So many emotions saying goodbye to my Rocky today. We had put it off because of the kids grandfather Ken’s passing in January. Then, coping with Kevin’s health and subsequent cancer diagnosis.
When I became a single mom, living on North Ridge in Modesto, Rocky came to me to be our protector. He was almost 2 years old at the time, and had lived with my mom on a ranch in Modesto. Moving from open fields to our backyard was tough, but with 4 kids he adjusted well. he was VERY protective of us, which became an issue for awhile. With old age, he mellowed out and became a fat and happy old man.
4th of July is hard on dogs. Though he was mostly def, he could occasionally hear one of the many illegal “bombs” that go off in our community ,and would run through the yard. Well, a few days before the 4th, we noticed he seemed to have twisted his hip. Hoping it would get better, but it seemed to get worse the less he moved around. Then, he wasn’t getting up at all. Just for food, and then we could see he was in a lot of pain. Although we had just completed the 2nd chemo, there really wasn’t any decision to be made. After pampering him with extra treats and love, after many tears, I called the Dr. Frankie’s office, Waterford Veterinary Hospital. They scheduled us right away. Very sadly, Kevin didn’t get to say goodbye. He was too weak and his immune system extremely low.
We lifted him into the back of the car for one last ride to see Dr. Frankie. Addie rode the back with him. She gave him all the extra love she could. Very proud of that young lady for joining me, supporting me.
He protected us and loved us for almost 13 years. He was the most loyal dog. As I looked him in the eye, while he was taking his final breathes, I love you was not enough. My final words to my protector, “Thank you Rocky for loving us.”
Cimoli Strong 