My comment has more to do with all of these negative comments on here. You people do realize this is a farm. Farm dogs are not locked up. They roam the farm protecting the live stock and the family. Putting down your own animals is common place on a farm. I know many people who have and will again do exactly what Art did. You don't allow animals to suffer unnecessarily so "you" can feel better about who ended it's suffering. Art did what any good animal owner should do in that situation. If death and free roaming animals on a farm upset you this much you should be following a family in the city not a homesteading/farm family.
As a person who has worked with animals and in multiple animal fields, I can say Art did what I would have done in this situation. As I've watched this channel for the last 10-11 months I've seen Oreo slow down and is walking become harder for him. I have worked in vet offices and local Humane Society/ animal control,ect. I also hated seeing an animal that was at the end of there time that owners wouldn't let go and they did everything to keep the animal alive. Even if that animal was loaded with pain meds and couldn't move, had to have bladder expressed daily by the vets and do one. I'm a firm believer that giving your animal a dignified end to their life is the humane way. As for how this happens is very much a person choice. The option Are choice in this case was not to stress or hurt Oreo any further then he was. That kinda drive could have killed him and that would have been a extremely painful way to go. I know this was an agonizing decision to make for him. I had ask a while back if Oreo was ok because I hadn't seen him in the vlogs, the reply I got showed how much her cared for him and his health. So this had to be very pain for Art and family. Before writing nasty comments please remember this is a family in morning. Yes I've had to shoot my horse after to was let out by some and was hit by a car. The horses front leg was completely torn off. There was no way I waiting for the vet or taking it over 2 hrs by trailer to by put down, he was suffering as a responsible owner I did what was best. This is what Art did and it took a ton of courage and empathy to do so and then share what happened with us. Art did the most loving thing you could for Oreo please don't let the unkind make you believe otherwise!! My deepest condolences and sympathy for you and the family at this time.
Don't trouble yourself with guilt, or with concern for the vile criticism that has been levied here in the comments. It's clear that you loved Oreo, and you cared for him. Taking away his pain was an extension of that love. Peace be with your family as you grieve the loss.
I feel for you for sure, really no one has the right to judge you none of us were there to see and hear what was going on and everyone is going to feel differently but for me sometimes the hardest action is the best, I think we all can see from your videos just how much you loved him and being his age and the pain he was in and the fact that you know how to use a gun properly to end his suffering fast and with love and dignity that's all you can think about, bless you all for your loss.
We all have seen how compassionate, loving, and caring, that you and Bri are about your animals. None of us were standing in your shoes when you were faced with this situation, had to assess it, and make this decision. I believe your decision was made with much deliberation, heavy hearts, sadness, and much compassion regarding Oreo's condition. Ultimately, you ended Oreo's suffering in the most merciful manner at your disposal at the time. Thank you for sharing.
I'm sure you made the right decision Art. You are a kind and loving family and I trust in your decision to put Oreo out of his misery. I'm so sorry you had to make that painful decision. God bless you all.
So sorry for your families loss. Thank you for being honest with your children and showing them mercy to a suffering animal on the farm. Your transparency is appreciated.
You probably don't remember but on the day of the video when you put him down and were heading to a wedding I commented that our circumstances were a lot alike because we had just spent 12 hours at our sons wedding and the next day had to put down our 15yr old cat that grew up with him. What I didn't say is we shot her. Actually he shot her, and he loved her. I called the vet and to come out to euthanize her it would have been $275. To take her in would have been $125 but she was always so afraid of strangers we didn't want to upset her even more by taking her in - or we would have sooner. She was in a very bad state. What we did was quick, painless, and she was calm. People who judge have NO IDEA. You are very brave to tell this story and risk being hurt even more (by judgey people) than the pain already in your heart from having to do it.
What a wonderful expression of love! To end the suffering of a good and faithful pet is very difficult, whether you have it done by a vet or do it yourself. In not letting Oreo suffer through the night, you gave him the ultimate love. I applaud you.
Art, you did the right thing. We're so proud of the way you explained it to your children. They are experiencing the natural order of birth and death on the farm. You showed responsible pet ownership. May we ask that you please consider keeping your sweet puppies from being able to get to the road, so they won't be hit by a car? Hugs to you all.
I don't know if Art mentioned this, but in his younger days Oreo walked a large percentage of the 2000 mile plus Appalachian Trail. Maybe half, with his previous "owner" who was Art's friend and gave Oreo to him when he (the friend) started working with Outward Bound and traveled all the time. I think that's the story I heard. Oreo and the friend had to stop on the AT because Oreo had developed some kind of stress injury, which is common enough in humans who attempt the trail. -Art's Dad
I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I think you did the responsible, kind and humane thing for poor Oreo, and i know it was not a decision that was made lightly. That you did it yourselves at his home, in a loving way, was a merciful act.
I have to agree with most people on here, Oreo was suffering, all the points you made were valid, and this is why there's a separation between human's and livestock/pets. If you are religious, the Bible advises of dominion over animals. It is a sad thing to do because he is a pet, but it's necessary.
What a hard decision. Having lived on a farm as a young girl, our old dogs would never die on their own with us. They would go somewhere else to die. They knew it was time, and they would find a place to go. With our dogs in the city, they didn't have a place to go, so we had to do the merciful thing. You made the right choice to help your dog when she couldn't go somewhere herself.
I respect you for what you had to do. It is hard enough to see your dog suffer and even harder to stop the suffering. Your a strong man for doing what you had to do. Thanks for letting us know what happened. The young puppies will fill the hole in your heart a little every day. RIP Oreo.
You did the right thing. He was suffering. My dad had to put our German Shepherd down when I was about 20 years old. We had him since he was about six weeks old. And we were little kids at the time. He couldn't bark anymore and when daddy went to feed him that Sunday morning he couldnt even get out of his dog house. I know it was hard for daddy but it had to be done. He was really old and I love him still to this day and I'm 52 years old. I know y'all will be sad for a while but just know you did the right thing. Sorry for your loss.
We very recently lost our beloved Chloe, a terrier. A tumor led to paralysis. We took her to vet and were with her until she closed her eyes and then took her home for burial.
I think it takes a big person to put the pain on yourself by putting him down and take the pain away from the dog by not forcing him to go to the vet. There is no winning in this situation for anyone involved.
Losing a family pet is losing a family member. Your love for him is obvious. Your concern for his well being led you to your very courageous decision. When you see a loved one suffering, you want it to end quickly. You did the best thing. You did right by Oreo. The Bible makes it clear that we are to treat animals with dignity, respect, and mercy. Proverbs 12:10, “A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal.” The need for Oreo was peace. I wish you and your family God's peace. RIP Oreo.
Art DO NOT FEEL BAD. We found our dog too late. She had to suffer alone. I wish my Piggy had had the chance for me to "LOVE" her the way you did. This story has brought back all the pain of the loss of "My child". I so wish I had the chance to give mine the chance you did. You loved you "Son" and gave him the greatest gift you could. NOT SUFFERING MORE.
You made the right decision. We have had a vet put some of our dogs down over the years, but most were quick,merciful, humane deaths at home, also with the 22. After 50 years of animals on the farm, they are buried all over cats , dogs, rabbits, etc. We have an 18 year old, 3 legged pit mix that we have been expecting to go for two years, even had a neighbor with a small bucket tractor dig a hole in case she went in the winter and we couldn't dig one. It is traumatic and painful to the animal to have to be transported to the Vet's office at the end, not to mention scary for them. Glad Oreo was there for a while to mentor the pups into farm life.
Anyone watching your videos can see that you love your animals.. and they love you. You made a decision out of love and I respect that you knew what was right. I know he must have left a big hole in your heart. Take care.
So sorry for the loss. You did the right thing to put him down so he didn't have to suffer any longer. Doing the hard things shows love and respect for a pet, nothing to feel guilty about.
Oreo didn't know the difference in you taking his pain away versus a vet. I believe taking them to a vet scares them even more in their already anxious moments. You did what was right! The vet way is only for OUR fleshly and mind altered way of what's right.....not the animals.
That's part of life when you have animals. Whether they be pets or livestock. I commend you for making the decision and especially not hiding it from the kids. It is simply a part of life. You are all doing a great job out there!
We had a dog with cancer. She woke us up in the middle of the night flopping on the floor, like a fish. She was paralyzed now. My son came over in the middle of a lighting storm and shot her. I was not going to let her suffer until morning. I am sorry for your loss.
Art and Bri...I'm sorry for your loss and as I said a few vlogs ago, I just went through this with a cat we had for 18 years. I grew up knowing that when you have pets you are going to have to deal with this reality. My father was a bird hunter and used cockers as his choice of bird dog. These dogs were our pets IN THE HOUSE but the minute my father put on his hunting vest and took out his gun and ammunition these same dogs became one with the hunter and we weren't able to get near them...they had a job to do and were focused on the task at hand. Once the hunt was over those dogs again were the house pets we loved so dearly. When the end came my father always knew and would tell us before retiring to bed at night that if the dogs hadn't passed during the night he would have to put them down in the morning. We always prayed to the dear Lord above that morning would bring a soft furry lump on the floor in front of the fireplace but not always was that the case and we would be huddled together knowing that after a shot was heard, we were to go out and bury our dearest pets. We did so knowing that our father did what was best for the animal and with 9 children and a step-grandfather in the house there wasn't money for the vets unless an extreme emergency arose. I have lived to this day knowing that there are times when the most difficult of things will become necessary and we stand up to the task as we were taught as youth. My siblings never had a dry eye during these times and now my grown children too weep for the many good years our treasured furry friends have given us but we do what needs to be done. I have a "pet cemetery" amongst my flower gardens under the lilacs and pines and we mark their graves after the difficult task of giving them their final resting place. Lessons are learned from these very difficult times and as children we must experience these difficult decisions in order to grow into responsible adults one day. I know that you are grieving the loss of your dog Oreo but he will live on in all the memories you have of him and in time as the loss grows less and less painful the new puppies will fill in the hole that Oreo left. God is always with us and He makes these difficult times more bearable as we go through them. Don't take some of the comments to heart and remember that YOU are the person God put in charge of all the creatures great and small on your homestead. Blessings dear youtube friends! :)
An act of compassion that requires a great deal of strength and love for Oreo's well being. Harder for you I'm sure than Oreo and I feel he would know the love that guided your choice of home and the challenges that come with accessing a vet.........Sorry for your loss....
I respect you very much for helping him by ending his suffering. And thank you for being transparent. Death is a part of our existence. You are a strong roll model for your children. Thank you for telling us!
We had a very similar experience with our beloved dog, Bear. He was hit by a car at night and my husband had to shoot him. One of the hardest things to do, but also a very selfless thing to do, for the dog's sake. We loved him, he was a good dog. But love does the hard thing, like Jesus! Ironically, he wagged his tail after the shot, and that was the kind of dog he was. It broke our hearts,. I am tearing up writing this, our hearts are with you.
We took our beloved Sadie to the vet a few yrs ago to be put down, we were with her for the whole thing. It happens very quickly once the injection is given. We took her home and buried her. Vets make big money to euthanize animals, and cremate. Money most don't have to spend. Last yr we lost our beloved Lewie, who was stolen then dropped off and hit by a car intentionally. We found him, brought him home and buried him at home where he belongs...if faced with this decision again, I'd put my animals down at home. Love is selfless...
I agree with you 100%. It's always sad to lose a family member. However, I believe that veterinary clinics profit from these situations all too often. So I believe putting your dog down in this manner is the most humane way.
I'm so sorry, we have had to do the same thing with our dog of 15 years. It was heart wrenching. You did the right thing. Our Prayers are with your family. 💖
It is a dog owner's responsibility to manage the dog. If it is suffering or a danger to others it needs to be put down. What you did saved the dog hours of suffering. It was a kindness.
You did the right thing, Art. I too had to do this and in hearing you retell your story, tears fill my eyes. Oreo was not just a dog, he was a member of the family and a protector. However, he was in pain and you ended his suffering. That was an act of love. Think of all the wonderful memories he was a part of, and that now he is in a better place. God bless.
I had 2 dogs with a month in between they both got a stroke. It was horrible to look at and i had to drive to a vet to get help for them. Im never gonna forget those two coz they were soulmates and they were my best friend. Im proud that you took action and didn't let him suffer. Don't listen to these evil people saying cruel things, you did it for love and compassion. It would have been worse if you moved him and he whined all the way to the vet in pain. I remember when i took mine to the vet, it was the longest drive ive ever had to take and i could not stop crying all the way there and almost crashed my car a few times. We have animals to care for them, we are responsible for their wellbeing some people just dont understand that and they are either ignorant to have a animal to care for or they are braindead. Much love and hugs from Norway
I first want to say, im so sorry for the loss to your family. People can say its a fact of life and while their right... It doesnt make it any easier. Being so hurt and making it home tells me that is where he wanted to die. He wanted to be with the ones that loved him. In his safe place. I respect the decision you made. Not an easy one by any means... May your hearts heal with the memories you all have and know that he was greatful for the loving home you gave him. 💙 From my family to yours thoughts and prayers sent your way 🙏
Most of us have gotten used to taking dogs to the vet to put down because firing a gun within city limits would get us in trouble. I'm sorry for your family's loss. You do what you have to do for your family. Thank you for sharing the good and the bad.
I commend you for not allowing him to suffer. I don't think I could do it but I admire those that can compartmentalize and do what is necessary. Farm animals yes, my dog...... don't think I could.
My dog I had growing up was 18 when she fell down the steps and broke her back and hips. My dad (who she lived with) had to wait hours just for the vet to tell him they could do surgery but she may not make it thru. Or she may only have a year or two left if she does. It was hard..even having them put down at the vet costs a lot of money. With that being said I watch your videos I know all of your animals are LOVED and well cared for I'm confident when I say Oreo didn't feel it and it was humane. I'm so very sorry for your loss.
Many people don't have vets. They have to take care of that responsibility. You all are responsible life care takers. It is the cycle of life that we currently live in. Hugs to you all. ~Smile!
I am so sorry for your loss. Our pets are family and are greatly missed when they are gone. I sympathize with your pain having lost my beloved Pheobe 4 months ago. Cherish the memories for it is better to have had them in you life than to not to have had them at all.
A part of living in the country for us was the number of dogs that were "dropped off" when they were no longer wanted. They would be found by us, emaciated and shaking. My father would have to shoot them to let them go. How awful it was for him.
I have had a similar experience and needed to put down my animal. It was so horrible and painful, but then I realized that I was being selfish if I tried to keep my animal alive at all costs when clearly there was no more hope for recovery. I had to do it for my pet. I still tear up thinking about it but accept that accidents, sickness, and other misfortunes just happen when you have pets and animals. They just do. It isn't fair; it just happens. Art, I think you were correct and handled the situation morally right with respect and empathy. You were a great father to truthfully with compassion explain this to your children.
Isn't it how our ancestors took care of a suffering animal/pet? We recently had to have our beloved Abby put to sleep! We probably waited to long, but it so hard to say goodbye! Prayers for you and your family!
All the animals on the farm died by our own hands... And yes it would sometimes rib our hears out to kill one of them but we did what was best for the animal at the time... Life and death is a large part of farm life... Be blessed...BBE
I am so sorry for your loss. I can only imagine the fear and turmoil you and Bri had to go through when making this decision. Hops your family recovers through all the wonderful memories Oreo left behind for you to remember him by.
Art..I hope you can ignore the critical comments. They obviously don't watch enough of your videos to see how caring you are to all of your animals. We understand and love you all the more for the decision you had to make and carry out. Blessings.
Dear sweet family. I am so sorry for your loss. Art, I know a little bit of your heart died with your beautiful Oreo. That is evident in your vlog about your choice to end his suffering. We had to make that same decision and it isn't easy. Your knowledge and respect for life, whether it be human, animal, or plant keeps me coming back for more. Peace be with you and your lovely family. Oreo was blessed to have you as his friend.
You did the best for Oreo. He knew he was loved and I am sure he was at peace. Taking him to the vet could have been traumatic for him, he would have known something was wrong. Dying at home is much more peaceful for him. I am sorry you and your family had to go through this, it is never easy for anyone. God bless and may he ease your pain.
I grew up on a farm, we've had to make the tough decision before... And last year my husband and I had to have our beloved dog euthanized. I think you did a very difficult thing for Oreo, but that was ultimately the kindest thing you could do for him with the least pain... God bless you 💜
i am so sorry about Oreo. doing the right thing is not always the easy thing. over the years we have loved and lost much loved dogs and cats. that final trip tho the vets office was never, ever easy. sending a hug.
You did a very difficult thing but a very kind and loving thing. The transport and trauma of getting Oreo to the vet would have added additional pain and anxiety. Thank you for sharing this hard time with us. Homesteaders often will have to take action for the benefit of an animal be it dog, chicken, goat, etc. It is never easy.
You did the right thing. Real life and your children are learning it. You and Bri have been blessed to have been raised by awesome parents and now your children are being blessed by you guys being awesome parents! Ty you for sharing truth .
Yes we have had to end the suffering for several of our pets over the years. It is a sad thing to do but vets are not always available at night or weekends. To watch and hear them suffer is way worse then you lovingly ending their suffering. Your heart is broken no matter which way you go,
Growing up in the boonies this is how it happened my entire childhood. The first time we took a dog to get euthanized I was 19 and it was my beloved 4H dog Jazz who had been poisoned. I've seen plenty of both ways. Neither is wrong. Many folks can't imagine making that decision and worse yet, carrying it out. Sorry for your loss. I hope you don't get a lot of hate for sharing this.
YOU DID THE RIGHT THING! I love my dogs with every ounce of me, they are my best friends(sometimes my only friends) and always by my side. Its because I love them so much that I would have done the same thing. Taking him to the vet would have just prolonged suffering. You made sure he wasn't going to suffer anymore, even though it was a very hard thing to do. I am so very sorry for your families loss!
Art, you didn't kill Oreo. You released him from his suffering. Oreo trusted you and came home to you. You knew from your bond with him, that he was miserable . No human who loves his fur kids ever "Puts them down" that's so harsh, doesnt kill them, tender are the words that describe love.. you honored his life by releasing him, end his pain, let your words be as compassionate as your deed. It's not easy to end a life. Give yourself a break. Bless you and Brian.
I put my beloved dog down but with a pistol. It was so very hard. I didn't want him to suffer anymore, and he would have only gotten worse. We loved him. I know what you went through, you do what you have to do. God bless you, Glenda
Awwww... thanks for sharing. I am SO SORRY for the loss of sweet Oreo. He had a beautiful life there with lots of love and happiness. My heart is breaking for all of you. Sending lots of hugs... Blessings and love always.......
I live in a big city and have had and lost many pets. At least 4 different vets failed to identify cancer in my last dog until I pointed my finger at it. Sometimes a vet is more of a bill than a help. I don't think I could have shot my dog, but for sure I could have given it a needle to put it down. At the Pet Emergency hospital where I took out a $5,000 credit card to pay the surgical bill, they were more than surprised to learn that I planned to sit right there for hours while my pup had surgery. That's because people don't take responsibility to that level. They transfer responsibility to the vet and then they go shopping and call back later. A guy who shoots his own dog has taken full responsibility. Animals get sick and animals die. They are also great at hiding what's wrong. Many times when an animal knows it needs help it does look for that from the person who cares for it. The person has to help in the way they think is best. This is honoring, not betraying that trust. If that's you, you have to know that you may be wrong, but, you may also be right. Either way, know that you did what you truly believed was best for the animal. You cannot keep a smart dog inside of a fence or a house if it wants to be out. I've tried. They will suddenly become smarter and stealthier than you. Working dogs are REALLY both smart and experienced. Like working people, they have places to go and things to do. Working is what makes their lives feel important and matters to them. While you may not understand it, you might as well accept it. They need to be taught their jobs, which takes years of training, monitoring and protection. As adults they should be monitored, but then allowed to do their jobs. They know the rules, the people around them should know them too. Usually people in the area, neighbors, know whose dog they're looking at, and will call if there's a problem. Your dog may very well have a job that you know nothing about. Get it a collar, tags and or chip with your phone number. If you are driving anywhere, follow the laws. Country roads and city streets are not expressways. Sometimes even fenced animals escape. I've been on a road with escaped cows. I hear goats are experts. One street in my neighborhood has free range chickens walking around. Wild geese hold up traffic on one of the busiest streets during rush hour almost every day. You can hit a white tailed deer even in the city. If you hit a dog; 1. Thank your lucky stars it wasn't a child. They have hands and can easily open doors and gates and run across roads willy nilly. 2. Seek out the owner to apologize not sue. You were probably going too fast or using your cell phone or GPS and not paying enough attention. In every part of our lives we make a decision to do or not to do something based on our own opinions.We live in tiny houses or mansions. We public, private, religious or home school our kids. We buy or adopt, pit bulls or yorkies because we have a choice. You will never be seeing my life on You Tube because I would never want you to have so much to say about my choices. This is a family that shares their real lives with all of us, but it's their lives not ours. They are not made up characters at the movies. Please, use some discretion in deciding what you say. Chances are that somebody would make a different decision from yours. Being mean IS mean. Saying things in a mean way IS mean. Be kind. Maybe it would be OK just this one time, even if asked, to keep your opinion to yourself. Don't make yourself into the salt, to rub into the wound, of losing a well loved pet. Being kind might be the same as being silent if it's the best you can do this time.
I'm so sorry for your loss! Our dogs, Geronimo and Blanca, we're put down at a ripe ol age of 12 and 15 yrs of age! Our son helped us! They were mixed Great Dane, and Queensland Healer! Never in our lived have we raised puppy, brother and sister, to a very mature life! We mourned them for a very long time! God bless you and yours! ~○~ rebecca
There is a movie called ol yeller they had to put down the dog. so all the hater out there if you are a responsible pet owner you don't want your pet in pain. you do what is right. sorry for your loss🐕🐕🐕
I know people that will not put their animals down no matter how much suffering the animal goes through or no matter how long it goes on. I see how you all live your animals. If that was your decision I am sure it was the right one for your dog.
I held my chocolate lab when the vet administered the lethal injection. It was time and as a pet owner I felt it was my responsibility to make that merciful decision. RIP Oreo
I am sorry for the horrible comments. You did what was best for Oreo. I am sure it was a difficult decision. It seems it was the most humane at the time.
Thanks for sharing. I respect you guys and I've heard these stories before and didn't know what to conclude from them. I loved your explanation of "sometimes we pass this kind of thing on" as someone else's responsibility. Like, it's the vets responsibility to put them down, not mine, etc. I really appreciate that view! #1 rule of owning a pet/livestock is that YOU are responsible for that animal. Much love to your family.
I'm so sorry your family had to go through this loss. I think you did the right thing. I've never had to do this myself but do feel you took the right action. Blessing to you all
Hi Art first off let me say you are so brave to share this with but truth be told it's another fact of country living. Help isn't always close by and you will often have to make on the spot desitions.. needless to say that my heart goes out to you it's never easy to loose a loved one and you made the right choice for Oreo and for you.. it's clear how much you loved him that you would put yourself through such a heartbreaking situation.. really proud of you..and I hope you find comfort in the fact that you gave him a fantastic life and a dignified passing.. luv you guys xx
You all did the right thing and I admire the strength that it took. You all are the sweetest family and I love watching you all. Life is hard sometimes, but you all have done it with dignity. May God give you all comfort in this sad time.
You did what had to be done. Our 11+ year old Chow Chow developed a tumor on his tongue. The only way to save him was to let the vet remove his tongue. That was never going to happen. We loved him too much to do something so cruel just so we could enjoy his companionship for another year or two. It was hard to do but the only merciful decision was to put him down. Because we made that decision before he was totally incapacitated all of our memories of him are sweet. Mercy is one of the things that separates man from the beasts. You did the right thing. JMHO
I cried for your pain to have to have done that. It was the right thing to do. He loved and trusted you and you did what he needed. He will be waiting for you to join him when it is your time.
I couldn't do it, but i don't think people who do are bad. We've had to have a dog put down due to age related ailments, before she started to suffer. And we've also spent over £5000 trying to keep another dog alive with surgery. Ironically we've just been told 1 of our current dogs has terminal cancer, so we'll look after her with medication, and show her the love we always have done. And when the time comes we'll have her put to sleep. :-(
Thanks for share. I know you did not have to do so. So sorry for your loss. I know it was a hard thing to do and I know Oreo was grateful you were able to do this hard think for him and ease his pain.
Art as hard as it was you showed Oreo love by ending his suffering. I'm sorry it happened that way. We had to do the same thing with one of our dogs. He was 18yrs old and it was just time I won't get into the detail but it is the most loving thing you could have done. My heart goes out to you.
holding you in my heart. It is ALWAYS hard. My husband died in May 2013 and that September I had to have our old, 15 year old lab euthanized because he could barely walk. I had the vet come out to the house so he was at home. What I am trying to say is Oreo was at home, with you. The greatest thing we can give a pet is to end its suffering. You did the right, loving and compassionate thing for him. I uphold your love and courage for what is a painful, heartbreaking thing to do .As a nurse Art, like me, I believe you have witnessed many humans plead for an end to their suffering. Yes, we feel terrible guilt, but I believe that God gave us the capacity to love our animals and they us and the wisdom to do what is best for them as painful as that may be. If Oreo could tell you he would say " I know that what you did for me was hard, but thank you good and faithful friend for loving me and helping me ,and being with me to the end." Godbless you my friends.
Probably one of the most awful things my husband and I have ever had to do was put our 10 month old puppy to sleep. And I wish that the situation was different and that we could have done it at home. So sorry for your loss thinking of you guys💜💜💜
My comment has more to do with all of these negative comments on here. You people do realize this is a farm. Farm dogs are not locked up. They roam the farm protecting the live stock and the family. Putting down your own animals is common place on a farm. I know many people who have and will again do exactly what Art did. You don't allow animals to suffer unnecessarily so "you" can feel better about who ended it's suffering. Art did what any good animal owner should do in that situation. If death and free roaming animals on a farm upset you this much you should be following a family in the city not a homesteading/farm family.
As a person who has worked with animals and in multiple animal fields, I can say Art did what I would have done in this situation. As I've watched this channel for the last 10-11 months I've seen Oreo slow down and is walking become harder for him. I have worked in vet offices and local Humane Society/ animal control,ect. I also hated seeing an animal that was at the end of there time that owners wouldn't let go and they did everything to keep the animal alive. Even if that animal was loaded with pain meds and couldn't move, had to have bladder expressed daily by the vets and do one. I'm a firm believer that giving your animal a dignified end to their life is the humane way. As for how this happens is very much a person choice. The option Are choice in this case was not to stress or hurt Oreo any further then he was. That kinda drive could have killed him and that would have been a extremely painful way to go. I know this was an agonizing decision to make for him. I had ask a while back if Oreo was ok because I hadn't seen him in the vlogs, the reply I got showed how much her cared for him and his health. So this had to be very pain for Art and family. Before writing nasty comments please remember this is a family in morning.
Yes I've had to shoot my horse after to was let out by some and was hit by a car. The horses front leg was completely torn off. There was no way I waiting for the vet or taking it over 2 hrs by trailer to by put down, he was suffering as a responsible owner I did what was best. This is what Art did and it took a ton of courage and empathy to do so and then share what happened with us.
Art did the most loving thing you could for Oreo please don't let the unkind make you believe otherwise!! My deepest condolences and sympathy for you and the family at this time.
Don't trouble yourself with guilt, or with concern for the vile criticism that has been levied here in the comments.
It's clear that you loved Oreo, and you cared for him. Taking away his pain was an extension of that love.
Peace be with your family as you grieve the loss.
You loved you dog and I'm sure it was not easy to do. My condolences to you and you family 💔
So sorry about Oreo. Hard decision to make. No one can second guess you they weren't there. Be praying for you all
I feel for you for sure, really no one has the right to judge you none of us were there to see and hear what was going on and everyone is going to feel differently but for me sometimes the hardest action is the best, I think we all can see from your videos just how much you loved him and being his age and the pain he was in and the fact that you know how to use a gun properly to end his suffering fast and with love and dignity that's all you can think about, bless you all for your loss.
We all have seen how compassionate, loving, and caring, that you and Bri are about your animals. None of us were standing in your shoes when you were faced with this situation, had to assess it, and make this decision. I believe your decision was made with much deliberation, heavy hearts, sadness, and much compassion regarding Oreo's condition. Ultimately, you ended Oreo's suffering in the most merciful manner at your disposal at the time. Thank you for sharing.
He died with his family at his home. You released him from his pain. Our final act of love for our pets. Rest in peace, Oreo. Good boy!
I'm sure you made the right decision Art. You are a kind and loving family and I trust in your decision to put Oreo out of his misery. I'm so sorry you had to make that painful decision. God bless you all.
So sorry for your families loss. Thank you for being honest with your children and showing them mercy to a suffering animal on the farm. Your transparency is appreciated.
You probably don't remember but on the day of the video when you put him down and were heading to a wedding I commented that our circumstances were a lot alike because we had just spent 12 hours at our sons wedding and the next day had to put down our 15yr old cat that grew up with him. What I didn't say is we shot her. Actually he shot her, and he loved her. I called the vet and to come out to euthanize her it would have been $275. To take her in would have been $125 but she was always so afraid of strangers we didn't want to upset her even more by taking her in - or we would have sooner. She was in a very bad state. What we did was quick, painless, and she was calm. People who judge have NO IDEA. You are very brave to tell this story and risk being hurt even more (by judgey people) than the pain already in your heart from having to do it.
I've had to do the same thing in the past. It's not an easy choice, but you did the right thing. Thanks for sharing
Rusted Oak Homestea
Arthur you made the right decision, allowing Oreo to suffer all night would have been cruel on him. RIP sweet Oreo
What a wonderful expression of love! To end the suffering of a good and faithful pet is very difficult, whether you have it done by a vet or do it yourself. In not letting Oreo suffer through the night, you gave him the ultimate love. I applaud you.
Art, you did the right thing. We're so proud of the way you explained it to your children. They are experiencing the natural order of birth and death on the farm. You showed responsible pet ownership. May we ask that you please consider keeping your sweet puppies from being able to get to the road, so they won't be hit by a car? Hugs to you all.
I don't know if Art mentioned this, but in his younger days Oreo walked a large percentage of the 2000 mile plus Appalachian Trail. Maybe half, with his previous "owner" who was Art's friend and gave Oreo to him when he (the friend) started working with Outward Bound and traveled all the time. I think that's the story I heard. Oreo and the friend had to stop on the AT because Oreo had developed some kind of stress injury, which is common enough in humans who attempt the trail. -Art's Dad
I called Oreo "Cookie". He seemed to like the nickname.
The dog had a good life. Good that you defend Art because he did the right thing.
UniversalDirt your a good Dad!
I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I think you did the responsible, kind and humane thing for poor Oreo, and i know it was not a decision that was made lightly. That you did it yourselves at his home, in a loving way, was a merciful act.
I have to agree with most people on here, Oreo was suffering, all the points you made were valid, and this is why there's a separation between human's and livestock/pets. If you are religious, the Bible advises of dominion over animals. It is a sad thing to do because he is a pet, but it's necessary.
What a hard decision. Having lived on a farm as a young girl, our old dogs would never die on their own with us. They would go somewhere else to die. They knew it was time, and they would find a place to go. With our dogs in the city, they didn't have a place to go, so we had to do the merciful thing. You made the right choice to help your dog when she couldn't go somewhere herself.
I respect you for what you had to do. It is hard enough to see your dog suffer and even harder to stop the suffering. Your a strong man for doing what you had to do. Thanks for letting us know what happened. The young puppies will fill the hole in your heart a little every day. RIP Oreo.
You did the right thing. He was suffering. My dad had to put our German Shepherd down when I was about 20 years old. We had him since he was about six weeks old. And we were little kids at the time. He couldn't bark anymore and when daddy went to feed him that Sunday morning he couldnt even get out of his dog house. I know it was hard for daddy but it had to be done. He was really old and I love him still to this day and I'm 52 years old.
I know y'all will be sad for a while but just know you did the right thing. Sorry for your loss.
We very recently lost our beloved Chloe, a terrier. A tumor led to paralysis. We took her to vet and were with her until she closed her eyes and then took her home for burial.
I think it takes a big person to put the pain on yourself by putting him down and take the pain away from the dog by not forcing him to go to the vet. There is no winning in this situation for anyone involved.
Losing a family pet is losing a family member. Your love for him is obvious. Your concern for his well being led you to your very courageous decision. When you see a loved one suffering, you want it to end quickly. You did the best thing. You did right by Oreo. The Bible makes it clear that we are to treat animals with dignity, respect, and mercy. Proverbs 12:10, “A righteous man cares for the needs of his animal.” The need for Oreo was peace. I wish you and your family God's peace. RIP Oreo.
Art DO NOT FEEL BAD. We found our dog too late. She had to suffer alone. I wish my Piggy had had the chance for me to "LOVE" her the way you did. This story has brought back all the pain of the loss of "My child". I so wish I had the chance to give mine the chance you did. You loved you "Son" and gave him the greatest gift you could. NOT SUFFERING MORE.
Ending the suffering of a terminal pet is an act of compassion. I have done the same and will likely do it again if needs be. Peace be with you.
You made the right decision. We have had a vet put some of our dogs down over the years, but most were quick,merciful, humane deaths at home, also with the 22. After 50 years of animals on the farm, they are buried all over cats , dogs, rabbits, etc. We have an 18 year old, 3 legged pit mix that we have been expecting to go for two
years, even had a neighbor with a small bucket tractor dig a hole in case she went in the winter and we couldn't dig one. It is traumatic and painful to the animal to have to be transported to the Vet's office at the end, not to mention scary for them. Glad Oreo was there for a while to mentor the pups into farm life.
Anyone watching your videos can see that you love your animals.. and they love you. You made a decision out of love and I respect that you knew what was right. I know he must have left a big hole in your heart. Take care.
Farmers have had to do this for years and it never gets easy.
So sorry for the loss. You did the right thing to put him down so he didn't have to suffer any longer. Doing the hard things shows love and respect for a pet, nothing to feel guilty about.
Sorry for the loss of your pet, Oreo the dog. You gave him mercy from his suffering.
Oreo didn't know the difference in you taking his pain away versus a vet. I believe taking them to a vet scares them even more in their already anxious moments. You did what was right! The vet way is only for OUR fleshly and mind altered way of what's right.....not the animals.
That's part of life when you have animals. Whether they be pets or livestock. I commend you for making the decision and especially not hiding it from the kids. It is simply a part of life. You are all doing a great job out there!
We had a dog with cancer. She woke us up in the middle of the night flopping on the floor, like a fish. She was paralyzed now. My son came over in the middle of a lighting storm and shot her. I was not going to let her suffer until morning.
I am sorry for your loss.
Art and Bri...I'm sorry for your loss and as I said a few vlogs ago, I just went through this with a cat we had for 18 years. I grew up knowing that when you have pets you are going to have to deal with this reality. My father was a bird hunter and used cockers as his choice of bird dog. These dogs were our pets IN THE HOUSE but the minute my father put on his hunting vest and took out his gun and ammunition these same dogs became one with the hunter and we weren't able to get near them...they had a job to do and were focused on the task at hand. Once the hunt was over those dogs again were the house pets we loved so dearly. When the end came my father always knew and would tell us before retiring to bed at night that if the dogs hadn't passed during the night he would have to put them down in the morning. We always prayed to the dear Lord above that morning would bring a soft furry lump on the floor in front of the fireplace but not always was that the case and we would be huddled together knowing that after a shot was heard, we were to go out and bury our dearest pets. We did so knowing that our father did what was best for the animal and with 9 children and a step-grandfather in the house there wasn't money for the vets unless an extreme emergency arose. I have lived to this day knowing that there are times when the most difficult of things will become necessary and we stand up to the task as we were taught as youth. My siblings never had a dry eye during these times and now my grown children too weep for the many good years our treasured furry friends have given us but we do what needs to be done. I have a "pet cemetery" amongst my flower gardens under the lilacs and pines and we mark their graves after the difficult task of giving them their final resting place. Lessons are learned from these very difficult times and as children we must experience these difficult decisions in order to grow into responsible adults one day. I know that you are grieving the loss of your dog Oreo but he will live on in all the memories you have of him and in time as the loss grows less and less painful the new puppies will fill in the hole that Oreo left. God is always with us and He makes these difficult times more bearable as we go through them. Don't take some of the comments to heart and remember that YOU are the person God put in charge of all the creatures great and small on your homestead. Blessings dear youtube friends! :)
An act of compassion that requires a great deal of strength and love for Oreo's well being. Harder for you I'm sure than Oreo and I feel he would know the love that guided your choice of home and the challenges that come with accessing a vet.........Sorry for your loss....
Oreo had a good life with people who loved him. You did the most humane thing.
I respect you very much for helping him by ending his suffering. And thank you for being transparent. Death is a part of our existence. You are a strong roll model for your children. Thank you for telling us!
We had a very similar experience with our beloved dog, Bear. He was hit by a car at night and my husband had to shoot him. One of the hardest things to do, but also a very selfless thing to do, for the dog's sake. We loved him, he was a good dog. But love does the hard thing, like Jesus! Ironically, he wagged his tail after the shot, and that was the kind of dog he was. It broke our hearts,. I am tearing up writing this, our hearts are with you.
We took our beloved Sadie to the vet a few yrs ago to be put down, we were with her for the whole thing. It happens very quickly once the injection is given. We took her home and buried her. Vets make big money to euthanize animals, and cremate. Money most don't have to spend. Last yr we lost our beloved Lewie, who was stolen then dropped off and hit by a car intentionally. We found him, brought him home and buried him at home where he belongs...if faced with this decision again, I'd put my animals down at home. Love is selfless...
I agree with you 100%. It's always sad to lose a family member. However, I believe that veterinary clinics profit from these situations all too often. So I believe putting your dog down in this manner is the most humane way.
I'm so sorry, we have had to do the same thing with our dog of 15 years. It was heart wrenching. You did the right thing. Our Prayers are with your family. 💖
I'm sure it was the most humane act which was quick and painless to end his suffering. I'm glad you were strong enough to show him mercy. God bless
It is a dog owner's responsibility to manage the dog. If it is suffering or a danger to others it needs to be put down. What you did saved the dog hours of suffering. It was a kindness.
You did the right thing, Art.
I too had to do this and in hearing you retell your story, tears fill my eyes. Oreo was not just a dog, he was a member of the family and a protector. However, he was in pain and you ended his suffering. That was an act of love.
Think of all the wonderful memories he was a part of, and that now he is in a better place.
God bless.
I had 2 dogs with a month in between they both got a stroke. It was horrible to look at and i had to drive to a vet to get help for them. Im never gonna forget those two coz they were soulmates and they were my best friend. Im proud that you took action and didn't let him suffer. Don't listen to these evil people saying cruel things, you did it for love and compassion. It would have been worse if you moved him and he whined all the way to the vet in pain. I remember when i took mine to the vet, it was the longest drive ive ever had to take and i could not stop crying all the way there and almost crashed my car a few times. We have animals to care for them, we are responsible for their wellbeing some people just dont understand that and they are either ignorant to have a animal to care for or they are braindead. Much love and hugs from Norway
I first want to say, im so sorry for the loss to your family. People can say its a fact of life and while their right... It doesnt make it any easier. Being so hurt and making it home tells me that is where he wanted to die. He wanted to be with the ones that loved him. In his safe place. I respect the decision you made. Not an easy one by any means...
May your hearts heal with the memories you all have and know that he was greatful for the loving home you gave him. 💙
From my family to yours thoughts and prayers sent your way 🙏
Hard loosing a dog, good friend, and family member. (You'all did what you had to do to end the suffering) I'm sorry for your loss.
Most of us have gotten used to taking dogs to the vet to put down because firing a gun within city limits would get us in trouble. I'm sorry for your family's loss. You do what you have to do for your family. Thank you for sharing the good and the bad.
Best thing! You ended his suffering. You are a very brave person. Bri is extremely good wife to support you.
I commend you for not allowing him to suffer. I don't think I could do it but I admire those that can compartmentalize and do what is necessary. Farm animals yes, my dog...... don't think I could.
It is rough, but it sounds like you did the right thing. Sorry it happened, but glad you were there to help him and say goodbye.
My dog I had growing up was 18 when she fell down the steps and broke her back and hips. My dad (who she lived with) had to wait hours just for the vet to tell him they could do surgery but she may not make it thru. Or she may only have a year or two left if she does. It was hard..even having them put down at the vet costs a lot of money.
With that being said I watch your videos I know all of your animals are LOVED and well cared for I'm confident when I say Oreo didn't feel it and it was humane. I'm so very sorry for your loss.
Many people don't have vets. They have to take care of that responsibility. You all are responsible life care takers. It is the cycle of life that we currently live in. Hugs to you all. ~Smile!
I am so sorry for your loss. Our pets are family and are greatly missed when they are gone. I sympathize with your pain having lost my beloved Pheobe 4 months ago. Cherish the memories for it is better to have had them in you life than to not to have had them at all.
June Jones here--
You did your very best, Art. Not an easy decision. Prayers for your family as you adjust to the loss of your dear Oreo.
A part of living in the country for us was the number of dogs that were "dropped off" when they were no longer wanted. They would be found by us, emaciated and shaking. My father would have to shoot them to let them go. How awful it was for him.
Good owners do not let their pets suffer.
They do what ever has to be done.
I have had a similar experience and needed to put down my animal. It was so horrible and painful, but then I realized that I was being selfish if I tried to keep my animal alive at all costs when clearly there was no more hope for recovery. I had to do it for my pet. I still tear up thinking about it but accept that accidents, sickness, and other misfortunes just happen when you have pets and animals. They just do. It isn't fair; it just happens. Art, I think you were correct and handled the situation morally right with respect and empathy. You were a great father to truthfully with compassion explain this to your children.
You did the right thing. He was suffering and in pain. So sorry for your loss!
Isn't it how our ancestors took care of a suffering animal/pet? We recently had to have our beloved Abby put to sleep! We probably waited to long, but it so hard to say goodbye! Prayers for you and your family!
1994abbygirl ii
All the animals on the farm died by our own hands... And yes it would sometimes rib our hears out to kill one of them but we did what was best for the animal at the time... Life and death is a large part of farm life... Be blessed...BBE
Awww You're so brave and a wonderful family guy. It's the worst when your pet is suffering. You did the right thing. So sad for your loss.
With livestock, I'd end it myself. With a pet, unless it was VERY obvious that the animal was definitely going to die, I'd get a vet's opinion first.
So sorry for your loss and for the decision you had to make. No more pain. 😣
I am so sorry for your loss. I can only imagine the fear and turmoil you and Bri had to go through when making this decision. Hops your family recovers through all the wonderful memories Oreo left behind for you to remember him by.
Art..I hope you can ignore the critical comments. They obviously don't watch enough of your videos to see how caring you are to all of your animals. We understand and love you all the more for the decision you had to make and carry out. Blessings.
Dear sweet family. I am so sorry for your loss. Art, I know a little bit of your heart died with your beautiful Oreo. That is evident in your vlog about your choice to end his suffering. We had to make that same decision and it isn't easy. Your knowledge and respect for life, whether it be human, animal, or plant keeps me coming back for more. Peace be with you and your lovely family. Oreo was blessed to have you as his friend.
You did the best for Oreo. He knew he was loved and I am sure he was at peace. Taking him to the vet could have been traumatic for him, he would have known something was wrong. Dying at home is much more peaceful for him. I am sorry you and your family had to go through this, it is never easy for anyone. God bless and may he ease your pain.
I grew up on a farm, we've had to make the tough decision before... And last year my husband and I had to have our beloved dog euthanized. I think you did a very difficult thing for Oreo, but that was ultimately the kindest thing you could do for him with the least pain... God bless you 💜
i am so sorry about Oreo. doing the right thing is not always the easy thing. over the years we have loved and lost much loved dogs and cats. that final trip tho the vets office was never, ever easy. sending a hug.
You did a very difficult thing but a very kind and loving thing. The transport and trauma of getting Oreo to the vet would have added additional pain and anxiety. Thank you for sharing this hard time with us. Homesteaders often will have to take action for the benefit of an animal be it dog, chicken, goat, etc. It is never easy.
You did the right thing. Real life and your children are learning it. You and Bri have been blessed to have been raised by awesome parents and now your children are being blessed by you guys being awesome parents! Ty you for sharing truth .
Yes we have had to end the suffering for several of our pets over the years. It is a sad thing to do but vets are not always available at night or weekends. To watch and hear them suffer is way worse then you lovingly ending their suffering. Your heart is broken no matter which way you go,
Growing up in the boonies this is how it happened my entire childhood. The first time we took a dog to get euthanized I was 19 and it was my beloved 4H dog Jazz who had been poisoned.
I've seen plenty of both ways. Neither is wrong.
Many folks can't imagine making that decision and worse yet, carrying it out.
Sorry for your loss. I hope you don't get a lot of hate for sharing this.
YOU DID THE RIGHT THING! I love my dogs with every ounce of me, they are my best friends(sometimes my only friends) and always by my side. Its because I love them so much that I would have done the same thing. Taking him to the vet would have just prolonged suffering. You made sure he wasn't going to suffer anymore, even though it was a very hard thing to do. I am so very sorry for your families loss!
It was the most humane decision. He would have suffered more if you had delayed by taking him to the vet. I'm sorry for your loss.
Art, you didn't kill Oreo. You released him from his suffering. Oreo trusted you and came home to you. You knew from your bond with him, that he was miserable . No human who loves his fur kids ever "Puts them down" that's so harsh, doesnt kill them, tender are the words that describe love.. you honored his life by releasing him, end his pain, let your words be as compassionate as your deed. It's not easy to end a life. Give yourself a break. Bless you and Brian.
Brianna. Sorry for the messed up name.
I put my beloved dog down but with a pistol. It was so very hard. I didn't want him to suffer anymore, and he would have only gotten worse. We loved him. I know what you went through, you do what you have to do.
God bless you,
Glenda
Awwww... thanks for sharing. I am SO SORRY for the loss of sweet Oreo. He had a beautiful life there with lots of love and happiness. My heart is breaking for all of you. Sending lots of hugs... Blessings and love always.......
I live in a big city and have had and lost many pets. At least 4 different vets failed to identify cancer in my last dog until I pointed my finger at it. Sometimes a vet is more of a bill than a help. I don't think I could have shot my dog, but for sure I could have given it a needle to put it down. At the Pet Emergency hospital where I took out a $5,000 credit card to pay the surgical bill, they were more than surprised to learn that I planned to sit right there for hours while my pup had surgery. That's because people don't take responsibility to that level. They transfer responsibility to the vet and then they go shopping and call back later. A guy who shoots his own dog has taken full responsibility.
Animals get sick and animals die. They are also great at hiding what's wrong. Many times when an animal knows it needs help it does look for that from the person who cares for it. The person has to help in the way they think is best. This is honoring, not betraying that trust. If that's you, you have to know that you may be wrong, but, you may also be right. Either way, know that you did what you truly believed was best for the animal.
You cannot keep a smart dog inside of a fence or a house if it wants to be out. I've tried. They will suddenly become smarter and stealthier than you. Working dogs are REALLY both smart and experienced. Like working people, they have places to go and things to do. Working is what makes their lives feel important and matters to them. While you may not understand it, you might as well accept it. They need to be taught their jobs, which takes years of training, monitoring and protection. As adults they should be monitored, but then allowed to do their jobs. They know the rules, the people around them should know them too. Usually people in the area, neighbors, know whose dog they're looking at, and will call if there's a problem. Your dog may very well have a job that you know nothing about. Get it a collar, tags and or chip with your phone number.
If you are driving anywhere, follow the laws. Country roads and city streets are not expressways. Sometimes even fenced animals escape. I've been on a road with escaped cows. I hear goats are experts. One street in my neighborhood has free range chickens walking around. Wild geese hold up traffic on one of the busiest streets during rush hour almost every day. You can hit a white tailed deer even in the city. If you hit a dog; 1. Thank your lucky stars it wasn't a child. They have hands and can easily open doors and gates and run across roads willy nilly. 2. Seek out the owner to apologize not sue. You were probably going too fast or using your cell phone or GPS and not paying enough attention.
In every part of our lives we make a decision to do or not to do something based on our own opinions.We live in tiny houses or mansions. We public, private, religious or home school our kids. We buy or adopt, pit bulls or yorkies because we have a choice. You will never be seeing my life on You Tube because I would never want you to have so much to say about my choices. This is a family that shares their real lives with all of us, but it's their lives not ours. They are not made up characters at the movies. Please, use some discretion in deciding what you say. Chances are that somebody would make a different decision from yours. Being mean IS mean. Saying things in a mean way IS mean. Be kind. Maybe it would be OK just this one time, even if asked, to keep your opinion to yourself. Don't make yourself into the salt, to rub into the wound, of losing a well loved pet. Being kind might be the same as being silent if it's the best you can do this time.
I'm so sorry for your loss! Our dogs, Geronimo and Blanca, we're put down at a ripe ol age of 12 and 15 yrs of age! Our son helped us! They were mixed Great Dane, and Queensland Healer! Never in our lived have we raised puppy, brother and sister, to a very mature life! We mourned them for a very long time! God bless you and yours! ~○~ rebecca
There is a movie called ol yeller they had to put down the dog. so all the hater out there if you are a responsible pet owner you don't want your pet in pain. you do what is right. sorry for your loss🐕🐕🐕
I know people that will not put their animals down no matter how much suffering the animal goes through or no matter how long it goes on. I see how you all live your animals. If that was your decision I am sure it was the right one for your dog.
I held my chocolate lab when the vet administered the lethal injection. It was time and as a pet owner I felt it was my responsibility to make that merciful decision. RIP Oreo
I am sorry for the horrible comments. You did what was best for Oreo. I am sure it was a difficult decision. It seems it was the most humane at the time.
Thanks for sharing. I respect you guys and I've heard these stories before and didn't know what to conclude from them. I loved your explanation of "sometimes we pass this kind of thing on" as someone else's responsibility. Like, it's the vets responsibility to put them down, not mine, etc. I really appreciate that view! #1 rule of owning a pet/livestock is that YOU are responsible for that animal. Much love to your family.
YOU did the RIGHT thing for your Dog as his Owner. We also had to do it and therefore have COMPASSION on you and your Family xxx
*hugs* right decision, so sorry for your loss and for the terrible comments you don't deserve.
I'm so sorry your family had to go through this loss. I think you did the right thing. I've never had to do this myself but do feel you took the right action. Blessing to you all
Hi Art first off let me say you are so brave to share this with but truth be told it's another fact of country living. Help isn't always close by and you will often have to make on the spot desitions.. needless to say that my heart goes out to you it's never easy to loose a loved one and you made the right choice for Oreo and for you.. it's clear how much you loved him that you would put yourself through such a heartbreaking situation.. really proud of you..and I hope you find comfort in the fact that you gave him a fantastic life and a dignified passing.. luv you guys xx
You had to do what you had to do. Don't beat yourself up for it. He was in a lot of pain. He thank you for it for taking him out of his pain.
You all did the right thing and I admire the strength that it took. You all are the sweetest family and I love watching you all. Life is hard sometimes, but you all have done it with dignity. May God give you all comfort in this sad time.
You did what had to be done. Our 11+ year old Chow Chow developed a tumor on his tongue. The only way to save him was to let the vet remove his tongue. That was never going to happen. We loved him too much to do something so cruel just so we could enjoy his companionship for another year or two. It was hard to do but the only merciful decision was to put him down. Because we made that decision before he was totally incapacitated all of our memories of him are sweet. Mercy is one of the things that separates man from the beasts. You did the right thing. JMHO
A heartbreaking decision for sure. There will always be those who disagree with your choice. Stand strong even with the heartache.
I cried for your pain to have to have done that. It was the right thing to do. He loved and trusted you and you did what he needed. He will be waiting for you to join him when it is your time.
I cried like a baby when I had to put my border collie friend of 12 years down.
I still miss her.
Critics be damned. You did what had to be done.
I couldn't do it, but i don't think people who do are bad. We've had to have a dog put down due to age related ailments, before she started to suffer. And we've also spent over £5000 trying to keep another dog alive with surgery. Ironically we've just been told 1 of our current dogs has terminal cancer, so we'll look after her with medication, and show her the love we always have done. And when the time comes we'll have her put to sleep. :-(
Thanks for share. I know you did not have to do so. So sorry for your loss. I know it was a hard thing to do and I know Oreo was grateful you were able to do this hard think for him and ease his pain.
The quickest way is the best way. You gave him a great gift release from pain. XOXO. Sorry for your loss.
Art as hard as it was you showed Oreo love by ending his suffering. I'm sorry it happened that way. We had to do the same thing with one of our dogs. He was 18yrs old and it was just time I won't get into the detail but it is the most loving thing you could have done. My heart goes out to you.
holding you in my heart. It is ALWAYS hard. My husband died in May 2013 and that September I had to have our old, 15 year old lab euthanized because he could barely walk. I had the vet come out to the house so he was at home. What I am trying to say is Oreo was at home, with you. The greatest thing we can give a pet is to end its suffering. You did the right, loving and compassionate thing for him. I uphold your love and courage for what is a painful, heartbreaking thing to do .As a nurse Art, like me, I believe you have witnessed many humans plead for an end to their suffering. Yes, we feel terrible guilt, but I believe that God gave us the capacity to love our animals and they us and the wisdom to do what is best for them as painful as that may be. If Oreo could tell you he would say " I know that what you did for me was hard, but thank you good and faithful friend for loving me and helping me ,and being with me to the end." Godbless you my friends.
Probably one of the most awful things my husband and I have ever had to do was put our 10 month old puppy to sleep. And I wish that the situation was different and that we could have done it at home. So sorry for your loss thinking of you guys💜💜💜