Most of you know that I take my forum name and avatar from my dog, Brooklyn. Also known as Ms B and Brooks. She appeared in my first WIW and has made guest appearances ever since.
She passed away last week. We knew this was coming because she had been having serious health problems since late last year. Nevertheless, we are devastated.
She came to us via a rescue service, having already failed her first adoption. She was a handful at first. Much more independent, social and energetic than our previous dog. I taught her tricks to focus her attention and burn up some of her energy. And we did a lot of work on recall. Soon we bonded, and the problems melted away.
We tried to give her a wonderful life. Trips to the beach. Bush walks. Farm stays. 2 walks a day minimum. Rain, hail or shine.
On the morning walk we would go to the dog park for a run and play and then go for coffee.
On the evening walk I would let her take me wherever she wanted to go. She loved being in control of the walk, or having “the conn” as we put it. As a result, our walks were epic. She liked crowded places best (lots of people and smells). But she also loved to drop in at the pet store and the vet to say hello and score a treat. At night during winter we spent a lot of time wandering around parks watching possums. I would have to negotiate with her to go home.
She was kind, gentle and extraordinarily social. She sought to befriend all living creatures. She mounted long campaigns to win over local cats, and shy and damaged doggies, with much success. She even befriended a wild cockatoo. She had a loyal band of dog admirers at the dog park and was very patient with their constant displays of affection. She loved all people and was adept at working them for treats.
Her sociability connected us to our local community. Over time we went from being Brooklyn’s parents to being on first name terms with a large number of people at the dog park and in our neighbourhood. Everybody loved Brooklyn.
She was my solace during periods of stress, illness and depression. She gave me courage. She gave me joy. She never let me down. Always present. Always cheerful. A little bit cheeky. Fearless and ready for adventure. Indomitable.
She was my best friend. My baby. My inspiration. She had a beautiful soul. I was tremendously privileged to be her caretaker for over 10 years. Words cannot describe how much I love and miss her.
Rest in peace my darling girl.
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