[jamiek88]

I had a dog who loved watermelon. She was a (rescue) pug too so you can imagine the mess she made of that.

Even on her deathbed, literal hours before crossing the bridge, she still managed a little.

(Wow, I’m 45, it’s been nearly 5 years and I suddenly started crying after writing that. Goddamn I miss that dog. RIP Lucy.)

(I defensively stated rescue as I’m often assailed with ‘pugs should not exist’ replies. I tend to agree. But they do. So let’s give them the best lives possible and pressure breeders not guardians. Guardian instead of owner. I don’t want to own a sentient being. Semantics maybe but language changes attitudes and you all let that 02022 is the year guy do his schtick!)

[matwood]

No explanation needed. We have 3 frenchies - also rescues. People get them, realize their vets bills are insane, and then dump them off. They are also a big breed in puppy mills that get shut down. We have spent an inordinate amount of money on frenchies over the years (we've had 5 - not at the same time, but 2 died prematurely from health issues), but these dogs didn't chose be here, and deserve a good life.

[LilBytes]

You're both doing incredible work. It's heart breaking losing a dog, it's raw for me now currently I'm still in the crying-almost-daily stage.

Not too dissimilar to me, though I don't often go breed specific but age. I've foster failed a few dogs in the last 6-7 years. I lost my recent foster fail Buster on the 2nd of November and I only got him back from the crematorium yesterday.

It's been a rough few weeks, this home has only ever been a home with Buster in it and it's been dreadfully empty with his passing. I cry every day I see something that reminds me of him.

Baby gates that stop him going up and down stairs because of his arthritis. His dog beds in each room which he would follow us when my partner and I worked from home. Food bowls. His blankets to keep him old bones warm. Coming home or getting out of bed and him not being there to howl at me. It's truly dreadful.

Buster was 14.5 years old when he passed and was 12 yo when I adopted him. I didn't believe his age when I adopted him. He was a Husky X Boxer so I could only imagine what he was like as a puppy considering his appetite for movement at 12 yo when he was effectively 100+ in human years.

Some pictures of Buster: https://imgur.com/gallery/WtLy4ZN/comment/2279131045

I want to wait a while before fostering or adopting again but... I'm getting warn down by all the dogs that are needing a home from the groups I volunteer and donate to. I'm doom scrolling dogs in need daily.

[jamiek88]

Oh lilbytes,

My heart goes out to you.

I know exactly how you feel my only advice is to do your best to let those feelings come. Wallow a little. Feel and experience your grief.

Locking it away doesn’t work and the tears will become fond smiles in time.

Wishing you peace.

[matwood]

I'm so sorry. I feel for you and don't have any advice to give. Reading your post and looking at the pictures of Buster have me tearing up.

I've often wondered what makes our bonds with dogs so tight. I often joke with my partner that I wish she looked at me like one of our dogs does.

It's a reminder to show the people and animals around you how much you care about them everyday.

When you're ready, the next dog that finds you will be lucky find a person who cares so much.