Best Friend

“If I have any beliefs about immortality, it is that certain dogs I have known will go to heaven, and very, very few persons.” -James Thurber
I've cried too much in the past few days. Today Sparky had a stroke or something like it. My brother and I were in the middle of cleaning my room and getting it ready before removing the carpet. Sparky was sleeping in the office on the futon down the hallway. Then my brother comes into my room telling me Sparky is acting weird. I bolt in there to see him staring blankly at our direction, wagging his tail, wobbling and stumbling, and panting. I reach for him, to hold him, his eyes are twitching like crazy and are already glazed over enough as it is. He can't see anything. He keeps trying to get up but keeps falling to his right side, like that whole side of his body could not support his weight. I just sit there and hold him so he doesn't try to walk and fall. He continues to pant and look at nothing. I told my brother to call my dad, he says he'll be home in an hour. I was pretty positive today was the day. I didn't feel comfortable leaving him alone but I left the room for a minute but have my brother sit with him. When I return, in my lap he's much calmer than with my brother. He knows my touch, my voice. He can still hear where we are even though he can't see us. I just pet him and stay calm to keep him calm. I tested to see if he could stand by setting him on the floor, absolutely not. After more sitting and him becoming more relaxed, I decided to put him on my bed. His panting finally ceases and he starts to lay his head down. Something told me he could see a bit better, but he at least wasn't trying to walk around. My brother and I went in and out of my room. Then one time I was walking out, Sparky got up and followed me. He could see and walk! He seemed totally fine, just an episode. I have never had to experience anything like that, and sure would not like to again. Through all the crying and holding him, I just didn't want to see him like that and of anything, would like him to just die in my arms. I don't want it to be any other way, never have. I was ready.

This morning was one particular that made this day a little harder. Sparky woke me up twice while I was sleeping [he sleeps on my bed with me]. He must of just jumped on the bed causing me to wake up and I opened my eyes to see him peering over the blanket looking at me and wagging his happy tail, he proceeded to lay down in my arms. He did that exactly twice.

After he was better I wanted to get some lunch for my brother and I. Decided to take Sparky with me. He's an awesome car dog. We used to take him for rides all the time. There's a series of particularly nice memories. Many many years ago, in the evenings I would get the cravings for Sonic shakes. My mom and I would hop in our Blazer and take Sparky with us. At least once, a Sonic employee brought Sparky some dog treats, because they have them! So, it's been a long time since I took Sparky for a ride, although it was pretty hot outside. Well, now I'm going to go snuggle with the love of my life.