It’s been almost a year since I have blogged.
Sometimes it takes one of those things to remind me how neglectful I have been.
Months have gone by since last April. Much has happened in our lives. Babies have been born, friends have passed away, feelings have been felt, and ideas have been thought. The circle of life continues.
Easter came and went. The goose hunt slipped by followed by May/June busy-ness and a summer of relaxation and fun with children and grandchildren. School started up again in August. We celebrated Thanksgiving, Halloween, Remembrance Day, Christmas and a New Year and a new decade.
It’s now February. Last week I went home to visit relatives who are unwell over the February Family Day weekend. I was greeted at the airport by my husband and our beautiful female miniature schnauzer, Mika. She was as energetic as ever, pulling on the leash to greet me with whimpers and wiggles. This was on a Wednesday night.
The drive home from the airport was uneventful with Mika cuddled on my lap and a smile on my face. We had no idea what was going to happen just 36 hours later.
We were visiting family on Thursday afternoon and evening. Caught in a snowstorm on the way home, we decided to pull into a motel. It’s always a challenge to find a place that welcomes dogs, but we settled in a room at the Comfort Inn.
The next morning we went for breakfast and then a small nap before heading out. We both called to Mika, who was lying beside the bed. She didn’t respond. We hesitated. Was she okay?
The answer was a firm “No!”
Our beloved dog had died without a whimper, a symptom, or a goodbye. Her body was still warm as we checked for breathing and a pulse. No signs of life. It was a moment of disbelief and then shock.
Thankfully there is something you can do in such a situation. We went to a veterinary hospital and were met by very sympathetic staff members. In short, the animal’s body can be taken in and sent away for cremation. In a few weeks her ashes will be sent to our local vet.
I am now back up north, getting ready to go back to work tomorrow. My husband is not so fortunate, though. His constant companion is no longer accompanying him. Every minute he is reminded of the loss of the best dog we have ever known.
Our Mika - May she rest in peace and continue to be in our hearts and memories forever.
Until next time,
Bee Rich
