Goodbye My Friend

Through all of life's ups and downs, one of the only constants in the life over the past 14 years was my basenji, Mulligan.  I watched him grow from a cute, mischievous puppy to a handsome mischievous hound.  And, he saw me through countless significant human events:  buying and selling houses, the start and end of relationships, changing careers, the diagnosis and treatment of serious health issues,  and the relocation to Florida.  Mulligan was always there.  When he was diagnosed with cancer three and a half years ago, we were fortunate to learn that one of the premier canine oncologists in the nation, Dr. Heidi Ward, is located here in Sarasota.  He responded wonderfully to the treatments.  But, the problem with cancer in dogs is that it always seems to reoccur.  Mulligan beat it three times.  Each time, you never would have known he was sick.  This photo was taken at the Paw Park in April, a few months before the cancer returned for a fourth time.  At the age of 14 1/2 Mulligan couldn't fight anymore and I said goodbye yesterday.  It never ceased to amaze me how many people, particularly in Sarasota, would stop us on walks, in the park or while we were driving to comment on Mulligan's regal, handsome demeanor.  He  was very special.  I will miss him very much.