...a hard day

Today is Thankful Thursday... and I am thankful for the life of our 15 year old dog Merry Freckles. She gave us so many good years. In her day, she was playful and could catch a frisbee in mid-air. She even won "Best in Show" at the ARC of Lenoir County's ARC BARK several years ago.

ARC BARK in 2002 with Merry Frex & Annabelle Lee

Danny and I made the difficult decision to have Merry Freckles put to sleep yesterday afternoon. She has suffered for several years from Cushing's disease, or hyperadrenocorticism. It's a very common condition in older dogs. It caused her to have severe skin allergies... she would scratch & dig at her skin until it bled. She had very little hair left and was so uncomfortable!! She also had terrible arthritis and was having a hard time moving around. Even getting up to a standing position had become a task for her.

Although Cushing's disease is treatable, Merry Freckles was no longer reacting positively to any of the medications. The doctor had been treating her with several medications and special medicated baths for over two years... Her hair came back for a little while and then most of it fell out again.

Furthering her life would be for us, not for Merry Freckles. It would be wrong. The doctor agreed that it was time, saying that she would not get better, only worse.

Lilli with her "good girl"!

I have never experienced anything like this. I held on to her when Dr. Palmer administered the medicine to put her to sleep, the whole time whispering in her ear that we loved her, calling each family member by name. The doctor became emotional... the staff cried also. It was sad, yet beautiful at the same time.
Although my heart is aching, she is finally at peace. I'll miss her so much!! Rest in peace my dear old friend! We love you!

What are you thankful for today?