Tucker

I have been reminded too many times today of the impending loss hurtling towards us. We have passed the time the experts said was remaining, and we are now on borrowed time. In its inevitability, I find myself reflecting with affection and gratitude on Tucker who, whilst he continues to inexplicably stand with grace and strength in the face of impossible odds, shall soon be wrenched unceremoniously from our lives.

He arrived at a period of my life when I found myself single and unable to sleep. The suddenly cavernous queen size bed and the newly heard nighttime noises had managed to dismiss the Sandman and leave me wide-eyed and exhausted from incessant insomnia.

Then along came he came. Tucker. Longest legs, cutest face, biggest attitude. He refused to sleep in his box and soon took over my bed, but the universe had a plan. Tucker’s close quarters at night were just the answer to the sleep deprivation and I quickly learnt to trust his instincts. Pretty soon, sleep returned, and my safe haven was restored.

Coming home to an often empty house proved to be easier too. Nothing better than being greeted like you have been away for a decade! It wasn’t long before I found myself talking to my furry shadow. We talked about our day and discussed happenings on the TV. Okay, so I did all the talking, but he was (and is) a great listener. Tucker (and now Mia) are often updated throughout the day, hanging onto every word with heads tipping from side to side – the gospel according to Mom. Through Tucker’s eyes it is easy to be reminded of the value of companionship and affection.

It was not all unicorns and rainbows though, that is for sure. Tucker has always been the equivalent of a stubborn, easily distracted and very strong five year old. Often a bit of a bully, demanding things his way! Dog walks were never what I had expected. Over the years he has had multiple trainers, but whilst he definitely knows what to do, he forgets all his lessons entirely when confronted with anything even mildly of interest. Let’s just say that being pulled ass over kettle in public was not an isolated incident. Tucker, a shining reminder that there is a good and bad in all of us and that accepting the wrinkles and the flaws along with the merits and virtues is the only way to love unconditionally. Patience and forgiveness wrapped up in bites, ripped jeans, chewed wallets, destroyed sunglasses, damaged furniture, food tantrums, licks, love and laughs. He is a handful. But he is Tucker. Our schmumpy dog.

Your time is now short, but the cancer will not win. I know that one day we will meet again. Somewhere beyond this life, somewhere amongst the stars.

Love you boy.

Janine (J9) Nijs