IRISH WOLFHOUND SOCIETY OF IRELAND

 

Owner describes adjustment after dog is euthanized

By John Ross
FOR THE TRIBUNE-REVIEW
Sunday, April 1, 2007

Dog Talk Readers: I don't know who wrote the following story. However, it was sent to me, and I thought that I would share it with you.

A dog's purpose, from a 4-year-old

As a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a 10-year-old Irish wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their little boy, Shane, were very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for 4-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, I wondered whether he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away. The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without difficulty or confusion.

We sat together for awhile after Belker's death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, "I know why." Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation.

He said, "People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life, like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?" The 4-year-old continued, "Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."

Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God.

John Ross writes the Dog Talk column for the Tribune-Review. He has been training dogs professionally for 30 years, and his newest book, "Adoptable Dog," is in bookstores now. He is the author of "Puppy Preschool" and "Dog Talk," both published by St. Martin's Press. For more information about Ross and his books, visit his Web site, www.the-real-dog-talk.com. Mail questions to John Ross at P.O. Box 1133, Palm City, FL 34990, or e-mail him at dogtalk1@bellsouth.net.


Source: http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/living/family/dogtalk/s_499551.html