saying good bye to an old friend

[brooksie2]

I too, will be sad for just a moment. But you are right, and have a good outlook on this. Its better this way and I have no doubt that he was given the very best all his life.

[AbsoluteApril]

That was very well written. He's a handsome steed and very well loved and that is wonderful that you have had so many years together.

[TammyJ]

What a good thing you are doing for your beautiful horse.

I will say now on this site, something that I have never told anyone at all ever. When my grandmother was in awful pain, breathing through a tube and suffering with advanced rampant Leukemia in hospital, I was alone with her watching her suffer with absolutely no hope of recovery, listening to her "death rattle" breathing. I removed the oxygen mask. When the nurses came in they said nothing about it, just looked at me and nodded.

This was almost forty years go.

I know that she would have been grateful to me for releasing her from that suffering. I feel no guilt about it at all, just sadness sometimes because I miss her.

I have had to put to sleep many dear pets over the years including my precious cocker spaniel of 15 years. It's the right and kind thing to do!!!

[Mizbubba]

I'm proud of you for doing the right thing, instead of the easy thing. Releasing Bak from his suffering is the kindest, and most generous thing you could do to repay him for the love & happiness he has brought to your life.

It's never easy to say goodbye to a loved one... human or otherwise. But knowing that you have eased their suffering, and helped them gently over the bridge is a comfort down the road. I promise.

We're all with you, and hurt for you, too.

Be well.

-Amy

[sgrdolphin]

Thank you all for your kind words and support. Tuesday morning we spoiled Bak with all of the treats he has not been able to eat because of his teeth and kidneys. He enjoyed hay and grain which he has not eaten in 5 years. Then was able to spend some time grazing out on pasture (another pleasure he has not had in a few years). It was a bitter sweet moment to see him out in the early morning sun. After a wonderful morning with him the time had come. He went very peacefully and for that I am very grateful. My father gave Bak the greatest parting gift, he paid for him to be cremated. I am so grateful to my father for such a gift as cremation for a horse is not cheep, but my father wanted to give Bak a respectful parting. I really want to thank Dr. Tooman, he has been very helpful and caring to both Bak and I through this entire event. I could not ask for a better vet. Bak you are really missed, but your memory will forever live on in the hearts of many people.

[Kobi Baby]

You are a kind person for taking care of him like you did, and for putting his feelings before your own when you knew it was his time to go. Many people make their loved ones (people or animals) endure so much agony just because they themselves are not ready to continue life without them.
.
I am sure his last moments were his greatest. All the treats, feeling so free, then drifting off to a peaceful nap where he will rest until you meet him at the rainbow bridge.
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Just know that you did the right thing, and that you should have peace within yourself for that.

[Mizbubba]

I was glad to see your post. You have been on my mind. I know it hurt to let him go, but again, I say: You did the right and loving thing for him.

I'll add my tears to yours.. for his memory, and for your pain...

-Amy

[jadeboa]

I am glad that everything went well and he had the best send off.
I am sure he thanks you for your love and friendship and most of all your respect............it is never easy to say goodbye.
One day you will see each other again.

[whitesnake77]

I've lost a horse before and it's hard no matter how they go. I'm sorry for your loss.... Always remember the fun times you had together and Bak will be with you always.