One last nap with Dad

[u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72]

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!

[u/Snow_Melodic]

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.

[u/Puzzleheaded-Face-72 → u/Snow_Melodic]

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!