My oldest child's bearded collie cross the rainbow bridge on Thursday

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The beardie was just over 14 years old which is a good lifespan for this breed. Simon had some grand mal seizures a week ago and was put on some seizure meds but held back on a drug due to some past liver issues. My oldest had spent several hours at the vet hospital with Simon and was able to take Simon for a walk. After getting home, Simon had a good week and my youngest child got to see him last weekend. This Wednesday night after midnight, Simon started foaming at the mouth and lost control of his bowels. My oldest got Simon to the emergency vet and stayed with Simon 7:30 AM when the meds had settled him down. My oldest was told by the vet that it was time to say goodbye. The Vet gave some steroid shots and other meds (there were no futher concerns about the liver issues).

I came into town and went with oldest to the vet hospital around 3 in the afternoon. Simon was still out of it but seem to recognize my oldest. The vets brought Simon into a room and place him on a mat with towels and sheets. Simon was unable to stand up or move much and it was clear that Simon was blind. By then Simon was awake and could recognize my oldest and I by the sound of our voices and smells. My oldest got to lay down next to Simon and we were amused when Simon asked/demanded that I pet him (beardies in general can be very bossy). We spent over an hour with Simon and while he was blind he knew we were with him. After over an hour, Simon was having trouble staying alert and so my oldest had the vet give the two shots while Simon was lying next to my oldest.

In hospice care they talk about the last good day for a patient. My oldest and I got to see Simon for the last couple of good hours. Simmon knew that he was loved, and we were with him until the end. I went home with my oldest for a couple of hours and went home when my oldest was okay.

It is hard to say goodbye to a family member.