Notes About The Poem

Tribune Challenge Poetry Contest, Sponsor - Oliver McKeithan. Date written: 07/26/2025

A Difficult Decision


dog stricken
with cancer;
euthanized.

out of her
 m i s e r y;
dog owner

hollowed out
by deep grief;
best friend, gone!
Copyright © | Year Posted 2025

Poem

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Goldsmith Avatar
July 30, 2025 at 10:14 AM
Congratulations on your win. I enjoyed reading your wonderful yet sad write. I have lost a number of pets over the years. Few were like going through hell. Have a blessed day with your win...........
Ibeh Avatar
July 30, 2025 at 1:04 PM
Thank you so much, Paula:-) You, too!
Messina Avatar
July 30, 2025 at 9:36 AM
Boy, this one- hits home with many. Congratulations on your top win Edward! ~CM
Ibeh Avatar
July 30, 2025 at 1:03 PM
Thank you very much, Charles:-)
Volumes Avatar
July 29, 2025 at 3:10 PM
This struck a nerve! We have an eleven year old. He has had 3 operations to remove cancerous lumps and being a giant breed their life expectancy is 8 - 10 years. Despite our love for this beautiful boy, and that he seems so healthy right now, we know we are enjoying borrowed time. Your poem brought tears Edward, a wonderful choice to pack emotion into a few words. Unique as usual. Well done.
Ibeh Avatar
July 29, 2025 at 6:53 PM
Thank you for sharing and for the compliment, SV. I'm glad this poem resonated with you, my friend.
Mckeithan Avatar
July 29, 2025 at 12:23 PM
Congrats on your placement in my contest but a very sad moment. Dogs are part of the family. My wife and I are long time dog owners and have had to put some to sleep. It is not easy. My sympathies are with you.
Ibeh Avatar
July 29, 2025 at 1:09 PM
Thank you very much for congratulations and my placement, Oliver. This poem is actually about a neighbor of mine. I can't even imagine how painful it is lose a pet, especially to cancer. .
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