GOLIATH, my Best Friend by Annette Purcell / Mom

I remember bringing you home. You were so small and cuddly with your tiny paws and soft fur. You bounced around the room with your eyes flashing and your ears flopping around. Once in awhile, you’d let out a yelp just to let me know this was your territory.

Making a mess with the house and chewing on everything in sight became a passion, and when I scolded you, you just put your head down and looked up at me with those innocent eyes, as if to say, “I’m sorry but I’ll do it again as soon as your’re not watching.

As you became older, you protected me by looking out he window and barking at everyone who walked or drove by. You were a big brother to all the other dogs and cats who lived here.

When I had a tough day at home or work, you would be waiting for me with your tail wagging, just to say, “It will be okay and I love you.” You never had a bad day, and I could always count on you to be there for me. When I sat down to read the paper or watch TV, you would lay down by my feet, looking for attention. You never asked for anything more than to have me pat your head so you could go to sleep knowing that you were loved by me.

As you became older, you moved around more slowly. Then one day, old age finally took its toll, and you couldn’t stand on those wobbly old legs anymore. You hobbled around with one paw lifted. You needed help to climb onto my bed in which you loved so much to sleep in.

I sat down and patted you lying there, trying to make you young again. You just looked up at me as if to say that you were old and tired and could not take the pain.

I stayed up most of the night saying goodbye. You were given pain medication every four hours. All I could do was cry. I knew that a decison had to be made and with unconditional love, I had to be brave.

With tears in my eyes, I drove you one last time to the vet. One last time you were lying next to me, you could not sit therefore you could not enjoy the ride. For some strange reason, you were able to stand in front of the animal hospital on all four paws, perhaps it was your sense of pride.

We carried you into the room where you lied on a blanket. Your head on my lap, as I cried for your saction. You looked up as if to say, “Thank you for taking care of me.” I thought, “No thank you for taking care of me.”

PS: We will meet again at the “Rainbow’s Bridge” but until then I will search for you in my dreams and while I am awake please know that you will always be in my memories and heart. I Love You, my BEST FRIEND, GOLIATH!!!

 

Love Always,