Tim, Tilly and I want thank you so much for all your kind words and hugs. The sheep don't seem to care one bit. In fact, after getting bum rushed at the gate for the second time without her standing guard while I tried to pass through to carry in a bucket of water, it really sunk in. We've not only lost a really good friend, but a really hard working farm partner.
Tilly has taken it pretty hard. She relied on Iris for guidance all day long. "What are we doing now? Is that something we need to bark about? Where are we going now? Is dad home? Yeah, a nap would be good. Should we go check the sheep? Who's driving up Stella's driveway?..." It's sad to see her always looking over her shoulder waiting for Iris to race by.
And Iris was able to race by until this past weekend. You wouldn't have known anything was really wrong with her until Monday morning. I noticed she was a little "off" over the weekend, but nothing concrete you could really put your finger on. Monday she started having trouble breathing. X-rays showed fluid build up around her lungs and an ultrasound showed why - cancer throughout her lungs.
It was a heartbreaking, but easy decision. The vet came out to the farm and we all sat down in front of the Wool House for one last late summer nap. Tilly stayed by her side until Tim came home. It was a sad, but beautiful, peaceful afternoon and now no one is suffering anything worse than a broken heart.
22 comments:
Crying as hard as if she were my own. I guess really though, I count her as one of my own. Meeting her the first time she became My Sweet Iris. Capturing my heart with her beautiful eyes. A true Border Collie, and partner for you Sara. Love you My Sweet Iris.
Aunt Debbie
So sorry for your loss. I know she was a member of your family and will truly be missed.
HUGS I have been there and understand. HUG B
We are very sadden with the loss of Iris. She always looked for praise when she would lay her head my lap and greeted us with a smile. I reviewed your past post and especially enjoyed her award at the fair. She was a great therapy dog. She will be wearing angel wings proudly and telling Tommy about the goings on at the farm.
I can't imagine a more peaceful end for any of us other than going in one's sleep. You did good, Mom. I hope a new farm hand presents itself when the time is right.
If it had to end that sounds just right. However, I know that doesn't take away the sadness of missing a team/family member.
May wonderful memories abound.
)))hugs(((
Poor Tillie ! From where will she get her direction ? All the little things Iris stood for add up to one very saddened heart.
Poor Tilly. Everyone will miss Iris.
Such a good worker. And truly, the wonderful thing is that she was fine, until she wasn't. She really
did it right if dying can ever be right. at least she didn't have to give up working.
p.s. I hope you are off to Finger Lakes and that you have a wondrous weekend. I told my friend, Sara Lamb, who will also be teaching there to try to meet you. 2 Saras
without an "h". shouldn't be hard.
The passing of a good dog always leaves a hole in your heart.
The passing of a good dog always leaves a hole in your heart.
A lovely tribute to a lovely dog. Poor Tilly.
It is always tough to lose a dog. Iris was such a sweet border.
Once we separate out what is about us, and what is not about us, it is, as you say "a heartbreaking, but easy decision."
I have never heard this put better -- "now no one is suffering anything worse than a broken heart."
[tears]
I so agree with Orange......
tears also.
So sorry to hear about Iris. When one has been as faithful as Iris, it makes the letting go and grieving that much harder. Hugs & prayers!
She had a good long life, and wonderful memories for you, St. Tim and all the critters.
Thanks for sharing the story. I feel better knowing it was peaceful and painless, cuddled close to Mom. (I tend to awfullize in the absence of facts). It was a blessing to have shared her long and happy life. I know you and Tim will do everything you can to help Tilly get through. {{{{}}}}
I'm so sorry. It's so hard to lose a canine friend as they are such a huge part of your life.
You did good, you were truly her good and faithful friend. We have to always do the best we can for the creatures that capture our hearts. Your heart will hurt for a long time...no one will be able to take her place..but perhaps someday another Border Collie will be in your future...a pup or a rescue that will wiggle it's way into your heart and then you will hurt less:)
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