From the moment I crawled underneath the clinic air conditioner to pull little Macaroni ‘n Cheese into my arms, he stole my heart.
Little did I know on that rainy day in April 11 years ago that, thanks to this sweet, but fearful little boy, I would begin on a journey to learn more about dog behavior than I ever thought possible. This little houndy-boy needed my help, and I never wanted to let him down.
The journey and blessing of Macaroni’s life with us taught Dave and me so many things. It taught me the peace and joy that comes from gently stroking a soft, hound dog ear. It taught me the healing power that comes from walking beside your dog, and that a walk isn’t only for fun (although it is fun, too). A walk beside Macaroni was an intense bonding experience for us both. It helped him to learn to trust, and it helped me to guide and calm him. And the blessing of Macaroni brought great love into our home and our family.
Don’t get me wrong- Dave and I love and have always loved every single one of our pets, and we have been blessed with some of the most extraordinary pets this world has to offer. Because I’m a veterinarian, and seemingly the collector of all pets with issues, each boy or girl that comes into our life has needed us in some unique way. Still, Macaroni was special. He needed us just a little more than all of the others, and, in turn, he gave just a little something more of himself back. He was a lost soul when he came to us, and the bravest and most loving boy when he left us. Dave and I will carry him in our hearts forever. We think of him each and every day.
For now, I will stop writing about our boy on a regular basis. It’s been a year since he died, and I’m afraid that keeping his memory alive is keeping my grief alive as well, and I know our boy wouldn’t want that.
Macaroni did truly change the life of every single person he met. Everyday something I see or do reminds me of our boy, and Dave and my staff mention how much they love and miss him at least one, two or even three times each week. To live a life where you’ve touched so many is to truly have lived a special life indeed.
I thank everyone for loving our boy so, and for reading my thoughts about him. Your kind and loving words helped me and Dave so much.
