Goodbye, Brandy

Dog sleeping in pools of light from a windowTomorrow, I will say goodbye to my 16-1/2- year-old sweet Brandy.  In September 2014, I published this photo on Monochromia, and tonight, I felt the need to share it again.  Back then, I wrote:

She’s mostly deaf, losing more of her sight weekly, turning grayer each month. But this soon-to-be 15-year-old miniature pinscher is still my loyal companion. And I love watching her as she curls up and naps in the little spots of light and warmth that she finds around the house. Love you, Brandy, old girl…

She did end up deaf and blind, and especially lately, she has begun to struggle more and more. I have prayed for her to go in her sleep, but apparently this is not to be. And so, two days ago, we had to make the difficult and painful decision to help her go. Perhaps, in the end, Brandy knows best: she will be surrounded by those she loves and who love her, and that really does give me peace.

Yesterday, a friend shared a long-ago quote by Roger Caras, the host of the annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show: “Dogs are not our whole life,  but they make our lives whole.” To  Brandy, thank you for enriching our lives with laughter, cuddles, and above all, your unflagging love. My heart is heavy, but I know you will rest among the angels.

40 thoughts on “Goodbye, Brandy

  1. 16 years is a significant age for a dog and that does not diminish the sorrow when they have to leave. I thought that my Jack Russel, 16 years old and deaf and blind like your Brandy, would take the decision die in my arms – but he didn´t, he died alone. You made the right decision to let him die souurounded by people that love him.

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  2. Glad I had the opportunity to share a few days with her. Sending the biggest hug to you knowing how hard this is. 😢❤️

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  3. No words I say will bring your sadness to an end… but know I send you heartfelt love. Brandy was there for you always… now it’s your turn to be there for her. HUGS to you.

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    • What a horrible decision to have to make and I praise your courage in doing so for your loyal companions sake. I will be thinking of you at this time. What a beautiful friend to have had and how lucky was she to have been part of your loving family as well. Biggest hugs xx

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  4. It is such a hard time and my heart breaks for you Stacy – you are doing the right thing. What a blessing our little companions are for us and while their going leaves a pet sized hole in our hearts – where would we have been without them? xoxo

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