We lost our precious Tucker January 29, 2014. The mast cell cancer came back and we couldn't beat it this time. He was tough and fought hard through chemo and two more surgeries but the cancer spread and was in his bowel causing severe colitis. His oncologist told me she couldn't control his pain and that it was time. I held him as he breathed his last and told him how good he was and how much we loved him. I know it was the right thing to do, but that doesn't ease the loss.
Right now, six weeks on, our lives still feel desperately empty and the melancholy breaks through into plunging grief unexpectedly. My sister wrote the following to me and I can't say it much better "I know some people do not understand the deep heartache of losing a pet but to some of us they are part of our family. They are our children, companions, best friend, therapist and more. A dog is always glad to see you, eager to listen to you, ready to play, does not judge just gives you unconditional love. There is no time limit on how long it takes to get over a loss. Michelle and John I know the ache will never entirely go away and you will always miss your little man. In your own time and way I wish both of you can let the deep hurt go and remember all the good things Tucker brought into your lives in his short 9 1/2 years, before he went through heavens doggie door."
I know everyone believes this of their beloved pet, but Tucker truly was a special dog. He loved people so much he managed to dig his way into the heart of everyone he met.
I have some amazing friends. My friend Marie asked a friend of hers to make the drawing of my little boy shown at the top of this post. It's a beautiful drawing that captures him perfectly and will be something I treasure forever.
This was the last picture I took of Tucker.
It's 5 days before he died. Catching that squirrel was the
best medicine he could have had, he was so happy.
