In Memoriam to the Best Dog

In summer 2021, my family was graced by this stray dog. We would find his owner later that week, and that would lead to some stress about having to return him. We already grew attached to this dog, after all. Luckily, the previous owner learned about how much our kids loved and treated that dog and decided to give him to us. We would name this majestic hound—Blackagar Boltagon aka Blackbolt. 

We took him to the vet to get him up to date on vaccines, we learned Blackbolt was 12-14 years old, he had a massive lipoma on his shoulder, and his health was less than great. He spent most of his life as an outside dog. Not anymore. We knew Blackbolt likely didn’t have too many more years on this earth, and we resolved to make sure those years were his best.  

For the next three and half years Blackbolt got to experience more love, joy, peace and happiness than many other dogs. He had a warm bed and shelter. He never knew discomfort. He was loved. 

Sadly, today he woke up suddenly ill and lethargic. A quick trip to the vet revealed he had a massive tumor on his spleen that caused it to ruptured. According to the vet, this disease is something that can stay hidden and then suddenly cause rupture. Hence, the acute and abrupt deterioration. 

Given Blackbolt’s advanced age (he was likely 15-17 years old), other health issues, and the low survivorship from the surgery (even in healthy dogs), we made the tough decision to put him to sleep. 

This is a sad day for our family. Despite his age, we still didn’t expect him to pass away  this fast. We loved him and he loved us. 

I miss this oaf.