Dear VGSR, I am writing to let you know of the recent death of our beloved Bandit, whom we adopted through you
six years ago. Bandit, formerly known as Foster, was the love of our lives and we are feeling a little lost without him.
When my son and I adopted him, not much was known about him other than that he was rescued from a kill shelter in
Georgia. I don't know that he had ever lived in a house, walked on a leash or known any human kindness. He was
afraid of his own shadow but was full of puppy-like playfulness and energy and very intelligent. He was also the most
soulful dog I've ever had the pleasure of knowing and loving. My sister thought he was part harbor seal because of his
beautiful, big brown eyes. He was an excellent guard dog and loved to patrol his territory and keep the neighborhood
dogs on their toes. He was always wary, if not intolerant of strangers, but over the years his small circle of trust grew
to include our extended family and a few lucky friends. He loved to chase squirrels and deer and bury bones, but his favorite
thing in the world was just to hang out with his special people, his little pack, and boy, do we miss him. Last year we
noticed a bump on his thigh and took him to a local veterinarian hospital (not our regular vet) where he was misdiagnosed
with a benign "fatty" tumor. We were told not to worry about it. However, the tumor appeared to get larger and we had our
vet check it out and she immediately sent us to SouthPaws in Fairfax. There we learned the bad news that the tumor was in
fact a very aggressive form of cancer. Surgery to remove the tumor was unsuccessful and we made the difficult decision to
have his leg amputated. It was pretty grim at first, but he made a remarkable recovery and became the fast three-legged
squirrel chaser you ever laid eyes on. He underwent a course of chemo therapy and was the darling of SouthPaws: everyone
there admired his brave spirit and loved his gentle manner. If anything, his quality of life improved as he as the object of
everyone's love and affection and was showered with love 24/7. And we just kept hoping he would defy the odds and be
with us a little longer. But it was not to be. About a month ago we noticed a lump under his arm pit and took him to
SouthPaws where they gave us the devastating news that Bandit's cancer had spread to several areas of his body, including
his lungs. Two weeks later we had to say goodbye our beautiful Bandit. He died in my arms surrounded by the people
he loved. It seemed sudden and shocking for us ( he was chasing deer the day before he died) but I am thankful he didn't suffer
a long and painful death. I know I know will see him again someday and until then I will see him in my dreams. Thank you for
bringing Bandit into our lives, Georgie Warner (From the poem The House Dog's grave by Robinson Jeffers) You were never
masters, but friends. I was your friend. I loved you well, and was loved. Deep love endures To the end and far past the end.
If this is my end, I am not lonely. I am not afraid. I am still yours. |
