13 years ago on June 16th my partner told me he was going to get a puppy, I wasn't happy and tried to stop him. However he was adamant and a puppy we did get. I threw my hands in the air and said a prayer...."God, it looks as though we are getting a dog, please make him the best dog". He came home with the new addition and I was told that the pup had chosen him. I fell in love at first sight, a baby rottie we named him Zeus.
Zeus turned out to be the smartest, most kind,loving animal I had ever known. He mastered all tricks I could teach him, and understood hand signals, as well as a whopping 63 words, including who's name belonged to who. He would be told if we were expecting company, and he should not bark, not a sound did he make when the knock came. He loved and was loved by many children and adults. We moved a total of 3 times in 13 years and Zeus made many friends with children always stopping by to pet him. Even children who showed fear, Zeus won them over. On our walks people have actually stopped me and asked if this was the famous Zeus. He never showed any aggression toward another animal, even if provoked. He could play hide and seek, a game he enjoyed so much. We introduced a total of 5 cat's to the house and he accepted them with grace, even finding another place to sleep if they were on his bed. This gentle loving animal eventually lost his hearing and his eyes started to fail him, and I knew in my heart that his time was close. I made the promise he would not suffer.
Zeus had to leave us a few weeks ago, his liver and kidneys were failing him and I kept my promise. He left with dignity and honour, on a rainy afternoon in May. Rain was something he didn't like, however that day he made no effort to stay inside, instead when I let him off his chain he took off down the steps and stood on the sidewalk and stamped his feet. I asked him if he wanted to go for a walk and he waited for me to get his leash, that was his final walk.
My Son, who loved Zeus so much was out of town (Alberta)and I tried to reach him to tell him Zeus was leaving us. Messages were left and no call came, I prayed out loud "please get my Son to call home". 15 minutes later my Son called, telling me he had a nagging feeling to call home. He actually took a break from work to call. I stayed with our friend as he drew his last breath. His passing was as gentle as he was. A few days later on a sunny day I came home to the smell of a wet dog in my house, I knew my friend had come for a visit, and I know without a doubt we will be together again. Till then, have a great time my friend, your loved and thought of often. xoxoxox