A few years back, when Benson was a pup, I used to see a lovely man with a young gorgeous BC pup on our local common. Benson was about the same age, I think they were both around 8 months. I used to struggle a bit with Benson, OK a lot! but he always gave me gentle encouragement. Since then we used to bump into each other on the common, watch the dogs play and chat. He loved how Benson had matured. Well, he started angling around the fact he was too old for his young dog and was sad that he would have to leave her one day. He asked if I would take her. I laughed it off saying he had years in him! When he saw me with Bramble one day he stopped asking. Anyhow, while walking with a couple of friend's yesterday, I spotted the old mans very distinctive BC, only she was with someone else. My friend (also has a Border Collie) explained that he had died. He knew he didn't have much time, so he tried to rehome his dog with someone he trusted, and it was another dog walker from our local common. Steff said there were a few people he had been asking, people that he trusted, saw often and obviously loved and cared for their dogs. I feel sad but glad that his beautiful dog has such a good home, and is still walked on the common her owner loved so much.
Oh goodness, that is a bit of a sad story. Lets hope the person walking his old collie was one of those he trusted. I can understand how you feel x
Ive had it happen a few times in our dog walking community it's so bittersweet. iy must have been a real comfort for him to know she'd be safe and happy
Apparently, the new owner is lovely, one of the regular walkers but not someone I know Reminds me of this. From a Dog's Perspective: Humans are Immortal.... "They live so long… but the good ones still bond with us for our entire lives." "These immortals are so kind we must be good friends to them." Many dogs never get to see their owners grow old and weak: "Now I am old. The fur around my muzzle is grey and my joints ache when we walk together. Yet she remains unchanged, her hair still glossy, her skin still fresh, her step still sprightly. Time doesn’t touch her and yet I love her still." But some do: "For generations, he has guarded over my family. Since the days of my great-great-great-great-great-grandfather he has kept us safe. For so long we thought him immortal. But now I see differently, for just as my fur grows grey and my joints grow stiff, so too do his. He did not take in my children but gave them away to his. I will be the last that he cares for. My only hope is that I am able to last until his final moments. The death of one of his kind is so rare. The ending of a life so long is such a tragedy. He has seen so much, he knows so much. I know he takes comfort in my presence. I only wish that I will be able to give him this comfort until the end." Author: Unknown
Err.. sorry folks...but it is FRIDAY! Yayyyyy! The weekend is just around the corner...AND the dog is OK!!!
Aw Kate, I can imagine how you feel but the gentleman left this earth knowing his beloved dog was going to be loved and cared for xx
I know we're all dealing with those onion-cutting ninjas, but it really is a happy story that the older gentleman got to spend his last years with his beloved dog and also that he found a home that he approved of to care for the BC. I've lost track of the number of older people I've spoken with who lament that they couldn't have a dog in their last 10-20 years as they were afraid what would happen to the dog. And I know from personal experience what can happen to a dog whose future isn't planned for by their original human. My Mama Jodhi became my dog because her human died of cancer. The woman's daughter brought her in to the shelter with her toys and bed and was apparently very concerned that Jodhi keep these items with her, but the truth was that the toys had a longer shelf life than she did: Jodhi was on the euthanasia list within three days. That's just how it works in most shelters in California. So that man with the BC did a wonderful thing. And to end on a happy note, of course Mama Jodhi also did just fine as she lived to outsmart me until she was 16 years old.
I agree, when my Mum passed away my Dad was so very lonely and I tried for years to convince him to get a dog for company as my Dad loved to walk, but he wouldn't because what would happen to the dog when he was gone. I said I would take the dog to live with us but he wouldn't relent. He had a Labrador, Ben, years ago and oh my he loved him so much and the feeling was mutual. My Dad has passed away now but I wish so very much that he had given himself the chance to love another dog and enjoy the fulfilment of having a best friend. I think if an older person wants a dog and they can make alternative plans should they not be around any more, go for it and be happy to have a friend by your side. xx
I agree. And not only for older people. My bout with cancer means my life expectancy isn't exactly the normal one of someone of my age. I'm totally fine now, but I also know my statistics. Before I even started looking for a dog after Brogan died, I approached a very good friend to ask her if she would take care of my next dog if needed (she was also Brogan's "next of kin"). As I'm single/no kids, I really wanted a foolproof plan - which now I have.
I am in that position now My dog will be 6 in January and it means I have to live another 6 years at least. I would love another pup or dog, but know it would be unfair to the dog,
Gosh this is gloomy!!! My mum took on a new puppy when she was 75 - we all encouraged her to do it, and guaranteed Sally will be looked after if she is still around when Mum is gone. They are a completely bonded couple, and the walks and interaction with other dog walkers keeps my mum active and happy. I am all for older people having pets; they just need to make sure there is proper provision made.
