He came to us as a "rescue dog". One of my clients who was dieing with lung cancer asked if I would please find a good home for Ben as the client knew he didn't have much time left. I assured him I would do just that, not really thinking we would be his new home. Ben has been with us over three years now.
Last fall while having him groomed there was discovered a lump under his throat. We had just previously had a growth removed from his lower lip. I thought the lump may be an abcess, but the vet was sure it was cancer. With the second hand smoke that I'm sure Ben endured for many years in his previous home he probably does have cancer. He is a very old dog, has had some bad living environments and endured some abuse at the hands of former owners. He has had three great years here with us. He grew very devoted to Pat, as all of them have. His greatest sport was chasing birds from the feeders. His tail would be circling like a helicopter as he trotted back to the porch, waiting for them to return so he could once again show them who ruled the yard. He never quarrelled with the other dogs, but sometimes just couldn't resist a bark at the cats. All in all, Ben has been pretty compatible with life here.
His health as deteriorated and today we will say goodbye. Sometimes we have to make hard decisions.
2 comments:
Sorry to hear that Ben's old life has finally come to an end. I'm sure it was a sad day for you. Maybe you can rest in the solace that you blessed the end of his live with loving care.
Dear Patti, so sorry to hear you had to have Ben put down. That's hard, I know. We have five dogs buried in our backyard, along with our one daughter's cat and an assortment of small animals, like a Guinea pig, mice, hamsters, gerbils, birds and yes, even some gold fish. Just couldn't flush them down the toilet.
Just remember all the fond memories of Ben and the good times you had with him. Love, Patty
Post a Comment