Loyalty, security, bravery and unwavering devotion are all words to describe a Rottweiler, but they barely
describe this dog.
Born to Gladiator and Jezebel, it was easy to see where she got her traits. The first day I saw her will remain in my memory forever. We could not approach Gladiator; too protective! Jezebel let us go through the litter box, but with a watchful eye. Never have I ever been so watched! I remember thinking to myself “please puppies don’t anyone cry!”
Nacho’s real name was Natasha, but she soon taught us it was Nacho. It fit her like a glove.
But unlike all the dogs we have had or ever will she was a very serious dog! She saw the whole world in BLACK & WHITE; there were no grays. This dog could not be bought, borrowed, or rented. If you wronged her, she remembered. She had her job to do and she did it as efficiently as possible, like the good stock that she was from.
Protective, she was always there between us and someone else. Not aggressively, but so carefully placed that most people didn’t even notice the move, but Maria and I did. I was always surprised that she had so much tact!
If she wasn’t on the bed at night she was always at its foot, or laying in the hall leading to the bedroom. Trespassers were just not going to get by her. Guests in our house were almost always put off by her until she got to know you, then all of a sudden she would put her butt on your leg and you became an honored guest!
Then one day it dawned on me this dog was a Klingon! In everything she did, from her large boney head to the way she carried herself was Klingon. When she was a puppy she put her head through a sheetrock wall just to get to the other side. Her first impression of you was not going to change, EVER. And that was that! But for all her seriousness she loved with a giant heart. A heart that gave so much unconditionally and without holding back anything.
So Nacho, yesterday I did the hardest thing I ever had to do. I had to help you remove the pain of old age; the pain you suffered in your back and legs. One last ride in the truck to make up for all the love and loyalty you gave in your 12 years. It’s now my turn to serve and protect you, and I did it with all the love in my heart too.
Good bye, my old friend. I look forward in meeting up again at the bridge one day knowing I will once again be so protected and loved, that nothing in heaven or Earth could stop you from doing your duty. Lastly, find ISIS and look after her, as she was always your best friend and teacher.
We love you.
| Nacho |
| 7, Apr 2006 |
| Greg & Maria |