9 months ago we got our beautiful Josie, a 15 month old fawn boxer. We "rescued" her from neglect and constant kenneling by the family that had her. And she was a part of the family in no time. She was small - 45 pounds - and the vet said she had a heart murmer, but was otherwise healthy. She was the sweetest, most loving dog I've ever had.
On Thanksgiving day, at barely 2 years old - she was found by our dogsitter motionless in the yard. (We were gone for Thanksgiving, but had a friend spend most of every day staying at our house and playing with our two dogs. He had only left for an hour.)
After some research, I believe she might have had Boxer Cardiomyopothy and died of Sudden Cardiac Death, as she was in our fenced in yard with no marks on her body. (They could come in and out through a dog door.)
My wife, three young boys, and I miss her terribly. We thought we had years before having to teach our kids about losing a pet. And we certainly felt terrible for our friend who had to make such a terrible phone call to tell us; though we knew he was not at fault.
I'm a pastor, and though I'm not sure where animal afterlife falls theologically, I've had a stern conversation with God that if dogs do not currently go to heaven, it's time to change His policy.
Regan
On Thanksgiving day, at barely 2 years old - she was found by our dogsitter motionless in the yard. (We were gone for Thanksgiving, but had a friend spend most of every day staying at our house and playing with our two dogs. He had only left for an hour.)
After some research, I believe she might have had Boxer Cardiomyopothy and died of Sudden Cardiac Death, as she was in our fenced in yard with no marks on her body. (They could come in and out through a dog door.)
My wife, three young boys, and I miss her terribly. We thought we had years before having to teach our kids about losing a pet. And we certainly felt terrible for our friend who had to make such a terrible phone call to tell us; though we knew he was not at fault.
I'm a pastor, and though I'm not sure where animal afterlife falls theologically, I've had a stern conversation with God that if dogs do not currently go to heaven, it's time to change His policy.
Regan