the veterinarian

exactly what it seems to be

It's a difficult
love -
a painful
decision.
necessary
and right,
but it is
so damned
hard to
fill the needle;
harder still
to find the
vein -
purple liquid
so pretty
flows quietly
eyes glassy
peace at
last -
the final
gift
we give
to those
who gave
us plenty
without
reserve.
death with
dignity -
she cradles
them
in her heart
till
it nearly bursts
and then
it is a new day
and she has
to do it
all over
again.

Reviews

[The Rock And Roll Cowbo..]

Sometimes the best thing we can do for a loved one is show them mercy by letting them go… the act of unselfishness is the kindest act of love.

[Lyn Anderson]

Thank you, yes, and the hardest part is to know when.

[Claire in VA]

Oh my goodness. This is so sad. I just don't think I could administer this last act of love.
This hit me with force.
~Claire

[Rita L. Sev]

Damn. My dog and cat are my babies - and I am so grateful to our vet who understands that. I am always amazed at the heart and strength of these angels we call veterinarians...

[Neville]

Extraordinarily well phrased and perfectly true , everyone of these words hits home, bang on target. I am sure this will resonate with all of us who have been there too, as well as those who might just have a taste for well strung words... Made me think over and over of my little old Tetley

[Delmar Cooper]

When I get to that point I hope they call in a Vet.

[Lyn Anderson]

I do believe that is an odd comment to this poem.

[Delmar Cooper]

Well, I was speaking from the animal's point of view. The vet seems to know of mercy than human doctors.

[Lyn Anderson]

Okay. Sorry, I was being a bit obtuse, looking through my lens as a Veterinary professional, I was kind of confused.

[Delmar Cooper]

Confusion is a perfectly acceptable response in a conversation with moi.

[Chris]

We live on so many levels...

[Frieda P]

Sigh, I felt this one in my marrow, been there, not something I want to do another day....

[Lyn Anderson]

Yes it isn't nice, and those of us who live it daily feel it each and every time.