Scheduled Euthanasia for DSLD

[Alterration]

Today was the day, and let me tell you, it was tough. I’m not sure I’ve cried so hard in a really long time, maybe not ever.

But he went with a full belly of alfalfa and treats and fresh green grass. He was still full of dapples, and spunk. It made it harder on me but I’m so glad he wasn’t thrashing or scared. He just went to sleep.

It hurts like hell. I’m going to miss his face over the stall door and the crazy way he would freak out over the bugs. I’m going to miss him standing next to me and sighing.

He was the very best. I’m not sure I could find (or afford) another one like him.

[jvanrens]

I’m so sorry. I’m sending you healing thoughts. There is nothing harder than saying good bye, but he’s no longer in discomfort. I know how hard it is to read that, but I’ve been there, not with DSLD, but had to make that decision, but trust me, you have done the right thing for your boy.

[JBCool]

Awwww…hugs & prayers, @Alterration. I know it is so hard , but you blessed him with the final gracious gift. All he knows is he went to sleep with his friend beside him, not the panic or pain of an accident or serious injury that easily could have happened. May God send you healing and peace.

[Lunabear1988]

I’m so sorry. He was lucky to have an owner like you, one who truly cared and listened.

[IPEsq]

I’m so sorry. It’s so hard to lose them.

[fanfayre]

It’s VERY hard, but in the days, months and years to come, you will be able to console yourself knowing you gave him the most dignified ending on the day he felt the best he ever would have from that point.
Huge hugs [less the smiley], from one who was in your very shoes 11 weeks ago, for pretty much the exact reason.

My condolences

[beowulf]

I’m so sorry. It’s so hard.

[JB]

Man, I’m so very sorry It IS hard when they look so healthy Giant hugs. Let us know how you’re doing in the next weeks, plenty of us have been there and it helps to “talk” to those who get it.

[Alterration]

Thanks all. Here are some of my favorite pics of him. He was a real looker and a wonderful show horse. He left me for a year at one point for a family to use as their first horse (the daughter later wanted to run barrels and he was not about to do that) and he was brilliant for them too.

[Horsecrazy3]

I’m so sorry for your loss. It is never easy. Remember the good times you and your family had with him and know you provided a safe and loving home for him to sparkle like a brand new shiny penny. Love the pics.

[BrownDerby]

Ack, I have something in my eye.

Truly a brilliant horse. I am so sorry for your loss.

[bingbingbing]

So very sorry. The best decision is not always the easiest. Hugs!

[Moss]

I’m so sorry for your loss. He looks like a beautiful, kind boy. It’s never easy.

[starrunner]

So sorry. DSLD is so wicked. But I do think that it is a relief from their suffering.

We just euthanized a boarder’s horse with it as the flies were getting worse and the stomping was hard on her. When she spent more time not wanting to go out and graze with the herd and just staying inside, we realized that her pain was no longer controlled despite our best efforts.

She also passed on with a full belly and a mouthful of fresh grass. She was just 13. I’ll admit it. I cried. Not my horse but I still wanted to provide her the best life she could while she was retired with me and seeing the disease progress so rapidly was so unfair.

May your heart find peace and comfort that you did the right thing.

[skydy]

He was beautiful, and you did what was best for him.

I’m sorry for your loss. Hugs from Colorado.

[rockymouse]

A dignified end for a wonderful horse.

He was really beautiful. I’m so sorry.

[Paint_Party]

Oh, that face with that expression! What a wonderful, handsome horse. You were both meant to have each other for so long, and I am sorry that you had to endure this. Sometimes the right things are the hardest things to do.

[MunchingonHay]

@Alterration

Please tell me there’s something I can do to make myself feel better about this?

You took away his pain and made it yours. It’s the greatest gift we can give our animals.

We are all here to support you. You did right by your boy. It hurts, it sucks, and it’s going to take time to heal. Make sure you give yourself the time, space and grace to mourn your friend.

[quietann]

He was so handsome! You can see the good-boy vibes.

Many years ago, probably a bit before I joined the forums, a group of COTHers cooperated in making a video about this final decision. When you are ready to cry your eyes out, give it a watch.

This It Be Right

Thank you for doing right by him, especially at the end of his life.

[endlessclimb]

What a handsome boy he was. I am so sorry for your loss.