Sad news greeted me today, as I learned that my daughter and son-in-law had made the agonizing decision to have their beloved pet, Samantha, put to sleep. It was not just agonizing, but caring, compassionate, and courageous. . .but oh, so very hard.
It feels somehow wrong to call Sammy a pet -- even a beloved one. She was so very much more than that. For fourteen years, she has been a member of the family. She was my grand-doggy. She was their four-legged child who taught them about love, commitment, patience, reward, and loyalty. She was an awesome dog, but her health had failed and she was in terrible suffering for these past several months. When she could no longer hold herself up to eat from her dish or to take care of her needs, you could see the agony and humiliation she felt. She was beautiful and loving and loyal. And she will be forever missed.
I found the following poem, while searching for words to express the loss of Samantha, and I think it would have been her prayer. I hope these words give comfort to Valerie, Heath, and Duncan, and will keep Samantha in our hearts. She was a good and loyal companion. . .and so very much more.
Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ear.
When it is cold and wet, please take me inside... for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements... and I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth... though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land... for you are my god... and I am your devoted worshiper.
Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.
And, beloved master, should the Great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest...and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.
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