’s love and the love of your family and friends, real and ‘virtual’ to sustain you now.

  36. Oh, Claudia. I had a feeling yesterday about this. I’m so very sorry. I’ve been in your position and it’s so hard. Sending good thoughts and prayers for all of you as Scout begins her journey over the Rainbow Bridge. My heart is breaking for you and Don.

  37. My heart is breaking for you and Don. As hard as this is….Scout will be in a better place…free of pain. Blessings. ;)

  38. Be gentle, be kind to each other on this very difficult day. Scout has had a beautiful life,loved every day. A wonderful life! In time you will only remember the joy she has brought you. But for today and the sad days ahead be oh so tender with yourself and each other. Everyone who has ever known such a dark day knows the ache in your heaft. Wishing you both comfort.

  39. I can’t stop crying, I am so sorry. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Don and sweet Scout. Just know she loved the two of you very much and she knew you and Don loved her very much. She will be waiting along with your others you have had in the past. When it is time you will be with her again. For now God will take care of her for you. Many ((HUGS))

  40. Claudia and Don,

    I am so sorry that you are having to say goodbye to your beautiful girl. Nothing can be said to make this easier for either of you. I’m sending prayers and good thoughts to you both. Also sending those same thoughts and prayers for Scout as she begins her next journey. I will light a candle for the next few nights for Scout to guide her on her way. I know that Riley along with my little guys Mister and Nash will meet her with joy. I pray you both find peace. Hold onto one another.

    Belinda

  42. I’m so sorry, Claudia, for you and Don. Scout is loved by so many, too. Wishing you strength and love.

  44. Thank you for loving and cherishing all of your pets, Claudia. Their lives would have been so different without your guardianship. You have done everything possible to give Scout a wonderful life and now you can give her a loving and peaceful transition. She is counting on you to help her, as you have done always.

    Love and hugs to you and Don.

  45. ,
    My heart aches for you all! You just know when the time has come and I am so glad you are there to be with Don and Scout. Praying for you all,

    Love
    Judy

  46. Prayers for you both. Scout was a beloved family member. My 4, Ginger, Muffie. Cody and Cole will take care of her. I have a sweet mental picture of all these doggies running, pain free in a lush green meadow. Love.

  48. sending sympathy, hugs and prayers for you all to have peace, comfort and the firm knowledge that you are all together forever.

    kathy in iowa

  52. I am so sorry that this day has come. My heart hurts for you and Don. You are making the right decision, loving her enough to end her pain. I will be praying for Scott, Don, and you!

  53. Oh Claudia, Don and Scout, my heart is breaking for you all. I am so sorry.
    Words seem so useless at times like these. Sending you all prayers, and lots
    of hugs. Scout, you have been such a trooper!

  55. Tears are streaming down my face … I’m so sorry. She is your girl and you have been the very best parents she could have hoped for. May God comfort you in your time of sorrow and bring sweet memories to your mind.

  56. So very sorry for the three of you, Claudia. It is one of the most heart wrenching things we face sooner or later. Scout has definitely had the best life of any dog . Thinking about you and praying for you and Don. Hug each other and know you have done your very best.

  57. Claudia and Don, my heart is just breaking for. I am so very sorry. May you find some peace in knowing that you gave Dame Scout a wonderful life and she knew how very much she was loved. Even by all of us that never got to meet her. Sending peace and love to you.

  58. We have had several of these days…Bear, Sandy, Brinkley❤️. I feel your deep sadness but know that Scout will help you thing this. I’m sure she doesn’t want to say goodbye to her wonderful life with you and Don…she will leave you with so many memories shared with so much love. xxoo ?

  59. Oh, Claudia and Don. I am so sorry. You know in your hearts that it is the right thing to do but it is still very , very hard. I will be thinking of you three today.

  60. I am so very, very sorry. Scout was loved and cherished and she loved you in return. You and Don gave her a wonderful life and she was such a sweet, happy dog. Hold on to knowing that truth and let it bring you some measure of peace in this very sad time. You’ve had so much loss in such a short period of time, it can be hard to see the light. But know that you are not alone, Scout is at peace, and her light will always be with you.

  61. I’m so sorry. There is nothing harder than this, and nothing so emotional. I have been thinking of all of you and will hold you close in thought today.

  62. My mom shared this quote from an unknown author when we lost our dog to lung cancer last year. “Dogs come into our lives to teach us about love, they depart to teach us about loss. A new dog never replaces an old dog; it merely expands the heart. If you have loved many dogs your heart is very big.” This really helped me. I hope it helps you.

  64. Claudia I am crying as I write this. I have followed you for 5 years now and feel I know you, Don and Scout as well as Riley. It breaks my heart that you and Don have to go through this it is the hardest decision to make but when you love a dog as much as you love Scout it is also the bravest and kindest thing you can do for her. Her and Riley will be together again, I truly believe that. My heart is with all of you today. We will all miss Scout dearly.

    Sue

  65. Dear Claudia, I can’t say better what all your blog readers have already said. I am thinking of the three of you and wish I could take some of the hurt away. Remember that Scout loves you both and absolutely knows you both love her.

  66. Holding you all close to my heart. What a blessing she has been to you both and what a blessing you both have been to her. As hard as it is right now I know you would not have traded your time with her for anything in the world. xoxo

  67. Claudia and Don, prayers for you both. I have been in your situation and it’s so hard. You both will be in my thoughts today.

  68. I am so sorry and share your grief. I had to let my 16 year old girl go last month. I sat holding her and our vet said,” you have been a good mama for 16 years and part of being a good mama is knowing when to say goodbye.” Our fur kids bring us such fun and joy so now I can only be glad for the gift that she was for so long. Sonja

  70. My heart breaks for you. There are no words – just a virtual hug. May you find peace and know you made the right choice. Be strong my friend.

  72. Claudia and Don, my heart break for you and I am weeping as I type this. I was exactly where you are August 21st. After several discussions with my husband and vet we decided Munchen would let us know when the time was. Sadly my husband was out of town and could not return and honestly I did not want to prolong her suffering. What is so strange is that although I could see she was failing it was like overnight she completely changed. It was the most excruciating and heartbreaking decision I have ever made, Munchen was my daughter. Thank God we had wonderful vets and they laid on the floor and shed as many tears as I did. My vet told me that this is the most selfless and brave decision you can make for your loved one.

    My prayers, thoughts, tears and more are with you. Scout knows that she is loved and that is all that matters.

    Take care of yourself and Don and this incredibly difficult time.

  73. My thoughts are with you. I have been in your place too many times and even knowing its right thing to do it is the hardest thing in the world. I feel your sadness and loss. Our beloved lab passed away on the day we were going to take him in. There was a male Cardinal throwing a fit on the roof of a lanai where we were at the time of his passing. It was almost as if the cardinal was there for our Chumley. Now ever time I see a cardinal I think of him. I’m not a real religious person but I’ve come to believe in reincarnation and feel him near me along with all the other furry family members we have lost.
    Scout has had a very rich life with you and Don and has enjoyed heaven on earth from your love. Take care………

  74. I had a feeling when I signed on that I might see such a message. She is telling you if she’s stopped eating and has lost her zest for food and life, and you’re so wise to hear her message. I know that knowledge doesn’t ease your pain.

  75. Thinking of you and Don. So, so sorry to hear of Scout’s passing. She was such a lovely soul.

    Elle

  79. Oh, how they break your heart……but how we love them!!!! Hugs to you and Don. XXX Thinking of you. Barbara C (UK)

  82. Dear Claudia,
    Thinking of you, Don, and your sweet Scout. You gave your beloved Scout a wonderful life for many years.

    With love and sympathy,
    Tisha

  83. Sweet Scout was so very lucky to have such loving and dedicated parents…I am so sorry to hear this news, Claudia, but so glad you were home and able to say goodbye to her. Blessings to you and Don as you adjust to missing your beautiful girl…I only wish words could make it better, but we both know it’s not that simple…

  84. You are doing the right thing for Scout. She will cross the Rainbow Bridge and Riley will be waiting for her.

    Praying for you and Don.

    Sharon Carstens

  85. My heart is still broken from having made the same decision on Sept. 16 for my heart, Ace, my 10 and 1/2 year old boxer. He was on his favorite blanket, with his toy, next to me the whole time. I know it was the right choice, but it hurts to the very core. He was my baby, as Scout is yours. Hugs to you and Don. I know how hard this is to share.

  89. Just so sad for the three of you having to say goodbye. May the passing be peaceful for you all.
    Love from Mississippi.
    Susan

  90. So sorry. My heart goes out to your family. We are having the same discussion at our house but have not felt led to make the final decision. I understand your hearts are breaking, but Scout has family on the other side that will welcome her, hopefully this gives you some consolation.

    Much love,
    Susan

  92. Dear Claudia and Don ~ there are no adequate words except that I’m very sorry. My heart is breaking along with yours. Praying for both of you as you have to say your goodbyes to your precious Scout.

  93. Claudia, I just went through this one of our grand dogs. He was 16 and had lived a full life with our daughter as a rescue dog. He was blessed to be included into a loving family. This is very difficult to do, but you and Don are doing the right thing. Thinking of you both.

  95. Claudia & Don – My heart is breaking for you. We had to go through the same thing with our little one, so I know. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.
    Melanie

  96. Aw geez. No words, truly – just sadness. And ear scritches for your girl, and bear hugs for you guys.

    May the Force be with you both – and soothe your hearts – as you say goodbye to your wonderful wonderful Scout.

  97. Such a difficult decision to have to make…I will say a little prayer for Scout in her travels over the Rainbow Bridge and an extra prayer for you and Don. It always breaks ones heart to do what we know is right for our pets. There will be tears and you will be flooded with memories as you were with Riley, but it is what is best for Scout. She is tired and told you in the best way she could that it was time. I’m crying with you and will be thinking of all of you.

  100. Tears streaming down my face, I’m sooooooo sorry, she was a truly special dog/daughter. We lost our Rocco the doberman last fall, he was our 5th dog child to go . Prayers for you all.

  101. I just tried reading your post to Kerry and I couldn’t finish it because I’m crying so hard. My heart is broken in a million pieces for you and Don and Scout. I am so, so sorry, Claudia.
    Love and hugs,
    Donna

  102. So sorry, I am crying. But we lost 3 cats and they all came back later to say goodbye. There is a place in heaven for animals and they are there. (I’m not crazy) I am sure your lovely Scout will see you in the future.

  105. I can’t stop crying. My heart is breaking for you and Don.
    Scout has no more pain, and I can see her pouncing as Riley greets her. There is barking, and twirling, and there will be shenanigans!!
    I think you know that all of us are remembering the days we have gone though this same thing ~ too many times for sure.
    Time heals and we pray that our memories never leave us. ?

  106. This is the most difficult time we have with our beloved pets. Over the years they give us so much love and joy. Then comes the day we must make that difficult, awful decision. My heart breaks for you, Don and Scout.

  107. It is one of the hardest decisions that we make. My heartfelt sympathy to you and Don.

    Julie Heubusch

  111. I’m so sorry for your loss. I feel like I know Scout through the loving words of her Mom. She was one heck of a dog and you were all so lucky to have had each other. Rest in peace Scout.

  112. We are so sorry your loss. We don’t have any dogs, but have in the past. We have cats. We lost four in 2015. We loved them so much and it breaks our heart. But some how we manage. I have found strength in prayer. You need to greive at your own pace. Don’t let people tell you anything about your loss. Just listen listen to your heart and let it guide you. We are sending prayers to you and your family. God Bless Scout and God Bless your family.

  114. Oh, Claudia! xoxoxo

    Something told me to come here today, and now I know why! I I am terribly sorry for you and Don and pray for peace and strength for you and and peace and a lack of pain for Scout. I know how much you love Scout, and my heart just aches for you. Please know I am holding you close through tears over the miles.

    I have been MIA from blogging for months, lots going on, and to see this makes me realize how remiss I have been in keeping up with my blogging friends. There are so many emotions and things going on in my heart and head for you. There are no words, Claudia, other than to tell you that you have both my sympathy and my empathy. I have been where you are, and I understand.

    I just wish I could be there to help in some way, but please know I am with you in spirit. You have a lot of people who love you, and I have been among that number since I first I met you on Pink Saturday many years ago. And we all love Scout, too. You are doing the brave thing, the humane thing, and Scout knows it, just was we all do. You are a precious family, and I’m so thankful to have known you, Don, and Scout, as well as Riley, over the years. Thank you for opening your door and hearts to us. You are very special, and I feel blessed to know all of you. I’m off to catch up on your blog to see what I have missed.

    All my love,

    Sheila (Mrs. Magpie)

  115. I’m so sorry for your loss. I went through this almost 2 years ago for my Casey (KK) and know how hard it is. I told her she was making room for another who needed me as I said a final goodbye. She was my girl. Still miss her but she did make room for Reggie who was saved just in time. Your family is in my prayers.

  116. Oh. My eyes are wet. I don’t know you in real life but I’ve come to feel that I know you through your words and I know of your deep love for Scout. I’m so, so very sorry.
    Sending a hug from Canada.

  118. Claudia and Don, more tears here for the three of you. Dear Miss Scout. Words elude me that haven’t already been said in the a fore remarks. Add me to the list of those sending you hugs and strength.

  119. I have dreaded this day. I am so very, very sorry. There are truly no adequate words to ease your pain. You both were wonderful and loving parents to Scout and you gave her a happy life in a loving home. God bless you both. One day you will meet again.

    With tears in my eyes and love in my heart,
    Susan and Bentley

  121. Sending you all comfort and peace in this time of passage. I feel honored to have shared Scout with you through her life on the blog. Lucky girl, lucky family.

  123. I am thinking of and praying for you and Don in your sorrow. It is such a hard part of the life journey we make with our four-legged family members, but it can bring peace to know that it’s the last bit of grace that we can share with them. I hope that you find comfort in your memories of Miss Scout.

  129. Oh Claudia and Don…My heart is aching so hard for the two of you…Thank you so much for sharing her life with us…I will miss seeing her so much….Bless her beautiful heart and yours too…Hugs. Nancy

  130. I am so very sorry for your loss.
    Miss Scout will be frocking and jumping through green pastures with Riley and Winston!!!…..waiting for you and Don.
    take care.. .you were good parents,
    Addie

  132. My heart breaks for you. I know this pain and I am so very sorry. Scout will live forever in your hearts. God Bless.

  135. Claudia and Don,
    I’m so very sorry. Scout was a beautiful girl and you were wonderful parents to her. She had such a good life with you, along with your other dogs. But it hurts so much to let them go, I know…. I am praying for you.

  136. Claudia and Don,
    I am so sorry about your Scoutie. I know that she will always be in your hearts. RIP sweet baby girl.

  137. It seemed her decline was accelerating, and I was afraid for you that you wouldn’t be able to be with her. For me, that would be the worst. I’m glad you can be there. Blessings to you and Don and to Scout. No dog was ever more loved!

  138. My heart breaks for you and Don at this time and for Scout. Saying good-bye to a beloved pet is one of life’s hardest things to do. Just know that you did everything humanly possible for her and the love you both shared with her will be with her as she crosses over the Rainbow Bridge where there is no more pain. I hope my 2 dogs who crossed over, Pepper and Lucky, are there to greet her.

  140. Words cannot be said that can console you both. It is so very hard to make that decision to have a beloved pet/family member put to sleep especially when they are cognisant. I am very sorry that you lost your dear girl.

  142. I am so so sorry Claudia. She was a beautiful Pup. Know that Your love for her was felt deeply by Her and The love she had for you was deep and endless. That Never ever dies.
    Thinking and praying for you
    Blessings, Joanne

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