This morning, I took my dachshund, Bagel, to the hospital.

A few days ago, her hind legs suddenly became paralysed. I rushed her to a nearby vet and he advised me to take her to a bigger hospital. He called the hospital on my behalf and made an appointment for my dog.

After a thorough examination, both vets agreed that Bagel suffers from IVDD Stage 5 (Invertebrae Degenerative Disk Disease). This is a common affliction among Dachshunds. Stage 5 is the final stage. This is when the dog's herniated disk is so severe it affects the dog's mobility. Basically, surgery would be Bagel's best chance. Even then, her chance of being able to walk again is only 50 percent. 

On top of that, there is a chance Bagel may have Progressive Myelomalacia (PMM) which gives her a 15% chance of dying on the operating table. Even if the surgery is a success, she can still develop myelomalacia. This condition is a death sentence for dogs as the progress is rapid and irreversible. Dogs will eventually become paralyzed and lose their ability to breathe. The most humane thing to do would be to euthanize her. 

I'm devastated, to say the least. 

Bagel is only 4 years old. She loves to run and chase things. She has always been cheerful and healthy. I always knew this day would come eventually, but not this soon.


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Discussion:

1. Have you ever said good-bye to your furry friend? How did you handle it?
2. What do you think about the bond between humans and animals? Can they coexist in the same space?
3. Why do you think dogs are known as a man's best friend? How about cats?
4. Are you a dog person or a cat person?