The litter of Springer Spaniels was born on February 6, 1998. March found two of these adorable puppies as permanent parts of the family. Bridget became the pet for my mother-in-law, Anne Craft and Suzie became part of the family of Laurie and myself.
We immediately bonded. She was an obedient dog always trying to be the best she could be. I had to discipline her rarely. My loud voice and my “look” was all that was needed in most instances.
Suzie loved outdoor adventures. Fields and forests were always a joy for her until the years caught up with blindness.
The years went so fast! Suddenly the puppy was eight years old. Ten years crept almost in a blink of the eye.
Suzie became very ill in February 2009. A visit to the vet confirmed diabetes. The outlook was bleak. the vet gave us six months to a year. A number of times illness came and I prepared for the worse.Suzie would come out of her condition and fair well again. Many a time she and I would walk around the yard and set. I prayed most sincere prayers. I truly believe her longevity was due to my prayers. She would improve and give us enjoyment again and again.
However, the years caught up with her.She almost reached her 15th birthday. The days prior to he passing were difficult for us all. She was becoming weaker and loosing control of her bladder. I kept my mother’s carpet scrubber handy using it to clean up the messes. Laurie and I began talks of what our options were. I tried to deny my feelings, but knowing we would soon need to make that dreaded decision so many pet owners need to make at times.
Larry and Laurie, sorry to read about “suzie” a few minutes ago. Memories are great……Frank
Thanks Frankie…Your thoughtfulness is very appreciated! Always tough loosing a loved pet as you well know too!!
Dick and Danna, Thank you. Today is a most difficult day for us! Laurie is coping much better than I. She was better prepared for this. I kept hoping for the best!
Larry…
It only took one visit to learn that a visit with you, would always mean a visit with Susie too…I know what she meant to you and Laurie…I also know how pets become “members of the family”, and we feel their loss in the same way…my heart is with you…
Slim
Thank you Slim!! I really appreciate your friendship!
So sorry to hear this. . . . Dick and Danna
Hi Larry, I am so sorry that you lost Suzie. She really did outlive expectations…15 years of life for a small dog is incredible…and that you had her so long after she developed diabetes is a tribute to the fine care you and Laurie gave her. The pictures and memories you have of her will live on with you forever. I can identify with your loss…I’ve had 2 black labs that I will never forget. Both of them helped to make me a better person. I think God uses our pets to help shape us… to reveal our flaws and to teach us unconditional love. Be blessed, Dana
Thank you Dana, you words have given me some peace. You are correct about showing our flaws. I faced frustration over these last several months at tinmes. I just didn’t know what to do at times as the changes occured in her life. Those feelings of frustration were not a trait I liked and I had to work on changing myself too. I was blessed!!
So sorry Larry
Thank you Lois!! Hope all is well with you and Larry!
So sorry Larry and Laurie, she was very loved.
Thank you Kip…she sure was loved! I miss her!
Thank you Kip…she sure was loved! I miss her!
I am very sorry to hear about your pup. Spaniel’s are such wonderful dogs. Our boykin spaniel mix is 15 and starting to have issues. Your sweet Suzy will be missed everyday. I think our dogs would’ve been pals, heading out to sniff stuff in the tall field grass together.
Thank you and yes, they become greatly missed even years after they pass on. However, life would sure be lacking without ever having them! I was talking with a fellow at a local game lands a week ago. We talked about dogs and I became teary eyed talking about Suzie.
Hugs to you and your wife.