Our family has had to accept the recent loss of a good friend. Our Sheltie, Heidi Mae Cook 'n Brand had to be put to sleep on Friday, May 18th, after spending 11.5 years in our lives. Heidi was a sweet, good-natured dog and a loyal friend to our children while they were growing up. Once the kids moved out, she followed me around from room to room and was always underfoot. And though it aggravated me at times, I miss her presence in the house. I either didn't realize or acknowledge how near and dear to my heart she had grown. The kids are crushed that she's gone, but they cherish the wonderful memories of her. Heidi went camping with us, "jumped" on the trampoline with the kids, and tolerated being dressed up at their whims. She didn't care though, as long as she was getting some attention. Heidi never met a stranger and loved people; visitors fell in love with her sweet nature and puppy face. She loved her treats and was a popcorn junkie. As soon as she heard it popping in the microwave, she took her position in the living room, waiting and watching. Every time our hand moved towards our mouth with a handful of the buttery snack, she'd look down at the floor to see if we dropped any, and pounce on it if you did. It was the funniest thing... The last couple weeks of her life, she was sick, but not suffering. However, she was going downhill fast and the vet finally diagnosed her with renal failure; her kidneys were shutting down. She lived such a good life and brought us much happiness and I couldn't bear the thought of her suffering through the final days of the disease. So I had to make the terrible and painful decision to have her euthanized. It has been a rough week, but I know Heidi's better off, even though the Bible says that dogs do not have souls. But I do know that God is aware of the pain and loss we're suffering. He created dogs and cats for a reason and He doesn't make mistakes. Thanks, Heidi for making our lives more enjoyable during your short time on this earth. The wonderful memories you've given us will be kept close to our hearts the rest of our lives. Time will lessen the pain, but you'll be missed more than you know.
3 comments:
Hi Ronda- I was so sad to hear you had lost a very dear part of your family. I feel your sorrow, as you know I had suddenly lost our little Sheltie a couple of years ago too. I remember when you acquired Heidi those 11 1/2 years ago. I remember your neighbors had put their house up for sale, and when their house sold they chose not to take Heidi with them. Your kids had already fallen in love with her at that point because she had made frequent trips to your house to visit with them. Your entire family graciously welcomed her into their hearts. I think it is just a "Sheltie thing" that they are so compassionate, loyal, and have their own little way of showing their never dying love toward us. They have that special way they look you straight in the eyes and tell you "they love you". We are blessed to get to take part in their lives.
Your friend & partner,
Caretta
I read your blog with tears in my eyes. I've been in your shoes and it's not a good place to be. You said it right when you said you lost a friend, she was a member of your family. I firmly believe pets will be in Heaven, can't imagine a world without them and Heaven is supposed to be all the good that we can imagine. There is a verse that says the lion will lay down with the lamb, that's good enough for me to know that our pets will be there too. You tell your kids that she's watching over them, they'll know it's true.
(BTW, hope her death didn't have anything to do with the dog food recall.)
Hey Mom, I really enjoyed reading this blog as I to feel the same way and loved Heidi with all my heart. I still think about her every single day all through the day. To me it was like losing a sister or daughter thats how close I felt to her. She was my best friend and I will never forget her. Thank you for posting this blog I really enjoyed it and I'm sure Heidi does too, as I also believe she is in heaven as well watching down on us and soon will meet us again when our time comes to join her.
Love ya, Jared
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