I was hoping there would be more time between my last blog and the one I would have to write about Parker passing. I’m heartbroken to share with you that we had to say goodbye to Parker this week. We had to make the very difficult, but necessary decision to let him go.
Parker’s final days were spent doing what he loves. Corey and I are grateful that we had a nice weekend away in the RV with him. Remember, going on trips with me, Corey and the other pups in the RV was one of his favorite past times. Parker was in good spirits on the trip. He was perfectly fine through the weekend but on Sunday night, we noticed something had changed with his lipoma — it was filling with blood. He let me clean and wrap his wounds but the blood pocket in the mass filled back up quickly. He was very restless Sunday night and neither of us slept a wink. I knew on Monday morning that it was time. The vets at Lap of Love gave me the information about what signs to look for, when it might become dangerous to Parker and when it would be time, and for that, I am so thankful. We did not want to let Parker’s health deteriorate to the point where he would suffer.
On Monday, he ate breakfast, dutifully took his pills and fought till the very end. Lap of Love came to our home and we were able to say goodbye to him in a peaceful place where he felt safe. It was a peaceful passing and we are so glad we had the Lap of Love team with us.
For the past few weeks, we did celebrate Parker, as we said we would while he was alive, but we are mourning Parker now. It’s very hard without him. I miss him terribly. It’s in the little things and the quiet moments when I realize it most. You don’t think about the little things but they mean so much. Like how he would lay in his bed next to my desk in the office. None of the pups will lay in it. Hunter will lay next to it but not in it. I’m sure it’s a sign of respect for Parker.
We know that the days and weeks will pass slowly, and that eventually, we will adapt to our new normal without Parker. Sad as that is, it’s how life goes on. He will always hold a very special place in our hearts, and I will always be grateful for his love and devotion which ultimately led me to follow my heart and begin Paws and Claws.
As Mark Twain said, “The dog is a gentleman. I hope to go to his heaven, not man’s.” Our Parker was a true gentleman. And we will carry his memories with us until we meet again.
