Good Bye Dodger

Goodbye Dodger

How do you eulogize someone who gave love unconditionally and asked for an occasional bone in return? When Shibani and I married, we were young enough to have our "own" kid but instead we brought home Dodger. The cutest little Golden Retriever Pup, one could ever hold. He was "ours". For a guy who had never had a pet, Dodger taught me how to love one. Don't get me wrong, I had my moments but letting him go today was one the hardest thing I have ever had to do and I hope no one has to make this call, but when your dog is unable to get up and refuses to eat for days it is cruel and selfish to let him endure whatever discomfort or pain he might be feeling.

We almost lost him in October of last year, but he made a miraculous recovery and gave us another 6 months. A gift, I will never forget. As Shibani mourns, I try to find solace in writing and sharing my grief. I walk around the house and look at the things we have collected. There is something to learn from the simplicity of our pet’s lives. All Dodger had, were two beds, a pan from where he ate food, a leash and a water bowl. The lump in my throat might subside in a few days, but the memories he left us with will take a lifetime to fade. I hope to see you wherever we go when we leave this planet. Thank you for enriching my life and the unconditional 14 years of love you gave me Dodger.