I'm so sorry I can't figure out how to link on mobile, but awhile ago I posted asking for advice. We had moved to an apartment and my in laws took our 14 year old Australian Shepherd. Shortly after we moved, she was found to have cancer spread through her blood and tumors. They made her comfortable and played with her (my mom in law is wonderful)

They brought the dog (Jas) over to visit so everyone could say goodbye. We decided then to tell the kids she was sick. It was obvious because she had no energy and had an orange sized tumor growing inside her neck.

We let the children pet her, give her treats and french fries (her favorite) and her medicine. Our cat who has always loved her rolled all over her and groomed her.

Since then, the kids have asked about her being sick, saying they missed her but my mom in law sent pictures and video.

Today we got the news that Jas ate dinner, laid down for a nap, and died peacefully.

We told the kids the news and I think they were more upset with seeing their daddy cry than the news. (He's never cried in front of them before and he had Jas even before he met me) My daughter (3) asked if it was because Jas had been sick, and then cuddled and hugged her Daddy until he stop crying. My son (5) didn't seem to understand as well but immediately went into Jester mode and acted goofy and funny all night. Finally he said, "I'm sad Jas died; I don't know how to help everyone," but I told him he was doing fine and thanked him for cheering everyone up. He was also worried Jas was now a ghost and that her skeleton would come visit (less fear and more concern of 'how do we host a skeleton?')

The kids needed extra hugs and kisses before bed, and my daughter wanted to talk about it for awhile, but I think telling them ahead of time that she was sick didn't make this as shocking as it could have been.

Jas was everythig good about dogs wrapped up in one loyal, sweet, funny, kind pup. She was always happy, never aggressive, loved the kids like they were her sheep (baby herding was her favorite time in her life I think) and just a good, good dog. Our lives are all better for having her in them. I'm glad she went peacefully and wasn't in pain.

Thank you all again. I'm grateful for everyone's help and advice.