Our sweet, wonderful Bela is gone. I took her to the vet this morning where we shared our last snuffly good-byes and she slipped peacefully away. She was 12 ½ years old. Shelbi, the Boston Terrier above, preceded her in death by five years (and the wheels of a passing car).
I thought I had prepared myself well enough for Bela’s passing. After all, she has been slowing down for several years and we knew putting her to sleep would be the final outcome. I was surprised to find myself weeping like a child after the vet left the room. Bela spent 11 ½ years with our family. That’s the longest time I have spent with an animal, and I am a card-carrying dog lover who’s had dogs her whole life.
Bela walked literally hundreds of miles with me. She’s been my companion through 4 miscarriages and placing Jordan in the care center. She faithfully kept my kitchen floor spotless. She’s loved and protected three children and countless neighbor kids. She has been the cat’s refuge from the other dogs.
My tears are not so much for the pain of her death as they are for the memories I will forever cherish. A dog’s unconditional love is priceless. The pain of parting is worth the price of sharing a life. Thanks, Bel, for teaching me how to be a better human being. Love you. Rest in peace.
~ tlc
So sorry for your family. I know how you all loved her, and will have loving memories of your years with her.
By: arlene christensen on January 6, 2012
at 9:14 pm