Unable to find words I borrow from William Wordsworth:
[He] dwelt among the untrodden ways
Beside the springs of Dove,
A [dog] whom there were none to praise
And very few to love:
A violet by a mossy stone
Half hidden from the eye!
Fair as a star, when only one
Is shining in the sky.
[He] lived unknown, and few could know
When [Magnus] ceased to be;
But [he] is in [his grave, and, oh,
The difference to me!
Magnus was adopted in Coweta, Oklahoma, 7 November 2002, at the age of 7. He was deemed "unadoptable" for being too frigntened of people to bond with anyone. At his age (old for a large dog), with a congenital heart defect, and living in terror, he was not fit for this world, or so it seemed. His life remained full of trepidation, this is true, but it also was worth living ... he even traveled to Saudi Arabia and back, recovered from advanced heartworm in Dhahran despite his faulty heart, knew great joy playing with other dogs and cats, and even enjoyed his last morning walk in Houston ... and he loved one person --I was the lucky one-- intensely. He especially loved a huge bowl of vanilla Haagen-Dasz just before he was put to sleep in his own bed and in my arms.
Magnus Tremulus Cowetus -- let his life be an example that no animal is too old, too sick, or too troubled to be the best friend you will ever have ... if you give him a chance.
Dear Chris and Dolores,
ReplyDeleteThis is heart-breaking news...we met Magnus at one of your home parties...I remember Magnus to be very loving with our children. I am sorry for your loss, although I'm sure many fond memories of him are still alive! Thank you for sharing this with me and staying in touch.
Warm regards,
The Gretzers
Liliana, Gene, Jeremy, and Elani
Dear Dolores and Chris
ReplyDeleteI weep as I read this as I feel your pain and understand how hard this will be for you. But what a blessed LIFE he had with you both. You know how I adored him and respected him as his own dog! 15 years of age and a large dog - wow! That is remarkable, even more so considering his sad early life. But, he knew he was loved, adored, cherished and his loyalty was unwavering to the wonderful woman (You, Dolores) who saved him and gave him a quality life. It is a fact he would have been put to sleep in 2002 had you not been his saviour. You understood his issues and knew he wanted nothing more than love and security - and you took the chance with him and look where it took you! Dolores and Chris - give yourself a pat on the back, put a smile on your face and know that you made a huge difference and gave Magnus 8 wonderful, happy years. I had the pleasure of meeting you both with Magnus in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia and considering his nervous nature I was amazed that he had travelled and settled so well; likewise when you returned to States. His handsome profile in the posted picture is exactly how I remember him - oh, those soulful eyes and such a handsome boy with a regal aura. How is Farhaan coping?
My condolences and warm wishes to you.
Julia
Dearest Auntie & Chris..
ReplyDeleteThis too broke my heart..he was a sweet and gentle soul. He will be missed no doubt.
Thank you both for all you do in the animal world.
Much Love,
Lanette