Hope in The MourningSample

ALL OF A SUDDEN

Pets are truly a gift from the Lord. They fill our days with sweet and funny moments and add richness to daily life. Through them we learn responsibility and develop character. And over time they become more than a pet; they’re our family. 

What do you do when your family member’s health declines all of a sudden? 

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My dog Rustie’s illness came like a thief in the night. My family and I knew something was wrong when after 11 years he wasn’t eating. After taking him to a vet for an examination, the veterinary specialist said Rustie was fine and she was impressed to see a dog his age in such good health. I was relieved, but Rustie still wasn’t eating and in two weeks, Rustie had lost a lot of weight and energy. My older sister took him in for an x-ray and blood work; they determined that Rustie’s kidneys were enlarged. The doctor prescribed Rustie several medications, but Rustie continued to decline. When we first noticed he wasn’t eating, my family and I prayed and declared God’s Word over Rustie. We didn’t know what to do, but we believed what God said about healing the sick. 

Rustie still got excited when he saw his food, though he still wasn’t eating and had lost a lot of weight. We hoped he would recover despite how he felt inside. 

Tuesday night, Rustie was sitting at the top of the stairs as usual waiting for us to come home. His body looked undoubtedly frail and anemic, but this time, unlike the days before, his spirit had also lost its spark and vibrancy. 

My sister, our dad, and I took Rustie to the veterinary specialist. Following a series of questions and a general examination, the specialist was very sure Rustie had tongue cancer. She was doubtful he would survive the night. She gave us an ultimatum: we could have his tongue surgically removed or put Rustie down that very night. My father decided to seek a second opinion. 

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When the “all of a sudden” happens, and you don’t know what to do and are running out of options, pray and trust God. Your pet’s situation may seem hopeless in the natural, but God is the final authority of when your pet’s time on earth is complete. Your Heavenly Father knows all things and has promised to be with you and help you.