It was a gorgeous day, and one that Lily would not live to enjoy. Lily was recovering from a debilitating seizure in the emergency room. Several days ago when I visited her at the vet, I was encouraged that she may recover as she stood shakily to greet me. Today, she looked my way, but that was all she was able to do. I could tell that Lily was ready to move on.
I first met Lily on an equally beautiful day in the fall of October 1996. She was a 10-month-old tri-colored Collie who lived on quiet farm that raised Collies and German Shepherds. Moving to the big city was quite a change for her. She was afraid of everything, and it took her a long time to be comfortable even going for a walk. After having lived with so many dogs, she was lonely living with just 2 cats.
Several months later, I rescued a Cocker/Lab stray and named him Chipper for his lively personality. He turned Lily's life around. They became fast friends and great playmates, chasing each other and squabbling over toys and chew bones. Though shy and insecure when I first adopted her, Lily became the Alpha dog after Chipper arrived. Next a sweet King Cav mix named Holly joined our family, and Lily's pack was complete.
I frequently brought home lost and abandoned animals, and Lily was always accepting of whatever came in the door. Unlike most animals, she graciously shared her food bowl and toys with every visitor. Though she seemed meek and mild, Lily was better than any alarm system and ferociously guarded her turf against any perceived threat, including an evil neighbor. Never letting down her guard, Lily barked at this neighbor until her final days.
When Chipper died unexpectedly several years ago, Lily mourned his loss. Though she soldiered on, Lily never seemed to fully recover from losing her best friend. Now she is reunited with both Chip and Holly, who were probably the the first to welcome her on the Rainbow Bridge. Though we miss all three of you tremendously, we are glad you are together again. Godspeed.
1 comment:
Lily, you made the world a more beautiful place. You, too, Nancy. Thank you for taking care of so many of our furry friends. Lg
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