My first ever Sheltie, Dakota, my sweet boy passed on July 9, 2020 (9 days after Cody), after having been diagnosed with Hemagiosarcoma (a tumor on his heart) a mere month before. He was 13 (as was Cody).
It is an awful disease that has taken many beloved dogs of friends and family members. We were blessed to have Dakota with us for a month after he was diagnosed, many I know weren't that lucky.
To think I thought Dakota was crazy when he was young! Little did I know what would be in store for me with Levi.
Dakota was sweet, stoic at the Vet, he HATED other dogs, was devoted to his "pack" at home, but wasn't much of a fan of humans that he didn't know. He never would have enjoyed going to daycare or boarding like Levi does.
He was a great brother to Cody. They truly loved each other.
He hated taking walks, wasn't thrilled with the car (he would sit on the floor). Didn't like to sleep in his bed, he preferred sleeping on the floor. If I stirred eggs he would bark. If I used spray butter he would bark. He was the quirkiest dog ever!
He LOVED his precious Greenies, popcorn, red peppers (not hot ones!), apples, carrots and the doggy meatloaf/meatballs/hamburgers I would make for him.
He also ADORED HIS DADDY!
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Dakota was extremely bonded with Lenny when he was young, as time went on, he and I became extremely close. He had a sixth sense of knowing just when I needed extra loving.
He was the first dog I had as an adult and was the fulfillment of a childhood dream of having a Sheltie. He was special in so many ways.
He loved running and playing fetch when he was young.
He adored his red, white and blue Dollar store ball that we have safely tucked away in a trunk. That dog had sooo many toys and that disgusting worn out plush ball was his absolute favorite.
The 13 years he was with us went by in the blink of an eye. I am grateful for the many collages I have on the living room wall of both Cody and Dakota, this way I can still see them both every day.
Dakota you were such a good and special boy. Daddy and I think of you, love you and miss you every single day.
About a minute after Dakota left us, I noticed a yellow butterfly that flew right into our patio doors, I am certain that was our sweet Dakota letting us know he would always be there.
I had always loved the name "Dakota" and when I was selecting a name for him I had looked up the meaning. In American Indian the name "Dakota" meant "trusted friend." He completely lived up to his name and more.
Thank you, Dakota, for sharing your life and love with Daddy, Cody and I. You were the PERFECT first Sheltie.
Much Love Always,
Mom
These remembrances are so difficult. Big healing hugs, Caren. Scritches to the boys. ♥
ReplyDeleteSweet Angel Dakota. You never ever get over losing them. And so soon after Cody. That must have felt tragic. Purrs to you all now. Lynn and Precious XX
ReplyDeleteHe was special, and beautiful in so very many ways. Sadly, I too remember those awful weeks of July 2009 ~ how you had the strength to move through them has always truly amazed me. I know that Dakota and Cody remain whole in your heart forever ~ healthy,
ReplyDeletedeeply loved and never forgotten.
Lots of hugs, Caren, as you remember Dakota on this sad anniversary. ❤️
ReplyDeleteSuch sweet memories of your beloved Dakota.
ReplyDeleteIt seems impossible that it was four years ago. Big hugs for you on this sad anniversary.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful tribute to your sweet boy. Sending you love and hugs on this sad anniversary. XO
ReplyDeleteWhat a special boy Dakota was! He and Cody were cherished by so many of us around the world. We miss both of them so much, and send you love and purrs, especially on this very sad remembrance day. XO
ReplyDeleteThat was two weeks from hell for you . Dakota was such a sweet and handsome guy and he always brought us smiles. His memory still does. Love and hugs from all of us.
ReplyDeleteMy heart aches for your loss.
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad I got to know Cakota through your blog...and Cody too of course. I miss them both.
ReplyDeleteSending a ton of hugs your way🥰
So sorry that I did a typo for Dakota! Oopsie...
DeleteCaren , hugs and love to you both, these days don’t get easier, no matter the time
ReplyDeletepassed. 💙💚💙💚
What a lovely tribute to your sweet Dakota, Caren. Love and hugs from us as you remember him.
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely tribute to Dakota and I love that his name means "trusted friend." He looks like he was such a sweet baby. It's so difficult losing a pet. They really are a part of the family. Hugs to you!
ReplyDeleteWe miss Dakota and Cody so much!
ReplyDeleteI thought I had commented but maybe it was only on FB. This was a beautiful tribute to your "Trusted Friend". He and Cody are both sorely missed.
ReplyDeleteCaren ~ so hard to lose our fur babies ~ lots of healing hugs to you ~
ReplyDeleteThanks for visiting my blog and commenting ~
Wishing good health, laughter and love in your days,
A ShutterBug Explores,
aka (A Creative Harbor)
My gosh, Caren- four years! Time's getting away from us. Gone, maybe, but forever in our hearts.
ReplyDeleteOh, Caren, we remember this day so well, we're reading this with tears. We still feel your pain, dear furriend. We loved your sweet Angels so much✨Soft Pawkisses as you remember your trusted furriend Dakota🐾😽💞
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