Goodbye, Old Friend

I wanted to update about agility today, but suddenly agility doesn't seem so important.  Marge's good friend, Buddy, who she has played with for about 2 years, is very ill and will likely need to be put to sleep.

I saw him this morning, and he looked pitiful, laying by the door, not wanting to get up.  It was heartbreaking.  He did give me a little smile and tail wag when he saw me, but the energy and happiness I knew and loved about him was gone.  He is not eating and doesn't want to move.  I have been in tears all day thinking of the sight of this poor dog looking as awful as he did.

Turns out he got suddenly very ill yesterday and a trip to the vet revealed what appears to be a large mass near his liver.  I know from my (very little) prior experience that these types of cancers usually grow very rapidly and are aggressive.. explaining his sudden illness.

At 10+ years old, and in the state he's in, it would probably be unfair to put him through anything.  But, I did urge his owner to call his regular vet, just for a second opinion, just in case.

I am forever indebted to Buddy for being a friend to Marge when she didn't have many other dog friends to play with.  I will always remember fondly their play-dates together and Buddy's unwavering exuberance in everything he did.  It's hard to believe that I have known him for five years now... sometimes seeing him every day while I delivered my newspapers.  Whenever Marge is in the car with me on the route, she recognizes his house and whines and tries to jump out.  She so loved going in to his yard and playing with him and his people.

I am hoping for a miracle, but know that more likely than not, one will not come.  We will miss you, Buddy, thank you for being a friend.  We'll never forget you.