The Pet Plan

The quote above has always chimed with me. The animals we invite into our lives touch us in so many ways – emotionally, physically, financially and environmentally.  It doesn’t matter how big or small they are; how cuddly or how prickly. During their time with us, there will be some significant ‘just in case’ situations:

• Choosing
• Buying
• Housing
• Training
• Feeding
• Exercising
• Grooming
• Health
• Illness
• Death

I have experienced all these (and more) with Stanley, my lovely Lancashire Heeler dog, who first came to me as a rescue 18 years ago when he was about a year old. As he lies peacefully next to me as I am typing this, my eyes well up. I know he is near the end of his life. I know I am likely to have to make a very difficult decision over the next couple of months, but what an amazing journey we have had.

My journey with Stanley has included welcoming him from the rescue home; dealing with his issues from his start in life; walking round the village at 3am due to his IBS; going on holiday; getting his Good Citizenship Award; going training with his girlfriends; and coffee mornings and pub visits. In addition, it has involved persuading my sister to stay with him when I am on holiday; using the insurance for his ops; finding alternative solutions when the insurance is no longer viable; the rising costs of care; the time and patience required to carry out his care; and watching and monitoring his activities so I can hopefully send him on his final journey without him having a crisis. As my vet friend says: “Better a day too early than a day too late.”

I have been lucky to have many other animals in my life – including horses (money diverted from things like clothes, socialising, holidays and, well, anything really!) and cats (bringing you endless ‘gifts’ you really wouldn’t want; being run over and losing legs; and deciding to die in your bedroom hidden underneath the bed!). All of them brought so much and taught so many life lessons… However, my experience means the next animal that comes into my life will be carefully considered. I will be planning how that pet can live its best life while being part of my life, as well as accepting all the responsibilities that come with that. I know that what I will get in return is priceless: the connection and love of a new family member.

P.S. Since writing this article, Stanley sadly passed away. I hope we made his passing a peaceful one. I took him out for his walk one morning and I knew he was checking out. I had arranged that his final treatment would be at home because he was terrified of vets. My mother and I sat with him as he slept for the morning in the sitting room. My sister kindly came over and, together with our other dog Rosie, we chatted and talked as he slept peacefully on the carpet. The vet arrived and he peacefully slipped away. Yes, it was emotional, and it still is, but he died surrounded by everyone whose lives he touched – giving him love and sending him on his way to the Rainbow Bridge. Thank you, Stanley, for all that you gave us. You leave behind an enormous legacy and many happy memories.