I carried my boy for the last time
three-part tribute — part 3
You can find the previous post on December 17 (part 2) here.
Today, I carried my boy for the last time.
It is part of the contract. It is never easy.
I still lovingly carried you out in the middle of the night. We strolled together up the street a few times just this past week. I entrusted the decision to you. Then you stopped eating, and your decline was swift.
The longest day
Knowing our time together is now very short, in the previous 24 hours, every moment was precious—hours, minutes, seconds—as we saw the vet and assistant approaching the front door. You didn’t know what was coming, but we did.
As pet parents, we decide when their quality of life takes a turn. Whether they lose their appetite or show distress, they’re trying to communicate something. They don’t realize that these might be your final moments together. Despite believing we may attribute human emotions to our dogs in such situations, I am still determining this perspective. It breaks my heart.
We are with you until the end
We’ll stay with you as they explain what they’re about to do. We will hold your paw and look into your eyes; our faces will be the last thing you see, sweet boy. You were there for me, and now we have to be strong and be there for you no matter how much it hurts. We will stay by your side until the end.
Today, I had the honor of carrying you for the final time. With utmost care, I held one end of the stretcher while you rested peacefully, wrapped in your exquisite rainbow-print blanket. We made our way towards the veterinarian’s car, delicately placing you inside. We said our final farewell with a heavy heart as they softly shut the rear door. It was hard, but I stayed by your side. You were never alone; you were covered in a beautiful rainbow blanket. I will always remember you; you have left your pawprint on our hearts. Farewell, my dearest Bobo Jetti Sketti, my gentle giant.
Snofall Jettin’ Past Ewe, Jett, Australian Shepherd, Male 08/21/2009–01/28/2024.
Related posts
- Part 1: Carrying My Boys, Phil Clark, medium.com, November 4, 2023.
- Part 2: Today, I still carry my boy, Phil Clark, medium.com, December 17, 2023.
