A Tribute To Cody
 The house is quiet today. Too quiet. Yesterday morning our 15 year old Border Collie Cody had a bad seizure. After spending the day at the veternarian's I brought him home to await the test results. He wasn't doing well. There were flashes of his personality, but for the most part he was disoriented and restless. By 8PM another seizure happened. Then at 11PM a third. I rushed him to the emergency clinic. There really wasn't much hope to wait another day for test results. Every possible prognosis was grim. I wasn't going to leave him drugged up in a cage with people he didn't know so I could wait for some miracle test result. I had to be there for him like he has been there for me all these years. I had to let him go. Cody was my dog. My constant companion through my early adulthood. He ran with me. We played frisbee. He slept at the foot of my bed. He would poke his head through the shower curtain and squint from the water spray just to be close to me. He loved to ride around in the back of my pickup. He was incredibly smart. No cat was ever allowed in the yard while he was on duty. Having Cody in my life was wonderful. He loved me unconditionally. He loved me even when I didn't deserve it. He was always happy to see me. Who wouldn't want a companion like that? But dogs don't reside on this earth for very long, and the price you pay for such an amazing friend is to make the end of life decision for them. For those of you who have never experienced that moment, I can assure you it is a heavy, heavy burden. I've done it twice now within 6 months. Some days it sucks to be a grownup. Today is definitely one of those days. If you're someone who has never bonded with an animal this post makes no sense to you. I know some people consider dogs to be no different than an inanimate object. A possession. If you're one of those people, I actually envy you today. The pain of loss is not something I would wish on anyone. I will never forget Cody. I loved him. He was my best friend. |
posted by Mark at 9:10 AM
Comments on "A Tribute To Cody"
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Brent said ... (1:35 PM) :
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Peggy Sloan said ... (3:18 PM) :
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heidi said ... (9:02 PM) :
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Traci said ... (9:28 PM) :
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hip critic said ... (9:09 AM) :
post a commentSorry to hear about the loss of your loved one. Don't envy those who have not been as lucky as you to know the feeling of loving, and being loved so much. It's a great feeling...and even though the pain hurts, the good memories will last a lifetime after the pain fades.
My thoughts are with you Mark. I'm the proud owner of 4 pups ages 11 thru 5, I have not yet to make that decision, but I can understand your pain. Most people don't understand the bond between a dog and his bi-ped, I know that the unconditional love that our dogs give us. My pups are my best friends and have gotten me through many of lifes trials.
Remember it takes a kind heart and alot of love just to make that decision, my family will keep you and your pup in our thoughts. "Run free and healthy at the Bridge Little One, and one day we will all be reunited together at Rainbow Bridge."
So sorry to hear about Cody. I haven't been through this yet (although I really want a dog one of these days), but my mom just went through this with her shih tzu. Rough all around. You are lucky you got to have him.
Mark, I am so sorry to hear about Cody. He had personality to spare. I remember one Thanksgiving we were in your backyard and you told Cody to fetch the stick...Cody came back with a branch! He went above and beyond to please and obey. I know how deep this loss is for you. Cody was more than just a dog, he was a part of who you are. Again, I am so sorry. Your Niece Traci
Sorry to hear about your pup. Have had the same experience - took off work for 2 days cause I couldn't talk to people. It doesn't get better with time, you just remember the pain less. Give it time, then go get yourself another buddy - preferably from the pound. Then enjoy every day you have with that one until the cycle repeats. Unfortunately, it is what it is on this one. My condolences.
So sorry to hear about your pup. Just remember he passed a loved, happy dog with a great home.
Wow, what a touching post. I hope you find a new pup who can help you through this tough time. My wife and i have couple of dogs. 3 and 2 years. border collie and german short hair. Reggie and Mollie and they are a real part of our family. Sorry to hear about cody. Sounds like he had a great life.
Mark--
I have a rescued pitbull and a rottweiler that I adore and could not imagine not waking up to them, going to bed with them, and making their lives more meaningful as a targeted species for euthanization. The only thing more painful than having to put them to sleep myself would be for another person to make that decision (e.g. city council).
These are my watchdogs, my security, and my very best friends. I do hope you'll find another dog and treat him/her with the same care and respect you did your previous dog. You'll find another staunch supporter of Mark Forsythe. Dogs are this mans best friend. Keep your head up.