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Someone, way back in 2012, just turned a dog loose. My Brother-in-Law saw them open the door, the dog jumped out and they just drove off. That was the day I met Dugal, my dad would suggest that name a few days later He was black, with some white as well. The vet back in Texas said he was healthy, and said the breed was most likely an American Staffordshire Terrier. Big head, muscular, and lots of people would have been scared of him. He was sweet, non-aggressive, and a great family pet. A best friend.
Now, a decade later. Dugal began to have issues with his back legs sliding a bit. A few months later, he started having what seemed to be weakness in his back legs. I called a vet or two but the weakness went away, and he seemed fine. Then, recently, he would not come up the four steps to the back porch. That was last Thursday. Then, Friday morning he could not seem to keep his back legs under him. Then Friday evening, when he started to not have the best appetite, I brought him to cheeseburgers from Wendys, just beef and cheese. He ate the first, and then part of the second. I made an appointment for today to see the vet, first appointment I could get and While waiting for the vet I posted this, a picture from maybe a few months ago.
A few minutes later, the vet examined Dugal and was very honest with me. Dugal, he said was suffering from Nueroprathy. He could try some treatments, but, given Dugals age, likely 12, and it was, just likely time. So, I decided to let my buddy go. As I sat with him, waiting for, the end. I stroked his head, told him what a good boy he was, and Dugal slipped away. And, yeah, as the great Lewis Grizzard wrote, years ago. My dog, up and died. The last meal Grizzard wrote of giving his dog? Cheeseburgers from Wendys. Ironic I guess.
My dog, he up and died, and took a piece of my heart with him.
Maybe God gave you Dugal because you needed him. Maybe you were at risk of something–it could be anything–and God sent a guardian to you until the crises passed. When you meet Dugal later, ask him. He’ll be able to tell you then. I suspect you will love him all the more when you find out.
It’s tough when they can’t walk anymore.
It’s painful to say goodbye.
Important things are that he brought joy to you, and you to him.