Amy: This Monday I went to our best friends, Bill and Jen’s home. While I was happy to see them, the reason for the trip was to be with Achilles, their 14-year-old white boxer. Not long ago he was diagnosed with cancerous tumors all throughout his body. If you’ve been reading this blog very long, you will remember that he was also Lucy’s real-life boyfriend. I couldn’t take her, however, because I was coming from an event in Indianapolis. Even so, Achilles was so very happy to see me! He bounced around like a puppy; played tug o’ war; learned how to use a treat puzzle (I brought 3 of my dogs’ puzzles.). He played a little bit of chase the ball and laid in my lap. I stayed with him all day. He coughed a lot because of the tumors pressing on his lungs and couldn’t lay down very well for the same reason.
The next morning (yesterday) he was still doing better. We all knew it was because he was so happy I was there. We also all knew it wouldn’t last.
Within an hour after I started the three hour drive home, I got a call from Jen. Achilles was down and he was unable to get up. A little later he did get up, and the rest of the day and evening he refused to lay down. His exhaustion was apparent.
He was no better today. I share this through my tears as I mourn his passing, just about an hour ago as of this writing.
Achilles was a sweet, precious, smart and loving boy. He and Lucy loved being together and exchanged mouth licks as a happy greeting. While Lucy hasn’t seen her guy in a long time, I think she will understand he is gone the next time we take her with us to their house.
We love you, Achilles; your family, of which Jeff and I are a part, will miss you beyond words and remember you always. Run free across the Rainbow Bridge with your sister Ella.
Xena Schnauzer Warrior Princess with Lucy and Chia 