You've had such a full life ever since you were rescued many years ago. You grew up right along side our kids. Always the alpha dog, you loved people, but you didn't get along well with other dogs. However, with some effort, you accepted Zelda the cat and Dusty the horse into the family, and even grew fond of Lola, our son and daughter-in-law's Maltipoo. An adventurer at heart, we lost you a few years ago and after 3 weeks, we thought that you would be lost forever. But, to my wife Heather's great relief and joy, you were returned to us on Mothers Day.
This morning, as I had an early start today, the only one up with me at 5:30 AM as I prepared my morning smoothie was you. Your appetite has always remained strong and you were eager and hopeful to receive any gift that you might be given. Your alert and knowing eyes seemed sharp as ever. Before leaving for work, knowing that today was to be the day, I was very glad to find fresh carrots in the refrigerator. Carrots have always been one of your favorite treats. You were visibly excited with anticipation when you saw me pull a carrot out. Obediently, you laid down as commanded to obtain the prize. Over the last few months, your walking and positioning has become progressively more awkward and difficult so that you sort of collapsed down onto the floor to get into a lying position. I placed the carrot in front of you so that you didn't have to get back up because getting up from a lying position has become so much more burdensome for you recently. You tried, but were unable to trap the carrot between your paws, as was your custom to eat it, but you were able to hold it down with one paw and seemed to relish it just as much as always. When you saw me pick up my keys to leave, you stumbled getting up. Following me to the door, you stumbled again once or twice before getting there so that I could let you out. I think that you've always liked the early, cooler mornings as much as I do. Before leaving, I held your head in my hands, and looking into your eyes, said goodbye.
We will miss you Minnie.
Oh Jim, the passing of your four-legged companion is so sad, and I feel for you. Minnie apparently had a great life with, and was very much loved by all of you, and that is the best we can do with our dogs (we have four, ranging from pug to gorgeous & very gentle bull mastiff). The hardest part is to finally let them go, eventually also help them on their way if they are terminally ill. You are grieving and missing her, but there will be a day where a new four-legged friend will find you. Stay well and God bless !
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