Pammie......................I am so sorry, honey. I feel for you!
We had to put our 14 year old Malamute to rest 2 years ago. His name was Kavick (means Wolverine in Innuit). He was the kindest soul (dog wise) that I have ever encountered...he had severe athritis in the hips, also. He was suffering in the end, but he still tried to be a part of our lives, the kids, the only thing that remained the same with him was his appetite and his love for us. You could see the loyalness and love in his big brown eyes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The pain is raw now, but you have your memories of him, and nobody can take those away from you. They are YOURS.
The pain will slowly go away, but he's resting now. I know you, and you are not one to allow something/someone you love feel any suffering.
Give it time..........................give yourself time.
Sending you hugs
Milto