Lucy was a wild puppy when we got her at 6 months old. She lived with my brother and sister-in-law for a short while. They had gotten her from the animal shelter. We think originally she was a Christmas puppy, but whoever had her couldn't handle her. Then my husband's brother gave her to us when they had an elderly relative living with them. Again, too wild.
She was almost too wild for us. One time she broke my foot when I had her on the leash walking through a forest area. She didn't mean to. She just wanted to run and my foot twisted. For the next two years we constantly walked her and threw the frisbee. We tried to wear her down a little. No such luck.
Then one day, she started calming down. Her true personality shined through and she completely wormed her way into everyone's hearts. Here's what she taught me:
Be tolerant. Even with the ungrateful cat.
Chase coyotes off the property. We need to protect our loved ones.
Wag your tail when you see people you like.
And most of all, never pass up the opportunity to have a good time, like chasing the ball, swimming or playing frisbee.
We had to put Lucy down Monday evening. She let us know that it was time. I'm sure that right now she's in heaven being a totally wild puppy.
22 comments:
{{{ janelle}}} my deepest sympathies. i'm so sorry.
Janelle, I so understand. We recently put down one of our dogs. I ached for several weeks. When I came home from work, the house was empty, no one was greeting me. No one loved me as unconditionally as she did. How I know your loss.
Sending hugs to you Janelle. I know how hard it is, as you recently read in another blog. Remember all the good times, I can tell you are. She has indeed crossed over the rainbow bridge. She'll greet you with tail wags again one day, I know it.
How sad. What a wonderful tribute to your beloved Lucy. They certainly enrich our lives. She reminds me of Marley.
My heart goes out to you. You are right, we learn so much from them. When they let us in to their lives, it is forever. My daughter, a tree planter, brought a scruffy young dog home that she found on a highway miles from civilization. He had obviously been beaten and disciplined with a firm hand. The last thing we wanted to do was take him in. Now he is a part of the family and teaches us things everyday.
The painting in the previous post is wonderful and so luminescent. It really draws you in.
Oh Janelle, you've got me crying. My heart goes out to you.
This is my first visit to your blog. I am so sorry for your loss of your sweet Lucy. She sounds like she was a joy for the time you had her. I bit "Marley & Me". Lots of personality and hard to let go.
Your blog is beautiful. I love your painting style. I'm sure I'll be back often.
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Christine - Thank you so much. I appreciate it.
Pam - Thank you for telling me of your experience. You really know how to put it into words.
Kathleen - Thank you for the reminder of the rainbow bridge. I believe that to be true.
Catherine - Yes, when they let us into their lives, it is forever. I'm so glad the scruffy young dog found a wonderful home. That makes me smile.
Liz - Thank you so much. I know you're an animal lover too.
Gwen - Thank you for visiting my blog and your kind comments. I need to see Marley & Me someday. I've visited your beautiful blog too and plan on visiting more often!
{{{{{{Janelle}}}}}}}} I do know how hard this is--but of course, we know we must do what we must --otherwise we are not responsible pet owners--and I agree with you that Lucy is romping, young again.. just cavorting until she is reunited with her people again. :)
Celeste - Thanks you for your kind words of comfort.
Janelle, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I can tell that Lucy had a very special life because of you.I am so sorry.
Loriann - Thank you so much. You're a dear.
Janelle- as a serial Lab owner (we are on our third) I had to laugh through my tears at your description of Lucy's youth. It is so hard to let them go. She was loved and so were you- it doesn't get any better than that. You have my deepest sympathy.
Deborah - When you said you're a serial lab owner, it made me smile. You probably know labs can be completely goofy when puppies, but are so very lovable. Thank you for your kind words.
I am so sorry for your loss, Janelle. A good dog is family. I know that your heart will ache for a long time and I'm glad that you know your dear Lucy is forever young--always in a safe and happy place.
It's good to keep painting, yes? It is therapy and part of your healing process.
Best wishes as your joyful memories of your dog supercede this sad moment.
Melinda - Thank you for your words of comfort. I'm in the process of framing for my library exhibit next month, but I must say it's strange painting without my studio dog underneath my feet. Painting through to the happy memories - beautiful words and something I need to remember!
Ooo, so sorry...
Lucy looks like a beautiful spirit.
No longer next to you
but around you
within you.
peace~
Chuck
Chuck - Ah yes, she was such a beautiful spirit. Thank you for your kind words.
My sister has has 2 yellow labs. They were like this, too...totally wild puppies, but after a few years they had mellowed into the most wonderful dogs. :)
Betsy - TWO yellow labs? Well, I guess that means twice the love!
thanks for your sweet words on my blog, janelle and most of all for sharing the link to this post. my heart is breaking but it was time to say goodbye. maybe lucy and presley will find each other in heave. hugs!
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