In the end, he seemed ready to go. When I looked into his face, there was a serenity and almost a wistful resignation, if dogs can be wistful. I just know this much, he was surrounded by love and kind words and warm touches. Children’s voices told him of their love and sadness at his leaving. Hannah wiped his eyes because she thought she saw tears; Sophie fed him ice cream from her hand and read to him, a book about puppies. She asked that we take some photos.
He rested his head on our laps throughout the day. I then took the girls out of the house when it was time for the vet to come. We were all exhausted, each in our own way, each with our own thoughts and memories. The girls fell asleep quickly in the car so I just started driving and driving the mountain roads, classical music playing, my charges safe and sound in the back seat. I was grateful for these precious moments of peace.
I thought of Jenn and David back at the house with the vet. I thought of my close cousin who passed away yesterday morning in her sleep after a long struggle of her own. She was so afraid of dogs. I smiled as I thought of the irony in her passing the same weekend. I imagined them getting acquainted, making a connection which they could not have done in real life.
He died in Jenn’s arms. He was, indeed, the best boy dog in all the world. I still feel his warm silky fur under my hand as I scratched his head today. We all got to say our goodbyes. In the grand scheme of things, you can’t ask for more than that.
We have all boarded the sad train now, companions on the journey.
11 comments:
Oh, Mater...I'm so sorry. No dog could ask for a more fitting memorial than the memories held by a loving family.
I'm sad, and I'm sorry, and I never even met him, but he sounded like a real gentleman. Hugs.
What a very hard weekend for all of you. I feel his loss and I never even met him.
That was very sweet, but also very sad. I have a dog and I imagine one day I will have a very similar, sad experience.
So sad. I hope it's a consolation to Jenn that she was able to be there for him at the very end. He was loved.
I am so sorry. I hurt for you all.
I am sorry for the loss of your cousin too. So lucky for the family having you close by.
I'm so sorry.
(((((Mum #2)))))
i am so very sorry for both of your losses.
one of the hardest parts of welcoming our little furry family members into our lives is the knowledge that sooner than we'd like, they will leave us. it is such a cruel part of that relationship. wishing you strength for the journey.
Hey Mater, I just realized this is the one year anniversary of your Blog!!
Congrats! We're all glad you chose to come here and share your wonderful thoughts and feelings.
Happy Blogiversary, Mater!
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