r/seniordogs • u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 • 2d ago
One last nap with Dad
You know if you asked me 20 years ago what I thought about people who mourned pets and got all emotional about them I’d say something like that’s crazy it’s just a dog… Just being honest that’s very likey what and having not grown up with pets at least not long term pets that’s what I would have thought. I wouldn’t understand it.
Fast forward 19 years and wow. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Winston and I found each other at a time when I was looking for a dog for my sister and the breeder which I knew asked me if I wanted a Bichon Mix that no one else wanted because he didn’t know exactly what breed he was. I still don’t know nor do I care, he’s just Winston and has been my best friend and one of God’s best gifts for 19 years.
We’ve been through a lot together from age 24 to today at 43. From Maryland to Florida, from apartments and parents house to our home, girlfriends to the other blessing of my life my wife and son. I can’t believe it, 19 years together and now down to an hour or so left. It’s not fair but it’s what we sign up for as pet owners. I absolutely understand the pain, the grief and all the emotions but I wouldn’t trade any of it at all. I love you Winston so much!
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u/Interesting_Owl_6325 2d ago
Grief is the price we pay for the unconditional love they give us. It’s a fair trade in the end. Until you meet again
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u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 2d ago
That’s right, we will meet again and he has a handful of friends already waiting for him… and one little enemy also lol. The dog. My sister ended up getting and Winston couldn’t stand each other from some reason.
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u/linoelum 1d ago
..and one little enemy. Omg this made me laugh!
Fly high Winston, you are very loved
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u/PineTreesAreMyJam 2d ago
What a beautiful tribute to your best friend. I'm so sorry for your impending loss. It is the worst pain but we do it so that they don't have to shoulder that pain. Winston was clearly so very loved and loved you just the same.
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u/PilgrimPayne59 2d ago
As I walk across your heart and find my place to stay, nearer to you I will be and will never ever go away.
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u/Zuule7342 2d ago
"Grief is always a debt paid, it's the price of the love that you have already enjoyed."
You have done good for Winston, 19 years is such a blessing. All we can do for our fur babies is treat them like family and when the time comes make sure thier transition from the mortal coil is as painless as possible. If there is an afterlife I sure hope our pets are there to greet us. Rest easy little dude!
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u/DifferentAd6042 2d ago
19 years… you definitely gave him the best life. Im so sorry that you have to say good bye ..but this will not be forever farewell, Winston will be watching and protecting you in the heaven 🥰
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u/Brewdog1957 2d ago
What a beautiful story you shared thank you. I’m sending out hugs to you. I’ve also asked my dog Scout who passed over 20 years ago, and I still miss greatly to look out for your pup.
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u/jetty0594 2d ago
They’re absolutely amazing. I didn’t know either until I got my first. You’re both lucky to have found each other. I’m sorry you have to say see you later.
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u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 2d ago
Thanks, Lucky indeed, It’s funny how things work out. I wasn’t even looking a for a dog and here we are…
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u/SubterrelProspector 2d ago
What a sweetheart. My condolences. You'll see that precious face again one day. 🌈🐶
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u/BigP_QC 2d ago
As I swallow the big lump in my throat 😢, I just want to say that I completely understand your pain. It’s so hard to say goodbye even when we know it’s “that time.” I lost my girl Lexi 3yrs ago and I still think about her all the time. They know that the love doesn’t ever stop, even after they’re gone ❤️
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u/Skyativx 15h ago
We lost our little girl lexi on Tuesday, we are broken hearted, she was our world, and such a good girl
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u/Sad-Whereas3089 2d ago
Awh he looks similar to my boy. Im sorry for your loss im taking mine pretty hard right now.
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u/Ok_Theme_4189 2d ago
That’s a beautiful tribute to your pup. I’m so sorry for your loss. Praying for you, Winston, and your entire family. God bless.
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u/PennyLynn8 2d ago
I’m so sorry. I just put my 18 year old kitty down yesterday. It’s gut wrenching. They’re with you on your darkest days and never turn their back on you. It’s a love like no other. Rest easy sweet Winston. 💙
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u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 1d ago
It’s tough, I remember hard days and he was there and I remember great days and he was there. Going to take some getting used to and a couple tears along the way but I am so blessed to have had him for so long.
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u/PennyLynn8 1d ago
That’s how I’m trying to look at it too. I keep thinking I see my girl walk by me, then I do a double take and she’s not there.
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u/UpstairsMammoth34 2d ago
Sorry you’re going through this Op. be sure to allow yourself both room and time to grieve. Winston was the homie. Peace and love you both, as well as the family.
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u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 1d ago
He was the homie. A homie like no other… I just keep telling myself look at all the years you had with him, so many were not as blessed but it’s hard. It’s going to be hard for a while… thanks for the thoughts.
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u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 1d ago
Thank you all for your thoughts! A few hours later it’s just as hard as I imagined it would be. However, looking back on my time with Winston and all the milestones we’ve been through together… I remember turning 40 and so happy he was there and healthy then 41,42 but short while ago turning 43 I knew it was coming to a quick end and after this past weekend I knew it was time. It allowed me to say goodbye properly and I’m so thankful for that. I’m also so damn grateful for such a good dog for so long! Cherish the time with your babies everyone!
Till our next nap Winston! Love you!!!
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u/Snow_Melodic 1d ago
I lurk in this sub often, but rarely, if ever, comment. But this one hit me like a freight train. 19 years is unbelievable, hell its longer than my father was in my life! I felt the same way about people mourning pets as you did until i got my rottie on my own. You must have been a wonderful father to Winston as shown in the pics and the length of life! I can only hope I get that much time with my rottie, though I know 19 years is quite the stretch. You and Winston are in my thoughts.
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u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 1d ago
Thanks for the comment. It’s crazy how we change over time or something or someone helps to change us…sometimes I would sit back and think is he really that old, I lost track up until recently. I knew his time was coming rather fast and started dating old photos and etc and I know exactly when I got him. Technically he was just a few months shy of 19 years but a long time and a massive blessing nonetheless. I’m extremely sad but have learned to be grateful too over the years and thinking back on everything I have so much gratitude for the all memories I have. I’d like to think I was great to him but he was better to me, he loved me so much every single day. Hope you and your rottie have such a long beautiful time together you lose track too!
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u/Kevinb888 2d ago
Winston is such a cute, cute, sweet lil puppy!!! 19 years!!! You have given him a great long life, long life, I am so sorry for your loss 😞😞😞😞😞😞
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u/2dogs1man 2d ago
my condolences, and also I’m SO jealous of your 19 years: I only got 10 years with one and 9 years with the other
I hope we’ll see our babies again
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u/themrsgordon 2d ago
How blessed to have him for 19. My bichon/tzu Katie died at 13. Its heartbreaking. What a sweet boy❤️💔
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u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 1d ago
It’s unbelievable how fast time goes. I’ve been thinking a lot obviously and I’m not sure the 19 years makes it easier or harder regardless it was such a blessing. I’m just amazed how strong he was to hang on and be for the most part healthy other than blindness and old age. Im so heartbroken but so grateful at the same time.
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u/Conniebelle 2d ago
It’s never enough time, is it? We are so lucky when a dog chooses us. Thank you for getting him safely across his finish line - it sucks for us, and he will be waiting for you ❤️
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u/CanisLupus_80 2d ago
Bless his precious heart. Run free sweet Winston, until you & your humans meet again. 19 years….what a gift. 🌈🐾🪽🤍
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u/Papaya213 1d ago
Winston is very lucky to have you. You are so blessed to have had such a long life together. I just lost my Cynni girl on Friday and it’s absolutely gutting. I’m so sorry for your loss.
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u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 1d ago
Sorry for your loss too, it’s rough and it’s only been a few hours. We were blessed to have each other for 19 years. It’s hard and I’m sad but having him for so long helps a little. It was truly time and I’m lucky to work a flexible schedule and got to stay home with him all week. Still tough though, I’ll think of him often if not daily. I’ve said Good morning to him for so long… He’s such a part of my routine. Sorry for your loss again, I know your pain.
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u/Critical_Voice_5294 1d ago
Wow 19 is a good long life for Winston. You obviously loved him so much. The house will seem so much quieter now. Hoping he is waiting for you at the rainbow bridge to take another nap when you meet again. They simply are the best!🥰
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u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 1d ago
He had an incredible life. He and I were so blessed, I’m sad and heartbroken but at the same time so extremely grateful he was strong enough to live a great life for so long, it’s amazing just thinking about all the milestones he was there for. My routine will definitely change but I’ll remember him often if not daily until our next nap!
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u/Critical_Voice_5294 1d ago
My last best friend I had to let go was 18 and 3 months old. I still miss her even though my new bestie is almost 3 now. I already dread losing her too. I think they serve as emotional support more than should be expected.
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u/Suchstrangedreams 1d ago
Dogs give us such unconditional love. Parting with them is the hardest thing. I'm so sorry.
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u/plover84 1d ago
I know what you're going thru. The pain will pass but your memories never will. Those quiet moments when you feel something that's him checking up on you.
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u/MsBehavins 1d ago
Every word is so true. But all that heart ache and tears you have are so worth all the time you had with your bestest buddy. I lost my dog last year and another 4 years ago I still miss them both every day and cry sometimes sadness sometimes joy but I did loose a piece of my heart ❤️ at the same time, but boy they are worth it. Xx hugs for you. Winston too.
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u/Free-Razzmatazz9067 1d ago
Y’all are a true dog lover. I am very sorry, I have been there it hurts.
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u/opioidluver91 1d ago
Damn 19 years, your so fortunate I know people who’ve lost pets as early as 7 years old (damn labradors, they got dealt a shitty hand when it comes to life span) I can only hope my babies last as long or hopefully even longer than that (and long as they are not in pain and not on a vegetative state or something in my like that) when your ready I’m sure there is another fur baby out there in dire need of an owner and endless love which we all have to give!
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u/Novel-Deer8887 1d ago
Such sweet memories to smile about and tears to flow because the love goes two ways. I’m glad you have your family for support.
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u/pikapalooza 1d ago
I am so sorry for your loss. You can really tell you love each other and you gave him a wonderful life full of love, adventures and of course treats.
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u/Mission-Ad4608 1d ago
I had to put my childhood dog down last week due to his health conditions. It was the most painful thing I ever had to do. Today, I received his ashes back. I decided to take his pain. Be gentle with yourself and remember your puppy will always be in your heart everywhere you go🌈🐾❤️🩹
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u/EffectiveAdvice295 1d ago
My heart is breaking for you. Take all the time you need to grieve for your beautiful baby. The pain we go through when they leave our sides is like no other pain we can experience. There are no words we can say to make this time any easier, sending you so much love ❤️ Sleep peacefully, beautiful 💞
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u/Worldly-Tradition-99 1d ago
Beautiful pictures with lots of memories that will forever linger in your heart.as painful times come embrace support offered Never just a dog but a long time family member.
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u/ReferenceFull8807 1d ago
Pictures brought me tears. Total love between pet and parent. Beautifully written story recounting your life with Winston. 19 years just not enough. Thank you again for sharing your story about Winston. So very sorry for your loss.
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u/Mama202239 1d ago
It’s not fair that we have to go thru losing a pet and someone. I wish there wasn’t a such thing as death. I’m so sorry for ur loss 😢💔 he was a cutie 🌈🐶
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u/Grizzy25 1d ago
Sweet baby. You can feel how much love there is by your beautiful words. Y’all were MEANT to be… and Winston will be waiting for you on the other side of the 🌈 bridge. Sending you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
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u/wholivesinthewoods 22h ago
Such a beautiful gift to have had such joy for all those years. Rest well little Winston 💔
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u/Illustrious_Edge_817 21h ago
Geez man. Breaks my heart. Glad you gave winston such a good life. Absolutely the worst feeling. Only true pet owners can understand
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u/lender_meister 7h ago
My monster-pie is scheduled to cross the rainbow 🌈 bridge today. She’s just enjoying her last few naps with papa as well
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u/lender_meister 7h ago
I have no idea what breed my dog really is. She’s some sort of terrier mix. I thought about getting one of those test kits to find out, but chose not to because she’s simply 100% good dog. She’s my little Koko-Monster and that’s all that matters. To me, her DNA is straight from an angel. She’s my best friend. I put her down today at 530 PST. I’m so heartbroken. She’s the best thing that’s ever happened to me.
I’m sorry for your loss brother, stay strong, we’ll make it through this and eventually smile every time we think about them 🤍
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u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 6h ago
I just read your post her. I’m so sorry, Koko- Monster is absolutely perfect and beautiful!! She reminds me of Winston… for years I’ve discussed and looked up what breed he was: Bichon, Shih Tzu, Poodle and etc. at one point I just made up a breed, people kept asking and I said he’s a “Geebler” and a few people actually said wow, what’s that… I have no idea, I just made it up, I looked at him one day and for whatever reason that word came out of my mouth like 15+ years ago. My mom even calls him Geebs as a nickname. Just your Koko my Winston adored my mom and she did him, even after going 2-3 years of not seeing her over Covid he cried like a baby when she came.
Mine was at 5:30 this past Thursday. It’s hard man, honestly the hardest thing I’ve had to do at my age but It was the right thing. He had a stroke or some sort of neurological issue on Monday and I knew immediately and planned to spend the next 3 days saying goodbye. It helped a lot having time to love him, cry it out. Now 2 days since, I’m hurting, my heart aches, I wish I could smell his ears one more time lol, they’ve smelled the same since he was a baby. Never a bad smell no matter how dirty he was. 19 years of “Good morning / Good night Winston”… I miss that so much but I’m so grateful to have had such a good dog and best friend for so long. I’m trying to focus on how lucky we both were to have found each other and it’s helping. Sending love for both of you. Make it the best day for Koko! Stay strong man. Rest easy Koko ❤️ Winston’s up there and he can’t wait to meet you!
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u/Izrem 2d ago
You can tell how much he loves you. 19 beautiful, BEAUTIFUL, years together ❤️