New Here, mouning the loss of my shadow Options

[shadowgirl]

I just wanted to intrduce myself. My name is Julia and on October 11th, we had to put our Shadow down. She had breast cancer that spread very quickly. It was only a week from the time we found out, to the time we let her go. Her tumor was bleeding and was large and cut off the circulation to her back right leg causing adema. She was in so much pain and wouldn't eat or drink. She was a border collie-lab mix and was nine years old. She was so loving to our 4 and 3 year old kids. She was our girl. I miss her so much. I miss everything about her. I feel gulity. The could've, should've, would'ves are driving me nuts. We had her cremated and should be recieving her ashes this week. Friends think we're crazy for this and for grieving so much.
thanks for listening...

[LuvLabs]

Julia, I am very sorry to read of the loss of your dear sweet Shadow. I am sure you will find alot of comfort from this board. Please know that we understand how difficult it is to lose a beloved pet. If people are not animal lovers, they will not understand. Grief takes time and it is filled with many ups and downs. But we will be here to help you through the grieving process. Please don't dwell on the what if's...Shadow would not want that. You provided her with a loving home and I know she was very grateful. When a bad thought pops into your head, immediately replace it with a happy thought of Shadow. In time your tears will be replaced with smiles when you think of her.

I lost my white lab Lizzy at 9 1/2 to cancer on Oct. 15, 2007. I was shocked when I found the lump as she was always a healthy girl. I was even more devastated, when I learned it was inoperable due to the location of the tumor. She was given meds to shrink the tumor, which allowed me more time to spend with her. She was truly and amazing dog! Despite having cancer, she would wake me up at 5 am with her ball in her mouth...ready to play. I can still picture her by my bedside. She gave me many years of happy memories, and taught me to be strong no matter what life throws at you.

I believe our fur babies are gifts sent from above. We take care of them and love them the best we know how. But there comes a time when we must return our gift. When our babies become ill, we don't want them to suffer...and sadly must say goodbye. And maybe a new fur baby will find it's way into our lives again.

I asked Liz to send me a baby like her....and believe it or not she did. I adopted Mandy (white lab) and she is so much like Lizzy. She joined my other lab Elly and they are best friends.

I wish you comfort and peace during this difficult time.

Nancy