There are few things more heartbreaking than facing the moment when we must say goodbye to our beloved dog.
Sometimes it’s because age catches up with them and their health declines. Other times, it’s an illness that only brings pain with no hope of recovery.
No matter the reason, it feels cruel and unbearably sad, and no one is ever truly prepared. We avoid thinking about the day our furry companion will cross the rainbow bridge because it hurts too much to imagine.
One woman from Wisconsin found herself in that painful situation when she realized her dog was not well and did everything she could to help.
Time Was Running Short
As soon as Krysten Klapatauskas noticed something unusual with her dog, she began to worry.
During one of their walks, her pup, Stoli, stumbled. While it didn’t seem too alarming at first, Krysten suspected a stroke and rushed her to the ER.
The veterinarian in Wisconsin examined Stoli and said she had a sprained neck. Still, Krysten couldn’t shake the feeling that something more serious was going on.
She decided to seek another opinion. After additional testing, including blood work, she was told her dog was likely suffering from joint pain.
Unfortunately, Stoli’s condition quickly declined. One morning, she woke up struggling to breathe, and Krysten immediately brought her back to the clinic.
This time, the news was devastating. The vet explained that Stoli had large tumors in her spleen and abdomen.
The chances of saving her were slim, and surgery would not have given her meaningful extra time.
A Painful Choice
Krysten was heartbroken. She realized that putting Stoli through surgery would only prolong her suffering, so she chose the most compassionate option: letting her go peacefully.
Stoli crossed the rainbow bridge soon after, leaving Krysten to face one of the most difficult days of her life.
Following her passing, Malachi, the mailman who often visited the neighborhood, showed a beautiful act of kindness. He came by to bring Stoli’s remains home.
Malachi had always stopped to greet Stoli during his route, offering her belly rubs and affection. The bond they shared was something special.
When he returned her remains, Malachi hugged Krysten, knowing how heavy her grief was.
They spent time talking about Stoli, sharing memories of the joy she brought. For Krysten, it was comforting to know someone else cared so deeply about her dog.
Moments like these remind us of the goodness in people and how much dogs unite us. Their love makes us better humans, which is why it is so hard when they leave.
If only dogs could stay with us much longer.