Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion The Water Cooler Goodbye old friend

I normally try to stick to happy posts, but this weekend was an exceptionally sad one. I had to say goodbye to one of my two terriers. Curly was ~13 years old and had pretty much everything wrong with him you can imagine, but he never let anything slow him down until this week. Curly was by my side every moment through the worst times of my life, and developed a remarkable personality over the years. He was perhaps the smartest dog I ever met, and certainly the most responsible, watching over his (somewhat less smart) brother Milo in a way I have never seen before.

Whenever Milo needed to go out, it was Curly who ran and barked for attention. When Milo was out in the yard, Curly would sit by the window and watch him to make sure he didn't stray too far. If Milo got locked out (it happened; he would slip out quickly while I was closing the door) Curly would bark frantically -- then when I let Milo in, Curly would bite him gently as a reminder who really let him in.

I have said goodbye to many dogs over the years, but Curly was really special. Requiescat In Pace my old friend.

Curly is on the left. His eyes don't really look like that.

The dogs have also been our fellow board members, John, and I shed a tear in Curly's memory.

John,

I am very sorry to hear about Curly. It is special when you have someone like a close pet to help you during those difficult times. I'm grateful that you shared with me one of those difficult times as well, via PM not that long ago.

Many people don't understand the connection a person can have with a pet, such as Curly. Being a pet lover myself, I have a special dog in my life as well. Dylan, named after Bob, has been a part of my family since 93. He is part Dachshund and Terrior mix, and was a stray at the animal rescue league in our town. He is 14 now, and is still in very good health. Sure, he has slowed up a bit, and can't jump up on the pool table anymore, but he acts like he is still a pup.

I love Dylan just like one of my children, and pretty much every day I worry about how I will handle it when he goes to puppy heaven. I can be pretty emotional at times, and I know it will be very hard on me, and my family, when we have to say goodbye. We have a nice acreage in the country, so I know when I have to lay him to rest, he will be in a safe place on our property.

God Bless Curly,

Randy

I'm sorry for your loss, John. I appreciate you sharing Curly's story with us. May healing and comfort come to you quickly.

I'm very sorry to hear about Curly. I haven't had a pet in a long time, but I was very attached to the dogs I had growing up, and it was hard every time one had to leave my life. They weren't BS friends. They were constant. It's a really remarkable relationship when you think about it.

Got no words, John. I know how painful the loss of a family member can be and my heart aches for you. Here's to Curly, and to the friend who mourns his loss.

John, I am sorry to hear of your loss. It is hard to describe the relationship/bond one develops with pets, and it is even harder to say goodbye.

Sorry to hear, John.

Bren R.

Sad news, I'm without words

Sorry to hear John, you were blessed to have such a special companion for so many years, RIP Curly.