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Saturday, August 6, 2011

Tuffy


Today our hearts are heavy with the loss of our good friend Tuffy.  Tuffy had been with us for only five years, but he accomplished so much in that short time.  We had never even heard of the breed, keeshond, before we met Tuffy.  But true to his breed, Tuffy had a perpetually cheerful outlok and disposition.  He was sweetness personified.  He was a kind and gentle companion to many, beginning with my Uncle Bump.  I'm not sure where Tuffy's journey began, but at four years of age, my uncle got him from a rescue organization.  Tuff and Uncle Bump absolutely adored each other for six years, at which time Uncle Bump passed on.  Tuffy seemed lost and heartbroken when he came to live with us shortly after that.  He cried and cried at the front and back doors night after night.

Tuffy proved to be a gentle and loving companion to our elderly dog Theo, until Theo passed away.  Then, upon the loss of Theo, Tuffy went suddenly mute.  He would lay each night just looking at Theo's empty bed.  Big Steve and I thought it would be good to bring another dog into the house to help Tuffy return to his happy self.  That new dog turned out to be Elsa, a super-shy (I am thinking puppy mill) dog we got from Peppertree Dog Rescue.  (They are wonderful people if you are looking for a dog, or if you want to support a great rescue organization).  Once again, Tuffy showed his true colors of love and compassion as he helped ease Elsa's fears and showed her how to be able to live happily with humans.  I really do swear that dogs communicate just as we do, only not with words. 

During the time Tuffy was with us, he was a perfect "starter dog" for many people who were really afraid of dogs.  From foster kids who were terrified to be in care to begin with, and then further terrified of dogs, to kids on the street, to all kinds of house guests.  Tuffy used his gentle nature and sweet disposition to disarm the most fearful human. 

He came to be known as "Tuffster" "Sir Tuffs-a-Lot", "Tuffalupagous" "Little Buddy" and other names.  I used to like to recite the poetry to him "Blessings on thee little man - barefoot boy with cheeks of tan".  He wasn't the brightest dog in the pack, but he was certainly the sweetest.  All he ever wanted was pets, pets and more pets from humans.  I really believe that tonight he has the sweetest pets from Uncle Bump as well as the angels.  Such a good dog MUST be in heaven.

Run and play now, Tuffy, like you were a puppy - this time you will DEFINITELY not end up in a rescue situation.  We've given you back to Uncle Bump.  You were only ours for a season, after all.  We surely will miss you though.

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