Grateful Rescue dedicates this episode to a senior dog named Saul. He passed away at the age of 15.
We are heartbroken to report that Saul passed away unexpectedly. When we were getting him up for his appointment at VCA, he was in great distress and passed quickly in my arms, as I was frantically rocking him and encouraging him to wake up, until I realized he wasn’t going to. Mike even tried CPR and chest compressions. Our old man baby was gone.
Our day was spent in shock, I could hardly breathe, pacing, crying, crying and crying some more. Our hearts are shattered, and we are so sorry for we know yours are too.
My first call was to Dr. Calvert, and she felt the symptoms I described were consistent with heart failure, the only thing we weren't able to fix. His sweet little enlarged heart.
We knew he had some health issues, but his bloodwork was good, his xrays were not bad, so we had great hope that we could fix him significantly to where he could still live a comfortable life. His quality of life wasn’t ideal as he wasn’t able to potty without needing cleaned up after and needed regular repositioning so he wouldn’t get sore, but we believed this was temporary, for when he was able to walk, he would not have to live that way. We felt he did have a wonderful quality of life in ways because he felt such immense love and enjoyed being pampered, he loved his bath times, which he received many, as you can imagine, and the warm water soothed his body. His constant tail wagging told us he was happy under the circumstances. He enjoyed barking orders and being served. There was enough quality that kept us fighting for him.
Everywhere I look, I see Saul. His bath basin, his diaper bag, his wipe warmer, his therapy lights, pads and bed, his many meds, and his little wheelchair. We loved him so very very much. He was never alone from the day he arrived. We didn’t go anywhere unless he could come with us or had a babysitter to sit at his side. For the past two months, our life has been all about Saul. Oh, how it hurts.
We are beyond grateful to all who loved, supported and took care of Saul. Dr. Calvert at Westview Animal Clinic and her wonderful staff who loved him as much as we did. All of you who sent love, supplies, and words that cheered him on and prayed for Saul. He felt it.
Dr. Teresa shared something with me that soothed my heart concerning dogs near death. She said she believe old dogs nearing death, they rally, have a spike in recovery, then when their souls and spirits are fulfilled with love, they are ready to let their bodies rest. He did get so much love, I just wish his soul would’ve given us a little more time. Rest in Peace, my love.
Dear Lord, please provide comfort and peace to all who knew and loved him. Amen.
Pamela Terhune