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02/02/2008: "In Memorium"

It's sorta quiet Chez YarnHacker today. Yesterday afternoon Dave and I made the hard decision to put our sweet golden retriever, Rhett, to sleep. He was suffering from a growth on his inside lower jaw that was becoming quite aggressive. Though we didn't have it biopsied because of Rhett's age (over 13 years), it was pretty clear what we were dealing with and that the road ahead for him would just be harder and more painful. He was far too good a dog to put him through pain and suffering for what, in the end, would simply have been my own selfish desire to keep him with me.

My sister, who is a vet tech, offered to do what needed to be done, and at her suggestion Dave and I bought a pizza on the way to the vet's office. Once there we let Rhett enjoy, for once, as much pizza as his heart desired. He loved pizza crusts and anything else that stuck to the crusts "accidentally". For years now, at any time and any place, Dave and I have habitually set our pizza crusts aside for this dog. When we realize he's not with us in Italy, France, Hawaii, San Diego, San Francisco... hell, just down the block... I have to admit that I feel a little foolish. But it's such a habit...

He ate his pizza dutifully and with gusto, despite the fact that I know the growth made it all uncomfortable. But, damn... pizza, dude!

When it came time for him to go, he went very quickly. My sister told us that it was clearly his time, since it took very little medication for him to slip away. His body grew slack, heavy... he didn't fight and I kept eye contact with him all the time. He never felt a thing, I'm sure of that... except that I believe he felt a good deal of relief.

I really believe that Rhett closed his eyes for a moment and when he opened them again, my Dad was there to welcome him with his customary greeting. Then I think Dad opened a back door where Roman was waiting to play. I think Rhett must be very relieved to be back in the shadow of his idol and I believe that wherever they are, there are plenty of toys to share.

I am really looking forward to meeting up with them all again someday.

Goodbye, Rhettster. We'll miss you always.

Replies: 1 Comment - Go read it!

on Sunday, February 3rd, Jeannie said

Oh honey... I'm sending you big big hugs. I wish I were there with you right now. Rhett was a good boy; I know you're right, he must be pleased as punch to be annoying... err, playing with Roman again. :) Love you guys, thinking of you always.