At the beginning all we have are our expectations and excitement of a new puppy. One that is full of life and will bring you much joy and laughter for many years. Tala came to live with me over 14 years ago. I remember it like it was yesterday. She was a sweet puppy that possessed an old soul. She was wise beyond her years. She was always rock solid. A serious worker. A fair and equitable ruler. A dog that acted appropriate in every situation. She never let me down.

In the spring of 2006 she was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma. Her spleen was removed and the prognosis wasn’t very good. She became sort of a poster child in the last  3 years. To most, her story is quite remarkable.

On Monday, March 30, 2009 I witnessed Tay having a seizure. It only lasted about 30 seconds and she came out of it fairly quickly and seemed to recover with no visible side effects. As the week progressed, I saw evidence that she probably had other seizures while I was at work and then on Thursday night, April 2nd I witnessed another one. Each time I found that she had less and less ability to stand, eat or drink. She was one tough cookie because she kept on trying. Her mind was still there but her body just couldn’t keep up anymore.

She has fulfilled all of my expectations I had of her as a young puppy. She filled my life with many years of pride, joy and laughter. As she grew old, she showed me so many things I never thought about before.

For those of you who knew about Tala’s health issues the last week, thank you from the bottom of my heart for being supportive when I needed it so badly. The many phone calls and emails held me together.  Your stories and tears we shed together brought us closer and helped me when I sent her to the bridge . 

 Rest in Peace my Sweet, Sweet Princess Tay

11/11/94 ~ 4/6/09