11 Years and Still Going

Happy Birthday, Cubby!

     You actually made it to 11 years old, which I never would've imagined could happen!  You continue to amaze me over and over.

     This past year has been a whirlwind, hasn't it?  You retired from service dog work and now get to laze about being a pampered pet.  It makes me feel terrible leaving the house without you, particularly when you stand by the door waiting to go with me and we take Piper instead.  I can see it in your eyes that it makes you sad but, really, sweetie, you're just not up the job anymore.  I promise we'll try and take you out again soon, like to PetSmart before it gets too hot.

     You might have retired from being a working dog, but not from being a service dog teacher.  I don't think Piper would've learned anywhere near what he has if you hadn't been around to demo for him.  It's fun giving Piper a command and, while he hesitates doing it, seeing you jump in and do it yourself.  You're so competitive!

     I'm so glad we opted not to do any kind of surgery or treatment for your cancer because you're doing so well without it.  The tumors are growing so much that I'd think they'd be hurting you, but they're not.  You don't give any indication that you know they're even there.  Nothing has changed.  You sleep on that side, you play whenever you feel like it, you eat like a horse, and everything seems to be working great.  You have a great quality of life even after so many years of this.

     So what will we do for your birthday?  How about some doggo ice cream, a cute little circle of wedge-shaped treats called a Pup-Pie, some presents that you can bet Piper will take away from you, and a lot of warm cuddles and kisses?

     Congratulations on your birthday, Cubby.  Now that you've made it to 11, it wouldn't surprise me to be doing this all over again when you're 12.  In any case, we'll be thankful for every second God allows you to be part of our lives.  We love you, big dog!

<<<Thank You, Heavenly Father, for eleven love-filled years You've given us with our Cubby.  He means so much to us all.  And thank You for keeping him free from pain and suffering from his cancer.  That just amazes me!  I know he's getting way up there in years now, and I pray You'll give me wisdom in how to best take care of him.  Amen.>>>

Photo descriptions:  Cubby sitting under his birthday sign; Cubby sitting handsome in the yard.