The veterinarian observed something strange as the owner requested a few minutes to bid farewell to his dog, who was near death.
It’s often remarked that we grow to love animals more than many people. They embrace us for who we are; their love is unadulterated and selfless. For this reason, losing them is the most difficult thing a person can go through.
As he waited at the veterinarian’s office, the man was amazed that this day had arrived. His dog, his devoted companion with whom he had experienced every phase of life, was lying in front of him. As if feeling all that was going on in his master’s soul, the dog had been there during happy times and sad times.
The veterinarians now expressed no hope, stating in a low voice that the animal was in pain and that there was no way to alleviate it. For the man, it sounded like a sentence for both himself and the dog.
Before the surgery, he requested a few minutes.
He sat down next to him, gave his pal a hug, and, unable to contain his tears, muttered:
— Pardon me, friend. I’m sorry I didn’t offer you the life you were due. I cherish you. Pardon me. I have no idea how to survive. It aches a lot. I do not wish for you to go.
The dog put his paws on his owner’s shoulders and rubbed himself against him as though he understood every word. The man gave him a hard hug and burst into tears.
Then, however, an unexpected event occurred.
The dog’s eyes, long dulled by disease, awakened and he gazed at his owner with a bright, alert expression. As though to console him, he whined gently and even got to his feet, licking the man’s face.
The vets exchanged stunned glances as they noticed that his respiration had stabilized and the readings had improved. Strength appeared to have returned.
Desperate, the man gave him a closer hug:
Could this be a sign, my god? Would he survive? Would the disease have subsided?
However, the physicians were aware that this occurrence frequently happens right before death. Occasionally, right before passing away, there is an abrupt improvement, as though vitality returns.
The veterinarians made the decision to temporarily delay the euthanasia.
The dog lay down next to the guy that night, resting his head on his knees, and the man remained by his side the entire time. He seemed to have at last found rest as his breathing became steady and tranquil.
Afterward, he died quietly, painlessly, and without waiting for the injection.
In order to spare his owner from living with shame for the rest of his life, the dog died naturally.
