Rufus, my best friend with four legs, is not doing well this week. In a matter of a day he has gone rapidly downhill. His back legs no longer work. He can't get up on his own. He can barely walk without falling. But besides the legs he is still the same old happy-go-lucky Rufus! That's what kills me. He is still eating well, he's alert, he still wants attention...but his darn back legs don't work.
In the past year, I knew this may happen. Rufus is 11 years old - we think. We adopted him from a shelter in Indiana when he was 4 years old. I still remember meeting him in the shelter. It was love at first sight. It was meant to be. Ahhhh...it makes me cry.
As much as I try to prepare myself for something like this and for the inevitable - it's never going to be easy and I'm not going to be prepared. I've gone through this before, but never with having such a special bond as I do with Rufus. Rufus has always been there for me. We've moved several times and he was my constant companion, along with my husband of course, but my husband is gone a lot.
Rufus has taught me to love unconditionally. To accept others despite their flaws or differences. To stop and notice the beauty of nature. To be grateful for what I have, no matter what. To love and appreciate the little things in life.
Rufus is one of the happiest dogs I have ever met. He loves kids, people and other animals and certainly loves the attention from all. Rufus also has a way with people - even people that aren't so sure about dogs. He lights up a room, makes children smile and creates conversations. I have met so many people because of Rufus. Rufus has always been the bright spot in someone's day and has allowed us both to show others love and kindness.
I adore my Ruffie. Unfortunately, I'm expecting the worse. Life, in all forms, is always too short.
