Best Day, Worst Day

What a beautiful send-off for your dear Willie. You might want to consider printing out your post and even the replies and putting it in a box called “Memories of Willie” along with his collar, some pics and favorite toys.

Thank you for rescuing Willie. I’m sure he knew that he landed in a pot of jam when he got adopted by you. It sounds like y’all had some fun adventures together, and you’re fortunate that you had him for 15 years — especially considering his precarious beginning.

Your account of his passing was almost word for word what was happening in my life less than 24 hours earlier. The diagnosis was different (hemorrhagic gastroenteritis), but the rest was the same. She (Jazz) was pronounced at 4:56 p.m. November 8, 2016. She was only 12½ years old. Because she was a toy, I expected at least 15 years with her.

Like you, I’ve been here many times before. It never gets easier, but it’s awfully nice to know that there are those who understand the depth of the relationship between a dog and its owner. I have literally wailed all week long, so when I opened your thread, I again had to reach for the Kleenex. When you said “my heart is drained,” fresh tears poured from my eyes. It’s the perfect description of my emotions this week.

I am a woman of faith and am of the strong belief that my Jazz now frolics on streets of gold in the presence of Jesus and that I and her sister (who is still with me) will join her in our heavenly forever and ever home. I read where you said you were doubtful of your faith and that you were concerned about things in your past. FRiend, if we didn’t have black marks in our past, we wouldn’t have needed a Savior. It’s why He came. To wipe the slate clean. Seek Him. Not only will He get you through this trial with an extra measure of grace, He’ll write your name in His book and prepare a place for you where you can reunite with Willie and all your other dogs.

Someone recommended that you go ahead and get another dog soon. I concur. It doesn’t take the pain of loss away, of course, but it redirects that need to love and share life’s experiences with another critter in need of companionship. I’m probably not telling you anything you don’t already know. I write it just as a word of encouragement.

God bless you as you experience this loss. And thanks again for giving Willie such a wonderful home!

Thank you so very much for your kind words and understanding.

I have an appointment on Saturday with the rescue society and will be bringing home a new friend. Not a replacement since Willie will always have a special place, but a new companion for new adventures.

So happy for you and for your soon-to-be new running buddy. I hope you let us know about your new family member once you bring him/her home.

Thank you for opening your home, your life and your heart to a new rescue. God bless you for doing that.

All the best with your new one.