This afternoon we will lay our gentle Sam to rest.
Sam’s mobility has been declining for months now. As of yesterday morning, he can no longer stand on his own. It’s heartbreaking to watch him try and fall down. It’s time.
The photo above is one I took of him a couple of years ago at our first house, before his health began declining.
Sam’s lying in the shade now against the back fence. Nathan removed his collar last night. The children are upstairs napping, and our pup Ash is watching a blue jay drink from his water dish, now barking at Sam to get up and play. I wonder if any of them know?
We played outside with the kids this morning instead of doing our usual morning stuff inside. It was cloudy and breezy. Nathan got the biggest tail wags. Ben fed Sam some treats. Ben tried to call Sam to his food bowl. I explained to Ben that Sam’s legs no longer work, that he’s very old and his body is tired. I said that today is Sam’s last day with us. Ben looked at me for a long moment, quiet, then asked, “Does Sam have a penis?” ”Yes,” I said. Ben ran off to play.
Our wonderful hippie house calls vet will arrive at 3:30 this afternoon to help us say goodbye and lay Sam’s body to rest. Sam has been Nathan’s friend through many life transitions now, he’s been my friend as we started a family together, and he’ll be the first family dog that our son will remember.
Sweet dreams, Sam. May your spirit go quickly to the light.
One Comment
what a beautifully written post. clearly, sam is a cherished member of the family. we’ll be sending peaceful thoughts your way the next few days.