RockysMomma

Thank you. I think he is the most beautiful dog I have ever seen. When I adopted him from the shelter they told me his momma was a black lab. They didn't know what his dad was. Over the years I've had many people comment that he look either collie or shepherd. He had the most amazing markings and his smile could light up a room.

Thank you everyone for your kind words and sympathies. I am having a very hard time with the loss of Rocky. I feel like the grief is constant and yet also comes in waves. There are so many times throughout the days when I expect him to be there and he's not. I turn to call for him when I come in from being in the yard. I miss hearing him breathing in the quiet of the night when I lay in bed. When I wake the first thing I do is look at his bed and remember all over again that he is gone. Logically I know that moving his things would make this easier, but I just can't bring myself to do that. It feels so disloyal to his memory. I am supposed to go pick up his ashes tomorrow. I know that will be very tough. I will have my two small children (ages 5 and 1) with me though so I will have to be brave and keep it together for their sakes. I knew this would be difficult, but I honestly had no idea it would hurt this badly. I did make a decision regarding some of his things. I am planning on contacting the local Humane Society chapter and donating the belongings of his that I won't be keeping. I rescued my beloved Rocky from an animal shelter when he was 5 weeks old. I was blessed to have 10 wonderful years with him. If some of his things can help bring joy to a dog being fostered while waiting for their forever home then that will bring me some solace.

In an hour I have to leave to bring my Rocky to the vet. He is very ill and needs to not suffer anymore. I can't believe this is happening. I have had a great 10 years with him. He has been by my side when my husband has deployed. He was there when I brought my children home from the hospital. He was there through all of my health issues. He has endured 6 moves in 8 years and has never complained. He is always there to greet me with a smile and a tail wag. I know in my head that I am doing the right thing, but my heart is breaking. I can't imagine life without him. I plan on being there when he goes. I want the last person he sees to be someone who loves him. And then I will summon up the strength to bring him to the crematorium. And then I have to leave him. I am going to miss him, my sweet Rocky boy.