Goodbye, Tango...

Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge is the theme of a work of poetic prose written some time between 1980 and 1992, whose original creator is unknown. The theme is of an other-worldly place to which a pet goes upon its death, eventually to be reunited with its owner.
    • Gold Top Dog

    Goodbye, Tango...

    I just wanted to let everybody know that Tango had to be put to sleep last Tuesday. That's why I haven't really been around much. She woke up (last) Monday morning unable to walk (we thought she had slipped a disc or two - in which case, she would've had surgery). We took her for some tests, and the specialist said that she either had a tumor on her spinal cord (but wouldn't know without opening her up), or her discs were degenerating. He's 98% sure it was the latter. We could have still done surgery, but he said there was no possible way she'd ever be able to walk again. Anybody who knows Tango or has met her would agree with me when I say, that living in a wheel chair for the remainder of her life would not have been at all fair and would most definitely not have been the right decision for her. She deserved better and would have been miserable in a wheel chair. Seeing her in such discomfort and confusion was awful. The most terrible thing I've ever been through. I haven't cried this much in forever - Tango meant the world to me.

    I'm doing better today compared to the rest of the week, though I'm still angry/sad that this had to happen to Tango. She was such a good girl. It's hard to think that this time last Sunday was the last time I'd ever throw the ball for her again. Bed time is without a doubt the most difficult part of my day. People keep telling me that "she knew it was her time to go", and I shouldn't feel bad (though I understand they don't mean anything bad by it). She really didn't have any idea though. She looked terrified and confused, with a face that said "help me, I don't know what's happening".

     Here are her last two pictures (still looking a bit comfortable), before she got progressively worse:

    • Gold Top Dog

    You made the best decision possible for Tango.  (((((Hugs)))))

    Run free Tango

    • Gold Top Dog

    I'm so sorry for your loss.

    Play hard at the bridge Tango

    • Gold Top Dog

    Run free Tango

    Sending comforting prayers for you and your family.

    • Gold Top Dog

    So sorry for your loss--Run free Tango.

    • Gold Top Dog

     I am so, so sorry for your loss.  You did right by Tango......

    • Gold Top Dog

    I'm so sorry for your loss and I know the pain.   In time you'll be able to remember her with a smile instead of sorrow.   We miss them so much when they're gone, but the truth is that they are ALWAYS with us - in our memories.   You made the most loving decision you could, knowing what was best for her as an individual - you may doubt yourself from time to time, but look back and know what she enjoyed and KNOW you made your decision and that your decision was based only upon your love for her and how you know she'd feel if a different decision was made.

    Tango - look for Michelle and the others that have gone before you.  You have no more pain, no more fear, no more confusion and Michelle and the others are there to run with, play with, and enjoy the Bridge with.

     

    • Bronze

    So sorry for your loss Run free Tango
    • Gold Top Dog

    Such a pretty dog!  Tango knew exactly who to look to in her time of need for comfort.  You did right by and take comfort that Tango is relieved now.  Take a few more days of relaxation and take care of yourself.  Good bye Tango.

    • Gold Top Dog

    I'm so very sorry.  My older dog is starting to show some mild but similar signs and I dread the day when we will have to make the same decision as you. It truly is the most loving and compassionate thing we can do for them, but it still hurts like crazy. Run free Tango.

    • Gold Top Dog

    Thanks everyone.

     She was only 4 1/2, and this was all very sudden. Last Sunday night she was running around, and being her usual happy-go-lucky self. No signs at all of what was to come the next day.

    • Gold Top Dog

    Oh my, that's way to young to loose such a good dog.  I'm so sorry. 

    • Bronze

    What a beatiful girl ... I hope you find peace somewhere during this difficult time.  Keep your eyes open ~~ she will find her way back to you, somewhere, somehow ... the special ones always do.

    • Gold Top Dog
    I'm so sorry that you lost her at such a young age. I was really shocked and sad to see this post in the rainbow bridge section. You'll be in my thoughts.
    • Gold Top Dog

    I am shocked and so saddened by the loss of your beautiful girl. I know there are no words to make it better, just time is needed to somewhat heal the hole in your heart. My most sincere sorrow to you.