My Beloved Bruno

by Mark
(United Kingdom )

I said goodbye to our beloved long haired GSD Bruno today, April 12th, 2017. He was thirteen.

I have received great comfort in reading the comments on this site. I think dog lovers are a special breed in themselves. We share a common love and a common grief when we lose our trusted friend. As it is said, grief is the price you pay for love.

Bruno developed D M. The last few months have been heartbreaking, watching my wonderful friend steadily lose the use of his hind legs. Yet his top half was in perfect working order. It was only two days ago that he was catching his ball with tremendously quick reactions -- from a lying down position. Yet he could not even sit up without assistance.

Today we took the decision to go to the vet for the third time in as many weeks. This time, not for medication but for the last farewell. It absolutely broke my heart when my otherwise alert Bruno breathed his last. My wife and son accompanied me, and we all broke down in tears.

I had been clutching at straws recently, and had even purchased dog wheels, which we tried out yesterday, hoping it would give him a new lease of life -- but he looked so forlorn and helpless as he didn't have the strength in his front legs to pull himself forward. Following a terrible evening when he could not sleep, we knew that his time was up.

Like many of you, I share similar memories. He was literally my shadow. He followed me everywhere. I could not move without him suddenly gazing up at me -- his eyes were always focused on me. What a loyal and trusted friend and companion.

He is now buried in our garden with his favourite yellow ball, which will never be taken from him.

I am 59 years of age, but I feel like a boy of 9 emotionally, the year my parents bought me my first GSD in 1966. I have loved the breed ever since. So intelligent, noble and totally devoted. I feel as if my right arm has been torn away.

I will never get over losing him, but I suppose I will eventually adjust. I love him so much, now, forever and always.

Be at peace with God in Heaven.