kathy said: September 18, 2009 7:26 am PST
Christine,
I am going to try to make what I am about to say make sense. Animals, like people know when death is approaching. And animals, like people can put it off for a bit, or choose the timing sometimes. (How many times has a dying patient held on long enough to say goodbye to someone that has not arrived at their bedside yet? Or wait until they were alone to die, when family members take a brief break in their vigils?)
I truly think that he didn't want you or your husband there when he passed. I don't think he wanted to witness the grief in your faces and hearts when the realization came that he was going to pass. I think he loved the both of you so much, he wanted to spare you that. It happens like that alot in the people world and the animal world. (I used to be a chaplain assistant at a hospital and have seen it many many times).
He had to leave and goodbyes hurt so much, to both parties. To the dying and to the loved ones left behind. He did it his way and if it was that quick, it was peaceful.
I am so sorry for the hurt and pain that leaves behind. You guys were beside him and journeyed with him the whole way and went above and beyond to try to help him.
Everyone needs to feel love and everyone needs the chance to love someone. You did both for him. You did good.
Kathy