Those of you who read my blog on a regular basis have read about Yoda. She is a Shiba Inu who was getting on in years. I have taken care of Yoda for over three years and have become quite attached to her.

This last year, Yoda’s health has deteriorated. At over 15 years old, she is deaf and now exhibiting signs of canine cognitive disorder – a canine form of dementia. Up until my last visit, we were still able to go on short walks, but she was having trouble jumping up on the curbs.

My second to last visit with Yoda, she had trouble jumping up on the couch and fell just walking on the tile floor. She also had accidents in the house, which had never happened before.

It was clear Yoda was aging. In addition to her hearing loss, her veterinarian had diagnosed her with kidney disease, and Yoda suffered from an upset stomach as a result. She was obviously suffering part of the time.

I touched base with her owner before each visit to see if there were any new developments. The last time I talked to her owner, Debbie, she let me know she was probably going to euthanize Yoda a few days after her return.

While I was saddened by the news, I understood Debbie’s position, having gone through the same decision process not long ago with my cat Meeser. Meeser also had kidney disease and had a stroke, so it was clear it was time to put him out of his misery.

During my last visit with Yoda, I cuddled with her on the couch and talked to her about crossing the Rainbow Bridge.  I explained to her that she would feel better soon and be able to do the things she used to do. I told her what a good dog she was and how she would be missed.  I know she couldn’t hear me very well but I felt better letting her know how I felt and that she had touched me.

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