The Faithfully Departed......

Oh what a sad sad day. I awoke this morning to find Raja in a peacefully still pose on her pillow in the kitchen. I knew right away she was gone. I have to say I am glad she died at home, and it wasn't a traumatic experience for her or me. She was by far the best dog I have ever had. Her bark was infectious and her ass was offensive, but we loved her nonetheless. Her mellow demeanor brought a balance into my life, just when I needed it. She was so tolerant of black dog, and so forgiving after their spats. I made her happy and she sure did make me happy too.

I posted a couple of my favorite recent pictures of her. This one was taken in the early spring, shortly after she was diagnosed with kidney failure. She was always so patient, and let me do whatever I wanted, whether it was making her pose for a shot like this, or using her for a pillow.

We went for a long drive this summer and I grabbed this shot of her. One of her favorite things was riding in the Jeep with her face in the wind and some doggie ice cream to cool her down. I ran some errands Tuesday night and something told me to take the dogs with me. I'm glad I did, she was so excited to be in the backseat just tagging along while i went from store to store & place to place.

This last picture is the most recent, taken just two weeks ago. You couldn't tell she was sick if you didn't know. However, she was very ill. The vet told me eight months ago it would only be a few months.....she lasted much longer than we expected. There were no signs of distress, she continued to eat and drink all the way up until the end. She had her dinner last night, some biscuits, her medicine & peanut butter. The three of us snuggled on the couch most of the night watching TV. I took them out & went to bed just like any other night.....

Having a dog(s) is one of the most amazing experiences in the world. Sure they are a lot of work, but it's well worth it. They are unconditionally loving and infinitely loyal. They are there for you consistently, regardless of what kind of day you had. They are always happy to see you, never judgemental, and keep you warm in the winter months. I will never forget Rajy, but I will miss her dearly.

MJ