Hunter, it is so
very hard to put into words what you have meant to me these last 10
years. You were a bit of a sad case when you were rescued the day you
were to be put down at that shelter in Ocean county NJ. Skinny, blind in
one eye, and a horrible coat. When I saw your picture I saw something
special in that face and I was never disappointed. You filled out that
large frame and became a 90 pound boy with a coat that always got you
compliments. You were a bundle of energy and love that just needed a
chance and I will be thankful forever for taking that chance. You saw me
through a divorce, gall bladder surgery and a hip replacement. I
remember how we sat on the deck of that little cottage in Kent CT and
you answered the Coyotes at night. You were tireless and we walked for
hours through that lovely countryside. But there was more to come. We
moved to upstate NY into a large historic house and your face told me
that you were really home. You explored and enjoyed all the little
nooks of an old house. The large fenced yard gave you a new freedom and
you enjoyed the four seasons in your new domain. Our walks were now
around the village and you met and greeted everyone as we walked. A few
people know my name but everyone knew you and you always stopped to get
a scratch behind the ears or a little back rub. We met a lady who lives
nearby who always took off her gloves and pocketed them so you wouldn’t
take them. Everyone would marvel at how you carried your folded leash in
your mouth and walked next to me totally focused. We’d visit garage
sales and you always managed to steal a stuffed toy that I had to pay
for. You’d proudly carry home your prize.
I wish your health
had allowed you to hike in the mountains with me but the Adirondack
trails were a bit much for you. I did not know at the time that an
underlying illness was what was slowing you down. I became concerned in
spring of this year but your blood tests etc all came back normal. You
still possessed a zeal for life that you had up to a week before that
day when that face that drew me to you told me that I had to let you go.
You now rest on the farm of a friend on a hillside overlooking a most
beautiful valley. Every dog is special but perhaps goldens are a bit
more special. I have been fortunate enough to share part of my life with
a most precious soul. It takes us humans nearly a hundred years to do
god’s work here on earth but Hunter got his job done in 11 years. Rest
in peace my friend till we are together again.
