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Family Treat Terminally Ill Dog To Dream Weekend Before He Dies

Family Treat Terminally Ill Dog To Dream Weekend Before He Dies

I'm not crying, you're crying...

Tom Wood

Tom Wood

A Florida family gave their dog a weekend to remember after they learned that he was dying.

Wilson, a 14-year-old German Pointer, was diagnosed with stomach and bladder cancer. It was terminal.

That's a crushing blow for any family.

However, the Rampersads decided that rather than wallow and be sad about their luck, they might as well give Wilson a send-off to remember before he made the journey to the great big kennel in the sky.

Stephen Rampersad

Stephen Rampersad, his wife Christen, and their sons Noah and Jonah thought they'd give Wilson one last hurrah and took him off to fulfil a doggie bucket list like you wouldn't believe.

After giving him some medication to ensure that he wouldn't feel any pain, they took their beloved pet to a boat launch and allowed him to splash about in the water and have a final swim.

Stephen Rampersad

Then, the following day, Stephen took the pooch along to work with him so that he could be made an honorary firefighter.

After that, they took a walk on the beach, followed by a spot of lunch.

For his last meal, he wasn't given any old food. Wilson tucked into a burger and chips, a massive plate of bacon, a whole load of ice cream, and - for a second dessert - some love from the waiting staff who were all too happy to oblige.

Stephen Rampersad

After that came the hard part. Stephen, who had owned Wilson since before he was in a relationship with his wife, took him down to the vet where he died peacefully in his arms.

A sad day, for sure, but what a send-off. They definitely did their family dog proud.

Stephen told The Mirror: "Wilson was just over-the-top excited about it all.

"Every time food came up, his ears would perk up.

"He just went everywhere with us. He never left our sight.

"It was the best weekend we could have asked for. He was an amazing dog."

Sounds like it.

Incidentally, we spoke with Stephen in the process of writing this article, and he told us that the family have been overwhelmed with the love and support that they've received from people touched by Wilson's story.

Many of those who were moved have donated to pet charities and organisations such as the Humane Society, so - you know - pay it forward, guys.

Stephen Rampersad

It can be hard to think about, but dogs obviously have shorter average life spans than humans. While they're here, though, they're always there.

Luckily for Wilson - and for his family - he managed to get a final day to remember, and left his humans with some truly special memories to keep.

Hold on, I've got something in my eye.

Featured Image Credit: Stephen Rampersad

Topics: Inspirational, US News, Animals