Laverne and Suzie’s first Christmas together

This afternoon I helped a dear sweet lady, Laverne, who is 85 years old, say goodbye to her Dalmatian, Suzie.

I used to belong to a Pet Support Group helping others in their grief when they lose a pet. That is where I met Laverne. At the time, she had just lost her 6th Dalmatian and she needed help getting through her grief. Laverne loves Dalmatian’s and it is the only breed she has ever had.

Laverne came to the meetings each month for the next 3 months and announced at the third meeting that she’d really like another Dalmatian, but didn’t know if she should. She was 80 years old at the time and feared she may not out live another Dalmatian… but oh, how she wanted another one to love.

So the wheels were set in motion and with the help another friend, I was able to find an older Dalmatian for Laverne from Save Our Spots Dalmatian Rescue. They were not 100% sure, but thought Suzie was around 5 years old.

It was one of the best feelings knowing Laverne now had another dog in her life to care for and love. I went to visit her and Suzie a few weeks later to see how they were doing. All was well and happy. We then went on with our lives.

Two days ago Laverne called me to tell me she would be putting Suzie to sleep today. Suzie was not doing well and it was time, she told me. She said, “You were so kind to find Suzie for me and I wonder if you could be there for me when I say goodbye.” I told her I would.

I drove to the vet today thinking about Laverne and all the Dalmatian’s she has loved. I smiled thinking of all the “spots” she will see when she gets to heaven some day. But still my heart ached for her soon to be loss.

When I arrived Laverne was already in the exam room with Suzie and her good friend, Lloyd. She met him three years ago after his wife had passed away. They became friends.

Laverne cried when she saw me and we hugged. She thanked me again for finding Suzie for her and told me how much it meant to her. I said, “You are so welcome, Laverne. Suzie was so lucky to have you.”

I knelt down by Suzie and pet her and thanked her for being so good to Laverne.

Laverne did not want to be in the room when the vet euthanized her, so Lloyd stayed with Suzie. Laverne and I waited in the waiting room.

Laverne shared with me that if it was not for Lloyd it was likely she could not have had Suzie as long because Suzie had been declining in health for quite a few months. It was hard for her to go up steps, so Lloyd helped her get in and out of the house often. She told me how wonderful Lloyd was and how glad she was that he lived with her.

To lighten the mood a bit I said with a slight smile, “Laverne, you mean to tell me you are shacking up with him?”  She laughed.

She talked some more about Suzie as I held her hand and just let her talk. She said she didn’t know how to thank me for getting her Suzie and for being there for her. But I said, “I know how much it means to you, Laverne and I was happy to help you and happy to be here for you today.”

A few moments later Lloyd walked into the waiting area. He held Suzie’s leash and collar in his hands. His face looked so sad. He looked at Laverne and without saying a word they both started to cry and hug each other. Though I felt at such a loss for their pain, I also saw in that moment true love… and it was deeply touching.

I felt better knowing Laverne has Lloyd to help her in her grief as she mourns the loss of Suzie. And what an honor it was to have been a part of Suzie’s new life at the beginning, placing her with Laverne, and now at the end.

Rest in peace sweet Suzie….