My Constant Companion Shelby

Shelby passed away last week after almost 14 years together. I got her when she was about a year old from the local dog shelter, and she has been by my side from then on. She had a long and happy life, and when she went deaf three years ago she got even closer, not letting me out of her sight, and learning hand signals.

She was a happy and sweet natured dog, but slowed down a lot in the recent years. Thyroid meds put some of the spring back in her step, and she recovered from surgery to have a fast growing cancerous lump removed at the beginning of this year. Her rear legs started to get weak, and she slept a lot towards the end. Her heart got weak and she suffered occasional fainting spells if she was too active. She still had her happy smile right until the end when she collapsed in the front yard the morning she was going to the vet anyway for her thyroid level check-up. She woke up after a couple of minutes but her smile was gone, and her eyes pleaded with me to help her. We went to her vet visit walking in together, with me knowing it would be one way.

Shelby basically fell apart from old age, happy to the end, and giving me love and company until her last moments. I am so grateful I could be with her when she went, and maybe provide her with some comfort as she has given me for so many years. I will miss her all of my days.

Shelby’s dad,
Mark

 

Thank you all for your kind thoughts. Shelby will live in me forever. She can never be replaced, but there is room in my heart for the next one.
It will be tough to find another Sheltie without comparing her to Shelby. Each dog has their own traits and all should be given a chance at a happy home. I hope I can find another one fairly quickly, as our mini Aussie Shep Sophie misses Shelby as much as I do.

Thank you all again for your kind words and thoughts,

Mark