Tito the Wonder Puppy left us today. His angry little body just couldn't function any more after 18 years in our world.
We are incredibly sad, but also relieved. We're relived that Tito is no longer in pain. We're grateful that he's free from the fear and confusion that seemed to grip him when he couldn't figure out why he was unable to see as well or move like he used to. We're comforted that he's no longer constrained by the frustrations of a declining mind and an old and aching body. Tito can once again be the Tito of days gone by, young and spry and devious and teacherous. This is the Tito that will live forever in our hearts.
This was Tito and Alycia's bedtime routine for the last year or so. After all the pups had gone out for evening potty time, and eaten their evening cookie, she would give Tito one last chance to go out to do some business. Tito rarely went outside though. Mostly the two of them would just stand there together, looking out into the darkness. Moths would flutter by, the sounds of night would gently drift in, and the two of them would stand there, side by side, looking out into the darkness.
Tonight we will hug Shaak Ti and Shadowfax extra tight and tell them we love them. We'll make sure that they are given lots of love and attention and pets so that everyone can grieve in their own way. Godspeed Tito. May you find the solace and peace that eluded you in life.
We are incredibly sad, but also relieved. We're relived that Tito is no longer in pain. We're grateful that he's free from the fear and confusion that seemed to grip him when he couldn't figure out why he was unable to see as well or move like he used to. We're comforted that he's no longer constrained by the frustrations of a declining mind and an old and aching body. Tito can once again be the Tito of days gone by, young and spry and devious and teacherous. This is the Tito that will live forever in our hearts.
Tonight we will hug Shaak Ti and Shadowfax extra tight and tell them we love them. We'll make sure that they are given lots of love and attention and pets so that everyone can grieve in their own way. Godspeed Tito. May you find the solace and peace that eluded you in life.
4 comments:
I am so sorry to hear of Tito's passing. I understand the grief and the relief; it is a mix of emotions when we know they are suffering but we are powerless to do anything to help them any longer. Tito had a wonderful life with you. Sending best wishes and a warm virtual hug.
Thanks Karen. Your kind words are a help. We're doing OK, just adjusting to the new normal around here, quieter without Tito.
I just discovered your blog. I'm sorry to read about your little Tito. It must have been such a difficult time. It sounds like he had a lot of good times in his long and happy canine life. I imagine that your other dogs miss him too.
Susie - Thank you for the comment and the well wishes. Tito was indeed a "character" and his personality was truly larger than his fuzzy little stature.
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