It's been over 16 years since I drove home from the Cobb County Animal Shelter with a stinky, wiggly ball of black fur sitting in my lap. A bath was the first priority, a name the second, and thus began a new chapter for our family with a black Lab mix named Lucas.
I don't think anyone, including Lucas, thought he'd be around this long. He's seen lots of changes, including a move and several new additions to the family in the form of my nephews. But he's taken it all in stride and continued to contribute unconditional love, entertaining behavior, and the gentle and happy disposition that the breed is known for. A water dog, however, he is not: one memorable experience with an above ground pool made that abundantly clear. Nor is he a guard dog: on several occasions workmen have approached the fenced yard and been greeted by a wagging tail and lolling tongue. He is who he is.
Although we're thankful for the time we've had, there's no denying the end is approaching. Arthritis makes it very difficult for him to get up and down, his hearing is almost entirely gone, and his vision seems to be going, as well. A hard decision may be looming, but for now we're content to cherish every day we have.