A little over 13 years ago just 2 months before my husband and I were married, we adopted our first child. She was the runt of the litter, a beautiful chocolate color, and had a tail that never stopped wagging.
Our chocolate lab Roxy has been with us for every move, every new home, every child's birth. She was very annoyed by each new dog we added to our home, but ultimately invited and mothered each of them as well.
After 13 years, she died yesterday. She no longer could use her back legs and had gone as long as she could. In the early morning, just before Mike took her to the vet, the children loved her, took pictures and said goodbye. Although my brain knew her time had come, my heart was broken. My very husband, who in the past was unable to show emotion, cried the entire time he dug her grave in the back yard.
As I watched her carried from the truck to the grave, it was clear that her spirit had left her body. Watching her laid gently in the ground, wrapped in her rose printed sheet, still wearing her pink rhinestone collar, was almost unbearable.
The children and I found comfort in knowing that she would be in heaven, wagging her tail, smiling at those that need comfort and begging for hot dogs from those that she knew would give in to her powers. She was our first addition to our family and will always be with us. It is amazing to me how these sweet creatures touch our hearts. We love you Roxy.
Lessons from Roxy:
Show joy and happiness each day.
Love those around you.
Love those around you.
Happiness can be found in a great meal, family, and a good scratch.
Never trust those that don't like dogs.
