Ode to a good dog

**Hosakawa Tito** · 12-20-2006, 21:07

I just received the sad news that my sisters' old beloved dog, Shadow, has passed over. A mixed breed black lab, she was quite the character. She lived just down the street and would visit my place almost daily. A true chow hound, she never met an unattended bowl of cat food or garbage bag she didn't like. She'd make the rounds of the nearest neighbors, and collect her tribute of treats, get her ears scratched or a quick belly rub, then on to the next. Even later in life with her eyes clouded by cataracts that left her blind, she didn't miss a beat. It was funny how, when dog-sitting her, you could call her to come in before going to bed and she seemed not to hear. But could pinpoint the slightest rustle of a candy wrapper in any room of the house and come running for her share. And when she wasn't hustling food, she'd be exercising the cats by chasing them around the yard, I think the cats enjoyed the game as much as she. An elderly lady that lives a few doors away will be especially saddened at this news. She used to invite Shadow in her home, feed Shadow a few cookies while holding her on her lap on the couch, and watch the afternoon soaps. A more sociable dog I have not met. Looks like another melancholy Christmas.

**Don Corleone** · 12-20-2006, 22:35

Hosokawa-san,
I am so sorry for your loss. A good dog is truly one of the greatest joys in this life. Their loss is felt for the rest of our lives. Sadly, in the partnership of man and dog, it's bound to happen, as they simply do not have the lifespan that we do. That sad fact makes their loss no less easier to bear, however. My deepest sympathies.

This might sound crass, but might I suggest a trip to the pound for you and your sister? Inviting another worthy, needy friend into your home won't replace your Shadow, but it will probably ease the blow somewhat.

**InsaneApache** · 12-21-2006, 00:26

I feel for your loss. A good dog leaves an imprint on the psyche, as a good dog should.

**Papewaio** · 12-21-2006, 00:30

Had a lab-kelp cross... deep glossy black coat. Most in danger was anything on the coffee table when his tail would whip around in joy. Scared of kittens he was. Lived till 17.

Got to say, dogs with a bit of lab in them are very affectionate. Kelpie... makes them a bit more energetic and liable to jump up and down however. I would go for a lab cross, as they live longer and get less health issues.

One day I will have a house with a large enough yard to get one.

**Beirut** · 12-21-2006, 03:40

Bummer.

But one more dog in Heaven for my never-forgotten pooch to play with.

**Lemur** · 12-21-2006, 03:52

The loss of a good dog is hard. Condolences for you and your sister, Hosa.

**KukriKhan** · 12-21-2006, 03:57

Originally Posted by Beirut

Bummer.

But one more dog in Heaven for my never-forgotten pooch to play with.

Amen, Brothah-man. "Beirut, meet Lobo. Lobo and Beirut, meet Shadow. Show 'er where the ropes (and the food dishes) are, will ya fellas?".

A fine eulogy, Hosakawa Tito.

@ Papewaio: ain't it funny how a Lab will cross with any breed, Chihuahua to Great Dane - they're truly the UN of canine-world.

We could learn lessons, there. Based on BDC's comment

Every country needs its own dog breed and/or specific alcoholic drink...

in the 30years war Redux thread , I know wonder if there is an Iraqi, or indeed, Arab, or MiddleEastern breed of dog distinct enough to breed with a Liberal Labrador. :)