King Has Left Us

[Dan Gould]

Our time with King, full name BB King (and my wife sometimes squealed a "BeeeeBeeeee" when she was calling him but it never really took) came to an end today.

The fates took him too soon (he was still only 8 years old) but years of poorly controlled seizure disorder took a real toll on him. And then recently he had outward signs of tumors which started bleeding and there was nothing to be done. We couldn't let him suffer any longer, or risk that he could start bleeding and it wouldn't stop.

 

He was a handful when he was younger but he was a sweet loving companion until the end.  He would jump into my bed most nights, and I would lay alongside him and he would move in for kisses and sometimes I'd pull away but he was relentless. It was let him kiss me or fall off the bed. Other times I'd move in for kisses and pull away too quick for him to reciprocate and he'd be kissing the air. Then he'd get frustrated and not play anymore and pull his head away from me. I'm glad I got a chance to get him into the bed this afternoon and let him clean my face to his heart's content.  He had a big one and would give kisses forever if he could.

 

April-May 2016

 

 

 

 

Coltrane had the football first and never came close to destroying it. It never stood a chance with King.

 

 

King chasing Duncan, his cousin.

 

 

King and Duncan playing tug of war - King was still a baby but he was fearless.

 

 

I'd like to think that Gracie and King are together again. 

 

Mikey and King.

[Stompin at the Savoy]

It's tough to lose an animal where there is a real connection and intimacy.  I lost a couple elderly dogs I had in 2023 and it took a long time to get over the shock and finality of it all.  Luckily a stray cat showed up and moved in with me.  I still miss those dogs.

[HutchFan]

So sorry for your loss, Dan.

 

[felser]

Dan, so sorry for your loss.  We get very close with our pets.  I've had to put down four cats and a dog during our marriage, and can't imagine what will happen when our current cat Aisha passes (she's 13 but doing great).  She is the most attached I've ever been with an animal.  Shown here laying with me while I have morning devotions.

Edited December 31, 2024 by felser

[JSngry]

Reciprocal relationships are the best.

[Brad]

My condolences Dan. 

[GA Russell]

Best wishes, Dan.

[jazzbo]

So sorry Dan. My Fiona the miniature dachshund is in her final months and I am savoring every moment with her.

[Jason Bivins]

Wishing you peace, Dan.