Patricia, this is one of those times where I can truly say I know just how you are feeling. Our journeys have been similar and oh so unfair. It's hard not to just rail at the universe for the unfairness of it all, or indeed, try to place blame. You know in your heart you can't be blamed for anything beyond trying to help Chance through this the best way you can. I remember one of the oncologists tell me (when I was wracked with guilt over finances playing a part in my decision making) that those of us who do pursue treatments are the rarity, not the norm. So, the fact that we tried our hardest to give our babies the best chance at survival means you most definitely should not find blame in yourself.  

I am beyond sorry that Chance is nearing the end of his time here on earth. No matter how well we understand that there isn't going to be a "happy ending" with this disease, it still doesn't seem real when the time comes. How do we know when it's time? You know your sweet Chance. You know what makes him happy, what he loves to do. When he can no longer do those things, it's time. Dogs who are loved like ours will always show their happiness to see us and be with us with their smiling faces and wagging tails which makes it SO much harder for us. Fionn was eating like a pig right up until the end. He even hopped up (almost like himself, but not really) and barked at the pizza delivery kid the night before. Pizza is an amazing motivator and it made me cry to see a glimmer of his healthy self, but I was honest enough with myself to recognize how he struggled to get up and go to the door. He even greeted the vet by getting up and wagging his tail causing me to once again doubt my decision (something I did many times trust me). But, we know dogs show pain only when it gets REALLY bad and I was never able to fully control Fionn's once the HO took over. In people who get it, it is apparently one of the most painful conditions there is. The pain made the decision for me. 

Take pictures and make sure YOU are in them. Someone suggested that here and I am glad I did that. I have some lovely pictures from that last day, and while sad to look at now, eventually they will bring me comfort that I made his last day as awesome as possible. My heart is breaking for you. Chance has a lot of awesome friends to greet him at the bridge. Fionn will show him where to find the bunny poop. 

Cancer is not fair, it is terrible.

It is so hard to make the decision, please remember you did everything for Chance because you love him and want the best for him. 

Hugs to you both.

Tracey & Tai

I am so sorry to read this about our sweet and beloved Chancy-pants!!!! It is so incredibly unfair, as you know, for this to happen to such a young dog and one as amazing as Chance. I will forever be grateful that we got to meet you all up north.

May the transition be peaceful and may the memories you shared comfort you in the dark days to come. We are all here for you and all grieve with you. Sending you so much love!!!!

Alison with Spirit Shelby in her heart (and little jasper too) 

Patricia and most handsome Chance,

I'm so sad that the journey is coming to an end. I was "lucky" in that Izzy made sure I knew it was her time - she cried out when trying to get out of bed that morning and looked sad. It broke my heart as I've never been able to hear her cry to the point that, after her surgeries, Reed had pick her up when she needed it because it would sometimes make her yelp. Of course, the flip side of that coin is feeling bad that she ever had to feel pain, but getting old sucks (I would know) and so I try to console myself in the fact that I set her free that same day.

It's a bitter pill, doing the right thing. I felt robbed that Izzy had to go "so soon" ... even though I had about 13 and a half years of her company. Chance is such a gorgeous, young boy and I know you are devastated.

I promise you that Izzy will be there to greet him, whenever he decides it's time to cross the bridge. I am certain she has been restored to her wonderful, athletic, able-to-clear-a-4-foot-fence-with-a-straight-vertical-jump self and they will have many adventures together. He will be greeted by so many friends, and we will be here to hold you up for as long as you need ... and even when you don't.

Give that handsome boy a hug and kiss from me!

xoxo,

Amy and my silly, sweet angel, Izzy 

Chancypants...what a lovely. sweet and silly name.  You don't "pick" a day....it picks you.  And it sucks.  It is not fair and in your situation it is too too soon.....and so not fair!  I'm so sorry.

Wanda

Patricia ~

I'm really sorry that you're going through this with Chance.  Yes, it really, really sucks.  Murphy also let us know when his time was here, it was probably the only time I saw him looking sad.  He really was a happy dog.  But I know that he's smiling again, and running on all 4 along with the others, chasing those pesky squirrels   Please know that you have done everything you can for Chance.  You have loved him unconditionally, and you gave him a great life!  Tell him how special he's been, and send him off with kisses.

Hugs to you,

Donna