When I got home, I found this. 
Earl was basically unable to walk. He could stagger around a bit, but he was panting and his heart was beating ninety to nothing. 
He wouldn't really look at me or pay much attention to me which was really odd. I think, in his way, he knew. 
Todd carried him up the hill, as we pondered what to do. Earl is 13 years old, which is a very good long life for a golden retriever. He's been having trouble running around the yard. If he runs to Staci's house next door, we know he won't be "running" back. Usually he tries, and it appears he runs out of oxygen as he staggers around a bit when he attempts to run. Todd had basically told me to not allow him to run and not get him excited, as we were concerned it may cause some irreversible damage. 
Today, though, was very different! Earl, our beloved dog, was very, very tired! 
Todd and I loved all on him, then decided we should take him to the ER. 
When we got there the vet did some blood work and determined that Earl was in really bad shape. He was having kidney failure, as we had suspected since he was even peeing blood. His heart was really, really tired, and there wasn't much chance of a recovery for him. 
He made it very clear to us that the most humane thing we could do for Earl at this point would be to help him with a peaceful departure from this world. 
Obviously, through many tears, Todd and I agreed, as the doc said he found it highly unlikely Earl would make it through more than three days and would struggle to do so. He was not oxygenating his body like he needed to be. These next two pics were loaded a month ago for a blog all about our sweet dog, and I never got around to posting them. So glad we have them now!
Todd and I said our tearful goodbyes, and we were there with him til the end. It was very peaceful. We had him wrapped in one of our family blankets and brought him back home to be buried here with us at the home he so loved. We will miss this sweet dog! He was so good to us and to our girls! Bless you, Earl. We love you!!
Todd and I said our tearful goodbyes, and we were there with him til the end. It was very peaceful. We had him wrapped in one of our family blankets and brought him back home to be buried here with us at the home he so loved. We will miss this sweet dog! He was so good to us and to our girls! Bless you, Earl. We love you!! Mo
95 comments:
Bless your family. That sweet Earl has captured so many hearts since we met him. He was the definition of "good dog" in so many ways. Peace be with you.
Oh Mo, my heart aches for all of you. It is so hard to lose a dear family member, faithful companion. My deepest sympathies.
Run like the wind Earl...
Melanie, I am so sorry to hear about your sweet Earl. I will be praying for you all as you deal with the loss of your friend.
So sorry about Earl..tough, tough, tough to lose a loyal member of the family. Thank you for sharing the beautiful pictures with his earthly master with us. Thank you for not allowing him to suffer and for treating him with dignity. Be blessed sweet family.
My heart is heavy for you and your family. We said good-bye to our 15 yr old golden retriever 2 years ago September in similar circumstances. They are in your heart and part of your family. Praying for you all.
So very sorry for all of you! I cried as I read your post!!
Oh no! I'm crying reading your post. We will keep y'all in our prayers!
My heart hurts for you. I loved Earl. I knew he was such a sweet dog and faithful companion. I'm so sorry that Earl is gone. And I know how hard that decision was for you and Todd. I know it took so much love in your heart to choose what was best for Earl. I believe Jake will make sure Earl is taken care of for you.
So sorry for your loss of sweet Earl. He seemed like he was a very faithful companion.
Heart is breaking. Sooo sorry. So very sorry.
Oh, Melanie...I am so sorry. Pets are indeed a part of the family and it is gut renching to see them suffer and ultimately to lose them. So sorry...
Mo, I too, feel your pain! Several years ago, I lost a family pet that I had loved for 16 years. Her name was "Betty Boop". She was the sweetest natured dog I've ever known...all she wanted was love and acceptance and a little more love...she came to me as a stray that apparently had been abused....she was terrified of any kind of water hose...but she found her love and acceptance here and here she lived for 16 years.
Your Earl will be greatly missed...hold on to the memories...imagine him romping thru the fields, hiding behind the trees and just being the sweet family member that he was...Earl hasn't left you, you just can't see him anymore...but he's there and he always will be. Will be thinking of your family in the days ahead...may God bless you with the peace that passes all understanding and may Earl now run hard and bark softly as he continues to watch over you....love ya, BJ
Oh Mo! I completely feel your pain. I had to put my sweet Pepper done 2 years ago, and it still hurts!
These dogs become a HUGE part of our lives and become our furry children.
Praying for peace for all of you! I know he will be greatly missed!
Denise
So sorry to hear about sweet Earl!! I know the girls loved him so much too. He always looked so happy (like everybody else in the family) in all your pics. I'm sure he was well loved & lived such a good life! I will be thinking about ya'll today.
So sorry about Earl. I can tell how much he meant to your family and how much he was loved.
My heart is breaking for you! I too know how hard it is to lose a pet. And GG....she will be so sad! I will say an extra prayer for you guys. Those pictures will be priceless for your family.
hugs from Missouri,
Shari
I am so sad to hear of this lost,As a dog lover,and one that has had to make the decision to "let them go",he has done a job well deserving of loving and caring for all your family.I too will miss Earl.
I am so sorry Mel.....
Dottie
I cried reading your post here at work (yes, people asked what the problem was and I told them that a friend had to put their dog to sleep and that was why I am crying). I to feel for your family, we lost our Chocolate Lab it will be three years in June. We had Duchess Chocolate Kisses for 10 1/2 years, she was my baby and would put her paw in my hand like we were holding hands, miss her, tearing up as I write about her. Ok I am trying to compose myself... so sorry for you and your family, our prayers are with you in this difficult time. He will always be your dog angel to watch over your family!
Sorry to hear about Earl.
I'm so sorry. Earl looked like a real sweetheart. That's such a hard decision to make and I pray for peace and grace for your family right now.
I'm so sorry about your sweet Earl. HUGS to the Groves family ~
I am so sorry Mo. I know how much our four legged babies become a part of our families. Sending love and hugs.
Oh I'm so sorry!!! It is so hard to say goodbye to a beloved pet that is special member of the family. My prayers are with you all!
Oh Mel,I am so,so sorry to hear about this and cried reading it. We,too love our doggies like family. Thinking about you guys......
So sorry for your loss. Our "FUR BABIES" are truly part of the family. I know he will be missed by all of you.
My thoughts are with you all. We had to do the same thing to our black lab about 3 years ago- one of the hardest things to do! The girls will have so many good memories of him!
So sorry you lost your beloved Earl. I know he was very special to your family.
"They had buried him under our elm tree, they said — yet this wasn't totally true. For he really lay buried in our hearts" (Willie Morris)
I just lost my 10 year old baby girl dog suddenly and unexpectedly Sunday night. She was our only child. She was my best friend and gave such joy to our little family. I'm overcome by this tragedy. So, I know what you are going through and I'm so sorry. Please PRAY for me and I'll Pray for you!
So sorry to hear about sweet Earl. Know he is running around keeping an eye on you all still
Laurie
Oh Mo, this just reallty saddens my heart. It is something about the infinite love our furry kids give to us. Their love is never ending and love how they always are there at the end of the day for a pat on the head. Earl will always be a special part of your heart. I love that you capture so many fun memories of Earl and the girls. May the memories of Earl lighten your heart on this very dark time.
My heart is broken. Rest in peace sweet Earl. I know how much he meant to your family. We are facing a similar situation with our 11 year old poodle, Macy. We're still fighting the battle but we know that it's coming.
We will keep you in our prayers as you adjust to life without your precious Earl.
Blessings!
Martha
Prayers for your family and Earl!!!
This is the major down side of being a fur-parent!!
My heart is heavy for you!!
My deepest sympathies for the loss of your faithful companion and friend. Those who have never known the joy that a friend like Earl bring truly miss out on one of the great pleasures in life. So hard when we have to tell them goodbye but worth every second of having the pleasure of them in our lives.
So very sorry for your loss!
:(
Goodbye, precious Earl. Praying for you & the family.
I'm so sad fpr a;; of you. Tears sting my eyes. Todd looked so forlorn. Not too long ago Earl was jumping on the dining room table....
My prayers to all of you.
Mo I am so sorry. Pets do become part of the family. I know ours has and I can not imagine life with out our chihuahua. I am thinking of you all today and hope you find peace in knowing he was such a good dog. He is no longer in pain.
So sorry, Mo! I know Earl was an amazing dog. So glad ya'll didnt let him suffer and he went peacefully. Praying for you!
Believing that now Jake and Earl are playing together!
SO sorry, Mel! I'm crying as I read this. We had to do that with our beloved Moondog (yellow lab) 5 years ago and it still hurts. BUT the joyful memories FAR outweigh the sad ones and we're grateful for the 12 years we had with him. A couple of years ago we got another yellow lab. Her name is Star and she is a PISTOL! Praying for you and your family. God bless.
So so so very sorry.
so sorry to hear about Earl :(
So hard to loose a beloved pet. Blessings to you all.
I am so very sorry. He was (as we say here in UGA-land) a Damn Good Dog (awg).
Many hugs are coming your way and in the days that come because it is so hard to lose a 4-legged family member.
Blessings and peace...
Oh no....I am so sorry to hear about Earl. Prayer's for your family ~ especially Earl's best buddy little Gabbi Girl.
I am so sorry, I'm sitting here crying like a big baby just having read your post. Such a sweet sweet dog, my kids have always wanted a golden retriever like Earl.
Mo, I am sorry to hear about your loss... blessings and love to your family...
bawling like a baby for your earl -so sorry that you lost your friend!
I am so very sorry. You and your family are in my prayers.
I am so sorry...it always hurts to lose a beloved pet. Even those that have had a long life giving us love and loyalty. Praying for your sweet family.
So Sorry :-(
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.
When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
Author unknown
Mo - I am sorry for your loss, however, I was trying to look for the joy - you posted this on the 29 so that adds 2 + 9 total 11 and since Earl was 13 -I know that he was met to run and play with Jake who would have known him also..........they will just be waiting for you guys to catch up one day ~
I'm crying as I write this. Our experience almost a year ago with our beloved Lexi was very similar and I know firsthand what a difficult decision this is.
I was reminded by a very smart friend that the best way we can show our love for them is to help them keep their end of life as dignified, peaceful and pain free as possible.
I know in my heart you did the right thing for Earl, as we did for Lexi, but it doesn't make us miss them any less. My heart aches for you and your family. You all and Earl are in my prayers. He is very happy now, and running as much as he wants without any stress on his sweet heart!
I am sobbing as I am reading this as through many of your posts one could tell how much Earl was loved. God Bless you and Todd and the girls. May you always have fond memories.
Oh Mo, I am so sorry for your loss.
oh mo im so sorry to hear about earl im sitting here crying i cant inmagine what you and todd are going thru its hard to lose a dear pet that was part of your family my prayers are with you all im sure jake is taking care of him up in heaven hes running around up there with earl. may the lord be with you all as you mourn the loss of earl god bless you all
hugs
OH, my heart aches for you! I'm sure the girls will miss him terribly. Just picture him running & playing & HEALTHY with Jake!!! My thoughts and prayers are with you!
I am so sorry. That just breaks my heart. Thinking about you!
Bless all your hearts - there is a beautiful boy in Heaven who was waiting for that dog - you got him, Jake? You bet you do! Run fast, Earl. Have fun.
I'm so sorry Melanie! My heart goes out to you and your family. Our pets are a part of our family! Peace and Blessings to you...
Judy
SO SORRY!! I can't imagine, but so glad you could be there with him. I'm sad for your girls,too. I know you have said many times Gabbi was especially tight with Earl. Prayers and love for all of you.
So sorry Mo! Having recently becoming attached to a pet, I can only imagine the sadness. Hugs to you, Todd and the girls.
So sorry for your loss. Such a sad post. I know he will be greatly missed. It was very obvious how your whole family loved him.
God bless you all! I know you will miss him so much. Praying for your wisdom to share with Gabbi and Ellie.
My heart is breaking for you all!! Poor sweet Earl. What a difficult but such a loving decision you made for your little man. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
AWWW MO I am so sorry.....I read your blog daily...and have come to feel like I "know" all of you including sweet Earl.You could see the love in all the pictures he had for your family. I know its hard and I will be praying for all of you.
Oh honey, my heart is heavy for you and Todd. I'm sending prayers to Heaven for you all and also sending you cyber hugs.
Oh Mo I am so very sorry about Earl. My hubby and I had to make the tough decision to have our "Prince" put down almost 2 years ago....He is missed so very much but he is in our backyard and his spot is decorated with some rocks and some of those cheap windmills that the kids bought for him...Every day I look out the sunroom window and it honestly comforts me to know that he's out there, where he loved to be on sunny days.....The ache in my heart is still there...and will always be....he was our first "baby" He prepared us for parenthood....
Oh Mo, I am so sorry. I can't imagine how difficult this must have been for you guys. Prayers for you all and know he is with the best!!!!
I am so sorry! Thinking of you all. Dogs are such a part of a family!
Oh Mo, I as so, so, so very sorry! I am crying as I read this. I feel like I have "known" him so long! Good boy Earl, go play with Jake - you've earned it!
Praying for you guys,
Love Holly & JakeDog
So sorry Mo to you and your Family. You brought tears to my eyes...Earl sure seemed like a sweet dog and good with those girls. . I know you did the right thing. I have had to do it to dogs in the past too...it's so hard, they become one of the family!!! Thinking of you all
We are so very sorry for your loss. Earl was a best friend to all of you, indeed. Thinking of you.
Sleep with angels Earl...you have your buddy Jake to run and play with.
Groves Family...Earl was one lucky dog to be so loved by you all and you in turn were blessed byEarl's love and loyalty.
I am so sorry...and a whole lot verklempt!!!!
God bless you!!
Melanie, I am so sorry for your loss. I can tell even through the veil of the internet what a loving home you gave to Earl. That yard would be the envy of any creature and Earl got to enjoy it! And what GREAT pictures you have with all your happy memories.
Lori in Oregon
So very sorry for your loss your post made me cry...
I am so sad for you and your family. I could always tell how much Earl meant to y'all...I have a wonderful dog myself and can't imagine having to make the decision y'all had to make today... you truly put Earl's comfort first...even though it was not what you wanted. I wish your entire family peace and comfort....
Godspeed sweet Earl...you were loved!
I am so sorry Mo, and the Groves family. Pets are so special in our lives, wanting nothing but love and more love. Earl seemed to be the perfect family dog, I know he will be missed. I am sure he made it over the rainbow bridge and is running free.
God Bless~
Debbie
Mel, I am so sorry to hear about your sweet dog, Earl. Bless your hearts! Our pets are definitely part of our family. This is very sad, indeed. Saying a prayer for you, Todd, and the girls.
Hugs...
Crying with your family for your precious Earl...
SueEllen
Mesquite, TX
So, so sorry for your loss, Mo and Todd and girls. My prayers are with y'all. I'm blubbering away here but I must put a smile on my face 'cuz I just know for sure that Jake and Earl are having a hoot and a holler up in heaven.
Take care and know my prayers go out to the entire family tonight.
Always Believing.
I'm so sorry Mo. I know how special Earl is to your family. My heart is sad for you all. :(
My heart is so heavy for you, Todd and the girls. I am so sorry for your loss Mo. He can now run all day and night and be free of pain. I'm sure he had a sweet young boy named Jake just awaiting his arrival. Imagine the fun the two of them are having......such joy! Again I'm sorry for your loss!
Oh Mel I am so deeply sorry about your Earl, I admire you and Todd for your dedication to Earl. We lost our Dog Angel last year that we had for 12years it is devastating. I will keep you all in my prayers. We will miss those wonderful post with Earl in them. RIP Earl
Oh Mo, my heart aches for you. I just went through the same thing with my dear sweet Anniebelle. While you know deep in your heart you are easing their suffering, it does not make it easy. Sending love and prayers your way. I hope that Gabbi girl is okay without her beloved Earl. I know they had such a special bond. Much love being sent your way. Tracey
Oh no. I just read this. I am so sorry.
My heart breaks for you all! Thoughts and prayers for the loss of Earl.
Melanie,
My condolences on the passing of sweet Earl. Remeber tears will dry up but you will forever has memories of sweet Earl.
Stacy Cappadona
I am so sorry, Mo, to hear about Earl. :( My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. :( I have been with both of my pets until the end and I was soo glad to be there for them.
Mo,
I am so sorry to heart about Earl. :( My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I was with my two pets until the end. It was soo hard! HUGS!
I'm so sorry you lost your sweet friend.
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