Farewell to a Man's Best Friend

"Near this spot are deposited the remains of one who possessed Beauty without Vanity, Strength without Insolence, Courage without Ferocity, and all the Virtues of Man, without his Vices. This Praise, which would be unmeaning Flattery if inscribed over human ashes, is but a just tribute to the Memory of Boatswain, a Dog." ~George Gordon, Lord Byron, "Inscription on the Monument of a Newfoundland Dog"

Yesterday I realized just how attached we can become to our four legged friends. The most unfortunate and difficult time for all pet owners had arrived. I received a call from my parents that the time had come for my beloved Black Lab Rocky.

I still can't believe the amount of joy that dog brought me over the past 13 years. He was always there to give a reassuring lick when I was home sick and would play ball until your arm could throw no longer. He lived to swim and I remember vividly the first moment when he plunged head first into a lake in the mountains after a rock I had thrown.

He was also one of the friendliest and good natured dogs I've ever known. You could put your hand between him and his food and though you might be covered in slobber you wouldn't hear so much as a whimper or a growl out of him.

I also think fondly of those long summer days growing up where rolling around in a kiddie pool we had set up for him was a much enjoyed escape from the heat for him and a source of great amusement for us. He would also race around the yard wildly before rolling in the grass and then trying to rub himself dry on whoever was around. Everyone knows that the most affectionate creature is a wet dog.

He was our companion on many a camping trip and was the best friend a guy could have growing up. There was no adventure he wouldn't spring for with a wagging tail and unmatched exuberance. He was a great dog and I will miss him more than words can say.

"I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive." ~Gilda Radner

In Loving Memory
Rocky 1995 - 2008