I remember the first time I saw Brutus...it was love at first site. He had curly black fur and big brown eyes. He was a stray puppy that a family friend had rescued from the streets.
Our friend said she kept him hoping to find the owner. We offered to take him from her.
It was the beginning of a lifelong friendship.
Brutus and I became companions for many years.
I used to enjoy his fixation on his water bowl as he treated it like a swimming pool instead of a drinking bowl.
He was quite the entertainer.
Brutus also had some type of a sixth sense. Whenever I experienced moments of sadness or depression, Brutus would lay his head on my lap or extend his paw to me in friendship. He seemed to know about my thoughts and fears.
Brutus was my friend through grade school, high school and college, which were some of the toughest years of my life.
As a child, I attended a private school with many wealthy children. They enjoyed tormenting me about my second hand clothing. Brutus, a genuine friend, only cared about me and the time we spent together...not my clothing.
Growing up with a dog as a best buddy is an experience I will never forget. As the years passed, many of my other friendships and relationships came to an end.
Regardless, Brutus and I maintained our friendship.
He was also my bodyguard. He sat on the foot of my bed ready to defend me against any sounds going bump in the night. I felt safe around him because I knew he would give his life for me without hesitation.
I always thought of him as a part of our family. He lived with us for nearly 18 years.
I first saw him through the eyes of an eight year old child and last saw him through the eyes of a twenty-six year old adult.
Towards the end of his life, Brutus became ill. He lost weight and vision in both eyes. His big brown eyes became grayish-white cataracts. He could no longer walk or feed himself.
Unfortunately, Brutus was at death's door which left me with a difficult decision. I knew it was time to show him compassion and let him die peacefully.
I took him on his final ride to the local vet who had cared for him for most of his life. While sitting in the waiting room, I held Brutus on my lap and stroked his fur for the last time. At one time it was black and shiny, now it was gray from old age.
Finally, the veterinarian was ready for Brutus.
I held Brutus's paw so the veterinarian could euthanize him.
By this time, the tears started to roll down my cheeks. The veterinarian told me Brutus went peacefully and didn't feel any pain.
I took one final look at Brutus's lifeless body knowing I was leaving behind 18 years of loyalty, friendship and love.
...William Greene
William Greene has a B.S. degree from I.W.U. and has made a career of working with the public. He has over 10 years experience in social services, including casework. William works with people of different nationalities and education levels. He operates a social dating website titled http://www.socialhearts.com He also posts his thoughts on dating, relationships and social issues on his blog at http://www.socialhearts.blogspot.com |
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