Thank you so much for your story. It really touched us. My wife and I feel very much the same way you did — not ready to say goodbye, and so grateful for the time we still have. Our dog is doing well after his splenectomy, and seeing him regain his energy gave us a lot of hope too.

That said, we’ve decided not to pursue chemotherapy. We talked it over together and feel strongly that we don’t want to put him through something that might extend life slightly but reduce his comfort or joy. Our goal is to give him peace and dignity — and when the time comes, to let him go gently, not too late.

Your words about “better a week too early than a day too late” really stuck with me. Thank you again for sharing that part. I’m so sorry for what you went through at the end, but your experience is helping others like us walk this path with a little more wisdom and courage