Dearest Rosie

Rosie, lying down, and Pal

I am sad to write that the vet said today that it was time to let Rosie go.  She had lung cancer and a cancerous, infected, bleeding tumor with large opening on her tummy.  I kept her bandaged and was no problem to deal with, but the tumor was dangerous for her because it was getting worse and worse.  She could not have survived being put to sleep and having it removed.  Even if treated, it was only a matter of weeks before the lung cancer would win.  I did not want her to suffer.

She was a trooper.  She did not act sick, kept eating and taking happy strolls every day, around the yard with wagging tail.  Although she was blind, she was able to find her way around very well and could find me when she wanted to.  She had no teeth, and this last year,  I fed her one of the best canned dog foods available.  She thoroughly enjoyed.  She would jump for me to pick her up, even this afternoon.  She had habit of barking and barking and barking when she wanted something:  to eat, to go outside, to lie under my chair while I worked at the computer or to be put to bed at night (in my bed).  Otherwise she was quiet and slept lots.  She loved to be held and sighed often when snuggling in my arms.  She was very old but acted very young.  Her estimated birthday was in 1996.  She would have been 18 this year.  The vet was amazed when we talked about her age. 

She was truly a gift from God and gave me far more than I gave  her, as they all do.

I realize tonight that Rosie's passing ends a special period of my life and a special group of five dogs, our original group of very sweet and lovely ones.  First there was Poppy, then Juniper, Pal, Tashee, and Rosie.  They are all gone now along with my husband Tom who loved them more than I can describe.

A new and younger group began with the adoption of Abby and Ben.  I am so grateful for their presence now and sweet kisses as I could not bear coming home to an empty house with no one to greet me.