Goodbye, Flirt by romanceworks
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No AI - This artwork was created entirely by hand or with traditional digital tools.
Description
Today I said goodbye to my mini-doxie, Flirt. She has been my loyal companion for 15 1/2 years, always with me, always beside me. My husband, LJ, and I, brought Flirt, and her sister, Slinky, to Colorado with us 12 years ago. They were only 3 at the time. A year and a half after we arrived my husband had a massive heart attack and died. And Flirt and Slinky were with me through every tear, giving me the love I needed to keep going. Slinky was the cuddeler, and Flirt the protector.
I lost Slinky two years ago, but was grateful to still have Flirt. She was so strong, and stoic, even though she lost her hearing shortly after Slinky passed, But we learned to communicate through sign language. I had so much history with Flirt and loved her dearly. And then at the beginning of this year Flirt lost sight in one eye from glaucoma, but the other was okay. And then a few days ago the good eye also went and she was suddenly blind. Being deaf and blind, for such a feisty dog, proved to be extremely difficult for Flirt and I had to make the heartbreaking decision to say goodbye to her. It was awful, but I am relieved she is at peace and no longer afraid.
My assistant, Brent, also loved Flirt. We were both crying as we took her to Dr. Joe's this afternoon. It was raining, and I thought about when LJ and I first got the doxies as puppies, as it was also raining that day. I remember holding those two tiny puppies in my arms, close to my heart. And now I was holding Flirt close for the last time.
On our way home from Dr. Joe's, the rain had stopped and a giant rainbow arched close to my home. And I felt it was a sign from Flirt that she had crossed over Rainbow Bridge and was with Slinky, and LJ, too. I imagine Flirt and Slinky young again, running and playing together in the grass and sunshine, so happy. And it makes me smile.
I'm sure sometime in the future I will get another dog, as I can't imagine my life without one. And then there will be joy again, along with new memories.
Carol

Comments (13)
too bad about your loss of your loved pet. I like his breed very much. back when I was working many clients had them and they was always so playful and always remembered me even after several months
Richardphotos - thanks for your lovely comment. Doxies really are very smart and very playful. I had never had them before and I'm very glad I got to experience this breed.
the eyes of this wonderful creature seems tell of a great love !!
Thanks for your lovely comment, giuband. Her eyes did show a lot of love and the feeling was mutual.
I am so sorry about your lost, for a pet is family, but as you say and as I believe Flirt is with friends and family and not in pains anymore
Thank you very much, LaManouche. I do believe her spirit is very happy and at peace now.
Its heartbreaking when you have to say goodbye to your dog, they are always loyal best friend there is. Remember the love and friendship.
Thanks so much, maza150. Dogs give us all the love and friendship they have and live forever in our hearts.
The love and adoration a pet for the person or family who looked after and protected them is something which enriches all. Flirt enriched yours. I'm sorry for you loss.
Thanks so much for your comment, shonsu. I've always said pets bring out the best in us, and Flirt certainly enriched my life in many ways.
awww, I'm so sorry. your story is lovely and I hope you have lots of good and happy memories.
Thanks so much, bakapo. I have many happy memories that I treasure.
A wonderful tribute to a much-loved pet.
Thanks so much, blankfrancine.
Sad to loose such a loyal companion. Superb captures. Sorry for your loss, Carol. One experience such sadness when one have to say the final goodbye to such loyal companians as our pets. God bless.
Thanks so much for your lovely comment, kgb224.
I am sorry to read your lost, I know how it feels if a dear pet past away. Pets are so faithful, more than friends if I may say. I feel so sorry for you. Especially because the dogs reminds you of your deceased husband. Then it hurts so much more, because it was a bit of connection that you shared with your husband. I hope you find a way to heal this terrible lost. I have also a lot problems with my dog Django, he has bad epilepsy attacks, and arthritis in his hip. It cost a fortune for medication but I love him so much that I will do all I can for him. Take your time Carol to deal with this sad lost...I keep you in my thoughts.
Thank you for your very caring comment, Ilona. The loss of both Flirt and Slinky was more painful because they were a connection I shared with my husband. They were such a blessing and helped me so much. I'm really sorry Django is having epilepsy attacks. I had a beloved dog, Smooch, who had these attacks, too, but still had a good life and lived to be 17.Like you, I did everything I could to help her. I really enjoyed doing a pet painting of Django, as I think he is one of the most beautiful chocolate labs I have ever seen. I do wish him and you well.
Thanks for sharing - brought tears to my eyes. Such nice photos to remember her by. Reminds me of my 3 little ratties, no longer alive. I have my Kitty, 3 years old. She's affectionate - when I lie on the sofa, tired and depressed, she jumps onto my chest, pats me down, licks my face and lies down on me. Soon we're both asleep. But, being a cat, she has a cat's behavior. I dread the day she needs cross the rainbow bridge. I do hope you can find a new companion. Sincerely, T.Rex/Michael
Michael, thanks so much for your lovely comment. Sounds like you are getting some good feline lovin' from your kitty. I feel better that Flirt is no longer afraid, and have awesome memories of both doxies. In fact, it is inspiring a new art series I am currently working on featuring dachshunds and other dogs.. And I am looking forward to the day I find another special doggie companion.
My sympathies ... She was a beautiful lady.
Oh my dear Carol, I haven't been back in Rendo galleries very long, so thought I would come see some of your beautiful artworks. So very sad when I saw this post of the passing of your beautiful lil dog, I am so very sorry and send my love and a hug from across the pond. Thinking of you, take good care, hugs Jane xx
So sad,hope your doing okay,hugs!!