struggling...

I absolutely cannot go see "Marley and Me" right now though I have admittedly read the book when it came out.  I am at a loss on the end of life dog idea because of the internal struggle I am dealing with my beloved sheltie, Pate.  Pate is 13 years old now and suffers from cushing's disease and arthritis.  He's not able to walk on hardwood floors.  He gets stuck many times and cannot get up.  I literally have to carry him outside to get him to go to the bathroom... and the newest issue: anal glands are filling up every few days.  I have had 2/3 vets tell me that it's time.  I've been battling that decision in my head and heart.  So far, it's obvious my heart is winning because he is still here.

There comes a point when a dog owner realizes that maybe they are keeping the dog alive for their own benefit or the inevitable.  I'm going to be incredibly sad when he is gone.