Kacey is not far from me – finally sleeping, and hopefully dreaming of a life well lived, her youth and finding us – knowing she’s loved. As I write this I worry that she’ll sense my tears, anxiety and sadness and wake up, sleep is something she needs right now.
This is likely our last week with sweet sweet Kacey. The reality of writing this makes me nauseous and takes my breath away. It’s a reality that I’ve been dreading since hearing her diagnosis on a cold December afternoon. Cancer. She might make it to Christmas, but New Year’s wasn’t at all likely.
Holiday plans were scrapped, and my husband and I stayed home to be with her. On Christmas day, we hosted her many fans for a morning drop by and a sparking beverage to toast Kacey. Days became months, we worked our schedules around her care – never allowing her to be alone, for fear that any day could be the day. But our sweet Kacey is tough as nails and wasn’t ready to leave us. She defied the experts and beat the odds. Still making almost daily trips for her favorite place – Nature’s Nibbles at the end of our block; enjoying her food; saying hello to dog friends that stopped by; and pushing Boomer (our other Aussie) out of the way for attention from her people friends.
Kacey at Nature’s Nibbles her favorite place on earth. She visited daily and was always welcomed with a treat and lots of attention.
Over the past several months, my husband and I rejoiced at any hint of normalcy – going potty on a regular basis; her appetite; getting up on her own; walking up the stairs; making it around the block; sleeping through the night – we adjusted to a new normal and created a new routine.
Now it’s May, so I should feel lucky that we got so many extra months with her, but I don’t feel lucky. I feel sad.
Kacey’s “tell” is lack of appetite. That’s what we’re witnessing today. Lack of appetite and weakness. I know it’s time. My guess is she’s worried about me. In our conversations I’ve assured her that I love her, will miss her, but don’t want her to suffer. She has to let me know, I am getting the message.
We were never meant to have Kacey. She chose us. My husband and I volunteered to help transport her for Aussie Rescue (ARPH) and keep her overnight. At the time she was a 9.5 year old owner give up to a high kill shelter, and ARPH agreed to bring her into their program. Kacey and I had an immediate connection. So it wasn’t surprising that less than a week later I got a call asking if we could foster her – the home where we took her didn’t work out. That was April 2014.
I’ve often referred to Kacey as the anti-Aussie. She’s not a runner. She’s not really a Velcro-dog. She’s not a fan of dog parks, sheepherding, or frisbee. We’ve never heard her bark. She’s the most laid back little dog you’ll ever meet. She’s never shown the slightest hint of annoyance or aggression. She has soulful eyes that can see right though you. She is content being near you – she doesn’t have to be on you. She’s happy simply existing and pleasing and sleeping and eating. Kacey hates being photographed –often turning away when the camera comes out. She’s comfortable in Boomer’s shadow, but not shy to step forward if it suits her. On her very first day at our house, she jumped on our sofa and fell asleep – it was her favorite place until her arthritis kept her from reaching the cushions.
Over the past several months, Kacey has taken all the poking, prodding, and meds like a champ. It has made her the favorite at the vet’s office. I think she knows everything we do we do to help her feel better and be with us.
The time has come to make another decision and it SUCKS. So I am asking those that read this to say a prayer for our sweet Kacey and for us that we may all find peace. And then go hug your dog, your cat, your ferret, bunny or parakeet and thank them for the joy they bring you.
I am so so sorry KJ. I know how beautifully you love and care for your pups. Thank you for so easily welcoming Kacey into your home. Thank you for the story, and letting us into your life. I will love and hug my babies extra today. Every day is precious with them. My energy will be with you, KH, Boomer, and Delta Burke, and surround your loving and welcoming home. Perhaps you’ve been asking Hoagie for guidance. I know you are listening to Kacey.
I know this is hard since we went through this ourselves just a few months ago. If you need anything at all don’t hesitate to call, email or text. My husband and our two pups wrap you and yours in loving and comforting hugs in this hard time.
I am sorry but yet happy of the time you had with her! She being lucky to have you as her mom and you lucky to have her! Although we don’t have much time on this earth, you will see her once again chasing butterflies!
Much love,
Suzie, Greg, Jake, Zuzu and Zeke
I am very sorry to hear this Karen. We knew each day after her diagnosis has been a gift. You and Kirk have been the best Pet parents she could have asked for. Really! Boomer and Delta Burke also welcomed her home.
See if she’ll eat some
filet mignon or roasterie chicken until her time to go over the Bridge has been determined. Java did that along with a big Mack and fries. She always did like fries but rarely did she get to partake. Always looking out for her health.
Kacey was a one of a kind Aussie, and she was so lucky to have you as you were to haveher.
She’ll have many friends waiting for her on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. 😢💜 🌈 Love!!
Karen.. Oh Karen.. I will be forever grateful to you and your husband for giving Kacey the home she so richly deserved. My heart goes out to you all. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs from me to you. All my love.
Ah, Kayce. She has the prettiest eyes. Her spots and fur on her face look like elaborate eye makeup. She is beautiful but not boastful. She had a quiet beauty.
Love to all of you guys as you figure out these last few days.
So, so sorry. Prayers to you, your family and Kacey. We, too, took in a 9 1/2 year old RM Aussie (Sydney) from ARPH who was given up to a kill shelter when her owner had to go to a nursing home and family said “no”. What a sweet girl she was. She stayed with us until she was 16 1/2, when we had to say good-bye to our sweet, sweet girl. I know how you are feeling. Thank you for sharing and loving Kacey and thank you to ARPH.
Oh, I am so sad to read this. My heart goes out to you. Having a senior dog (and/or a dog with medical issues) is certainly not for the faint of heart, but you gave her a wonderful life for so long. Hugs to all, and woods from Juno & Polo to Ms. Kacey. 💕
Sad!!!
I’m so sorry. Going through the same thing with 17 yr old Aggie (tan & white dog Boomer hates).
Dear Karen,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Kacey. We know how much you love the “critters”, and the incredible job you do taking care of them. This is a very difficult week for you, but know that you gave Kacey the happiest 2 years of her life. Love and comfort to you.
I am so grateful I had the opportunity to get to know Kacey and you both! What a blessing she found you in her time of need, and you were able to take her in, love her and give her THE BEST CARE right up until the very end. You both are in my thoughts, and I will be sure toasting a glass to Kacey tonight! **big hugs**
So sorry Karen and Kirk: I read this a;nd it brings back all the emotions as we approached the end for Sassy. I hope all our departed animals are frolicking together somewhere….that Sassy and Daisy have found each other. Daisy was a;brick in Sassy’s wild and crazy life and I know she missed her friend. So sorry to hear about Kacey.