I lost him: remembering Johnny rotten and warning there's parvo

I didn't get enough time with him, not just me, but all the people who had come to know him in the short two months I've had him. We will all miss out on one of the smartest and funniest dogs I've ever had in my life. He was something really special there was no doubt.

But he put up a hell of a fight and succumbed in a way that had dignity.

I was getting ready to update the blog while Johnson lay quiet, finally comforted that the nausea and vomiting that had gripped him, was over.

He was alert and I sang to him while he rested.

As I started write about how he would be going to the vet in the morning, Johnson suddenly looked up at me. I reached down to pet him, and his neck became rigid, and his arms outstretched.

Then, no crying, no nothing, he took his leave, a last breath, and sighed as he let it out for the last time. I watched him relax, suddenly everything.

I told him "thank you" for the short time we had. And the fact that he was so unique and special to all his Friends.


The boys

It wasn't just Johnson, in fact, Johnson was owned by my Boxer, Walter as they were inseparable the moment they met, which was only a couple months ago if that.
Walter doesn't know he's a big dog, all his friends are small, so when Johnson showed up, it was a dream come true.

Parvo is serious and it is out there right now:

I won't be getting another dog for Walter as this parvo is all over our home now, and would not be good to go through this again.

Walter has been vaccinated, but aside from depression over today's trauma, he seems lethargic and warm. He's going to get another booster for the heck of it.

My sister's dog was here and is now showing signs. She's been vaccinated too.

So, make sure your dogs are updated right now, and KV Veterinary here in South Lake has a low cost shots program the first Thursday of each month.

I haven't even decided what to do with Johnson's body, and I will be writing a memorial for him too.

Thanks everyone for your prayers and your concerns.

Bye Johnny "rotten" I loved you a lifetime's worth. And that was the best fight I've ever seen. And the most dignified death I've ever witnessed. Amazing strength in this dog.

He just showed me an example of true strength, now I'll make him proud. Johnny, there's still fight left in this dog, watch what I do in your honor.

Johnny died with great dignity after a struggle which impressed us all.

There are people I know who won't just "die" or step away from their positions who should take a lesson from Johnny rotten.

But, die you will, a different kind of death, but one you will never forget.