"What we have once enjoyed, we can never lose. All that we love deeply becomes a part of us."
Helen Keller
April 24, 2018, Rusty, 13 years old.
If a dog could have a perfect last day, this one did. A couple of ducks yesterday, two pork chops for dinner and bumpers this morning.
Funny story behind the pork chops. When Tally first came to my house she and Rusty became best buds. He never bonded with my other dogs like he did with Tally. They were truly a team, in all that is good and in crime as well.
She was new in the household and hadn't grown confident enough yet to counter surf (she got over this pretty quickly). Rusty only needed to put his nose on the counter as he was so tall. He would pull items off and Tally would be waiting for them to drop. This included a pork chop dinner one night. Rusty never got to partake of the spoils as Tally downed two perfectly grilled chops, he only got to take the rap for the crime. I'm pretty sure Tally appreciated his sacrifice. So, he got all the chops this time. :).
He's a dog, he doesn't really care, but I felt good doing something for him. This morning, I appreciated the clinic staff's support. I especially appreciated the last bumpers that my vet threw for my retriever...he understood. Rusty went to sleep happy, loved and with his dignity intact. That was my ultimate goal for an animal that served me well. I am sad but so filled with warmth for all my human friend's good wishes and support. Thanks for all the thoughts. God brings us gifts and he brought me one of the best when he sent the Rustinator to me. <3 <3
Rusty was my first competitive obedience dog earning his Utility Title, Rally Advance, Junior Hunter, Working Certificate and UKC Companion Dog title. 2 legs toward his UDX and 2 SH passes. Because of poor structure due to improper breeding, Rusty retired at a very early age (4). He comes out to play at our annual Specialty in the Veteran's Obedience class and loves it as he heels with perfect attention. He is the honorary test dog for WC/WCX. This special dog is the namesake for my kennel, a very small tribute for a dog that had the biggest heart ever.