NEWS FLASH – October 25, 2009

 JESSIE…………

 There’s very little I enjoy more than a boat, a dog, a fishing pole, and the great outdoors. The older I get the more I seem to enjoy all of these. That’s why this is a very tough newsletter to write. Our 13+ year old golden retriever, Jessie, is having some problems. She has been in and out of the vet’s office more than I care to count this last 30 days and has lost 10 lbs. She barely eats and has become almost immobile without our help and a towel around her midsection.

 This is a very special little girl. She was only about 12 weeks old when a much larger dog attacked her and broke her jaw. The vet didn’t think he could save her, but by some miracle and God’s grace she pulled through, wired jaw and all. She never lost her spunk, although she became extremely cautious after that. She eventually lost most of her teeth on the side of her mouth that had been injured, but has always managed a somewhat awkward, crooked little smile and a friendly nudge. She is the type of dog who does what she wants, but knows the limits of that independence.

 She, like me, loves the outdoors and would rather lay under a tree in a rainstorm than be sequestered inside the house. She has what Dixie and I call “deer friends” who are actually a whitetail doe and her two offspring who will play with Jessie for long periods under the black walnut tree, always aware of Jessie’s invisible fence limits in the yard. It really has to be seen to be believed. A golden retriever and 3 deer cavorting and teasing each other off and on all day. I suspect they have missed our little girl the last few weeks.

 I know we all must face the reality that we are mortal. But that reality is tough, especially when it has to do with someone you love so much. The normal “roll-on-the-back-and-get-my-tummy-rubbed” behavior has been missing lately, replaced by painful panting and a distress in her wonderfully loving brown eyes. I find it impossible to consider the options we may have to face, possibly sooner than later. I guess that’s why I’m writing this. I know what may be coming and simply need to tell someone. I hope you don’t mind.

 We have some great deals, pictures, and information this newsletter. Take a look at what we have below. We also want your help with our new website which is in test mode. Take a look at our note below. Thanks again for all your support. We truly appreciate your confidence!

  
(Note: Just after I wrote this I was called to the vet’s office where Jessie had to be euthanized. She had cancer throughout her body and was in severe pain. It was a very tough day. The newsletter didn’t get finished. We will send everyone a complete newsletter next week. Thanks for understanding. Give your dog a pat from me……)

 Tight Lines,

 Tom Ashby