It's not your fault or anyone else's. It was time. I was extremely lucky for all the time I got with my dog. He nearly made it to 19, he was about five months past 18. He was incredibly healthy for his age, but once it became clear he was in pain and his appetite gave out (that happened several days ago), we knew it was time to say goodbye. His breathing became labored and short throughout the day and we decided we needed to let him go peacefully rather than try to force him to live longer and reduce his quality-of-life. We had a peaceful goodbye with him our laps, petting him and loving on him as he went.

One can understand the reality of life all they want, it doesn't stop the hurting.

[–] BonesOfTheMoon@lemmy.world 3 points 7 months ago

I've been there four times. No matter how ready they are, you never are. It's dreadful and dogs are so so wonderful. My old pug is really getting up there, I don't even know how old as he was a stray, but he's almost completely white now from age. I know the day will come but it's so hard. I am glad your boy has such a good long life and a peaceful ending.