We lost our Shih-Tzu, GiGi, this morning.?

Question

She was 13, and developed respiratory distress, from unknown causes. We have no children ,and our animals are our babies. GiGi was our "first-born". Our grief was overwhelming, and a turnip would have given us more compassion than the vet's office did. No sooner did the assistant take GiGi in the back room, than the other assistant was sticking her head in the room and telling us how much we owe them. I do realize it's a business to them, but to the grieving owners, a little compassion goes a long way. I feel like someone has kicked me in the stomach, and all they wanted is their money. When did people lose their compassion is what I want to know? This was the single hardest decision I have ever had to make in my life, I am 52, and, a part of me died today with her. And all they wanted was their money and their room back for the next client.

Thank you to all of you who responded to my grief. It's heartwarming to know there are people out there who you've never met, and probably never will, that care about your circumstances, whatever they are. Bless all of you for caring. Porkchop

Answer 1

First of all, I am deeply sorry for your loss. I know exactly what you are going through. My husband and I have no children and just like you, our dogs are our babies. We lost our Schnauzer mix Penny 2 and a half years ago when she was 11. She had been sick since she was 6 years old, but we spent thousands of dollars to keep her with us. With enough treatment, her last years were comfortable for her. I was 15 when I got her from a friend of a friend who was going to take her to the pound and she died when I was 26. My husband had always teased me that he had married me for Penny. When she died, I thought I was going to die. Luckily, my employer knew how I was with my dogs and she gave me 3 days off. It's a good thing because I wouldn't have showed up anyway and that's not like me. I even had to take medications to help me sleep and to stop shaking. She was my world. I still cry over her at least twice a week but at least now I can think of the happy times too. My other dog who was 4 at the time was so depressed that before a month had passed we had to get him a friend. We were not ready for another dog and felt really guilty, but we had to for Shiloh. And it was so weird, we got a dog named Ozzie who really needed us. He was at a shelter and had heartworm and nobody wanted him. Then a year later he got cancer and we got him better from that. So, even though it's still hard, it was fulfilling to have helped another homeless animal. That's what Penny would have wanted. I wear a necklace that is engraved with her picture everyday, so trust me, I know what you are going through. You are going to have bad days ahead, but your other dogs need you so that will help.

As for people lacking compassion, I could not agree with you more. We were lucky with Penny though. The day before she passed away, we had her to the vet and had purchased $250 worth of her medication and do you know what? The clinic took the meds back and refunded our money. That touched my heart. It wasn't that we needed the money, but it was the principle of the thing. There are some good people out there, they are just hard to find. I will say a prayer for you and your husband.

Answer 2

Definitely time to get a new vet! Some are only in it for the money, others actually love animals. When you are feeling a little better, shop around for a new vet in your area. Ask some friends with pets who they use and their feelings about their vet. Ask about specific qualities and experiences they have had with their vet.

I feel for your loss. It can be soooo heartbreaking to lose a family member. Remember too, if you have other pets, they may be grieving as well. You can all console each other.

Answer 3

I'm so sorry about your baby! It's horrible to lose a pet.

You need to find a new vet! Believe it or not, there are a lot of vets that go into practice and don't even like animals! It seems very strange to me. Of course there are still compassionate animal care providers out there. The best way to find a good one is by word of mouth. Ask people who have animals if they like their vet and if they would highly recommend them.

Answer 4

I know. Sometimes these offices are so busy that they don't give a thought to how people are feeling just move the line for the next patient. Sorry for your loss. I was 18 when we lost our doggie and I cried so much. You get attached to your pets just like children, they are your family.

Answer 5

I am so sorry to hear that. The same thing happened to me when I had to put my very first rotti down cause she had cancer and after all the meds and surgery and 5000.00 later i decided I didnt want her to suffer anymore and made the hardest decidion of my life. And they were the same way to me. People are heartless and dont care about anything but money and themselves.

Answer 6

I just what to let you know how bad I feel for your loss. I really can feel your pain in your words. You should go in and let them know how they made you feel. Maybe if you say something to the boss things might get better, and then someone else might be spared that kind of treatment

Answer 7

You need to look for a new vet.My mom lost her poodle and they told her they would bill her.She had time to grieve before she had to face that.I live in a small town and we have great vet service.Look elsewhere.I am so sorry to hear about your baby.

Answer 8

I am so sorry for your loss and yes people have lost their compassion and dignity as well . It is horrible and I would find myself another vet they should have been more carring than that . I totally agree with you . once again my condolances.