Oh my gosh, Allison!  I'm so saddened by everything that you and Shelby have been going through this week.  Your worst fears are unfolding and I know your heart is just breaking into a million pieces.  My heart is heavy and hurts for you.  Those pictures of you and Shelby comforting and loving on each other in the hospital are priceless.  Etched into my brain for eternity.  Your love just oozes all over.  I've got that kicked in the stomach, can't breathe feeling again. It's just not fair.  Effin cancer.  When you first told us about Shelby's seizures I thought everything would turn out ok because I assumed they weren't related to her cancer.  Honestly, it never occurred to me that they could be because of her cancer. This disease continues to blow me away.  It's just cruel.  

I'm soooo happy to hear you asked your boss for time off and I'm even happier that your "just a dog" boss had enough compassion to give it to you.  Even through all this stress and trauma you've continued to think about your Shelby and what's best for her.  Trust your gut my friend.  Whatever you think is best, IS BEST.  You've said it all along, you know your doggie.  Love, compassion and no regrets, that's the goal.  

Sending you much love, strengthening energy and peace.  You are not ever alone.

Paw love,

Claudia and Angel Jersey Girl

I don't have any words to make this better.  We've been there and so many of us will be there over and over again.  It's times like this where I understand the folks who say 'never again' to owning a pet.  Our brains know we're doing the kindest thing and even wish we could do this for our human beloveds.  But it doesn't make it any easier.  You are choosing to end her life, to set her free, to release her of all her aliments in a respectful, safe, dignified, loving way.  You'll be there.  And she'll be on her beach.  It's really a lovely way to go - surrounded by those you love in a peaceful, happy place.  As for last gifts, I had a friend feed their pup chocolate ice cream.  They figured once in a lifetime, chocolate should be enjoyed.  I know you'll make the moment as loving as possible: her favorite blanket, her momma, the sand, and gentle words.  I'm so glad you'll be there.  I'm glad your workweek worked itself out.  I hope you can take the rest of the week off to mourn and regroup.  Today is going to be tough.  If I could, I would stop time for you.  For others, I'd speed it up.  But for you and Shelby, I wish time would stop.  There will be many tears, and I think we're all contributing right now.  I am.  You'll be on my mind today.  I know part of me will be fully distracted, thinking of what today brings (ends?). 

Another piece of comfort: at least it seems like Shelby isn't in pain?  She might not be fully with it, but she's not suffering with major trauma.  The two of you (all of us, really) realized this day would come (not just for Shelby, but for all our furbabies) and have been prepared for it.  Is that better then a major, instant, traumatic event?  We've been fighting for our furbabies for weeks, months, years against this disease.  We've grown closer.  That makes today tougher than the average.  So while we've been staring at this day ever since we got the diagnosis and have been bonding more deeply every day, I firmly believe this is a better way than a sudden departure.  You have control over today and can make it what Shelby needs and wants and what you need and want.  I wish that all those wants and needs are fulfilled today.

I'll be crying on and off for you.  It's a tough day.  Tough.

HUGS

~ Katy & Jackson

+1 to what everyone else has already said brilliantly. And (((((((((((((big hugs)))))))))))

Thinking of you both and keeping you and Shelby in our hearts...