When Buddy came into our lives, Teddy was already an old guy, just turning 15. He was a happy, energetic dog for his age, but he didn't like a lot of banging around as pups are wont to do. Buddy realized that almost immediately, and he soon became Teddy's right-hand -- dog. He watched over Teddy in the most loving way.
Six month before Teddy died, he developed cancer also, cancer of the nose. (I've just recently learned that cancer is the most common way Goldens die.) This didn't dampen Teddy's enthusiasm for life, but it took him a lot longer to show it. During this period before he passed away, Buddy became his caretaker, his nurse. He'd lay next to him, lick his face, and just was there. When they slept, Buddy slept next to Ted resting his head often on Teddy's chest. Teddy passed away at home. When he did, Buddy washed his face clean and cuddled with him until it was time for us to take Ted away.
After watching him being so gentle and caring to his older brother, Joe and I have always said that no matter what else Buddy did in his life, no matter how much trouble he'd get himself into, he earned a free pass from us as long as he lived. Of course, knowing Buddy, he's only pushed the boundaries a couple times, but he's already earned his keep.
When I see how forgotten our elderly have become in today's world, it saddens me to think that so many of our elderly are neglected, get shoved into a nursing home before they need it and the families just move on with they lives. I see this when I visit the nursing home we visit when we bring the dogs. We talk to the staff and hear some of the saddest stories.
Buddy's example reminds me to never take a day for granted when it comes to reaching out to someone I love. I think I'm going to go call my mom now.
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