I hoped that Mitzi would make it to her 14th birthday, which is today.

She was diagnosed with cancer this year, and it had ravaged her before anything could be done.

She was my first real dog – a dog breed I researched, found a breeder for, and committed to do all the training with.

She was a show dog for a hot minute as a puppy, and got a blue ribbon.

By the age of 2, she had her CGC (Canine Good Citizen).

She was trained to be a Pet Partners dog, to visit people in hospitals and nursing homes, but the instructor never gave her the final exam.

She developed a potentially deadly brain disorder seven years ago, and proved them all wrong by thriving for seven more years.

Today is her birthday.

I wanted to get her a pupcake. Take her in the Jeep, windows open, to get her a pup cup.

She made it to her birthday….but today, she has begun the long walk home.

She drank this morning, but hasn’t since.

She hasn’t eaten anything. Not even cheese. Mitzi loves to eat!

She staggers around, slow and totally blind now. Her hearing is nearly completely gone.

I pick her up and sit with her in my lap for a long time, telling her what a good girl she’s is. How grateful I am that she has taken care of me so well.

When she rests her head on my chest, I tell her how awesome heaven will be – how she will catch frisbees again, and run in the grass, with full sight and hearing.

I told her to wait for us, because we will meet her there.

In the mean time, girl, play with our unborn children. Go let Grandma pet you.

We took her out tonight , my husband carrying her to the grass, where she staggered around, then did her business.

Afterwards, she wobbled behind the hydrangea bush, and plopped down in the wet grass between the bush and the wall.

I got her out, and my husband carried her in.

I led her as she swayed slowly to our bedroom. I placed her on her towel covered bed, and she dropped into position.

She’s next to me, breathing steadily, just as she has been since she was seven weeks old.

Lord, give my girl a gently passage home.

She’s such a good girl.