[Hottentot]

Been there, done that. Multiple times with many different animals, not just dogs. Some as part of the job, some as personal losses. Ages old or just a few weeks old, males and females, sick, retarded or wounded. Anything.

And you know what: you get used to Death always being an employee in your crew. But you will never get used to losing. You can rationalize it all you want, but you won't. Heck, you without any doubt know that it was the only right choice. But you still won't. Emotions just don't work like that. It's humane.

All I can say is that your wife was exactly right. And so was the decision: it's the last service you can do to your companion. And you owe it to him/her.

My dog is at the moment 2,5 years old and I have already accepted that I need to face Mr. Reaperman once again. It may be in 10 years or more, but it could as well be tomorrow. The only thing I know is that the day will come and I can't prepare for it. I can't wish it to go away, but I can wish how it happens. And if my wish ever comes true, I get to take my dog into a forest he loves, let him swim in a clean lake for a while, do whatever he ever has loved doing. And after that end our journey with one painless and quick bullet.

I have seen enough vet clinics. It's no place for a dog to die, if I can help it.