Brett, what you say doesnt sound strange and or selfish to me at all. It shows the deep love and devotion you had to your best friend.

I have tried to put myself in your position and imagine what it would be like someday when Cooper is gone, and I know exactly what you mean, but I also already know from what I have learned from you Brett, someday down the road there is a furkid of someones out there that is going to be the recipient of Coopers gear when he no longer needs it, and that makes me feel warm inside.

No there is nothing starnge or selfish about wanting to keep Fortis present through having his things there by you.

I know that Elizabeth and Janet and I all feel honored to be able to use Fortis' gear for our pups - it just gives me a proud feeling that I cant describe. Thank you and Pattie AND Fortis so much for your gifts to us.

Coopsdad

Brett,

I would be the exact same way.  I can't imagine if the day was to come having to give away Sammy's collar, or his bed, or any of his things.  I crumble inside thinking of how much this must be emotionally costing you.  I do want you to know if you aren't ready, I don't want you to send it out until you feel you are.  Whenever you do, I will treasure it and feel grateful that Fortis and you  and your love for each other has touched it and feel in a sense that it has good blessings.

You haven't talked about the end with Fortis. I don't know how I can be there for you and Pattie but I offer my friendship.  My wonderful Jazzy was a brillant girl, and she is missed and talked about daily.  It was a situation where I had to help her to end this part of her journey, it disturbs me to think of that part even now.

Every dog is different, the love shared is different, and their journeys are different.  But we face the same choices in helping them.  It is very hard to try and figure out how to put a square into a circle, how to make a choice for an individual when the choice is very generic. 

 I love my Shy, that is her name.  My girl that is fading now.  She has been my lady in waiting.  She has waited her whole life for the attention and affection that my more spirited dogs have demanded.  She has waited on the sidelines to be noticed first, to come inside first, to get the first treat.  Now it humbles me that her journey is almost over and she still waits.  I haven't done her justice, my pretty and steadfast friend.  The boys are bigger and push her out of the way, she is frail now and too afraid to try after a lifetime of coming in last.  I am sorry my Shy, sorry to have made you feel not important.  This decision I make will be made because she is important, and I don't want her to wait any longer for my love.  I am trying to make up for it now.  I am pouring it into her in hopes that it isn't too late.

Everyone has regrets, they are the heaviest of burdens.  I hope in showing you some that I carry that you will know you have a friend.  Maybe it will help you in some way.

I haven't ordered the rear part yet.  I am going to once I get my credit card paid down a little.  I think I will have enough available by April!  I hope my lifta pet will hold out until then 🙂  If not, I have an endless supply of grociery sacks.

Elizabeth and Sammy