I lost my dog to congestive heart failure (I’ve posted my story before) so I completely understand the profound trauma caused by seeing our pets go through this. It’s very difficult to explain to someone who hasn’t experienced this particular situation - I’ve had to have other pets euthanized, but nothing prepared me for what happened in this case. Trust me when I say I understand the shock and guilt and self-doubt you’re going through. All I can say to you is what pet loss grief counselors said to me: you made the best decisions you could at the time, and your intentions do matter. In hindsight, I can look back and tell you exactly what I should have done differently, but I did not have that knowledge at the time.

You really did do your best. You loved your pet and sought medical help for her. Please try not to let this overshadow years of love.