It is with the most incredible sadness that we had to help Cruz pass over the Rainbow Bridge last Friday. Although she was not in pain, she had been losing muscle mass over the past year and it was just time. It's so increibly hard to make such a decision. If she had been in pain, it would have been easier. For me. But I'm glad that wasn't the way things went. I'd much have it harder on me, than on her. She was still happy but her body was giving out to the point I was afraid to leave her alone. The last few weeks she had accidentally backed off the elevated bed (4 inches) and couldn't get herself unstuck. She also got herself stuck backing out of "the Penthouse" which is a HUGE crate, also about 4 inches off the floor. Both times I was right there to help her stand up. If I hadn't been there, I'm not sure what might of happened. To keep her safe when I went out of the house, I locked her in a crate and she didn't like that. She was QUEEN of the dogs and felt that was below her standing! She was also incontinent and had been for quite some time. Although I would continue cleaning up after her indefinitely with no hard feelings, I knew she was embarrassed. Combining these things, I came to the decision she would be happier playing with her ancestors. Before hand, we took her and Gypsy for a walk out West and she had a glorious time! Even forging creeks and snow banks! She was amazing.
She passed away peacefully in my arms with Mark petting her back. The vet commented many times at what great shape she was. considering her age. He said he'd never seen a dog of that age looking so good. It made me feel good that at least she had a long, healthy life, right to the very end. She has been my constant companion and everytime I turn around I wonder where she is. So many tears have fallen already and there will be many more to come.
