Twelve years ago, I reluctantly adopted a dog. It was right after my Pekingese Tinker had passed away. A friend of mine knew someone who was looking for a home for her dog. Otherwise, she was going to a high-kill shelter. The woman had bought Phoebe for her daughter but the girl wasn't taking care of her. I agreed to take the dog temporarily until a good home could be found. Famous last words. After a month, I was completely attached. She completely healed my broken heart and was the sweetest animal I have ever known.
When my cat Spike was a kitten, his mother refused to nurse him. We had to feed him with an eyedropper. Phoebe would sit beside me and snuggle him while he was being fed. She would sleep in his box with him so he wasn't lonely. A few years later, she did the same thing while I was fostering some baby rabbits. She was such a good mother. Phoebe knew how to comfort everyone. The last few months of her life were a challenge. She began having seizures and had mammary tumours. Because of her age, the vet advised against any surgery. She took pain medication and we tried to keep her comfortable. The vet had to increase her meds. I could tell her life was winding down. She refused to eat unless I hand fed her. She wanted to be alone, not wanting the kids or Spike around. Her last day was the following Saturday. She began whimpering and I held her. She refused to eat except for a few dog treats. After I gave her the medicine, she slept. She even let Spike lay beside her and snuggle. I had to go outside to milk the goats. When I came inside, she surprised me by coming to the door and greeting me. Later, she began whimpering again. I held her and told her how much we loved her. She started to relax and then she yipped a few times. She had another seizure and passed away in my arms. We buried her under one of her favourite trees. She is free from pain and illness. This happened three weeks ago. It's taken me this long to adjust to losing her. For the first couple of weeks, I was heartbroken but I know she wouldn't want me to be sad. I am thankful for the joy she brought to our lives and am so glad I knew her. She was such a loving dog. I'd like to thank everyone who was a help during this difficult time. Friends on twitter tweeted or messaged me and Spike offering their love. Whether you know it or not, it was a comfort. In "real life" many people would say she was just a dog, but she was so much more to me. I am thankful there are other animal lovers who understand the pain of losing a beloved pet. I thank you.
The Rainbow Connection by Sarah Mclachlan (5429 KB)
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