Dad: I'm so sorry to have to give you some sad news. Pooch died peacefully this afternoon.
As you know, yesterday Pooch was feeling quite bright and alert, and we had a gentle stroll together
at one of his favourite walks. He has always loved the views and the sniffs to explore there.
He was very happy to be there and enjoyed his walky - which turned out (although we had no idea at the time)
to be his last one. He had a good appetite for his supper and slept well overnight.

But when he woke up this morning, it was obvious that there had been a change. He wasn't in any pain
or anything like that, but he was very weak and tired.
We took him to the vet, who said we had two options. Pooch could be admitted to the veterinary
hospital for re-hydration with an iv and blood & urine tests to determine the best method of treatment. Or we could let him go.

We talked it over carefully and decided that, as always, Pooch's own wellbeing and quality of life were our priorities.
We decided that to put him through invasive hospital procedures would not be in his best interests.
It would be stressful and uncomfortable for him. And given that he already had advanced kidney disease, it would
have made no difference in the longer term.
We did not want Pooch's last days or weeks to be in and out of hospital,
away from his familiar comforts, uncomfortable and probably stressed.
We wanted him to go as he lived - on his own terms, peacefully, contentedly, with our love and blessing.

Today's photo was taken just before our second trip to the vet, during which he was put to sleep.

He lay on his favourite blanket and had his favourite toy, a fleece hippo, beside him.
We were both with him to say goodbye and our voices were in his ears as he fell asleep.

Thank you for joining us on our adventures with Pooch over the past 13 years - for your friendship, support, enthusiasm and humour.
It has been a privilege to share our very special dog with you.
We will treasure every comment always.