A dog-shaped hole in my heart

He was the happiest dog in the world. His tail never stopped wagging. Three months ago, he was diagnosed with severe aortic stenosis. Since then, his physical ability declined, as the frequency of cardiac syncope increased. Each collapse was followed by a period of prolonged recovery. Themba died last week.

It was a pleasant evening, warm and still. He had enjoyed his short walk in the woods, and was in position to survey the garden. He spotted a squirrel making its way over to the bird food, and quick as a flash, he was off.

He collapsed under his favourite tree, and for a while it seemed he would recover. Then, as we comforted him, his heart stopped beating.

From the feedback I have received on my blog, I know I am not alone in grieving for a pet. And even though we expected his passing, it was still deeply emotional for us. Because this little Boxer dog had an inherited heart condition. And it is simply not good enough to shrug our shoulders and say it's in the breed. Breeders should be more responsible, and vets should be more vigilant.

Brin is adapting well to being on his own. We have been getting out for longer walks, and meeting friends old and new. I'm sure it won't be long before we are joined by another little star on four legs.

Lesley Beeton
(aka The mad dog woman of Shackleford)

I am so sorry to read of your painful loss

Thank you x.

Sorry to hear of your loss . Boxers are a breed i love ,,,,

Thank you, hard not to love a Boxer x.

Bless him. Gentle hugs to you.

I'm sorry

So sorry you lost your boy, such a hard thing to bear even when you know it's coming

So sorry for your loss, love. Run free Themba xx

So so sorry from one Boxer owner/lover to another. Our breed has too many health issues. Hugs yo you in your loss x