 |
Storm was an incredibly patient with the girls
|
Last week, the dynamic of our household changed drastically. Storm who had been slowing down over the last few months stopped eating on Monday and by Wednesday morning was extremely weak and lethargic. We loaded him into the car and arrived at the vet at 9:20. He was evaluated and the outlook was grim .... infection, severe arthritis, significantly decreased muscle mass, and intestinal cancer. We made the decision that was painful for us, but the best for him. I so appreciate a friend for saying "as his caregiver, it is your responsibility to do right by him even though that will be more painful for you." In my heart and in my mind, I know we did "the right thing" .... but I was not prepared for the emptiness that would envelope our house.
During the day, I think I hear him bark or the sound of his nails making their way across the Pergo floors .... but its a mirage.
The girls are the least phased - they are young and more resilient. Brooke says she doesn't have a dog any more, Kristen from time to time tells us "Buddy in heaven."
Paul and I are heartbroken. Paul and Storm were buds since Storm was 4 months old ... OK truth be told it was NOT love at first sight ..... but they did grow to be the best of friends. When I met Paul and we started dating, I had to win Storm over and THAT took some doing. Paul took him everywhere and let him do whatever, I gently and gradually imposed limits and structure ... Storm and I went to obedience school together ... some how we passed. When Paul and I got married it only seemed logical that Storm be involved .... so Best Man (Dog) he was. When the girls arrived he took it in stride and never really much cared they stole some attention. He was amazingly patient and fiercely protective. He was always near them .... always.
Life goes on and I have no doubt that some day there will be another four legged, furry, tail wagging friend in this house but for now, we'll learn a new normal and weather it without our Storm.
