Caleb: Much Loved & Missed |
My beloved Caleb (Toad) went to the Bridge today, at home in my arms, with the assistance of our vet Dr. Federici. He went peacefully and quickly. |
 Contemplating Life |
Caleb, you were the best of the best. Despite your sad past experiences which led to life in a shelter for seven months, you never held it against anyone and you were the calmest, sweetest, most cuddly dog I have ever known. You liked to lean up against people, to climb into their laps and their cars, totally confident that no one would mind in the least.
You loved swimming in a lake, running in the pasture, long walks on the dike, hiking Sumas Mountain with Kelly, visits from your friends Ellen and Kinley and Toby, any kind of treat, any kind of food. You were the daycare's "model student" getting along with everyone, always respectful - well, except that one little altercation with Shep! What was that about, eh???
You slept beside me and eventually learned to lie lengthwise, head on my shoulder, rather than smack dab across the middle of the bed. You obsessed over the cat and tormented her, but at last you learned to get along with her just fine, even letting her kiss you and bat you on the nose without retaliation. You accepted any and all species of animals (hmmm... maybe not the squirrels), and even though you were a bit boisterous around the piglets you never tried to harm them in any way.
You were my strong, silent boy. In the eight months you were with me, I only heard your voice three times, and then just a single woof. You whined only twice - both times at the sound of a gunshot in the distance. I wonder what sad memories that sound recalled?
Caleb, you forever changed my life. I shall so miss your funny, toothy grin when I arrive home from work, and your long-legged bouncy-kangaroo behaviour when you thought I'd been gone too long. I shall miss your snuggles and snoring and counter-surfing and even the drool on my pillow. I shall miss your beautiful topaz eyes and the cute little worry lines on your forehead. And most of all, I shall miss you, my beautiful brindle boy. Your presence in my life was truly an amazing gift and you left this world far, far too soon.
Run free, Caleb. I love you so very, very much.
Your mom.
Caleb: Adopted May 24, 2007, at age five, from Cowichan Valley SPCA. Died February 20th, 2008 of lymphosarcoma. Forever missed by mom (Jean), Charley, Belle, Allie, and many, many friends of all species.