The subject of euthanasia is always a stressful one for people who are faced with it or have already been there. I have been with three dogs, one cat, two horses and three ferrets. I have three very ill ferrets at this time that I am having to make the decision as to when I am going to help them to the Bridge. It NEVER gets easier. I always stay with my animals. It is not easy for me. I believe it's easier for the animals. ALL the vets that have attended my animals have been very supportive and kind. It's not easy for them either. The actual euthanasia has been calm and gentle. A vet friend of mine tells me that she comes home some days feeling like 'Doctor death". She hates it but it has to be done. I believe the critters know that we are helping them and would tell us if they had the words. We are the ones that have to come to terms with saying goodby. Like I said before, it never gets easier. I cry while reading the posts about the ferrets that have gone to the Bridge. I know the pain, the anguish, the frustration and the anger. I hate having to make those decisions. My point? It is painful for the humans. Excruciating. A difficult final act of love. But with my animals, gentle, calm, and mostly pain-free. May all the animals that have gone to the Bridge rest in peace. Hugs to all that are hurting. I am too. Tequita and Larry: the hurting humans Andy: Old man about to go to the Bridge Freddie: I'm going too PeeWee: I'll be along a little later Cindy: But, I won't have my sleeping buddy! Gidget: Oh well, I've never been anywhere long enough to have a buddy Harvey: What do you guys mean by "The Bridge"? I'm still so young.... [Posted in FML issue 2575]