PBS aired another outstanding Nature episode last night, "Why We Love Cats and Dogs." It was entertaining and informative (cat agility--who knew?) as well as touching, with real people talking about their pets. But the most touching story of all is about Jerry, a German Shepard who was adopted by a couple after they got married. They didn't have kids, and they loved going hiking and camping with him. Then Jerry got bone cancer and had one of his front legs amputated, but that didn't stop him from being an active dog. But his owners decided it wasn't enough to come home to him after work every day, and they were missing too much of his life. They sold their business (which they had planned to do when they retired) and home and bought an RV so they could travel the country full-time with Jerry. Naturally a lot of their friends and family thought they were nuts.
I've had three dogs who had cancer, and one who died unexpectedly so he probably had it, too. Trying to make the right decisions for what is best for your dogs while struggling with your own desire to be with them was almost the hardest parts of my life.
You can watch the full episode here. Be sure to grab your kleenex as Jerry's story is both sad and joyful.
Jerry's owners also have a website, Jerry's Place for Tripawds, which has a lot of good information and even a store for three-legged pets (photo is from their website). There is also a lot of resources on dog cancer.
Here's to Jerry, Sasha, Joey, Dillan, and Jessee at the Rainbow Bridge.
1 comment:
I visited the website that this couple made for these dogs and in memory of Jerry. I love dogs, and it was extremely touching to read about Jerry. I appreciate people who help animals so very much.
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