Life With George

by Nora
(Seattle)

Yesterday, I lost my hairy child, George. I am deeply grieving him and missing his very important presence. We shared our lives for almost 17 years.

I met George through a picture at the pound. I had been searching for just the right dog for my new and growing family. He had to be special. I was almost out of the building when the picture of this very young mutt caught my eye. Here was this almost goofy and smily beagle/basset staring back at me. I asked if I could see him, but found out he was recuperating from being neutered, so our encounter took place three days later and he immediately stole our hearts.

We brought him home and George became one of the kids. We loved him even as our family grew to three kids. Each child born was special to George, who babysat them and regaled them with wet kisses. George never met a human being he didn't like or a dog he could not befriend. When we went camping he was the first in the camper and the last to get out.

His greatest passions were chasing birds and holding flies in his lips. Apparently the wings tickled funny. His favorite food, oreo cookies and chocolates, which he would gladly steal from the kids.

In my heart, I couldn't believe one day he could die. But, at almost 17, his body started giving up on him. Three days ago, the process started and even though I knew this would happen, I am still grieving him so much. He died at home in the arms of my son, his favorite friend.

My dear precious baby boy, I will forever carry you in my heart and soul. May you be there to greet me when my time comes. I hope to hear you bark in joy. May God have you in heaven. Thank you for all the happiness and love you gave me and my family. You were truly one of a kind. Thank you God, for having us gifted such an incredible being.