For those of you who don’t know, my older dog Leakey (named after the anthropologist) died from lymphoma on the 12th of October. I’d like to thank the folks at Suburban Veterinary Clinic and Routsong for being understanding… both emotionally, and having the wherewithal to understand what I was saying through me blubbering.
He rallied on Wednesday and Thursday, but went downhill very quickly on Friday. By noon, he wasn’t able to eat solid foods (pizza, his favorite) without me tearing it in bits and holding it for him. He didn’t move more than ten feet (in any direction) the whole day, and was having trouble breathing. By the time we made it to the vet the last time, he was having trouble standing. I couldn’t let it progress to the point where his breathing would get so bad that he’d be nearly choking and not understanding why.
So here’s my story tribute to him.
”You know,” he said, “we’ll see all our pets again.”
I didn’t say anything, just kept walking through the woods. The clearing was just ahead. My other dog pulled at her lead in excitement.
We stepped into the clearing. He continued talking. “I really believe that.”
“I know.” I circled the clearing while he talked.
“I read this really inspiring poem about a rainbow bridge…What are you doing?”
“Lighting candles.” As my match touched the last one, Bifrost shimmered into existence and the world shifted.
All the dogs greeted each other as Valkryies gathered.
I smiled. “Welcome to Asgard.”
I miss you guys.
