An unexpected loss

I learned today that Teddy {or Ted-Ted, as I called him} was killed. It's a very unexpected and sad loss for our family. He was actually Teddy-2, replacing the first Teddy who died of old age in 2003. Both were Shelties. In between the two of them, there was a rat terrier named Penny who also met an unexpected death {though in a different manner than Teddy-2}. Unfortunately, it seems that dogs on a farm seem to meet similar fates. Whether it be the milk truck, the salesman, or a random car passing by, they all seem to fall in their paths. The original Teddy somehow wizened up and managed to avoid that particular, horrible, fate. Regardless, it's always sad to lose a pet, and my family has lost many in the same way. You would think it would get easier over time, but I think it gets worse. As I get older, I become more and more attached to these animals. They have such personality. Such spunk. Such loyalty!

Teddy-2 was a splendid dog. A little hyper, but yet always listening, he made sure the cows were out of the barn when Dad wanted them out. He guarded the yard, even barking at vehicles that were driving by a little too slowly. Sometimes, he would bark at nothing, but you had to admire his effort. He learned tricks quickly, though no one really spent the time to work with him since he was always running after the cows, or cats. He caught mice better than any cat, and would even catch rabbits, birds, or any other animal that had become a nuisance. Once, he nabbed a possum. Ok, I know they're not fast {in fact, it probably played dead}, but you could tell he was proud of that catch. He walked around with his tail fluffed up for the rest of the day!

Mostly, he was a playmate to Sophie and Zoe (the other dogs, who will be looking for him incessantly for awhile!), and one heck of a loyal companion around here. He will be missed. Farewell, Teddy -- here's hoping you find a mouse or two in "doggie heaven."