RIP, Casey

[YGBFKM]

Almost 14 years after a chance meeting in an elementary school parking lot, I had to put down one of my best friends. Casey was one of a kind. A mutt that, best anyone could tell over the years, was a mix of border collie and corgi, she was equal parts sweet and heartwarmingly oblivious. Until today, when a cancerous mass burst in her abdomen, she was so full of life. An outdoor dog who lovingly put up with years of being cooped up in apartments as I drifted aimlessly through years of Bohemian singlehood, she never lost the joy of going out for a simple walk or a trip around the yard. She was the last of a litter being sold out of a pickup truck in small-town Arkansas. She was given to me for free. Our time together was priceless.

I would be remiss before I ended this post if I did not thank my wife, who quickly grew to accept and love Casey. There was a time not long ago that my dogs (Casey's sister is still her surly self at 13) were the only reasons I had to wake up every day. That's changed in a number of wonderful ways. As tough as it was to lay on two blankets in a sterile, drab emergency vet room and hold Casey for the last time, sobbing, Casey's mom was right there with me.

Thanks, baby. You're the best thing that ever happened to Casey, too.

 

[imjustagirl]

Oh, this breaks my heart. So sorry for you and CB and Ginger too.

 

[Big Circus]

Dude, I feel for you. Thoughts and prayers.

 

[dooley_womack1]

Dogs somehow understand people. Usually better than other people do. Sorry for your loss.

 

[Michael_ Gee]

My deepest and sincerest condolences. Our family lost Blackjack four years ago this weekend. Not a day goes by I don't think of him. None ever will. All I can say is that the memories are worth having, grief and all.

 

[MileHigh]

Sorry for your loss. Just came back from the dog park with my soon-to-be 11-year-old beagle. Dogs are great and bring so much joy to people. Cherish everything you had with her.

 

[Double J]

Very sorry to hear. RIP, Casey.

 

[proudpittsburgher]

I'm sorry brother. That just sucks, but you had a heck of a relationship, so try and remember that. Dogs are wonderful, wonderful companions.

 

[shockey]

aw, geez, my sincerest sympathies . losing our dogs and cats bring out the most humane side of SportsJournalists.com. hang in there. and never forget... i hope there's enough love in your heart to take on the responsibility of a new friend...

RIP, CASEY (i must admit, upon first sight of the thread header, i thought 'american idol's' casey had passed (he's had medical issues, right?)

 

[Moderator1]

Sincere condolences. I hate that. Same thing happened to my Zinger - all well until a tumor burst. Hang in brother. The dog loved you and went out knowing it was very well loved. You did the right thing for the dog.

 

[21]

:'( :'( :'( :'(

My little ghetto rescue psycho hound just tracked mud all over the carpet, going to give him a cookie.

RIP Casey.

 

[Baron Scicluna]

I'm sorry for your loss. I'm dreading the day that my 16-year-old cat makes his trip to kitty heaven.

It's so painful losing a pet. But the great memories last a lifetime.

 

[Boom_70]

Y - my condolences. Having had to put 5 dogs down in my lifetime, I know how hard it can be. It never leaves you. As said as it is, I cannot think of going through life without dogs.

 

[Moderator1]

I hear that - but I often think I'm done when my current two and my granddog are done. I'm getting too old. It just gets so much harder every time. I really don't know if I have it in me to go through it again.

Rare day home today, I spent the whole day throwing the "ballie" and "stickie" to Ella.

 

[Sam Mills 51]

All the best, YGBFKM. Can't imagine the pain ... take care.

 

[Shoeless Joe]

Sympathies from the deepest part of my heart. I lost my boxed on Dec. 31 2009 when a cancerous tumor erupted in his stomach. The worst day of my life. I truly feel your pain.
Remember two things: there will be a day where you see Casey again at the Rainbow Bridge; and, to quote Will Rogers, "If dogs don't go to heaven, when I die I want to go wherever they went."

 

[JakeandElwood]

Sorry to hear Y. RIP Casey.

 

[holy bull]

Damn, sorry about that, Y. RIP Casey.

 

[Starman]

You won't forget today, but you'll remember the last 14 years more.

Casey knew her daddy was there for her to the end.

 

[KJIM]

I'm really sorry. I am out of the country now, and honestly, one of my biggest fears is that something happens to my old pound dog while I'm gone.

It's sad to lose someone who gives you unconditional love in exchange for the occasional cookie.