Matt and Pippin (July 14, 2011) enjoying their last evening together.
When we lost our cat Sophie in January, that was difficult as we had her with us for 16.5 years and she was just a wonderful addition to the family. The two Tibetan Spaniels left here with us after her passing seemed to take notice but quickly adjusted to by, oh, let's say, by the end of the next day as they moved into her choice spots of napping and didn't need to take turns at the water bowl waiting patiently (or not) while she ever-so-slowly took her small gentle sips. (Photo: The Two Cohorts: Vash and Pippin)
When we discovered that Pippin had inoperable cancer last month, we were totally unprepared for the diagnosis and the fact that he would have such a short time left with us. Pippin was young...he would only be 9 in September, how could we be facing the end of the road with him so soon? (One very nice thing about Tibbies is that are rarely ill, until the end.) Neither Pippin nor Vash had even a stumble along the way, each year visiting the vet and getting a big smile of "all clear, all looking great" report, we were feeling very good about those Tibbies. Until last month. The vet was as shocked as we were that the diagnosis came so swift and with no chance of intervention.
(Photo: Pippin in front; Vash at the rear lounging on the deck and making the most of a beautiful summer day.)
For the past month we have spent extra time enjoying every moment with Pippin (whose name on his fancy paperwork is Pippin Lord of the Rings) and with Pippin and Vash together. This past week we could see the enjoyable times were coming to an end, his favorite things no longer holding his attention, one by one we noted their disappearance. It was terribly hard and sad to watch.
Pippin had always been my little buddy, so smart, fun, gentle, and sweet, following me around daily, always at my feet when I was still. Oh how I will miss all of that now.
Friday night we said goodbye to the little guy and although it was good to know that he was no longer in any pain, I have been tearful at every turn since. Can't even begin to guess how long this is going to last. The guys are missing him and we are all just taking a little extra care with one another trying to cope with the loss.
I think the hardest part might be that Vash (photo left) is walking around looking for his buddy, not understanding where he could be and who he can run around like a crazy guy with chasing chipmunks and birds and barking at anyone who even looks like they might step on our grass or touch the fence. Somehow, it's just not the same and in his eyes there is a great sadness...it's very hard to see that from him, Vash, the original Good Time Dog. Getting hugs and caresses from us is just not the same as having a brother to tear around and wrestle with, to steal snacks from, and to cuddle up next to for a nap. Just not the same.
Matt posted on his Facebook page, "R.I.P. Pippin, you were the best dog a kid could have. You will be missed very much. :-(" and I don't think I can say it any better than that. The Best.Dog.Ever.
Pippin, Lord of the Rings (September 24, 2002 - July 15, 2011)