Snickers is now 14 years old and she’s really showing her age. According to the American Kennel Club, that equates to mid to late 70s in human years.
It’s been extremely hot and humid this summer. Our temps and humidity levels are both in the 90s most days.
My little puppy, who used to chase the frisbee, run beside me when I biked, and hike with me for miles on end is now a little old lady.
On pleasant days when the temperatures are lower, two short walks around the block to sniff, go to the bathroom and bark at any dogs passing by is sufficient for her.
On these hot days, she struggles to make it around the block at all. I don’t force her. We walk really slowly. I let her lead the way. If she wants to turn back after a few yards we do.
She likes to lay in the sun on the patio and come inside to cool off in the AC when she gets hot.
She loves to eat – and still has plenty of energy to bark and hop around when it’s time for breakfast and dinner.
She likes for me to stroke her face when she’s in her bed. So I do.
She’s earned every drop of love I can give her.
Snickers is my last living connection to my wife. She’s been with me since 2008. Her life included being “sister” to two other dogs, four cats, being my wife’s daily companion when I worked, being my partner when I was on the road, giving me a reason to live after my wife died and being a companion, guardian, walking partner and little love bug for 14 years.
I know one day soon, she will be gone. That might be this year – or it might be a few years down the road. I’ve read the little dogs can live a long time.
But she’s outlived every other dog I’ve ever owned. And like all living beings, her days are numbered.
It makes me sad to think about this so most days I simply focus on giving her a good life and savoring the time I have with her.
