Nothing wrong with the old boy's tongue. It's amazing that he doesn't get brain-chills when he eats frozen custard. He wraps his tongue around it and licks without stopping till it's gone. In about five minutes.
So his top half's in good order. It's his hind legs that collapse without warning and leave him like a seal, pulling his way along in our driveway. Like a proud old man, he doesn't want us to notice, and lies down, casually looking around the yard as if this is where he chose to be.
The vet says to bring him in as soon as he can't walk at all. Until then, we're spoiling him.
Poor Toby. My heart goes out to you guys. Saying goodbye to a loved one is terrible; even worse when that loved one is your steadfast, loyal, and uncomplaining canine companion. Not to mention that he probably melts your heart with his eyes.
When I had to have my Pepper put to sleep (my childhood cat), I didn't want her to face it alone, so I held her little body until she stopped breathing. It was one of the saddest days of my life, but I was happy that I was the last person she saw. I don't think she was afraid or in pain.
Posted by: Deb | July 10, 2005 at 11:22 AM
A very poignant story. The photo makes me want to kiss him on top of his silky old head... yes, I am a dog kisser, and proud of it.
Posted by: Cowtown Pattie aka Nancy, who calls herself to dinner every night | July 10, 2005 at 06:52 PM
Ah geez, it's so sad and so hard to say goodbye to a beloved pet friend.
What a great looking, old guy Toby is. Give him a hug for me.
Posted by: Ronni Bennett | July 11, 2005 at 02:08 PM
Good boy.
Posted by: Amy | July 13, 2005 at 05:12 AM