woody the wonder dog

He's small at 18 pounds. He's old for a Cavalier... at nearly 12. He's a medical wonder dog: Brain surgery and a canine neurosurgeon. One prosthetic eye... an eye specialist. Hepatitis, syringomylia, internists, nutritionists, acupuncturists, physical therapy. Home made food, daily vitamin packs. 

Recently he growls and snaps. Another MRI (third in his lifetime). Herniated discs, bulging discs, multiple syrinxes down his back.  Medications that work to manage pain.  Less growling (and no snapping)... a good thing. But we are on borrowed time. We know that.

In his day he was a super star at the highest rank of dog sports.. agility. He shined at training and performing and has a drawer full of blue ribbons, my boy. But it was his pure and honest heart that captured our souls. We've loved him with abandon perhaps as humans only do with a being that is so completely and utterly dependent on us.

What he's given back: caring for and loving Woody has made me a better person. A better partner to my husband. A better friend. A better boss.

That's what a beautiful little dog can teach you.