Many of you have read the blog about RASCAL’S past and how he came to me.

Today, I want to honor my senior dog, RASCAL who’s been a great teacher, to me, to all of my doggie clients and to everyone who was lucky enough to be in his presence.

I must say that aging is an amazing process to witness. I see it in myself as I enter my 6th decade on this planet. I know that I’m wiser, more mellow and much more able to let the little things go.

Rascal is experiencing the same thing. He used to need to be in front on the trail, break up any intense energy in the most effective yet gentle way. His confidence teaches many how much simpler life can be when we feel pretty secure in who we are. His joy and exuberance brings laugher to all who know him. THE KING is the name he’s been given and he fits this bill perfectly.

Today, he’s accepted his senior dog status by lagging behind on the trail, knows that he can’t break up any intense energy around him so he just talks about it now. Who knew this boy would become so vocal in his senior years. He still brings a smile to everyones face when he walks up and puts his head in the palm of their hand as it hangs by their side. He still makes himself known in the most genteel way. I’m still here, he’s saying.

He’s much slower these days but he’s got his mind, his joy and his kindness and for these things my heart is still so full of him.

Happy Birthday my sweet RASCAL boy. May your senior dog days continue to be filled with all things that make you happy. You deserve to smell every blade of grass, pee on every sign post and sleep on my bed, rest at my feet and go with me wherever I go. I’m yours forever!