This is the kind of post no pet parent wants to write. I’m completely gutted to share that my beloved Elsa, ninja extraordinaire, earned her angel wings and passed peacefully late Monday afternoon. To say I’m beyond grief stricken about this immense loss is an understatement.
Elsa possessed a fierce spirit and was one of the most loving, sweetest dogs I’ve ever known. She was somewhere between 11 and 13, but her actual date of birth was unknown. As a puppy mill mama, there were no records of her or any of the other Standards found when she and the other dogs were seized after the owner passed away. Each of those dogs all had genetic problems, and Elsa’s was epilepsy. But she never complained, took her daily meds willingly and was never a problem trying to draw blood. Her vet and his staff loved that she was always an easy patient to treat. When I adopted her, she was basically feral and it took a few years before she knew how to respond to a positive home environment where she could relax knowing it was safe, comfortable and loved. You can read about her adoption here. Thankfully Sam kindly took her under his paws and taught her how to be a dog instead of a shut down canine who I adopted. I’m convinced that Norman taught her to wag her tail. Suffice to say she had many quirks and did not give her affection easily but once she did, she was loyal through and through. Elsa was definitely a “still waters run deep’ kind of dog and I adored her with all my heart. I will miss her impishness and those loving nose nudges.
Because I am so overcome with grief, I will be temporarily stepping away from blogging and social media until my heart has had a chance to heal a bit. But first I want to thank you for all the kind, caring get well wishes over the past month. In lieu of cards or memorial gifts, I would ask, if you’re so inclined, that you make a small donation to our favorite rescue, RMOESR.org in her honor or your own favorite local shelter/rescue. We think rescue dogs rock!
It’s so hard recognizing her noticeable absence from the Ranch and continue to wait for her to raise her head from her bed and give me ‘that‘ look. The look that said I’m here and want something and can’t wait for you to figure out what it is. Despite being a total ninja, quiet and stealthy, her personality was large. While there are hundreds of favorite photos of this very special dog, these two captured her most perfectly. The first a professional photo; the second one taken a few years ago on a beautiful spring day in the neighborhood.
Rest in peace my sweet precious fur-angel and give my love to Sam and Norman for me. 💔
Live, love, bark! 🐾