Celebrating our canine friend

This week, we mourn the passing of our old grandma fur-baby, Duchess. 

She came to us via a pet shelter where she was surrendered to, I believe, because she was not working out as a farm gate-protector... all chained up protecting the gate. She was not even 3 years old, and she met her older "sister" here, Skyla (who passed about a year ago), and Duchess stuck by my side ever since - helping with everything I did, protecting me from garden earth worms, and chasing flies, playing and rolling in the grass and showing that soft furry belly every chance she got. 

She was never a very athletic dog, she just wanted to be near; she loved food and was often guilty of harvesting from the garden, however we didn't mind too much. 13 years old in one month... she didn't quite make her birthday. 

Apparently the beach play was an exertion for her that her little heart said that was enough. I could tell yesterday morning that she was hurting and we needed to give her meds and call the vet to say it was time now. I knew it, and made the calls. But throughout the day she progressively shut down and when the appt came at 4 (here at home) she was needing help to remember to breathe and I was trickling water in her mouth. 

It was so sad, but Dave took the day off work and so she was never alone and we told her over and over what a good dog she is and it is ok... She wanted to stay with us, I think, but finally her spirit accepted the inevitable and she passed so quietly and in comfort. 

Thank you to Creston Veterinary - https://www.facebook.com/cvhpets - 

who ever so gently and respectfully cared for her. 

Just one day before she turned into such a playful puppy and surprised everyone, even her 2 little "sisters" - as you can see from these pictures.  

Thank you to everyone who loved our Duchess over these many years, who brought her friends over for doggie play dates when she was younger... who gave her treats and made xmas presents for her. 🙂