re: When do you know it’s time to put a pet down?

When I had to put my kitty to sleep and had him cremated, my vet gave me this when I got his ashes and it will help you in your time of sorrow:

From your furry loved one:

"I know that it must be different,
now that I am no longer there,
I realize how much I was loved,
And how much you really cared.
I know it will be hard at first,
when you look around for me,
Expecting to find me in my bed,
Or beside my favorite tree.
Someday you will begin to see,
Although it will take some time,
The memories are yours and mine.
I'll remember you my friend,
Just how much you meant to me,
So please don't grieve and don't be sad
It was just my time to leave.
We'll see each other, there's no doubt,
When there will be no sadness and no grief,
For now I am running and playing,
With happiness and peace.