Farewell To Tiki

To the Editor:

This is not the news I prayed I’d be writing about. On Wednesday evening, Lee and I stuffed Tiki full of treats on the way to Katonah for surgery for an unidentified growth.

As the tech came for her, Lee and I hugged her and then she trotted off through the doors because she had no fear and loved everyone. For that, we are grateful.

Close to 5 pm yesterday, Tiki’s doctor called to say her heart had stopped and despite attempts to save her, she’s gone. We should feel comforted, knowing that she went to sleep, expecting to come home to us and her treats. No way. According to the surgeon, the operation was necessary because she would not have lasted much longer in her condition. I would have been devastated to come home and not see her at the door, waiting for me and no last hugs or dog kisses. It still doesn’t take away all this pain.

Our hearts are broken beyond words. Everywhere we walk, sit, or look, are reminders of her presence. Only memories to flood our minds and tears that don’t want to stop.

We’ve lost pets before but they all lived long happy lives and were ready for dog heaven. Tiki wasn’t sick — she was full of life and love for everyone and had the bounce of a puppy at age 9 and a half. Much to soon.

Putting this to paper was a much easier way to tell everyone who knew her and share our pain with all of you who know how it all feels. Thank you for the prayers and heartfelt wishes that Tiki would now be on the mend instead of losing her sweet little life.

The following is an excerpt from a book titled Dog Love.

The dogs in our lives, the dogs we come to love and who love us in return, offer more than fidelity, consolation, and companionship. They offer comedy, irony, a wealth of dog stories and those stupid pet tricks, that are endearing and the commonplace pleasures of life. They offer, if we are wise enough and simple enough to take it, a model for what it means to give your heart with little thought of return.

Both powerfully imaginary and comfortingly real, dogs act as mirrors of our own beliefs about what would constitute a truly humane society. Perhaps it is not too late for them to teach us some new tricks.

Godspeed to Tiki — our precious angel — you were always an angel to us and now your wings have taken you to your new forever home — doggie heaven. We miss you terribly.

Mommy and Daddy Dog

Barbara and Lee Field

10 Serenity Lane, Sandy Hook                            September 22, 2007