I'm sorry to bring more sadness to our Forum. I lost Bert last night. I came home from work and he seemed normal, happy to see me. Then I noticed he was panting and not leaving my side. I went outside to throw the toys and he just layed down then hurried into the house. I went in after him and noticed his abdomen was very extended. I suspected bloat. Took him to Sonora and yes, x-rays showed bloat. They told me my options and, of course, there really were none for an 11 1/2 yr old Standard who is prone to this condition. I decided not to put him through an operation that he would struggle to recover from. The Vet agreed. Bert was very poised, calm and wise. Very serious. I do believe, and we know, that animals other than us, have heightened instinct not overly compromised with intellect. Of course they are smart, cagey, wise, caring and loving and thoughtful but their instinct is far better than ours. I believe, too, he was in another dimension. He knew he wasn't coming home. He kept trying to walk back to the kennels where the infirmed dogs were kept. I'm sure going to miss him!
I wish it hadn't happened so quickly. I console myself that every last minute was about saying hi and having fun and one last car ride with the wind in his hair.

Happy moments rather than time spent "preparing" myself to say goodbye and do the deed.
He'll recognize Spike in Heaven because he has smelled Spike. Buzzy will be with Spike so they will get to meet.
Bye Bert.

Susie...I am so saddened by this....I guess I can add my Tessa to the team Across the
Rainbow Bridge. It has been since Oct. and I have finally accepted that she is gone. Jo

Yes, Jo. Tessa and all of our departed fuzzies are waiting for us. I admire you courage in adopting your new Doxie. I will face that when I can. I've tucked all of Bert's "thing" away. Maybe I can offer them to another companion I may adopt. Thank you, Jo.

Just thought I'd post this link.... there is good information here. I "raised" Bert's feeding dish at the recommendation of a "friend". Not scientific advice. There I go. No I won't "blame myself for his death".... but do read this.
http://www.mysticalpoodles.com...

I have not been frequenting this cubit enough. I wish it were combined to Arizona Gardens.

I think of Bert all the time as you well know, Susie. I am so sorry for your loss.

READING MY ABOVE POST, MY WISH CAME TRUE.

New wish for you Susie: For a perfect dog to come into your life again...at the right time, at the right place. In a special way that gives your heart pitter pats.

Bert will never be replaced in your heart.....it's that your heart will expand and have room to love another. It will be a magical day when this union takes part.

I often think of the dogs we have all lost and loved.