White Dog suggested we dedicate today's post to Kodiak of The Thundering Herd, who was suddenly and unexpectedly called North of the Rainbow Bridge this weekend. She felt the handsome, once heartworm positive Sibe, whose family gave pivotal advice to me when our heartworm positive rescue, Puff, first came to live with us, would appreciate the significance.
At that time I was fearful that the haunted, shy, incredibly timid SAWD would never allow me to pet her or touch her without flinching and shaking...or worse yet running outside in winter's cold to hide in a corner of the yard. Kodiak's hu-dad advised me to sit quietly in the room with her, ignoring Puff and reading, and that she would eventually find her way closer. After many many days, Puff did, indeed come to sit beside me...and a week later actually touched the hand I left dangling at my side.
Reading is something we continue to do together, some days with White Dog sitting on the arm of my chair and the others sprawled around me...other days just Puff and I. She sits and lets me stroke her ears as I read; sometimes she lies down and just watches me as I turn the pages.
Today...and I like to think that Kodiak whispered a little woof in SAWD's ear...we hit a new milestone.
As we were reading, just she and I today, Puff shifted from under my petting hand. I expected that she would move and find a comfortable spot to watch me and drift off to nap. I nearly jumped at the pressure on my foot as she settled herself very consciously and surely on my foot. I held still without breathing as she maneuvered to wrap a paw around my ankle and nestle the curve of her neck over my instep. She briefly looked up as if asking for permission then closed her eyes and went to sleep.
I sat still as a stone for 45 minutes, teary at the joy of her warmth wrapped around my foot, just watching the rise and fall of her side. Then a distraction from outside set YoYoMa to barking which started a chain-reaction. The moment was over...but as we were so poignantly reminded this weekend...it is the moments that make life memorable.
Be at peace, Kodiak...and thank you.
14 comments:
Yes, Kodiak was there with love and joy, as he was in life. Milestones bring another smile. Run free handsome Kodiak, remember will all will.
wooo, yes, be at peace Kodiak...happy husky wooos for all the dear white dog army! Be well mates,
RA
ps, nukie asks salad bar tomorrow??!!
That's beautiful. Yes, Kodiak was with you both.
Your pal, Pip
Ahhhhhh!
We are SO smiling at those images!
Hugz&Khysses,
Khyra
We too are smiling. Our beloved pups never cease to amaze us, do they? Whether they are here resting gently on our feet, or across the bridge sending subtle ways to comfort.
Kodiak's passing was very, very sad.
Woos ~ Phantom, Thunder, Ciara, and Lightning
This is a beautiful dedication to Kodiak. I believe Kodiak was there in your home causing the peaceful moment.
love
tweedles
What an absolutely perfect dedication to Kodiak. As you remember, our stories of timidity were about Kiska, who often lacks confidence around strange humans. Kodiak was always her rock to lean on when in strange circumstances. We have no doubt that Kodiak now has the ability to be that same rock for so many others. This story was absolutely perfect us.
There are nothing like those moments when a dog makes that first step, consciously and securely that is more beautiful when they reach out to you.
And the blessings pass on from one beautiful dog to another.
Run free Kodiak.
I too smiled at the image that brought to mind and I so think tht Kodiak was there in spirit for sure.. Hugs GJ xx
There just are no words to describe your touching post today. A beautiful tribute to Kodiak and a big step for Puff.
Thinking of you, sweet Kodiak!
Woofs & hugs, <3
~Bailey (Yep, I'm a girl!)
We are stunned at the sudden loss of Our Friend, Kodiak. Our hearts are warmed, however, by your tribute...
with love from the Bleu
A beautiful tribute to a wonderful dog!
Kisses,
Stella
We are just now getting caught up on all of our friend's blogs. We just got back from the Herd's sight and read the news. We are very sorry for their loss. :(
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