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Delia's avatar

We had a wonderful Springer who was pts at home ( beautifully done)on a Thursday aged nearly 13.

My daughter came to visit and we talked about getting another dog as I had previously said I didn’t want to be without one. She told me that I was too old for a Springer puppy so I said maybe a cockapoo as a friend had one.

She looked online and found a litter of puppies, I was not thinking of acting so soon but she said I should text. I dialled the number intending to cut the call off and text but it was answered on the first ring. There was only one puppy left so I said could I come and see her. She was in Essex, I live in Taplow.

The seller asked where I live and then told me that he was going to Marlow for the weekend and he could bring her round. I said I’d want to see her mother, he told me she was coming to.

So, the very next day, he was on the doorstep with a little puppy. For some reason , I immediately said “Fudge”. Her mother came in and weed on the kitchen floor and I thought good, Fudge will have the smell to reassure her- as you can see, I’d already made up my mind.

Please don’t think that I didn’t love Ralph, nor miss him. Fudge is so different and I’m so glad I got her.

It really helped with the acute grief, I only had s few hours without a dog.

Long story short, there’s a friend waiting for you, Cabbage can’t be replaced of course.

I thought people might judge me for getting a dog so soon but that would br their problem, not mine.

Ruth Williams's avatar

Thank you for this - I’ve not had to face this yet. (We have two rescues) but it’s beautifully expressed. Cabbage was such a regular ‘fix’ of mine and, like countless others, I shared and retweeted in November for her to be found. By letting her go you have done the hardest thing borne out of deep love. Cwsg yn dawel Cabbage fach. Cofion gorau i chi gyd

Dean Whitbread's avatar

Thanks for your daily photos and for writing this. Grief is the price we pay for love, whether it be for a fellow human or a beloved dog or cat. The health doesn't just come from daily exercise, it comes from the pleasure of companionship, the fine responsibilities we take on for their well-being, and their great loyalty. Farewell Cabbage.

Miller's avatar

We have lived with three collies over the years. Glen died aged 16, and I was heartbroken. Tache,, French for spot or mark, was almost 15 when he died, and both dogs were male. We now have a 10-year-old female collie, Georgie. I am sure that in the years to come, animals will talk. I am sure they will express the sentiments I see in Georgie's face. She is no longer able to jump into the boot of the car. I am beginning to see her less able. But as dog lovers, we know they have short lives. We share it with them, and they would have it no other way.

ShannonJones's avatar

I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, but I’ve been following a treatment plan with the World Rehabilitate Clinic that focuses on real improvement and renewed strength. The first two months involved daily sessions, and now I go three times a week. The difference has been remarkable. Fatigue no longer controls my days, and even when I push myself, I don’t feel weak anymore. After three months, I’m finally living free from MS symptoms.

brett's avatar

Cabbage is a brilliant name for a dog. My first dog was a Border Collie - absolutely amazing creatures. They own you rather than the other way around :D They are a blessing and it is great to hear that you have a new dog. Each dog teaches us different things and I hear Sophie is already on the case. Stay well. And I am glad I found your blog today.

Donna Cullen's avatar

Poor Cabbage - she sounds adorable. what a beautifully written tribute to her, she was clearly the best health tech ever.

It will be eleven years this year since my first cat, Muji, died - I still miss her and some of her habits - especially when I change the bed and she's not there to help with the duvet & stretching the sheet out.

Harry's avatar

We also lost our collie cross on 20 December 2021 Xmas obviously wasn’t quite the same and the new year too ! Millie was in her 14th year and your description of Cabbage,her beautiful life was a mirror image of Millie’s so full of life and compete unconditional love always happy to see you no matter what Walks don’t seem the same but hopefully when the weather picks up who knows ? All the best Harry .

Kristin Smeltzer's avatar

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Cath's avatar

Beautiful tribute to Cabbage. I send you my sympathy at this very sad time. I lost my old dog Dingo in 2010. She was a wonderful girl and like you, got me out every day. It took me nearly 8 years to find Cisco (both rescues) and he is laying here beside me now. My best friend. I felt I couldn't ever replace Dingo but Cisco has filled the void with his beautiful little soul. Dogs are amazing creatures.

Mandy's avatar

Such a sad, beautiful tribute. I have a 12 year old rescue Collie called Tess, who has been nothing short of a delight. As she gets older l think, every day, how horrible it would be without her. After reading Cabbage’s story l must enjoy every furry precious moment. Mandy x

Graham Hawtin's avatar

Beautiful tribute Rory, and a very moving piece of writing too. I have a dog and so I can relate. Sending my condolences and best wishes. Graham

Tony Henderson's avatar

I have never owned a dog, work commitments meant that I felt it would be unfair to have one. However, when I used to "dog-sit" a relatives pet I always found it very therapeutic, (the dog may have had a different view). I also know how much pleasure they bring to people so feel sorry for your loss. As always a lovely piece of writing by Rory.

David Howson's avatar

We know just how you feel, lost our three legged rescue just over a year ago, still miss him to bits. The last remaining dog, is 16…going on 17, he is a Greek Rescue Dog, a bit deaf but still fit and alert. But we know his days are numbered, and we will be heartbroken again…Cabbage had a great life…lucky dog…

Mike Heffernan's avatar

Goodbye Cabbage - and chin-up Rory. You gave Cabbage a great life (and an excellent name) and the dear old thing evidently repaid you and the family in so many ways. Time to find another canine companion?

Alan Jones's avatar

Thank you for sharing Cabbage with us, Rory, it's been a privilege to know her