I remember thinking when we first got Bailey, on New Year's Eve 2001, that having her meant I would get my heart broken. I'd never had a dog before (my dad gave a staunch 'Never!' when we were growing up) but I had read enough and seen enough movies (Where the Red Fern Grows, anyone??) to know that it wouldn't be easy to say good-bye when the time inevitably came.
And 12 years later, the dreaded day came. She'd had that nasty thing on her foot for several years, but over the last year it grew aggressively and the vet seemed to think it was an outward indication of what was going on inside her body. We never had her tested for cancer or anything else so we can't say for certain. But, it definitely took its toll, whatever it was.
Sweet girl also lost her sight in her last year of life...pitiful.
The older kids were as heartbroken as we were, and many tears were shed as they gathered around to say good-bye to Bailey.
I don't really have the words to articulate all the feelings wrapped up in this. But I do know that Bailey embodied unconditional love and loyalty. She was a faithful companion and we miss her. We are thankful to have had so many good years with our Bay Boo.
