Gambit April 10, 2011- November 23, 2025
I had the best 7 months with this little guy.
Gambit went to the ER on Saturday. I was relieved when the doctor said his bloodwork and xrays looked good. Just a slight infection. Sunday came and he wasn't getting better. At 14, it was just his time.
I sat with him in the room after the IV was hooked up. The doctor said to take my time. I always want a picture before they go so I held him up and pulled the blanket away from his face. One of those pictures is the one on the left. As I was looking through the pictures I was talking to myself.
Aye... This is ugly... Look at my face... My eyes are all red... Delete... Delete... Ugly... Delete...
(I continued, but this time speaking to Gambit.)
I'm sorry baby, but I'm going to try and take one more picture. I look awful in these. I hate to bother you but mommy really wants one last picture of us together.
God as my witness! Gambit picked his little head up, looked directly into the camera, and appeared to give that little crooked smile I first fell in love with. That produced a dozen horrible pictures because I started bawling. I got it together and was able to get a few great shots. One of those on the right. I kissed the top of his head and thanked him over and over again. Telling him how much I loved him and how much I was going to miss him. Telling him to find Thunderbird. Telling him he had more than a dozen other brothers and sisters to meet and keep company until I got there. Telling him I prayed Dulce and my mom and my aunt would be there too. That they would instantly fall in love with him.
I rang for the doctor and he passed in my arms. I am grateful I got to spend the last moments with another fur baby who didn't deserve to be dumped at the shelter. I hope he felt more love than he ever imagined possible while he was with me. I pray he knows he mattered.
@xpupspack @deharo70 ##InRememberance #Dogs #SeniorDogs
Losing a senior dog like Gambit is an incredibly emotional experience, yet it is one that many pet owners can relate to. Senior dogs often become beloved family members whose companionship enriches our lives in countless ways. As dogs age, they require more attentive care, regular veterinary checkups, and lots of patience. It’s important to recognize the signs when a senior dog might be in distress or nearing the end of their life, such as changes in appetite, mobility issues, or infections that don’t improve quickly. In this touching account, Gambit's owner shares the bittersweet final moments spent in a loving embrace, demonstrating the profound bond between humans and their pets. Capturing those last photographs is a meaningful way to preserve memories, despite mixed emotions about appearances during such a difficult time. For many, photos become treasured keepsakes that provide comfort long after a pet passes. Taking care of a senior dog involves balancing the desire to provide comfort with respecting their natural life cycle. Many pet owners find solace in creating a peaceful environment and ensuring their dogs know they are loved to the very end. Including spiritual or hopeful messages, like inviting pets to reunite with previous companions or family members, can also help in coping with grief. Finally, honoring senior dogs through sharing stories and memories not only pays tribute to their unique personalities but also raises awareness about the special needs of aging pets. If you or someone you know is navigating the challenges of caring for a senior dog, remember that every moment of love and kindness matters deeply to them and enriches their life experience.
