Life with Chopper

I remember the first time I saw Chopper. It was love at first site. He had curly black fur and big brown eyes. He was a stray puppy that a family friend had rescued from the streets. Our friend said she kept him hoping to find an owner. We offered to take him from her. It was the beginning of a lifelong friendship. 

We became buddies for many years. He used to use his water bowl like a swimming pool instead of a drinking bowl. He was the original “entertainer” before Cedric. Chopper also had a sixth sense. Whenever I experienced moments of sadness or depression, he would lay his head on my lap or extend his paw to me in friendship. He always knew my thoughts and fears. 

He was my friend through grade school, high school, and college, which were some of the toughest years of my life. Growing up with a dog as a best buddy is an experience I will never forget. As the years passed, many of my other friendships and relationships came to an end. Regardless, Chopper and I maintained our friendship.

He was also my bodyguard. He sat on the foot of my bed ready to defend me against any sounds going bump in the night. I felt safe around him because I knew he would give his life for me without hesitation. I always thought of him as a part of our family. He lived with us for nearly 18 years. I first saw him through the eyes of an eight-year-old child and last saw him through the eyes of a twenty-six year old adult. Chopper soon became deathly ill. He lost weight and became blind in both eyes. His big brown eyes became grayish-white cataracts. He could no longer walk or feed himself.

Unfortunately, he was at death’s door which left me with a difficult decision. I knew it was time to show him compassion and let him die peacefully. I took him on his final car ride to the local vet who had cared for him since he was a puppy. While sitting in the waiting room, I held him on my lap and stroked his fur for the last time. At one time it was black and shiny, now it was gray from old age.

Finally, the veterinarian was ready. I held his paw so the veterinarian could euthanize him. Tears began rolling down my cheeks. The veterinarian told me he went peacefully and didn’t feel any pain. I took one final look at Chopper’s lifeless body knowing I was leaving behind the best friend anyone could ever want.