Monday, December 14, 2009

a sad day around here

Years ago, as a young mother with a toddler son and two labrador retrievers, one yellow, one black, I found it difficult to have two large pets while mastering diaper changes and warming bottles.

Stroller walks certainly became interesting, me pushing the baby with two labs pulling me on leashes. We considered finding a new home for Drake, the yellow lab, who had more energy than a 3-year-old. Somehow, we never did. Maybe it was guilt, the knowledge that we would miss him, or the hope that one day I would find a balance, but we kept him. He was a good dog. As friendly as they come, with just enough spunk to keep you laughing.

One day, my co-host, Kevin, mentioned that they were in the market for a new dog, a family pet. I couldn't have imagined a better fit. Kevin had three daughters who would shower Drake with attention, and a backyard that would allow Drake to run off that energy. Not to mention Kevin's truck that had a passenger seat with Drake's name on it, as they would one day enjoy running errands together.

Who else gets to hear heartwarming stories of their beloved dog after he's found a new home? I've had the chance to hear about Drake snatching entire loaves of bread, his favorite, and snoozing at the foot of Kevin's youngest daughter's bed. I can't think of a better family for Drake, which was a present from Greg twelve years ago.

But, today is bittersweet.

Kevin was unusually quiet this morning, and confirmed what we knew would be a likely outcome. Drake is being put under, due to an illness that has affected his quality of life. So, here's to Drake, a dog who met Kevin at the door with his shoe. A dog who tried to hide the slice of pizza he snatched from the counter, though you could clearly see the triangular outline in his cheeks. Drake was one-of-a-kind.

We'll miss you, buddy.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Ok - so I am in tears.

I remember you and Greg living with Mom and Dad while building your home. I remember Mom and Dad having this huge fear of two huge dogs living in their home. But I secretly fell in love with Drake.

A big thanks to Kevin for taking such good care of her!

Kris

Nickie Eisele said...

I remember the double D's...Drake and Darby. What a pair! I too was glad you found such a wonderful home for Drake! I always knew how close Kevin was to Drake by his comments on the air and his postings. It always made me smile. I still miss my dog, Duke, to this day. Duke only had my family to love him, but Drake was fortunate enough to get two loving families!! I'm glad Duke will have a new Buddy to hang out with..! Hang in there guys!