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They Will Be There Long Before Any of Us
Solace in the unconditional love of animals
We had to say goodbye to our little dog yesterday.
He was quite old, mostly blind, and despite a bum ticker that brought frequent fainting spells, his heart held unconditional love for us. And so now he is free from life’s pains and struggles. Free to frolic in that place where all our beloved animal companions go, to play and bark and watch over us.
The night before he left us had been a good one.
His failing heart required me to carry him outside to relieve himself. Sometimes he managed just fine. Other times, he’d finish and then collapse.
On his last night with us, he didn’t need any help. He finished his business outside and trotted back inside on his own. He snuggled contentedly in the blanket on the couch between me and my wife. His breathing was even and relatively stable, free of the persistent cough he usually endured.
He was on various medications, but I knew that time was growing thin.
The morning after his last good night he emerged from his bed somewhat upbeat. No loud wheezing or coughing, but I still carried him outside to ease his effort. He finished his business but then collapsed.
