I said goodby to my black lab "Tex" about 10 years ago. She was having congestive heart issues along with some other issues. Went to a neighbor who is a vet, highly respected in the CBUS area. He said that Tex had a few more miles left in her, so we took extra care of her. She slowly just started to not be herself. One night I'm sitting in the driveway watching the sun go down, beautiful sunset. Tex got up and sat between my legs and watched the sun go down with me. I thought that was a sign. Checked with neighbor/vet and said it's better to be truthful than hang on to the last moment. That's when I made the appointment.
Added this link to story in Columbus Dispatch about pet owners choices / grief. Ohio State’s veterinary social worker helps pet owners cope with grief, tough choices