Another Link Broken
Another link in the chain was broken this week. I had been watching my elderly Cavalier slipping and on Monday it became apparent that he was struggling. I took him to the Vet and Emma made it clear that this was the moment to act to avoid him suffering.
Dear Dougie dog was my constant companion and source of comfort over fourteen difficult years. He was especially present in the years after Darryl died. My mother adored him. Her Cavalier was a similar age and they were enthusiastic rascals together.
Dougie's passing has bought back a flood of memories and it really feels like I am closing some doors now.
For four years I have been hibernating. I need to come out of hibernation now. Work is continuing on a house I bought in a neighboring town. I have spent more time there over recent weeks and I have this notion that things are going to be different when I move there. Well, of course they will be different! What I believe is that I will move into a whole new phase.
I am planning a trip to Turkey in late August/September. My daughter and I will travel together. With Dougie gone I will not feel anxious about leaving him. He watched my every move and was my shadow. In many ways he was dependent and a bit needy. Maybe he was just closely watching me and could go because he knows I am stronger. In some ways we had become co-dependent.
Right now I do not feel particularly strong. It is emotionally draining to be the one who stands by as others pass to wherever it is they go.
Dear Dougie dog was my constant companion and source of comfort over fourteen difficult years. He was especially present in the years after Darryl died. My mother adored him. Her Cavalier was a similar age and they were enthusiastic rascals together.
Dougie's passing has bought back a flood of memories and it really feels like I am closing some doors now.
For four years I have been hibernating. I need to come out of hibernation now. Work is continuing on a house I bought in a neighboring town. I have spent more time there over recent weeks and I have this notion that things are going to be different when I move there. Well, of course they will be different! What I believe is that I will move into a whole new phase.
I am planning a trip to Turkey in late August/September. My daughter and I will travel together. With Dougie gone I will not feel anxious about leaving him. He watched my every move and was my shadow. In many ways he was dependent and a bit needy. Maybe he was just closely watching me and could go because he knows I am stronger. In some ways we had become co-dependent.
Right now I do not feel particularly strong. It is emotionally draining to be the one who stands by as others pass to wherever it is they go.
Replies
My dog of nearly 15 years, Sam, died last week. It was difficult seeing him weaken but, he reminded me of another time and now I too feel the freedom to travel without worrying how he will do. As you say, another phase.
Love....
This must be the month for dogs going to the rainbow bridge. I lost my dog X a little over 2 1/2 weeks ago. I felt the loss so strongly, as he was my rock after Frank died. my friend on site sent me a poem about dogs waiting for us at the Rainbow Bridge till we meet them there and cross over to heaven togeather. I am seeing thou that with out the dog to worry about taking him out etc, I can be away from home longer. I can even take a trip with out setting up dog sitting. As you say another phase in our life. I have so much to do still on the house, and now I won\'t have to worry about hardwood floors getting messed on. I misss him terribly, but the 6 cats keep me company at their choosing. I understand the wanting to go somewhere, but it just isn\'t in the cards any time soon. Please take care of yourself Heather, gather strenght and keep in touch. Hugs Jane
That is the one thing I fear. Ever since Mike passes away my dog Bandit has been my constant companion. He follows me everywhere. He comforts me when I need a hug and no one is around. I am sorry that you lost your dog as I know it just brings back all those memories. Despite how you feel right now, you really are stronger and moving on with your life. Good luck with your new home and have absolute fun in Turkey.
Hugs. Maria
Sorry to hear about Dougie. Another loss is bound to make you feeling less strong. However, I detect your strength in your optimism for change in your new house.I hope the new phase you\'re moving into turns out to be one to bring you happiness. Good luck with everything. Patrick
Heather, you are going to miss your buddy. Pets love us so unconditionally. We never have to prove anything to them!
My Smudgie died Dec 2009, two days before Mom died. I should be ashamed. That kitty caused me far less pain than Mom!
Heather...I am sorry about Dear Dougie Dog. The loss of a devoted and beloved pet is so difficult. I hope you can find some peace as the days move forward. With sincere sympathy...Nancy
I love the picture. What a sweetie.
Heather...I am so, so sorry about dear Dougie. I know how they are our family, not just pets. You are so right about the emotional draining of being left behind. I\'ve heard about rainbow bridge as well...rainbowbridge.com has the poem. It is a nice poem. Hugs, Sue