There is no beautiful prose that I can write about the passing of my companion, friend, confidante, and love. Fifteen years is a long time to spend with one so sweet, tender, and tolerant. His ears were always there to catch my tears and his eyes to sooth my soul. Without him life would have been a cold, barren journey. But, if you have (or had) a pet, you already know that. Pets love us unconditionally. Even with our flaws, morning breath, and bad moods, they forgive and accept.
Born to Rosanns Voyager and Rosanns Cinder Glo Flashdance, Rosanns Christoph William was a spirited Sheltie puppy who, in essence, chose us (see the picture below of Sparky tagging Chris). We were blessed for his choosing.
The last two weeks were tough for Sparky but he maintained his appetite, especially for munchkins. I swear, even with cataracts and deafness, he could see the brown DDs bag, and hear its rustle, long before I came into the house.
In his prime, Sparky loved chasing squirrels, but never caught one. Running around the base of a tree, he would bark “for days” as the squirrel sat on the safety of a branch, thumbing its whiskers at his foolishness. Here on the river he often left the ducks alone, except when he wanted some of their bread.My heart tells me that Sparky dog is still with me, running alongside me, barking with happiness. But I’ll miss holding him, kissing his cold nose, smelling the warmth of his fur, and feeling his head on my lap.
“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” Dr. Seuss
I’ll try. Blessed be :[
Cindy,
So sorry to hear about your loss. A pet gives so much to our lives. I hope you find comfort with your memories of Sparky. A beautiful dog. Sending hugs your way,
Kathy
Kathy, I know you understand the loss. Thank you for the friendship and the hugs. Blessed be.
My condolences on the loss of your family member Sparky. Sounds like he had a good long life. I lost my blind boston terrier Millie at 15 in the fall, she’s the pampered puppy that inspired me to fence in your hill so she wouldn’t be coyote bait , dog door to the cellar (she didn’t like to be cold) , and doggy playroom under the two back rooms. (she didn’t like to be wet either. ) I still miss that darn dog, she was my kayaking buddy on the Concord.
Wow Priscilla, Millie lived a great life too. I am so sad for your loss and Sparky was blessed to have lived in Millie’s home for a while. Thank you for sharing with me. She and Sparks are still with us, when we kayak and when we walk or sleep. Blessed be.
Miss Sparks every day, especially now.. I love you mom, and I hope you are finally okay. Love you, your son,
Ohhh, Christopher. What a gift. Thank you and I love you so much. 🙂
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Sparky was and still is such a dear dear boy! I remember sneaking him chicken when Mama worked long hours, Penny too!! Now a new boy in town,StevieRay…..life moves on, however,we never forget the ones that filled our hearts,but sadly the goodbyes are part of the journey. Hollar at you Sparks.
A day doesn’t go by that I don’t miss my boy. My heart still yearns for the softness of his ears but Stevie does help to fill the gaping hole. Blessed be.