My First, My Last, My Best Friend, Simon the WonderDog

by Stephanie R.
(Ottawa, ON, Canada)

When I first spotted you from the 13 Bernese puppies that were running around at my breeder's home in Trenton, Ontario, you were like a star that shone out of control. You were the cutest thing, just waddling around bumping into your siblings, laying in your pee like it was some kind of comfort.=P From the moment you approached me and bit my finger, I knew you were meant to be with me. I knew you were my Simon.

When I picked you up to come home to Ottawa, I made you a CD with Enya music to soothe your pain of being separated from your mum and to be with your new mum. You were so good in the car, you didn't cry at all. I'm not sure if it was the music or the fact that you also new that we were meant to be together.

Simon, you were definitely a hard headed teenager. Eating everything from baseboards, underwear, shoes, a bag of apples, to my iPod and making me chase after you when you just ate random things of the ground.

We shared many joys together. So many camping trips, canoe trips; oh how you loved the canoe, but was terrified of the water to the point that I had to buy you a doggie life jacket.

You were my big teddy bear. You were so friendly with everyone, and everyone always commented how much of a beautiful and good tempered dog you were.

Our 6 years together, were the best years that I was ever blessed with. I wouldn't change a thing. We had many scares, like when you ate that glove and needed surgery to survive. Wow, you were a fighter, and came out of it like it was nothing.

The last week and a half was so sudden. How your attitude changed. How depressed you looked. The fact that you weren't eating, I knew there was something terribly wrong. You ate EVERYTHING and ANYTHING.

That day, May 16th, 2011, when I brought you into the Alta Vista animal hospital, I had a feeling it was the last time you would see your home. It came so quick sweetheart, but at least I helped you pass before the real pain began. I'm sorry there was nothing I could do. Not even money was going to save you, sweetie pie.

One day, I am convinced, we will be reunited. In some way, shape, or form, you and I will be together again. I will always cherish and remember you as the Simon that was full of energy, who brought me so much joy, love, and happiness. You were the dog I always wanted. You were my first, my last, my only, my best friend. Mommy loves you, Simon, forever and always.

Mum

Note: Simon passed away very suddenly of spleen cancer at the age of 6 years old.