I was working in the kennels yesterday and as I walked by hers, I noticed that there was some vomit on the floor. I called to her---she was laying flat out on her bed, head turned away from me. This was totally abnormal for her. An intelligent dog, she liked to check out the goings-on in the kennels and would ALWAYS get up and come to the front of her kennel and greet me. I entered her kennel and stroked her head, but she was not very responsive. I had another staff member come take a look, and she agreed that we should call our Vet. Tech. Kelly to come back and render aid to the little girl.
I carried Dharma in my arms to the treatment room because she simply couldn't walk. Kelly arrived and did absolutely everything she could do to help Dharma. We got some fluids in her and made her as comfortable as possible in our treatment room. She seemed to be perking up a little bit so we decided to wait it out and I honestly expected her to have come around by this morning.
Just a little while ago I got a call that Dharma had passed last night. We suspect that she had a seizure in the night, possibly due to a brain abnormality, like a tumor. I know that in all likelihood, Dharma was not conscious of the fact that she was alone. She probably wasn't aware of anything really. But I hate the fact that she didn't go through this in a home, with loved ones. I cared for her for weeks and I didn't even say a real goodbye to her last night. I hoped for the best, because that is my nature. Sometimes the best just isn't in the cards, I guess. I feel pretty heartbroken right now, but I know that I personally gave Dharma the love and care that she needed and deserved every single day I was there. Kelly did absolutely everything she could, and we are lucky to have such a caring and dedicated person on staff. There was nothing more we could have done, but I would give anything right now to have been able to do more for her.
Wishing you peace on your journey, little girl.
Well said Sloane. There is always pain involved when we dare to care whether it be about people or animals or both :) It's healthy I think to take time to grieve and remember such a sweet little dog. Having had high hopes for this little girl is perfectly okay..lower expectations aren't an option with a heart like yours. Love MOM
ReplyDeleteSloane, your Mom said it best! Nothing but hope and faith from you since the day I met you! I love working with you and I'm so thankful that I have a friend to grieve with in these situations. Rest in peace Dharma <3
ReplyDeleteYou made me cry. Having gone through this both unexpectedly and also slowly with cats at our shelter, I know the heartbreak. Thanks so much for the love you gave Dharma -- she knew she was loved.
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