It Was Time

As many of you know, we took Copper in to be put down last week. A difficult decision. A difficult time. But we both have no doubt that it was time.  We had both promised Copper that we'd keep him around until his quality of life was diminished... not a moment before then. He had a really bad night... one that made us both think we'd lose him by morning. But then he woke up and seemed back to his old self.  A couple weeks later he was starting to show more and more signs of slowing down and by last weekend, he pretty much only wanted to sleep. By Monday, well, as much as he wanted to stick around just a little longer, he seemed ready to go... and we knew it was time.

They let Copper rest his head on my lap as he passed. It was so fast... and painless. In fact, when it was over his eyes seemed a little brighter and the coloring in his hair had a glorious shine. He was beautiful. And he was at peace... probably already running in the green fields with his beautiful sister, Macy.

Copper came to us from the Wyoming countryside. Richard found him while working in Jackson Hole on the Four Seasons Resort. He was a perfect match for our family and we're better people and beagle parents for having had him in our lives. He loved long walks, treats at 7PM, wrestling with his sisters, playing with toys, and barking at the door when he'd see Papa come home from work.  Our home is noticeably quieter at treat time...

We miss his bark. We miss the way he'd wiggle his bum and talk to us when he'd greet us at the door.  We miss his love for meal time. We miss his snoring. We miss him.

 Copper with his sister Macy

 Copper at the Vet

Copper sleeping with his baby sister Dora

Thanksgiving Day 2012

Copper loved being in the front yard

Many thanks to Dr. Carpenter and the wonderful staff at Cottonwood Animal Hospital.  They've worked with Copper for many years and we're so thankful for all of their love and support these last few weeks.