We miss our Venus so much. Venus had a great life during her nine (9) years with us and we are very grateful. Venus was a happy go lucky girl with a great disposition and was very obedient in a Basset kind of way. Venus was our companion and “Daughter” and would travel with us when we went on trips to Carmel, San Francisco and many other dog friendly locations. My wife Robin and I would joke about how Venus has stayed in more luxury hotels than most humans and should have signed up for a loyalty card with each hotel chain.
We miss Venus’ presence and companionship. Watching her do “butt-tucking” to entice other dogs to chase her, walking her for her daily “doubles” (aka poop walk) catching her staring at us and just having her at our side. Venus would also cuddle Robin by sitting in her lap in a ball for as long as she (Robin) could take sitting on the floor. Venus developed a vast vocabulary but you had to know “Robinese” to understand what we were saying to her. Words such as “leshgo-dishway” and “Igetyoushumshing” would also get Venus’ attention. Venus would also make sure we followed up with what we promised her.
Venus had a tremendous team of Doctors that helped her to battle a form of very aggressive cancer and as always, gave it her all to overcome and extend her life with us. We recognized that Venus was losing her battle against the disease when she stopped looking forward to her meals and her energy level declined. It was a difficult timing decision but we had to call Dr. Forslund and what a blessing! When Dr. Forslund rang our door bell, Venus barked and greeted her with enthusiasm and I do believe she knew that Dr. Forslund was here to help. Dr. Forslund’s caring and soothing demeanor made the entire process easier. I remember asking Venus to lie down next to me and she came to her blanket and put her head down on my arm as I lay down with her. Venus went to doggie heaven to be with her friend Bumper” who passed away just a few months ago.
Losing a companion and a friend is always tougher for those of us that have to deal with the loss and empty feeling. But with a little time, your thoughts of your lost companion shifts to remembering the fun times you had with your Pal. it gives Robin and I great comfort to know that Venus had the best life possible with us and that her final days and moments was an easy transition to doggie heaven for her and in the comfort of her own home. We miss Venus.
Thank you Dr. Forslund! Your support during the process and follow-up with us has been a foundation for our bereavement process.
Mike Kaminaka
Mission Viejo