Sebastian’s Soliloquy

[1_sufferin_mind]

My 14 year old dog, Sebastian, crossed into the great beyond almost exactly 10 days ago. He went happily and quickly. His belly full of breakfast and treats. His nose filled with scents from last night’s walk. And his teeth chewing jerky he picked at the pet store only hours before.

It was rough to keep composure these past few weeks until I realized I should celebrate Sebastian’s life instead of mourn his passing. I’m intensely grateful for the bond we shared. He was a kindred spirit.

Phases of grief. Sounds almost like a rock band. Sebastian would approve. We liked the same music. I have a few songs arranged in a Mix-Tape playlist to use as the soundtrack for a late-night tribute. So do I care what phase of grief I’m in? Not at all. A lot of people might say, “he took a piece of my heart with him.” I say, “He left a piece of his heart with me.”

 

[Sonnie Parker]

Sorry to hear of your loss. It was a devastating loss for us when we had to put our 16 year old poodle (Van Tiffin) to sleep. He is buried outside next to the house with an engraved tombstone marker.

It is good that you got thru the mourning stage and moved on to the celebration stage.

 

[Tony V.]

Its hard to put in words the attachment us humans have to our pets. A dog is truly like a family member and the loss of a family member is difficult. We are currently looking after my brother in laws Husky Lab cross and he has become part of our family over the last year and a half. he will be going back home soon and I am sure there will be some tears shed.

 

[JStewart]

So sorry to hear this. Dogs are amazing creatures. They love unconditionally and ask for nothing in return and yet there are so many who need our help. Someday when the time is right I know you'll find it in your heart to give another a forever home and a life they deserve.
I've always admired the saying in your signature and often thought we should all try to be as good as our dogs think we are. We'd be the better for it.

 

[1_sufferin_mind]

Thank you all for the comforting thoughts!

 

[Todd Anderson]

Sorry about your loss, 1_sufferin. I totally understand how difficult it is. My dog, Moose, has been my sidekick and partner in crime for nearly 12 years... it's really hard to see how quickly they age. The attachment and love between a human and dog is really quite remarkable.

Your pup Sebastian had a great twinkle in his eye! Looks like he was quite a character. I'm sure he'll be missed. Never easy, but much better to have loved and lost.

 

[1_sufferin_mind]

Thanks for the kind words, Todd. It’s comforting to know some of us share more passions than just home theater.

You’re right about aging quickly. I’d forgotten about the general 7 dog-years per 1 human-year when 2019 started out. I never imagined he wouldn’t make it to the end of the year. But at least he passed by my choice rather than getting lost or run over. I find that I grieved over the decision more than after his actual passing.

The human/dog bond **is** remarkable as you say! After a lifetime togeth (theirs), you read each other’s body language, communicate with up to 300 words, and know each other’s schedule.

Humans can learn quite a bit more from their canine companions than just love: patience, forgiveness, loyalty, and respect a few among them. Dogs are the only creatures on earth that will love you more than they love themselves!

 

[Todd Anderson]

You are so right. I'm routinely astounded at how upbeat and happy dogs are every single day at the crack of dawn. And that bond... unbreakable!!!! It's so cool to experience it. A total gift.

 

[tcpip]

This is my 2-year-old. His official name is "Lion of Pleasant" in Kennel Club records, but he's actually a mix of a donkey and rat. We call him Tango. I try to think of the day when I'll have to say goodbye. All of us here are gearing up for that day in our lives, I guess. All my warmth and good wishes to you.