Another furry friend’s passing

[IBKuz]

On October 12th our Shepherd Lupa passed away at 9 1/2 years of age. She was a good pack member to all (myself, wife, two adult children, two other dogs, and two cats). She was very regal in her bearing, always proper and formal in manner and deed.

She was from working dog blood lines (Czech Boarder Patrol) and we trained together for Sporting Dog Competitions (tracking, obedience, and protection work), but she loved chasing a ball the most. She was fierce and bold, yet always loyal and loving to her family.

She had been fighting various illnesses over the past couple of years, which cost her a toe. We affectionately called her “Lupa Three Toes” as her rear paw left a distinct print in the snow. She had been off her food for the past couple of months, but blood work showed no obvious issues. When her breathing got irregular, X-rays showed major tumours in her lungs.

Never once did she complain about her problems, just wanting to be with us. This is not the first animal we have had to put to sleep. She was the hardest for me, as I was away travelling at the time of her passing; never getting to say a final goodbye.

Here are my last words for her -

“You are a good friend and companion and always kept true. Time to stand down, now it’s our turn to watch over you. You’ll be missed dear friend, but never forgotten. RIP Lupa”

Thanks for reading.

[Acousticado]

Ian, the depth of your loss really shows. Thanks for sharing with us. Lupa was a pretty Shepherd. Perhaps at some point a puppy will help ease the pain. Take care.

[Silly Moustache]

Tough. I know your pain but you did the right thing.

You gave a working dog a good pack leader.

[KevWind]

Both my wife and I being life long total critter persons, we have been through this a number of times. I can't make it through reading these posts without getting a bit teary eyed .
But condolences from us to you.

[BrunoBlack]

Sorry to hear about Lupa. She gave you so much to remember and to be thankful for. It’s difficult to lose a great companion. We lost a great dog in a March and now have a 4 month old puppy in training. You can’t replace them, but for us, bringing another dog into our life was the right thing to do. I wish you the very best dealing with your loss.

[Larry Pattis]

Posting again...sigh.


The House Dog's Grave
(Haig, an English Bulldog)

I've changed my ways a little; I cannot now
Run with you in the evenings along the shore,
Except in a kind of dream; and you, if you dream a moment,
You see me there.

So leave awhile the paw-marks on the front door
Where I used to scratch to go out or in,
And you'd soon open; leave on the kitchen floor
The marks of my drinking-pan.

I cannot lie by your fire as I used to do
On the warm stone,
Nor at the foot of your bed; no, all the nights through
I lie alone.

But your kind thought has laid me less than six feet
Outside your window where firelight so often plays,
And where you sit to read— and I fear often grieving for me—
Every night your lamplight lies on my place.

You, man and woman, live so long, it is hard
To think of you ever dying.
A little dog would get tired, living so long.
I hope that when you are lying

Under the ground like me your lives will appear
As good and joyful as mine.
No, dears, that's too much hope: you are not so well cared for
As I have been.

And never have known the passionate undivided
Fidelities that I knew.
Your minds are perhaps too active, too many-sided...
But to me you were true.

You were never masters, but friends. I was your friend.
I loved you well, and was loved. Deep love endures
To the end and far past the end. If this is my end,
I am not lonely. I am not afraid. I am still yours.

-Robinson Jeffers

[PTony]

I’m so sorry. I can completely relate as I just buried one of our 3 a couple of weeks ago. It’s pain I haven't known. Your love for her is apparent, and her love for you is as well (the picture of her looking up at you says it all).

I hope you find some comfort in the good times that you shared with her. My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family.

[Rockysdad]

Ian, my but she looked to be a beautiful dog.
I know how you feel, I've not long back, had to do the same for my * Rocky *,

Take comfort in knowing you gave her a good home & life, my thoughts are with you & your family.

[KenL]

She was a beauty. Sounds like she had a great life with you.

I know how hard it is. Condolences.

[TBman]

So sorry.

They take a piece of you with them when they leave.

[Cabarone]

Sincere condolences...been through it a number of times and it never gets easier...not supposed to, I suppose...

[Jim Owen]

Ian, I’m sorry for your loss. Lupa had a fine family; I know you will all miss her.

[Nyghthawk]

These times are always hard. My sincerest condolences. She was beautiful, wasn't she?

[Chickee]

My daughter says this to me each time we loose a dog, and I will say it to you-
You loved that dog heart and soul. Gave him a wonderful life with good food and clean water. A soft bed and warm house to sleep in. What dog could ask for more?
I”m so sorry.

[IBKuz]

Thanks to all for your kind thoughts and comments, my condolences to all those posting a loss of a furry friend. I find the AGF family is a very caring group.

Some final pics of the dog pack -