A few months after our first dog, Spike died, Jenny was able to get another pup. Spike had filled our house with such joy that we couldn't imagine not having a canine pal hanging around, complicating our lives.
She adopted this little puppy and we named him Boomer. He quickly grew into his name.
I can't say that Boomer's always been a good dog, but he's been an interesting one, a puppy born with a cat's sense of entitlement.
Only terrorists are more destructive than Boomer was as a pup. He ate a bike seat, the throttle off a riding mower, the kitchen tile, and those are just the highlights.
But when my father died and I was packing to fly south, Boomer jumped on the bed and did something he'd never done before. He pressed the top of his head against my chest and held it there, giving me what comfort he could in the only way he knew.
Boomer has always had a sweet nature and he's inspired love from children and smiles from strangers.
He's had a good life but he can no longer stand on his own. He's tired, I know. Tired of not feeling good, and tired of the daily humiliation that comes from being old and infirm.
We've held off for as long as we could, until we thought it was selfish of us not to let him go.
Boomer is leaving us tonight. To say that we'll miss him shows only how poor words can be.
Boomer 1992 - 2008
9 comments:
Boomer looks like a fabulous dog, and I know what it's like to not want to see him suffer anymore. You're doing the right thing by him. My thoughts are with you and your family.
I know this is little comfort, but sixteen is pretty darn old for dog of Boomer's size, and it sounds like he led a good life.
You are making a good decision, the best one you can, hard as it is. I'll be thinking of all of you.
I'm so sorry David. Knowing it's the best thing for Boomer doesn't stop it from hurting like hell.
He sounds like a wonderful friend. My thoughts are with you during this time. Take care.
Man, that is hard, especially when we had to put our cat to sleep last summer.
We got two cats, one for me, and one for Diane to take with her when she leaves. It's not the same.
And I'll bawl like a baby when I lose Blackie.
Sorry man. My dog is still just a puppy and I already think about how bad I'll miss him when he dies.
As someone who's going to be facing this decision sooner rather than later, my heart goes out to you, brother. You gave him a long and joyful life.
Condolences. Been there many times. What a beautiful face he has.
Sorry.
I'll have to listen to Boomer's Song one more time tonight.
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