My family had to say goodbye to our dear four-legged friend, Taylor, on March 24, 2010. Taylor had been a much loved and important part of our family for over 14 years. Taylor had developed health issues over the past few years and probably spent a couple of years living on ‘borrowed’ time. She was a trooper. Taylor was one of those gentle, kind souls who was always steady in who she was, always happy for new experiences and never knew an enemy! She really, really loved her cookies and her belly rubs!
She was always a patient and accepting subject of my numerous photography sessions. In this one, I was practicing taking self-portaits. As a photographer, I usually don’t have many images of myself with my dogs, so I do treasure every one.
Taylor gave us a real scare a few nights before my daughter’s wedding and became very ill. All of the dogs were supposed to go to the kennel for the duration, but we could not do that to Taylor, so she stayed home. She designated herself as the ‘guard’ of the wedding dress! Now that is true loyalty!
Taylor had the opportunity to mentor 3 additional canine family members! I know that it sounds crazy, but I do sense that they really miss her as well. Up until the very last few days, she did everything in her power to keep up with her buddies. She and Spyder always seemed to have a special bond, even though he is the youngest and most rambunctious, he was always very careful with Taylor.
In looking for personal comfort this past week, I came across this little poem, that really defines the moment when Taylor passed on. She was surrounded by people who cared for her very much and she went peacefully. I really believe that it was her time. She will be dearly missed.
Von Stocker’s Taylored To Perfection
11/1/1995-3/24/2010
~Rest in peace sweet Taylor~
by DancingDogPhotography/Debbie Z Dunne
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