We got Tobi when he was only 8wks old. He was adorable. In his younger years he had a special love of squeaky toys…he carried them everywhere in his mouth squeaking them. He loved you greet everyone with them and liked them thrown and would retrieve them again and again. He also loved to play in any kind of water…the kids kiddy pools, on walks would jump in and swim in the river which is close to our house…we would walk him at the dog trail and he’d jump in the small lake there and swim too. He was very loyal and wherever we were he’d be at our feet. As he aged many of the things he loved he could no longer do.
Climbing steps became impossible due to bad hips. This last year of his life became increasingly difficult for him. About a year ago it was becoming apparent he was getting very tired. Just getting up to go outside to his large dog pen where he loved to be was difficult. Going out in the yard and walking around with us which he also loved to do was also a task but somehow he would always be determined
to push on just to be by us.
Then, on the morning of May 14 we knew something was terribly wrong…Tobi began to stagger and fall over when he walked. Even still he was determined to try to walk around. That same night tho he seemed confused and that sparkle in his eye which he always had was gone…his excitement to see us also gone…he seemed vacant and started vacantly at his surroundings. We contacted the vet the next day who confirmed what we suspected…Tobias likely suffered a stroke. We knew there was no bouncing back from this…we had to make that hard decision so many pet owners must one day face…to put him down. The vet came to us which was a godsend because I believe an animal senses doom.
He never had to leave his home and take that last awful car ride…we were in “his” surroundings where he felt safe. He did not fight it he simply “went to sleep” when the vet did what inevitability had to be done. He looked peaceful…finally. For that we are grateful…but our home is quiet and empty. While the vet confirmed “we did the right thing…He was 13…equivalent to a 95-year-old man” she said…it is hard.
We all loved Tobi. Unfortunately part of loving them is knowing when to let go too. Sleep well Tobi…May you be running forever free now in peaceful eternity. Your family loves you and will never forget you old boy!
All Our Love,
| Tobi |
| 16, May 2014 |
| Bob, Wendy,Tyler, Brennen |