Laddy came into our lives many years ago, a stray frightened by Guy Fawkes crackers (which were then legal). He remained terrified of crackers and even thunder – for which he had to have tranquillizers! Laddy was brought to the police station where my husband worked and although his owner was found, he asked if we could keep “Chappie” as he was then known because he was going through a family crisis at the time. And so Laddy (female of Lassie!) came into our lives. He was such a loyal, true friend.
He developed a large tumour on his neck, which had to be removed and never returned. Laddy had the uncanny ability to know when someone’s feelings were hurt and then Laddy would spend the entire night at that person’s bedside, as if comforting them, which he did. One day whilst protecting our home, he ran out and tried to bite a dodgy layabout who immediately hit him hard on the back with a stick. Laddy’s back was never the same again, when the injury became old, arthritis and dysplasia set into his hip. It was heartbreaking to see our friend struggling to walk and at times, losing control of his legs or dragging his foot. Painkillers helped for a time, but eventually Laddy started going deaf and had difficulty eating, finally becoming incontinent. The time had come to say a kind goodbye – it was SO difficult.
We kept postponing and postponing it. Eventually, the time came when Johann took him in on Friday 2 Feb 2007 and at 3.30 pm, Laddy slipped into a deep sleep and eventually I believe, Glory. Johann said his final farewell as Laddy went under. It was brave of Johann. The rest of us couldn’t do it. It was hard, and Johann wept and we are still feeling deeply depressed even though it was for the greater good of our dear Laddy. His place is so empty.
We did not realize how much he filled our home and our lives. Laddy, thank you for being the brave star that you always were. You are now lighting up the sky and your pain and suffering has gone forevermore. We will remember you as the strong, beautiful and happy dog you once were.