Saying goodbye to a pet

Dear Editor:

Today a very sweet dog named Ashley had to be put to sleep. It is four days to Christmas eve, and today was the day that Tracy, her owner, made that decision to say good bye to her loving , loyal, cuddley companion.

To Tracy, and millions of other dog lovers , a dog can steal you heart . To many people, dogs become their trusting friend, child , baby, sleeping buddy . We take them for ice cream, camping , fishing, walks, and rides in our trucks and cars. They look at us with those loving eyes, and they have the cutest fur face that steals our hearts.

Like many people who love pets, Tracy found herself trying to hang on to her Ashley. With weeks turning into days, Tracy's heart was breaking knowing that her Ashley would not be with her Christmas morning. Doggie gifts will not be given to Ashley, which she loved,andher bed filled with her toys will lay empty and untouched.Her dog treats and dishes will be picked up and a new day without Ashley asking to go outwill be unbearable.

Watching her dog play in the yard and her tail wag will be no more .As I am writing this, Tracy will be leaving the veterinarian with her lifeless baby. For Tracy has no children. She just loved that dog. I know that some people will not see the love a lot of people have for their pets, but the loss of a pet can be just devastating.

I know this night will be full of tears for Tracy.

Like Ashley, it is hard to find a vet to take heart and help a dying pet on a weekend. It is almost impossible and very outrageously expensive if you do get one. People can go to emergency rooms. But owners find themselves in an impossible situation when vets close for weekends and at night. Today a vet opened her heart to help this poor dog and her owner. This is what veterinarians should do. Help these sick pets. Open your doors for a dying, suffering pet. Dogs do get sick on weekends , They can't wait for Monday. How cruel.

Thank You, Karen Hess, veterinarian. Your help on this Sunday for Ashley and her owner was a Godsend. Ashley was a white Springer/cocker spaniel who loved her owner (Tracy).

Judy Williams

1374 Center Ave.

Jim Thorpe, Pa.