by Chris
Rody..... Yes, it's been almost three years. We miss you badly, and I on occasion still cry for your suffering. That night I will never forget, you died in my arms, you looked into my eyes as you drifted away. The vet gave you medicine, but it did not help. Toward the end I considered putting you down myself, I could not do it. I considered calling my partner, another police officer accross the street, but I did not want to leave you. I can remember your last gasp for life, there was nothing I could do for you but to be there. I remember your labored breaths, and you wagging your tail when I spoke to you and carressed your head. You were so trusting, and expected me to to what was best. If the vet wasn't so far away we would have gone again.
I still remember the next day. My wife crying, and I not being able to handle my calls. I remember my daughter sitting in the back yard alone, crying for your departure, and the pictures and cards her class mates made for her. I remember pulling up to the vet clinic in my patrol car the next morning with your little body.
One of the lights of my life was comming home from my tour, and seeing you waiting for me, your bark when I would pull into the driveway. You were so excited to see me come home safe, and unharmed.
We miss you very much Rody, I think of you every day. Although the pain has diminished, I still feel it. You actually changed my life. "Good girl."