The first 10 days of May were difficult: Each day seemed more increasingly arduous for her. Then came that quiet morning when she passed. After a long life, aging and declining health took control, and I surrendered my closest outdoors companion.
Aspen was past her 15th birthday - a blessing of a long life in itself.
She still looked forward to our evening walks - however shorter or slower-paced.
She continued to follow me about the house - to stay close.
I felt the strength of her eyes with a wondering expression - questioning why she was weaker.
Expressions were almost apologetic - when her appetite was waning.
I knew she still wanted to make that ride in the Jeep - closeness for both of us. She would give me a clear look for help - to make that step from the porch into the house - and expressions of appreciation when her legs needed support.
During these days, however, there were no apologies, only, seemingly, an acceptance of her aging and declining strength.
The weakness, diminished level of activity, physical changes and longer time in sleep gradually accelerated over the past three years. I saw it and felt it creeping into Aspen's life and into mine. The change was difficult to witness, but I resolved to alter our time together, to keep her active, support her health and adjust our routines.
Pet owners can struggle with that change, sometimes to the extent of failing to see the need for accommodation pets require. It occurred to me the gradual aging process for our pets can be so similar to that of aging parents, family or friends - or literally our own lives. Yet regardless, each deserves the same sensitivity, attention, time, patience and support.
Yellow labs are sizable and sturdy, but when they cannot get themselves into our vehicles, they deserve a ramp or a lift so that they never are ignored or left behind. Walks should become a slower and more patient experience to provide a quality of life they deserve. Close attention and observation of food types and changes in body functions can require accommodation.
Unlike humans, the pain that comes with weakening hips, shoulders or body organs typically is not always apparent to us. So that requires periodic veterinarian examinations and, possibly, medication. When our companion's health changes, it is our call to adjust, to be sure the unconditional love they bring into our lives is extended back in their care and comfort.
A friend of mine who had a long line of Golden retrievers in his life observed that "when we bring a pet into our lives we need to be aware we will most certainly live past their days and we must be willing to provide compassionate support as their lives fade."
Those sunrises over the duck blind, the decoy days on the river, flushing birds from the fields and the high mountain hikes will be very different. But the memories will remind me of my good fortune in having had that special companionship with Aspen.
Outdoors writer Ron Hellbusch can be reached at Ron-Hellbusch@comcast.net.
from Lakewood Sentinel - Latest Stories http://lakewoodsentinel.comhttp://westminsterwindow.com/stories/A-farewell-to-my-closest-outdoors-companion,214213?branding=15
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