Heaven Awaits Hercules (UPDATE: He's in Heaven Now)

[Barbie]

Hercules woke me up early this morning whimpering. I thought his tummy might be upset, so I got him to walk outside, but he moved very slowly . . . then started trembling . . . and collapsed in the yard. One of my vet’s assistants drove to my house and helped me lift Hercules and put him in my car. When we arrived at the vet, they had to remove him with a stretcher. He has a fever and low white blood count. My vet said, “We might have to make a decision today.” I knew what that meant. 

They’re trying him on another antibiotic and told me to leave him there, go back home, and call them around 3:30 PM. If there’s no improvement, Hercules will be entering doggie heaven today. This is so hard! Zeus is being a real trooper and apparently senses that mommy is very upset right now. Rather than praying for Hercules’ recovery, I’m praying that God takes him . . . because I don’t want to have to make that decision myself.

 

UPDATE: God answered my prayer. I just got a call from my vet. Hercules passed away on his own a few minutes ago.

[Ginny Nightingale]

So so sorry to hear about Hercules--may he be happy in doggie heaven...

[Jennifer and Jack]

You have my most sincere condolences. I don't know what to say or have any good words, I am just so sorry. I am sorry I can't remember was he ill before today? Do they know what happen? 

 

I am praying for you and grateful Hercule's gave you the final gift on not having to decide for you.

Sending my love and prayers

[Gail+Kathleen,(Sydney+Olivia:)]

Barbie, we are so sorry about Hercules.  But he has been such a trooper since May.  He is now looking down at you.  Watch for those rainbows!

[Dori & Rua]

I can't even read through all of the posts...my heart is hurting for you and your loss.  So glad you didn't have to make the decision and God took it out of your control.  Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers.

[i5suux9hekhp]

I am so sorry for your loss : (

[Becky and Murphy]

God Bless Hercules....May he rest in PEACE.  Thinking of you and Hercules too! 

 

[Huskins & Cheryl]

Oh lil' Hercy! Barbie, he is on Jesus lap now, getting his belly scratched! Just like my little Millie Girl that I lost last May. That was the one thing that made me feel good, someone said she was up there right now getting her belly scratched. She loooved that, anytime and by anyone! Here is a sweet story! Hope it helps!

[Lorraine Bromley]

I feel so badly for you. There is nothing to say that can make this easier. I am thinking of you now and pray that you are able to grieve with those who love you.

[Colleen, Jake & Baxter]

Barbie

I am so sorry for your loss but thankful your prayer was answered.  Take care of yourself and be at peace because I am sure Hercules is!  No more pain or tears just lots of joy....

Colleen & Jake

[Tina, Clover, Plus 5 More]

Barbie, I'm so sorry to hear this.  Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

[Deanna & Desi & Cori]

I've been away from DK for a couple of days - so sorry for your loss but happy that he passed on his own.  That's hard, but easier than having to make that difficult decision.

[Barbie]

Everyone, thank you so much for your thoughts and words of kindness. It has taken me a while to come back and read your posts because it was just too painful, and I’m still having a hard time accepting that Hercules is gone. I think it’s mainly because he was doing so well, and it wasn’t until I switched his dog food that his health began to rapidly deteriorate. I just cannot stop wondering whether the food was contaminated, but won’t know until the testing is completed. It just rips my heart out to think I am the one who may have caused his death by feeding him tainted dog food. 

I know it’s not my fault and I’m not looking for blame, but just want an explanation to help give me some closure. I’ve been doing extensive research on the issue, and every symptom Hercules had is consistent with salmonella contamination: vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, staph infection, dizziness, trembling, glazed eyes, paralysis of the limbs, fever, low white blood count (low values may indicate blood loss/bleeding), and blood in the intestines. His symptoms began when I started feeding him that food. 

Anyway, this is what continues to eat me up inside and I won’t be able to let it go until I have answers. I am trying not to let it consume me though, and am so thankful to have puppy Zeus and Doodlekisses to help me through this. Hugs to all of you!