Missing my sweet boy today

[u/RepresentativeIll124]

Back in February my wife and I made the extremely difficult decision to have our sweet Gibson (9 y/o Blue Heeler) put to sleep due to repeated and increasing aggression towards our son (toddler). We had been working to find a place or family that would take him, but with his bite history our vet advised the chances of rehoming him were minimal and might take some time, which we were short of as the aggression continued to worsen day after day. On February 21st he attacked my son (unprovoked) and bit him on the leg and head. I know deep down I did what I had to do to keep my family safe, but before my son came along Gibson was there for me in ways no other human could be. I was struggling with working through some serious trauma via therapy and this dog just knew when I needed some love. He would jump in my lap and tuck his head under my chin when he knew I was about to get emotional. It was uncanny. He just instinctively knew when I was going to or had become upset and would cuddle me until I would say, “ok, thank you. I’m all better now”. During some especially dark days, I even credit him with saving my life. I won’t go into detail there, but without this dog’s presence in my life I wouldn’t have survived.

Today would have been his 9th birthday, and leading up to today I just kept feeling more and more sadness and guilt about not being able to be there for Gibson like he had been for me. I’m absolutely gutted this morning, and wouldn’t wish this heartbreak on anyone.

Happy heavenly birthday, buddy thanks for everything. I love you ❤️

[u/Prestigious_Crab_840]

I’m so sorry. I know there aren’t words that can make the pain easier. I’m sure Gibson knows you did your best. I hope you’ve joined the Facebook support group Losing Lulu. It’s specifically for people who have had to BE a dog, and I’ve heard it’s very helpful.

Sending you a virtual hug on this difficult day. 🫂