Our family just got a little smaller. Here's a message I sent to family and friends about George's death yesterday evening. He was almost 15 years old and had been my companion nearly his entire life.
"The procedure was quick, peaceful and humane. It took about 2 seconds from the moment the doctor put the needle into George for his little heart to stop beating. He took two final breaths and that was it. His eyes remained open so I was able to stare into those beautiful deep blue eyes. Cousin Jennifer was with me in the room and she was also able to witness the silent passing of one of this life's most beautiful creatures.
His body itself had given up growing several days/weeks earlier. For example, I cannot remember the last time I had clipped his little toenails and they had not grown back at all. He also stopped eating and grooming himself, but was still a gentleman to his final moment: Right before leaving for the clinic last night, George picked himself up off the floor, hobbled to his litter box, and urinated. Even on his deathbed, he was gracious.
Last week if you had asked me how George was doing, I would have responded that he is doing well! Eating, sleeping, talking talking talking. But just a few days ago his health and behavior plummeted. The change in him was instant. Yesterday morning I knew things were grave, but I had hope. Then when I got home from work, I was greeted by a completely different animal. It was time, and I knew it instantly.
The house is so quiet now. What I wouldn't give to hear that little thud of him jumping over the gate to talk to me at 3 in the morning."
Jason shot this video a couple years ago in our backyard. George was so plump and healthy. This is how I'd like to remember him:
5 1/2 months old
