Tosh
came into my life before I knew of such things as Back Yard
Breeders. In 1989, I purchased Tosh from a local BYB. I chose
Tosh because of all the puppies, she seemed to be the
loneliest and saddest.
While
all the other puppies ran to greet me, Tosh looked so sad. I
told the BYB that I wanted the puppy in the back.
I took
Tosh home that day and introduced her to Tazz (male Min Pin).
They
both seemed so happy with each others presence. Tosh and Tazz
had a brother/sister type of relationship.
When
Tosh was approximately 3 years old, she injured her back while
outside. I took Tosh to a specialist in Sugar Land, TX. She had
back surgery to repair a torn disc, and I nursed her back to
health. After Tosh had fully recovered from her back surgery,
she was never sick a day in her life. She was always known
within our household as "Mom's 'Lil Introvert". She enjoyed my
company, however; when company came over she was content to be
in her space/crate.
In
late January of 2004, Tosh was diagnosed with Transitional
Cell Carcinoma of the bladder. Dr. Jones gave Tosh 6 months to
live.
Naturally, I was devastated. I had made Tosh a promise that
night that I would not let her suffer through this for my
benefit. I love this little girl with all my heart. What she
had given me throughout my years, I could not repay. On May
25, 2004, Tosh had ceased to eat. I tried feeding her by hand
and she would eat very small amounts of steak. At this time, I
knew it was time for me to end this little girls suffering. On
May 26, 2004, I had made plans with a friend to take Tosh to
the Animal Clinic to send her to the Rainbow Bridge. I decided
that I needed to spend at least one day with Tosh before
sending her to the Rainbow Bridge. During that day and night,
I talked with Tosh as I had done so many times during her
diagnosis. I explained to her that Mom loved her so much and
that I did not want her to suffer. I remember Tosh laying down
on my lap and resting her head on my arm, as if to say..."OK,
I'm ready". This was the most painful promise that I've ever
had to fulfill in my life.
On May
27, 2004 as promised, Tosh was sent to the Rainbow Bridge in
my arms. Even though I know the right decision was made for
Tosh it was still very painful to lose her. To hold a beloved
companion in your arms and know that their life is about to
end is extremely painful, however; the most humane act of our
love. To know that Tosh is not suffering any longer is
comforting, but I still miss my little girl!!!
Sleep
well Mom's 'Lil Angel.
