Today I lost my best friend.
Since December, my 13 year old Chihuahua, Peanut has been suffering from a form of intestinal cancer that caused him to lose weight, have seizures and a condition that caused him to not absorb protein. I watched as this once healthy and full-of-life dog started to gradually feel the effects of his illness.
Peanut joined Joe and I about ten years ago. He was a show dog who was also used in breeding and because he grew a little too large, his owners could no longer breed or show him so they put him up for adoption.
His personality was like no other Chihuahua. He never snapped, bit, showed any signs of aggression and was as docile as docile could be. When he would meet a person for the first time, he always ran up to them and gave them a good lick. Over the years, veterinarians commented on how he was the most amazing Chihuahua they’ve ever seen.
Right up to the end his personality never changed. He took all the prodding and testing that he endured over the past five months in stride.
He lived a fantastic life. One that I wish every animal could. He, along with my other dogs, accompanied me to work every day at TheFerretStore.com and later Solid Cactus. At TheFerretStore.com he would walk through the warehouse, pick out a bone or a treat that he would want, mingle with the guys and gals in customer service and enjoy every minute of it.
In the spring and summer, he loved to be outside just laying in the smallest patch of sunlight he could find that would provide him with warmth. In the winter, he could always be found right in front of the fireplace enjoying the heat it produced.
I remember taking him and the others for lunch and treating them to hamburgers and then the occasional sundae when Dairy Queen was open for the season. Those who listened to my pet talk radio program could recall the many stories I told about Peanut and my other dogs and all the crazy and fun things I would do for them. Afterall, my dogs were my kids. And my best friends.
A few weeks ago I almost lost Peanut as the effects of cancer became more apparent. I made the decision to try chemotherapy to reduce some of the symptoms and the treatments worked, although I knew that this wasn’t a cure. He never exhibited any side effects of the drugs and like always, never put up a fight. He was too busy fighting the disease inside.
This morning, shortly after 10am the inevitable happened. A blood clot made its way to his lungs causing him pain and difficulty in breathing. It was then that a decision needed to be made.
It’s never easy having to say good bye, but you know when the time has come and it’s inevitable. I believe I provided Peanut with an incredible life that I only wish other animals would have the opportunity to have and enjoy.
He suffered long enough.
He fought a good fight.
It’s time for him to sleep.
I’ll never forget this little guy who brought me so much joy and companionship over the last decade. He was truly one remarkable dog who I will always hold a special place in my heart for and for whom at some point, I hope to see again.
Thanks for coming into my life Peanut and for making our time together so special. I hope you enjoyed every minute of it as I have. I’m sorry you had to suffer these last few months, but your pain is gone now and you can sleep well knowing that you touched so many lives and made so many people happy.
Good bye buddy.
You were a great friend.
I will miss you terribly.