I knew it was almost time throughout the winter and then last weekend we needed to take Bailey, my golden retriever, to the vet. She was really struggling with her bad hips. Some pills and steroids and she was back up walking with that wagging tail of hers.
Bailey was with us from the time I first saw her at the Aurora Animal Shelter over twelve years ago. She was our dog. The animal control folks had picked her up and no one ever came to claim her. Lucky for us and a terrible mistake for them. When I had to move in with friends while my house was being built, Bailey and our yellow lab, Courtney Love, headed up to the mountains to stay at doggie camp. Bailey was the dog they introduced to new dogs who had never been there before. She loved everyone and especially every dog.
While Courtney is fast and focused, Bailey was a roamer that took her time making sure she didn't miss any detail. She was the welcome wagon at the front door. She would have been the first one to meet and greet any bad guys breaking in. It just wasn't in her nature to be mean. She hated the camera, so I don't have any good photos, but this one looks just like her.
Today was finally the day. She must have had some kind of stroke this afternoon because she could no longer get up and her eyes were a little unfocused. My son and I put her in the car and took her to the Alameda East Veterinary Clinic. Thank goodness for the professionals that work around the clock to help us and our animals in a time of need. They were kind and understanding. I stayed with Bailey and we were outside as they put her to sleep.
It was time for my funny, loving, happy girl to be released from her pain. Goodbye my furry friend, I love you and I will miss you.
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