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Skipper

October 13, 2014 by christine

I’m slowly getting back to reality and the grind after a non-stop roller coaster ride this weekend. I have lots to catch up on and tons of pictures to go through this week. The last three days have been such a whirlwind that it feels like it’s been a month. But this post will be dedicated to a very special dog.

Skipper passed away sometime between late Friday night and early Saturday morning at home peacefully in his sleep. I found him early Saturday morning in a comfortable sleeping position in his bed and was both heartbroken and relieved that it appeared he did not suffer and he did not have to go through a painful and stressful trip to the vet.

sweetskipper
When Skipper followed hubby into our garage late August 2nd, 2013.

The few days leading up to his passing were tough, we knew he was declining and debating on if and when we should take him to the vet. It’s such a tough choice that friends and family were trying to offer helpful advice on. A co-worker suggested I take him in as soon as possible to get it over with which did not feel right since he wasn’t in pain and still seemed to enjoy being with us during good moments.

happyskipper
A few days later he was very happy to go on car rides with our other dogs. Leela wasn’t so sure.

It was also complicated because I had a lot planned over the weekend with my sisters and mom to celebrate a big birthday for my mom that involved a day trip to Apple Hill and an overnight trip to San Francisco. I debated on backing out of some or all of the plans to take time for Skipper, but thankfully everything worked out okay. Having him pass away at home was hard to deal with, but not as hard as I had thought and best for him. My mom came over early Saturday morning before we were scheduled to leave for the city and helped me prepare Skipper and get him to the vet early. His vet was very helpful and supportive in taking his remains and offering supportive condolences since they knew Skipper’s story and how he moved in with us. It was a tough and emotional time, I shed a lot of tears and said prayers and am still emotional. It is sad and strange not having him around and it will be for awhile, he quickly became a member of our family as we cared for him.

tiredskipper
Taking a break during a long walk.

I’m thankful we got to share the last 14 months with him even though it was brief. When we first took Skipper in and were just learning of his age and health problems, some friends and co-workers thought I was nuts for taking that on and being willing to spend the time and money to care for him. And there were times I felt a little overwhelmed adjusting and finding a routine to care for all our pets, but it turned out to be a great decision.

skipperhug
Getting a hug from hubby.

Despite his long list of health problems – diabetes, blindness, heart condition, and possible tumors – and having to get two insulin shots a day, Skipper was always happy and loving. He loved everyone he met and was great with our nieces and nephew. Always sweet, mellow, and trusting. And smart, he amazed us with how fast he learned and adapted to us, our home, and seemed to know the eating and walking schedule better than me. It was like he knew what we were doing for him and was grateful. Plus he always looked like he had a big smile. He helped us grow to be stronger and more compassionate people. And taught me that no matter how many problems you have, you can still choose to be happy.

skipperkiss
Cuddling with hubby.

So grateful we had the opportunity to take care of him and have him in our lives.

Filed Under: General Tagged With: dogs, Skipper

Comments

  1. Jennifer says

    October 14, 2014 at 6:31 am

    OMG! I’m so sorry! I teared up while reading this! He had a wonderful and loving home with your family and I’m so glad you found him and he found you. He loved you very much and I know you guys loved him! Continued thoughts and prayers for you and your family during this hard time! HUGS!

    • christine says

      October 14, 2014 at 8:19 am

      Thank you so much for the kind words, that means a lot! :-) He was such a special dog.

      • Jennifer says

        October 14, 2014 at 12:38 pm

        He was VERY special!!! And VERY loved!!!!

  2. Linda @ Veganosity says

    October 14, 2014 at 6:56 am

    I’m so sorry Christine. You and your husband are such good people for bringing Skipper into your lives. He was blessed to have a loving family, and a comfortable home, during his last months, and you were also blessed to have one more little furry friend to give you unconditional love.

    I’m wiping away tears as I write this because I know firsthand how you feel, this brings back so many memories of my late min-pins, Paloma and Cleo. And, it also makes me realize I’ll be going through this again in the near future with my 13 and 1/2 year old Labrador, Guinness. I’ll be giving him, and my little Gizmo extra hugs and kisses today. Maybe a few extra treats too.

    Hugs to you!

    • christine says

      October 14, 2014 at 8:21 am

      Thank you so much for the sweet message, that means a lot! :-) Skipper was such a good dog who was as much of a blessing to us. Sorry for your loss too, it’s tough losing a family member. And I know what you mean, we have a cat nearing that age too.

  3. Kim says

    October 14, 2014 at 7:11 am

    So sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you. My diabetic cat died 7 months ago. Skipper was one lucky guy! You and your husband are very special people.

    • christine says

      October 14, 2014 at 8:22 am

      Thank you so much for the sweet message, it means a lot! :-) Sorry for your loss too, so tough losing a family member.

Hello! I'm Christine, an IT Professional in Northern California. I'm also passionate about a healthy, plant based lifestyle, running, fitness, and being eco-friendly. 40 (ack!), married, with furkids. Read More…

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