I found this poetically written passage online and cannot figure out who to credit this to, the author appears to be unknown. This is one of the most eloquently written passages I have ever read regarding what a four-legged pet might say to their owner who is faced with deciding (and may know it is time to) whether to putting them to sleep. Feel free to pass this along to others, as I already have.
Here is the passage directly quoted as I found it, written as if a pet is speaking these words:
“If it should be that I grow weak and pain should keep me from my sleep, then you must do what must be done, from this last battle can’t be won.
You will be sad, I understand, but don’t let grief then stay your hand. For this day more than all the rest, your love for me must stand the test. We’ve had so many happy years; what is to come can hold no fears. You don’t want me to suffer so the time has come, please let me go.
Take me where my needs they’ll tend. But please stay with me till the end to hold me close and speak to me, until my eyes no longer see. I know in time you will agree – – it was a kindness done for me.
Although my tail its last has waved, from pain and suffering I’m saved. Please do not grieve that it was you who had this painful thing to do.
We’ve been so close, we two, through the years. Don’t let your heart hold any tears.