Tanner has served our family well for many years. Living on the farm, he has had free run of many acres..and yet never has left the property. He has had ample opportunity to have many a chicken dinner, and yet has never once gone after the chickens when they have been out of the pen....a bird dog that truly looks at birds as his little buddies. When new little grandchildren arrived he always has been there to welcome them into the family with a happy wagging tail, never once turning on those that would sit close by playing in his food as he ate.
Tanner has helped me raise 4 children, 12 grandchildren and at least 5 other dogs that we have had over the years. He has always been there to let the new puppy jump and climb on him...stretching his patience and yet only a low rumble would come from him, telling the pup "enough". His gentle, mellow personality has always rubbed off on the energy of the pack that calls this place home. And as a result, the dogs that live here are in turn mellow and easy going, and gentle with all who they come in contact with.
The vet has been called, his grave has been dug by the pine trees where he goes to wander. His master is tearfully and yet happily rejoicing that he will no longer be suffering with his aged body. May his spirit soar to the heavens and may he eternally chase amd romp in the green fields. Until we meet again, Old Boy.
Today as I walk my old friend to his grave, may my Master be walking alongside me giving me the strength to grieve and rejoice in the life of an old friend.
