Sunday 23 October 2022

Lessons learnt from the passing of our family pet


 “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” - Josh Billings

Sadly, we had to say goodbye to our family Labrador last week. Bella was 15 years old and had certainly lived a long and good life. In her earlier years she was such an energetic and busy dog, getting up to the usual dog-mischief when she was allowed. She watched all our boys grow up and loved to play with them when they were able to spend time with her. She travelled with us, as we moved 3 times, and was a constant presence in our lives.

As we get used to the emptiness that Bella's death has left in our home, I am struck by a few things that I hope we cherish forever. 

1. She was incredibly loyal - pets are such loyal friends to humans (certainly more than we are).
2. She was forgiving - you can be cross with your pet for a moment, but very soon, they come back to you as if nothing has happened.
3. She was happy almost all the time - the constant wag of the tail told us that she was content with her lot in life. A little food, shelter and love, was all she needed.
4. She loved company - Labrador's love to be around people and she used to lie down or sit wherever she knew someone would have to walk over her or around her :)
5. She was friendly to 99% of people - her capacity to accept people was truly overwhelming. If she didn't get along with someone, it was usually an indication that something was 'up' with the human and not her. 

We will miss her but are grateful for all the years we got to enjoy life with her. To all of you who have ever lost a pet, I am sure you understand. God bless. 

“Heaven goes by favour. If it went by merit, you would stay out and your dog would go in.” - Mark Twain

“I care not for a man's religion whose dog and cat are not the better for it.” - Abraham Lincoln

Living in Grace
D3LM3

P.S. - The photo is from the internet 

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