BUMMER THREAD ALERT - If you've ever had beloved pets that you're still not quite over, my apologies.

My Black Lab's gonna die pretty soon. He's been with us since I was 6 and he was in ripe health until two months ago when he had an abdominal haemorrhage and nearly died. We then found out he had cancer and despite two bouts of chemo it's spread. The last chemo left him really really ill and helpless, which was horrible to see so we're not going to do it again as he's not strong enough.

Despite all of this he's still holding up well. Went for a big run along the beach today, played in the river, he's still remarkably active for a 12 year old dog that's always been on the heavy side (now lost weight); but he looks more grizzled and is more tired as the day winds down.

It's not quite crushingly upsetting yet but it's going to be pretty soon. So, DiS folk who know about this:

1) Is there a time to call when enough might be enough?
2) How will our 5 year old spaniel react?
3) Any method of coping that worked for you?
4) Finally, and most importantly, what's the best way to keep Hector upbeat and in good stead as he lives out his last days/weeks/months?

Ta.