Maya: 2001-2012
aka: Maya Pupaya
aka: Pup-o-laar
aka: Doggie-Puppy
aka: Barky-loo
aka: Cripple Billy
aka: Doug
I never had a dog growing up, so when I moved in with Phil and we adopted Maya from the SPCA, I had no idea what I was in for.
But what I got was almost 12 years with one of the quirkiest, most neurotic, sweetest dogs I have ever met.
It wasn’t always easy; she wasn’t the most affectionate dog, her idea of “guarding” me was peeking out from behind my legs, she was always kind of sickly, and she would not pee in Calgary.
But I also got to know the unconditional love of a dog.
The expectant joy when we walked in the door, the unabashed excitement at the idea of her nighttime snack, the unfailing trust that we will always do what was best for her.
I hope we didn’t let her down.
On Friday night, we took her for a walk – one of her favourite activities that we had to stop because of the pain it would cause her – and we let her stop to sniff every. single. tree.
On Saturday morning, we took her for a car ride – another activity that topped her “fun” list that we could no longer do because she didn’t have enough strength in her legs to combat Newton’s laws of motion – and she made sure to leave a trail of drool down the side of the car to remember her by.
We also indulged in her favourite thing of all time: eating.
She had 2 dinners on Friday and 2 breakfasts on Saturday.
She had cheese and bread, and even some bacon.
And then, on Saturday afternoon, we sat on the floor with her as she drew her last breaths.
It was awful.
And the instant she was gone, I wanted her back.
Maya was a very good dog.
She will be missed.
I am SO sorry, sweetie. I am crying with you…my love to you and Wilzie. xx Bliss
Sorry to hear about Maya. It’s amazing how quickly animals become part of your family. I’m sure she knew how much you loved her and tried to do best by her. Xoxo
Oh, the tears.
I’m so sorry for your loss. Dogs really are the best friends. I’m sure she would thank you for your mercy. <3
I didn’t know Maya but i’m crying right now because I dread this day for our older dog. I’m so sorry for you guys. It sounds like Maya had a fantastic last day.
i knew maya a very short time, but she is one of the sweetest dogs a person could ever meet. she will definitely missed. goodbye maya pup-aya.
Oh sweetie. *tears* I’m so sorry for the pain you and Phil must be feeling right now. But you did right by your baby. Her last day sounded like it was one of her best ever. Hugs to you both. <3
This makes me so, so, so sad. I know you and Maya have had your ups and downs over the past year or so, but what a sweet puppy and what unconditional love! Everyone should know the love of a dog or cat at some point in their lives. I’m so sorry. I bet she passed with a grin on her lips and the same wish to stay with you all. xoxo
I’m so sorry for your loss but I know you guys put a lot of thought in to this and did the best thing for her. My thoughts are with you guys.
My dear, this is what I did with my beloved cat of 17 1/2 years. I wanted her back instantly, but I also knew that I wanted her to be free from pain and cold and dementia. That was no longer possible. You did a loving, selfless act and made good on the last piece of unconditional love you gave her.
You will grieve, and your other pets will grieve. I don’t know when the pain will stop, but it does get better over time. Your whole household’s mourning is a testimony to how wonderful Maya is, how she touched your lives, but also understanding that it was time.
Hugs to you via the ethernet.
I think I used half a box of tissues reading this. I know this was an agonizing decision for you guys, but you did the right thing and I’m sure Maya would agree. I only got to spend a short time with her, but she was one of the sweetest dogs I ever met and I know she will be missed.
I am so sorry sweetie. My heart hurts for you. I have lost several pets throughout the years and it doesn’t get any easier. Thinking of you both today.
So sorry to read this. I too dread the day when I have to make that decision. Pets never let you down, and are always there giving love and companionship. Thinking of the two of you today. Think of the good times, the fun and funny times with Maya.
Robyn/Phil, so sorry to hear of your loss and my heart goes out to you. It’s never easy but you gave her the best final day of her life, such a moving and beautiful tribute to her.
I hate when dear friends such as this leave this earth. I’m all welled up over here. I’m so sorry she’s gone but I can tell you had an amazing time with her when she was here. ox
Shucks. We are pretty lucky to have been amoung the last to collect her hairs on our coats and pants. Glad we got to see her on Valentine’s Day.
-Jerry
I’m so sorry for your loss. She sounds like an incredible dog and friend. Thinking of you.
A lovely tribute. She had a wonderful life with you and you’ll always have those memories.