Goodbye, Sonny



Sonny
April 2002 - October 25, 2012

This past week, we lost our beloved pet, Sonny. Sonny came into our lives back in May of 2002. My sister, Jolyn worked for the Madison County Tax Assessor's office at the time, and she was out on routine county business when she came upon a desperate, abandoned puppy. He was only about 8-weeks, had mange, and was nearly starved to death. Someone had just thrown him out to die. Some people can be so cruel, but big-hearted Jolyn brought him home and nursed him back to health. He soon recovered from his tragic, early start and turned into a bundle of high-energy trouble for a few years. We think he was a Lab/Chow mix, and the Lab part came through LOUD and CLEAR at first. We used to joke that we should have named him Bull-Otter because he was like a bull in a china shop, and he loved hanging out in the swimming hole down at the creek.

By the time he was 5 years old, he had mellowed into a calm, best friend for Jolyn. He was always right by her side. And he loved me too. Every time I came to visit, he would squeal with excitement.

In recent months, he developed lameness in his back legs, then his front legs. It advanced to the point that he could no longer walk or even stand for more than a few seconds. He needed to be carried outside and back inside. Despite his afflictions, he remained sweet Sonny, his tail wagging incessantly. On Thursday, Jolyn made the agonizing decision to release him back into eternity. It was a beautiful, warm autumn day, and leaves fell from the clear, blue sky. We sat outside with Sonny all morning, feeding him bacon and hamburger, holding him, and saying goodbye. My dog, Melvin was there with us. By mid-day, the vet arrived. Jolyn held Sonny, and I watched as he slipped away, and his tail became still for the first time.

Things We Can Learn From A Dog
(author unknown)

Never pass up the chance to go for a joy ride.

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Let the fresh air and wind in your face be pure ecstasy.

Take naps and stretch before rising.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.

Be loyal.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, sit close, be silent, and nuzzle them gently.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

When you are happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Jolyn & Sonny
October 25, 2012

Me & Sonny
October 25, 2012