The beginning of 2011 has not gone off with a good start. Our dog, a member of this family for almost 16 years had to be put down. My husband and I knew this day would come, but it did not make the situation any easier.
We got Dana as a puppy, back in 1995 and although she was technically my dog, it did not take her long to attach herself to my husband. After my son was born, they were great playmates and competed against each other for the toys. Both my children grew up with Dana and I wondered how they would take it. My son, being the eldest, took it pretty badly, which upset me even more. That night he wrote her an epitaph on a piece of paper: ‘3/1/11 Dana was and always has been a good FRIEND’. It now sits on our refrigerator door.
She had become disorientated, blind, deaf, walked into walls and fell off the back ramp. She was going downhill rapidly and I don’t wish to remember her that way. I wish to remember one crazy dog who loved to play, hated cats, and loved teasing magpies. This past week I have looked for shadows that are no longer there and listened to night time noises, believing it is her. I know time will ease the situation, but I will never get another dog. There are some things that just can’t be replaced. May you rest in peace, old friend.
Image by Debbie Johansson.
Dogs are such very special souls. Thinking of you. xx
Thanks Gabrielle. I didn’t think I was going to take it as hard as this. My mother-in-law believes there has to be a dog heaven because they are such loyal animals they deserve one. I think I may have to agree with her for once!
Super sorry to hear about Dana. I know my dogs are like children, but won’t out live me, and I know how sad I will be when their day comes. There are no words of comfort to give….
I am truly sorry for your loss!
Thanks Karin. Any wonder dogs are called man’s best friend. They truly are special.