I have to take my dog to a special vet today for a consult. Her regular vet thinks she tore her ACL. I don't know what an ACL is, but I do know that it is in her leg.
Now, our vet has warned us that this surgery will probably cost around 2 grand. So I am prepared for that number to pop up today. What I wasn't prepared for was some of the snide comments I got from people when I told them.
People can be so mean. Now, I'm not rich by any means, but I'm not exactly hurting for money. My dog is suffering because she can't put weight on her leg, so we can't take her for walks or play with her. I don't think she's in too much pain, but honestly, who can tell with a dog?
The thing is, I've had two different people tell me they would never pay that much money for a dog surgery and they would just put her down.
PUT HER DOWN????
We rescued this dog from the pound when she was a year old. We rescued her two weeks after I had surgery for breast cancer. Admittedly I am not a dog person. BUT this dog has captured my heart. She's our girl. She loves me the most. I'm not the one that takes care of her, Bossman does that. But for some reason she and I are bonded. Her name is Sadie, but I should have named her Shadow because all she does is follow me around.
Anyway, the point is....Who tells someone they should just put down their dog instead of giving her the surgery? I realize, some cannot afford this, but I can. So, don't tell me not to waste my money. Don't tell me she's not worth it. Don't try and make me feel guilty for going the extra mile for my dog.
If you looked into those beautiful brown eyes, you would totally understand.
They become part of the family, as precious as the 2 legged ones. When my Shadow (yes her real name, a black labrador) contracted diabetes I did not think for a second about putting her down. We found the money and gave her 2 injections a day for the rest of her life....5 1/2 years.
ReplyDeleteSomeone who suggested to me to have her put down was roughly told that the next time their daughter became ill I would be at their place with the big green syringe....that shut them up for a few days!
Oh my word. People need to keep quiet about other peoples dogs. The only one who knows the value of my dogs is ME and ADAM. Period. You got the money? You fix her and don't you dare let anyone tell you she's not worth it. For crying out loud what's a buddy like that worth? She would never tell you that the people saying that aren't worth it. Sometimes I think dogs have more sense than people.
ReplyDeleteI'm guessing she has never lied to you, intentional hurt you, spent money on wasteful things, been disrespectful to you or told you how to act or how to spend your money. Sounds like she's got more sense than some of the people you've been talking to. About four years ago I spent nearly a thousand dollars on a stray cat we'd had about four months. I really didn't want to - but I'd taken responsibility for him. What could I do? I did end up having to put him to sleep, but it was my decision and I did it for him. That said I hope it's something more simple than they fear.
ReplyDeletePeople can be so judgemental! When we can-we do what is the best for them and yes it helps us too!
ReplyDeleteHow can you put a fur baby down just because it needs an operation. Would be like saying to a human you need a knee replacement but we'll put you down instead. How cruel to say that to you. Our fur babies are like our children. Hope the outcome is good and she recovers quickly to go on walks and play again.
ReplyDeleteHugs Lindy
People can be so cruel sometimes. It's not as if she has a life-threatening condition, and that surgery would only prolong her suffering.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely have the surgery. She will probably recover fully and go on to live a happy and energetic life with her forever family. She is lucky to have found you.
Good luck, Sadie!
Hugs,
Hermione
People can be so heartless. I hope the surgery goes well and Sadie is soon bounding about again.
ReplyDeleteRosie xx
Argh I hate those types. Luckily no one said anything stupid after we spent more than a few thousands on the stray me and my ex adopted. She gave up the ghost last august. But we rest easy knowing we did our best for her.
ReplyDeleteAs you are doing for Sadie. She is blessed to have you! I wish her a quick recovery!!
She is part of your family and you are lucky to have each other. I am sorry people have not shown compassion and understanding. I hope the surgery helps her heal well. Hugs
ReplyDeleteIts just a guess , but I think ACL might stand for anterior cruciate ligament
ReplyDeleteI am on dog/bitch number three and I have no hesitation whatsoever in saying that I love and have loved all three. Only another dog owner would understand how you feel.When I pass by her bed during the day I reach down to stroke her. When I go upstairs I listen for the sound of following paws. When I fall asleep in front of the TV in the evening I know she shares my taste in programs because she is asleep beside me.
Very best wishes for a happy outcome for both of you.