With a heavy heart, I write this weeks' update. My family lost one of our own a week ago, today. His name is Leo, my parents' two-year old Golden Retriever (offspring of my 7 year old Golden Retriever, Shaka).I received a call at 6:30am from my Mother crying so much that I couldn't make out what she was saying. Springing up and flying out the door; half dressed with shirt and shoes in hand. Arriving at my parents home, I found my mother crying in a chair close to the front door, I asked "Whats wrong!? Where are you hurt!?"My mother replied "not me, its Leo..." Turning my attention to the rest of the home, I soon found Leo, he was no longer with us.My heart sunk to the pit of my stomach and tears fell from my eyes.Joining my Mom in the living room and hugging her; with both of my brothers whom arrived shortly after my arrival.
Leo had arrived at a perfect time -almost 3 years ago. My Father had just put down his dog Harley from old age. My neighbor had asked me if I wanted to Stud Shaka with her Golden Retriever. My Dad had wanted a Golden his whole life but my brothers and I had always chosen a different type of Dog as our family pet. I couldn't wait to surprise my Dad when Leo was born, he would finally be receiving his Golden and better yet, he was my boy, Shakas' son. My Pops latched on to Leo like no dog he has ever had before. Took him to obedience classes with me and Samson (Leo's brother), brought him to the office everyday, and couldn't stand to be away from him for more than a few hours; they had a bond like none other.We think he eventually ranked #1 above all of us.
As a family we kept the saddening news to ourselves the past week due to my Pops being in Mexico visiting family and friends. We didn't know how he would take it and knew he was in a part of the country where a medical facility was not readily available. While risk was minimal, it was still a concern of ours. Just about every phone call received the following week was pre-faced with a "hows Leo?".Upon my Father's arrival home last night, I felt it my responsibility to deliver the incredibly difficult news about his bestfriend, Leo. The look my father gave me upon hearing the disheartening news cannot quite be described in words; all I can say is, it sucked, every bit of it.
As I come to a close, I write this to you, Leo. Although you were only here a short time -you made a huge impact on our family, you brought my Dad joy and love that I only hope you felt in return. With Thanksgiving approaching, I want you to know how grateful and thankful I am for your presence in our lives. Please Know he's in good hands, I've trusted my #1, (your Dad) to keep him company right now to help ease the loss of you.Until you reunite with him one day, I hope you're chilling with PeeWee, Lady, Harley, Dolo, Bailey, and MaryJane. You're in great company. We love you, buddy.
RIP Leo
Jan 3, 2012 - December 13, 2014
"All dogs go to Heaven"