RIP, Marshall....

Last night, we had to put our sweet dog to sleep. Marshall was almost 13 years old, and had a fantastic life. Last fall, he was diagnosed with kidney failure, but was doing okay. He also had hip issues, and had a difficult time getting up the stairs. He suffered a seizure last night, and couldn't come out of it. He had one other seizure back in 2005, but recovered just fine from that.

During the seizure last night, his eyes were rapidly moving back and forth and his breathing was shallow and rapid. Those symptoms scared me, because he didn't experience that the first time. We took him to the emergency vet around 10:30 pm. The vet said based on his age, and eye movement, he likely had a brain lesion or tumor. They could keep him, run some tests and try to treat him with medication. However, in a 13 year old dog who already had kidney failure, it was really a quality of life issue. We agreed.

It was sad and horrible, we cried, but it was the best decision for him. It was much easier to make the decision in that situation, versus having to make the decision just because he was old. Even during sedation, his eyes hadn't stopped their rapid movement, and his breathing remained labored.

The staff at the emergency vet was amazing. He was on a blanket, his head on a little pillow. It was peaceful, yet incredibly sad.

So, to Marshall...you've brought such joy to our lives. You were funny, crazy at times, ate things you shouldn't at times and had your own unique personality. You ruined my carpet, but it got me the hardwood floor I wanted. You tolerated your younger and more active cousins, and they loved you too. You tolerated an infant who grew into an active 8 year old who also loved you. Rest in peace, baby. We will miss you, my wonderful, sweet puppy...


Me and Marshall, 1996, a few weeks after we brought him home. We were both babies!



Marshall hanging out in the chair



Brian and Marshall sleeping



Marshall, April 2009