My Heart Is Breaking, Our Beloved Arlo Options

[keijan2001]

My husband and I have had to make the heart wrenching decision to have our beloved cat Arlo euthanized. Today is Tuesday and the appt is for Friday moring. Arlo is not even 3 years old; he was a stray off the street when we got him about a year and a half ago. In December 2005 he was diagnosed with FELV after getting very sick very fast. With the help of our wonderful vet, steroids, antibiotics and tons of TLC, we brought him back to his old self.

Then 2 weeks ago, he went off his food, and lost almost 2 pounds in that time. Last Saturday we brought him back to the vet. I could not bear to have it done then, and because he has bounced back before, I wanted to give him one more chance. Unfortunately nothing is working this time around, and as much as it is hurting us, it is only fair to him as he doesn't have any quality of life. He is not in pain, just very lethargic, no energy and a great difficulty walking (due to not eating).

So this morning I made the final call to the vet.

Arlo will be at peace and free of any discomfort, and as much as it is hurting us, he is the important one.

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[Robertmofford]

I'm so sorry about Arlo. There's no pain in the world that can compare to this. Pets love us so unconditionally and ask for so little in return. And the worst part is knowing that even though we're doing the "right thing", that's its only reward. The pain for us is just beginning, and can be pretty overwhelming. What you're doing is an act of love. Nobody wants to see a friend in pain, and you're compassionate enough to spare him that pain. You and Arlo were obviously meant for each other, and you were lucky enough to let him adopt you. (We think we're adopting them. It really is the other way around) He couldn't have been better anywhere else, and was lucky enough to have been in such a loving home, even if it wasn't for a very long time. Giving strays a good home is definitely an act of love. I've been in a similar situation several years ago. I found a stray cat, and brought her home, and never regretted doing that for a second. She only lived a few very short years after that, but it was worth every moment. I'd do it all over again in a heartbeat. 0f all the things I've done in my life, bringing her into my home is still the thing I'm proudest of. And I know you feel the same about Arlo. You two were meant for each other, and you loved each other dearly. I know what you're going through, and if you're anything like me you're going to be on an emotional roller-coaster ride for a while. Just know that this too shall pass. Arlo will always be a part of you, and nothing can change that. Just know you're not alone. You'll be in the hearts and prayers of all of us on this site, and we're here for you.
PS: I love the pictures of Arlo. What a sweetheart.