Pantera, Missy & Cricket. I've been doing some reflecting since Missy our 14 1/2 year old pug, died one month ago. For 1 1/2 years we had three dogs. Each played their role. Pantera, my first guide dog, was the wise elder who graciously welcomed Cricket, second guide dog. I have been telling Cricket how much I love her and recognizing that coming into a home as second guide dog wasn't so easy. They both handled their 'roles' so well. They had a little over a year together before Pantera died. I saw Cricket's confidence as a guide increase during this time and always felt that Pantera was cheering her on. Missy was the spunky dog that was here first. She let all know that she really was the queen. She was the family childhood pet and having her go has me feeling some pangs of the kids growing up phase again. Missy was such a sweet connection for our family. This holiday season will be an opportunity for a new family picture with dogs: Cricket and Dahlia, Natalie and Adam's sweet black pug. Pulling out this picture brings a smile -- of the boys meeting us at the photo shoot with Missy and Pantera while Natalie, Cricket and I were coming from pedicures and shopping. What a beautiful day with special people and dogs that I love.
It was Pantera's birthday on October 30th. We were having a joyful walk when I realized the date. I remarked to Steve, oh its Pantera's birthday. I then said, I am doing just what Pantera would want me to do ... leading a happy, active life. She cheered me on in doing that. I love and appreciate these two beautiful guide dogs and special family pet in my life and the people surrounding them.
5 comments:
What a beautiful post. Such a lovely way to think about, remember and commemorate loss.
Isn't it amazing how much pets become family members? And not in the superficial sense--true members of the family whose loss is felt just as deep as a human family member's loss.
Beautiful family photo, and that location is gorgeous. Looking forward to the updated family photo with the new addition.
-Lisa
That's one of my favorite family photos! Being a 3 dog family, I pause to reflect on Desma, Dakota & Culver & the joy that they bring to my life. They each have their own personalities & they each play a different role in our home. Desma is our perfect angel, our steady rock. Dakota is our playboy, the ladies man & our jock. Culver is our 'little squirt' a silly boy & he makes us laugh every day.
A perfect piece to read as I am contemplating retiring my second dog, Hanni. Thanks for posting this, Becky.
Thanks for sharing this post - I am sorry to hear about Missy's loss, but in this post it is clear how important Missy, Pantera and Cricket have helped shape life as you know it!
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