03/11/2025
It's been just over a week since my gorgeous boy passed away peacefully at home. It was something I desperately wanted to do for him because he hated going to the vets. He was surrounded by some of his favourite people and a lovely vet called Maria who helped him go to sleep. I had been dreading the day for a long time as I watched him slow down and then his health deteriorate over the last couple of months. When the time came though, I knew he'd had enough. He was always such a fighter but I could tell he was done fighting, he just wanted to rest π₯
To say the last week has been an emotional rollercoaster would be an understatement. The sadness is overwhelming at times but then I look at some photos and videos and I can't help but smile. Talking about him has really helped. So many funny moments like the time he jumped on my mum to hump her and I couldn't help her cos I was laughing so much! Or when he would sunbathe in the garden and if the sun went in he'd bark at me to get it back cos he thought I controlled the weather! So many stories, he really did make me laugh every single day for almost 13 years π
Now the house feels really empty and quiet. I had to spend some time at Chris's last week and then we went up to the Lakes to get away as it was too upsetting being here. My life has revolved around him for so long, working around his walks and meal times, making sure my mum and sister could look after him when I went to work or on holiday. Every day started with a walk and now I don't know what to do with myself. Our morning walks were the reason I got out of bed some days and I always felt better afterwards, no matter how heavy life felt at the time π
Being Cooper's mum has changed me forever. He was part of the family and my best friend. He taught me so much about unconditional love, patience, loyalty and living in the moment. And the amount of friends I've made over the years because of him is incredible! I think 99.9% of the people who met him, loved him. He was so much more than a dog, more human than canine and such a unique character! I don't think I'll ever hear of another dog taking a drug overdose and surviving! π
I am blown away by the amount of messages I've received as well as all the cards and flowers. So many people remember when I got him from the RSPCA at 4 months old and have enjoyed watching him grow and all the adventures we had together. To know that so many people loved him when they'd never even met him has made me so proud. As for me, I just can't believe how fast the years have gone. It seems like just a few months ago when he was the naughtiest puppy who tested my patience every day and gave me all the grey hairs I now have! π
I can't even think about getting another dog at the moment, even though it's been lovely seeing his mates and getting loads of cuddles. It's been so therapeutic but I need time π
Thank you to everyone who has reached out, it really has helped at such a difficult time. If anyone wants to share any memories or stories about him then I would love to hear them β€οΈ
