5/6/08

The first and most important thing I can say about Shad is that he was ALWAYS a refined gentleman. He carried himself with a sense of dignity no matter the situation.

When his leg was hurt and he had to wear a cone - an awkward object that looks like a ridiculous satellite -dish collar, most dogs are objects of comedy or pity, but Shad still looked that he commanded the world.

He loved toys and loved to play fetch. He KNEW the toys in his collection. If one was missing he would scour the room and house until he found it. Apparently used to getting his own way, if he couldn't find his toy he would maliciously destroy a different one. Once the toy was gutted, mutilated and thrown away, he never went to look for that one - he knew.

I wish that Shad would have been adopted. He was great in the house. He was well behaved (except for the trash), mellow (except for playtime) and sweet (unless you grabbed him or tried to pick him up). I loved him despite, or maybe because of his quirks. He wasn't perfect, but he was regal.

Shad was an throw back from the era of kings and queens. He knew he was royalty and we, the peasants were there to serve him. He deserved a home of his own. I provided for him the best I could. I loved him. He was mine. I was with him when he went - still regal and dignified to the end.

I love you, Mr. Shadrick - I hope I gave you want you needed in the short time we had. Now that you're no longer suffering or in pain, I hope you again have the body of your youth - before I had the honor of knowing you. Wait for me at the Rainbow Bridge. I'll bring a toy.

Shad