Crossing the Rainbow Bridge

[shallowwatersailor 3,213]

This past Wednesday I had to send "My Sweetie Girl" across the Rainbow Bridge at 13 years 2 months. I had rescued Juno 5-1/2 years ago. Looking back those years have flashed by! She has been with us through our move from Maryland to Virginia, and ironically has been 10 miles from the Alaskan Malamute rescue organization I got her from.

 

Already considered a senior dog when she came home with me on Halloween 2015, Juno aged well. She was healthy to the end but suffered with arthritis in her rear hips. About six months ago dementia became very noticeable crying for no apparent reason at all hours of day and night. This past month saw her losing strength in her front legs as well. The vet had forewarned me that I would need to make the decision. At the end she couldn't do stairs and would walk about five feet and turn to see if we were still there. I spent the last two weeks on a couch to try to sooth her. I've attached a few photos and one of my favorite videos of her during our first winter together.

 

The best way to pay tribute to a rescue dog is to rescue another dog. We will probably by Fall but in the meantime we'll reflect, grieve, and heal. I really enjoy the Alaskan Malamute breed (Juno was my third) for being a large breed, love of winter, and the talking in place of barking. 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited June 13, 2021 by shallowwatersailor

[pacer 3,168]

I only too well understand!

 

Your 'Juno' reminded me of a recent text from my son showing a rescue that sure resembles yours that he is considering. Since your Juno was a rescue then she was probably a "MUTT" and since the dog my son showed resembled yours (lot of Husky?) sent was undoubtedly a 'mutt' I reminded him that a "mutt (in my opinion!) has to be ranked in the top tier of breeds known to man! I am now 81 yrs and over that time have had .... I dont know HOW many 'mutts' I've had -- dozens? And my son is replacing his previous rescue 'mutt' (due to similar situation as you- old age) I've been fortunate in a lot of ways, I live in a very rural area and most of my dogs have arrived having been dumped, usually in poor condition. Of these many, I have 4 that are standouts and was lucky enough to have them for a long life. (long life is another good feature of a 'mutt')

 

So, yes get over your pal and get another, there is just TOO much joy to be had from them. (and yes, I have "Rip" at my feet right now, hes got to be close to me!) Hes Lab/Golden/and?? 120lbs of pure muscle.

Edited June 13, 2021 by pacer

[Herder 2,354]

I know the pain, I am sorry for the loss of your friend.  

[c-series don 8,668]

Our dogs are part of our family. When one passes I’m mentally and physically exhausted, I feel each one takes with them a part of my soul. However the joy they bring to us is truly priceless.