I am visiting my father today. His 14 year old german shepherd dog, Blue, will be put to rest at my father's home a little later this afternoon. His hip dysplasia has become unbearable to him. He is no longer able to walk, and barely able to lift his head. He can no longer walk outside to go to the bathroom, and at 130 lbs., we can no longer assist him outside. He is beginning to get sores from the urine on him. My father has had a very hard time accepting that it is time to let him be at peace. When I sit by him, he still finds the strength to give my face a little lick, though. I can tell he appreciates the massages and love and attention he has been getting today, but we can't let him live this way any longer. My own dog, Felony, is here with me today. Usually, she tries to bully her way between Blue and I when he gets attention, (something we have worked on) but today she seems to sense that something is going wrong, and is content to lie near while I stoke and love him.
Blue is an awesome dog. He loves children, loves to catch balls in mid-air, and loves to bark at the crows who roost on the telphone poles between the yards. He has lived surrounded by adoring fans and family members his entire life. Blue even got to live on a 50 foot boat for 2 years, and has been a friend and companion to our entire family for 14 years.
He will be missed and loved as long as I live. Run free, baby.
Thank you for reading.
Jenny