This was the most difficult decision we have had to make as a family and I had a hard time writing this post. I would type, then delete, type some more, then delete again. We had to say goodbye to our sweet baby boy. Old age is a terrible thing and we are heartbroken. This is what I wrote on my Facebook page:
To our dearest Peyton,
Dad called me and told me that his customers had puppies and sent me a picture. Your brothers and sisters were swarming his leg, begging him to play with them. Dad and I discussed getting one but somehow I ended up picking two - you and your brother, Parker. I headed out to Corydon so I could meet all of you and there you two were. I instantly fell in love with you both. I swooped you guys up and said, “I’ll take these two!” Parker was fuzzy (more of the German Shepherd side) and you were more sleek (more of the Labrador side). I wanted you to have a playmate, even though Dad thought I was crazy. We named you Peyton because we love the Indianapolis Colts. The name Parker just fell into place. You played together all day long. I don’t think you guys ever took a break long enough to rest.
Months later, Parker became sick and had to be put down at eight months old. That devastated you and we are so sorry. You searched and searched all day but he wasn’t there. You were missing him as much as we were and it was sad to watch you pace and mourn for your brother, your best friend. As time went on you were dealing with your loss better and better. We gave you time to do so in your own way. We miss him, too.
You loved going for walks and runs. You squeaked your squeakies until it drove us batty. You loved playing tug-o-war with your favorite rope. You were insanely obsessed with car rides so much that you would sneak your way in if we were going somewhere. You loved playing fetch with your tennis ball. You could play with that ball for hours! You loved going to parks and frolicking in creeks. You loved meeting new dogs. They were ALL instantly your best friends. You hogged the bed when you would get the chance. You loved sleeping with us, but daddy was your favorite snuggle buddy. You sat on the couch and watched TV with us as if you were human. In fact, most of the time, you really thought you were just that...human. We danced with you. We held you on our laps, even if you were too big to hold. We took naps on the couch. We even dressed you up a time or two. You never minded because you loved us unconditionally. The boys gave you kisses and snuggled with you every day. You loved playing with them. You were everything to them - a protector, a friend, a big brother, a playmate. We loved that about you and so did they.
You never met a stranger. Everyone loved you and you loved them. All you ever cared about was getting loved on and showing love in return. You looked forward to Mamaw and Papaw visiting because you knew they would have goodies or feed you your treats. You loved your entire family, not just us. Babies would pull your ears and climb on you, but you allowed it and loved every minute. Family gatherings were your favorite. You were spoiled beyond words and so happy all the time.
Fast forward to 14.5 years. How did we get here? You have changed so much because that is what happens when you grow older. We could see you were miserable and sad. I could see it in your eyes. You were tired. We knew down deep inside you were ready to let go. We knew you couldn’t help having accidents and not being able to get up and down. You no longer played with your toys or went crazy when we walked in. You could no longer jump up on the couch or the bed to snuggle. You would sleep at our feet on the floor a lot instead. Your hearing was nearly gone. Your eyesight was getting worse. Your health was declining quickly and you lost your way, but you were still a good boy and the best dog we could have ever asked for.
Today we had to say our goodbyes and lay you to rest. We are absolutely heartbroken. Our lives will never be the same without you. No more coming home and seeing you, no more goodnights and good mornings, no more holidays. It will take time for all of us to mourn the loss of you. We had an amazing life with you and we are beyond blessed to have found you. You have brought so much joy to our lives and left us with so many great memories. We will miss you so so much, but I know you and Parker will have so much fun running around and playing once again in doggie heaven. We will always love and miss you and we will never forget you, P. You were the best dog and loyal friend. Until we meet again, sweet boy...
There were a lot things going on with our big, hairy boy and it was so hard to watch him suffer. We selfishly hung on as long as we could, but the time came that we had to let go. It wasn't fair. I hated it. I still mourn for him. I miss his noises. I miss taking him out. I miss seeing his toys and his food and water bowls by the door. I miss his leash hanging on our coat rack in the entryway. I have a hole inside of me that won't be filled for quite some time. I feel empty. When he died, a piece of me went with him. He was our cuddle bug and our sweet, affectionate baby. I miss his sweet face looking up at me every day. This was the hardest thing I have ever gone through. He's in a better place now and I'm able to get through some days better than others. Here are some pictures:
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