Watching My Old Dog

Ivy, one of my mastiffs, is nine years old–she’ll be ten the day after Christmas. She is and always has been the perfect dog: loving, gentle, protective, obedient, and playful. She even earned a Canine Good Citizen Award.

Ten year old birthdays are rare for mastiffs–I once read that there was a special club for dogs who made it that far. Why? Something about their large hearts and large bodies.

I believe Ivy has a large heart–we see it in the way she loves us, our children, and our grandchildren.

It has been hard to watch her slow down. First she stopped running, then she stopped going outside unless she absolutely has to go potty. But she still plays. Even though she rocks awkwardly on her back hips, she still wants to play.

We love her. And I am dreading the inevitable farewell.

But until then, we are grateful for every day, every doggie smile, and every cuddle. Because that’s why God made dogs–to teach us how to love unconditionally.

Do you have an old dog? Some people don’t understand why we put ourselves through the grief of losing an old dog, but the love is worth it. Oh, yes.

~~Angie