Image of Samantha by artist Susan Flanigan
In role as a veterinarian, it’s always tough to lose a patient. But, it’s an unfortunate part of the job. As life must come to an inevitable end due to age or illness, all I hope for my patients is that they transition smoothly and are surrounded by their loved ones in the process of leaving this world.
Recently, one of patients left us. Samantha was a lovely, senior, Rottweiler mix who ultimately succumbed to cancer. She had a great quality of life despite her illness and was highly cared for by her human caretaker and reveled in the companionship of her Pug family members.
Here’s Samantha’s memorial as written by her human mom.
At first she was my baby girl then patient listener and loyal friend. Lifelong protector and loyal companion.
Trusted babysitter to several children. In the end, a teacher of joy in the midst of suffering.
A light has extinguished in my world but the lessons live on. I hope she touched your lives in some small way too
Deep gratitude to Stephanie and Jennifer who helped me walk Sam down her final path. Heartfelt thanks to Susan Flanigan for allowing Sam's eyes to continue to fall upon me.
Image of Samantha by artist Susan Flanigan who’s skilled hand truly captures Samantha’s spirit in a life-like presentation.
Although Samantha’s no longer walking with us, she’ll never be forgotten.
Have you lost a pet to cancer or other illness? Feel free to share your experience in the comments section.
Thank you for reading this article. Your questions and comments are completely welcome (I’ll respond). Please feel free to communicate with me through Twitter (@PatrickMahaney) and follow my adventures in veterinary medicine by liking Patrick Mahaney: Veterinarian Acupuncture Pain Management for Your Pets on Facebook. Copyright of this article (2015) is owned by Dr Patrick Mahaney, Veterinarian and Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist. Republishing any portion of this article must first be authorized by Dr Patrick Mahaney. Requests for republishing must be approved by Dr Patrick Mahaney and received in written format.