Then I look at MaxDog and Wilf and Digby and what their family's are going through. I tear up every time I think about it. I know that Lucky is pushing 13 and at over 100lbs that's a long time. I'm sure in the not to distant future I will have to make some tough decisions. I still wouldn't change taking him in at 11 and having him part of my family for as long as we can.
I have come across a couple of groups in the last few weeks that cater to older dogs and finding them homes. First there is The Grey Muzzle Organization they work to foster/support and place at risk older dogs. Then there is Old Dog Haven they are in WA and work with adoptable older dogs and dogs that need a final refuge, hospice care, etc.
I can't tell you the blessing we got taking in an older dog. He is the light of my day. When we first got him he had been in rescue for close to 2 years. He was 121lbs and didn't have a lot of muscle tone. We had to get a step for him to to get in my truck for probably the first 3-4 months. Over time he built back up his strength and stamina. He is able to run with his 5 year old brother and sister in the open space, jump into the back of my truck and every day he does something that just makes me laugh out loud.
I mean how can you not love those ears!
Anyway I just seem to be all emotional right now about my furry kids and figured you all would understand and indulge me!
I know what you mean. There have been a lot of extra hugs and kisses and pets today at our house. You just never know how much or how little time you'll be blessed to have them. I've always said the only real flaw our furry family members have is that they don't live long enough.
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your thoughts and feelings today!
Hugs,
Amber
Yeah, I understand. We're in a similar position with Lilac. She'll be fifteen in September. My husband has always joked that she'll outlive us all, but lately, I see her slowing down a lot. I pray that she'll just go to sleep one night and have her dream about finally catching that elusive rabbit as she makes her way over The Bridge. I've lost two greyhounds already, but she puts us in a unique position because it's her mind that is failing more than her body. Still, she seems content and happy every day, and she enjoys life doing whatever she wants to do. I sometimes wish I had a bubble wrap suit to wrap her in.
ReplyDeleteWe understand. I've only been with my family for a year, and they knew I was pretty far along for Shar Pei (not known for longevity, but I plan to fool them all) but they can't imagine having to say good-bye to me. They've had to do that many times before, having always had dogs, but it doesn't get easier and they'll have an especially hard time when it's my time to go. But we all knew we weren't going to have a dozen years together and I'm very glad and grateful that the second half - give or take a couple of years - is being spent with humans who love me, take good care of me and appreciate me. And so are my humans.
ReplyDeletewags, Lola
BRAVO!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great post!
When Charlie's Mom khommented about him not just being a dog, we so understood!
AND we so understand all the pawesome points woo've shared here!
Hugz&Khysses,
Khyra
My mom understands too!
ReplyDeleteI came to change her life... for the better.
And she sure knows that feeling of coming home from work and as soon as she looks at me... all the problems are gone!
Kisses and hugs to you!
Lorenza
it's okay, mr. nubbin's mama!
ReplyDeletemy mama says she feels the same way. she doesn't quite know what she would do without me 'n asa, and she is sooo thankful to have us as furkids.
*woof*
the booker man
What a most very sweet post. There seems to be alot going round on da blogs lately. Taking in a rescue or especially an older doggie is one of da most selfless acts a hooman can do. Whitney came to us at 7 yrs old.
ReplyDeleteMy rudder and sissiy are gettin older too and mum has already been thinking bout when that day comes.
Puddles
oh goodness the horror it would be to NOT have my furry kids. unconditional love like they give is so rare. i love them so much especially because i know in my case that so many people hate them just because of their breed. it makes me extra protective of them and extra love comes their way everyday from me just because they continue to prove everyone wrong about their breed. i would'nt trade them for anything in the world.
ReplyDeleteBless you for welcoming a senior dog. So many people pass by older dogs in shelters. They don't know what they're missing!
ReplyDeletePat
www.critteralley.blogspot.com
My brother LoJack was adopted as a senior. Mom says time with them is shorter but the connection is deep, they understand the value of the time. Thank you for opening your home to Lucky, all dogs deserve a chance to age gracefully. Digby's situation has us very sad and thinking about these things too. We miss what you have--a 3 dog life. Great post, thank you. Give them all kisses from us.
ReplyDeleteShady