I think that everyone, at least once in their life, should have the chance to love and care for a senior dog; there’s nothing else like it. Today is Bella’s 16th birthday, and honestly, I can hardly believe we’re here (there have been a few times we weren’t sure we would be). As I reflect on the years that this beagle has been a part of my life, how our lives have been woven together, I’m continually confronted with how precious the time we have together is. On her birthday, I’d like to share a few of my favorite stories, and their lessons — the lessons that loving this senior dog has taught me — and a handful of things I never want to forget about our time together.
You are Home.
In 2021, my husband and I took Bella on a trip to Southern Utah. I loved watching Bella hike her way through the ancient Red Rock landscape that surrounded us. She was a champion traveler and was completely calm while hanging out with us in our hotel room – we’re talking about the chillest-beagle-that-ever-chilled. Until, in the morning, I left the room to pick up breakfast. I didn’t even make it down the hallway before my husband called me to tell me that Bella couldn’t calm down since I’d left. I hustled back to our room - sans breakfast - and sat down. Our calm beagle was back in no time, snoring away on her bed. It wasn’t the first time I’d realized this, yet still, it was a potent reminder that, to her, it doesn’t matter if we find ourselves in the desert of Southern Utah, the green Cache Valley National Forest in Idaho, or anywhere in between, we are her home. And in so many ways, she is my home, too.
Extraordinary Love is Found in Ordinary Moments.
My life has never had more of a routine than it does today. Bella takes us on walks at the same time each day. She eats at the same time each day. She wakes up, goes to bed, and naps at the same time each day. She eats the same food and takes the same supplements and medication every day. These routines are incredibly ordinary, often monotonous, yet they somehow feel laced with a feeling of transcendence.
I clearly remember driving home on our wedding day, arms filled with flowers and smiles as wide as they’ve ever been, and walking in the door to our beagle. We quickly changed our clothes and set out on our regularly scheduled walk. Our little family trio loaded up the car and hit the road for a short weekend away — walks included. There was something beautifully poignant about a day bursting with extraordinary, overwhelming love paired with the ordinary, everyday act of loving our teenage Bella.
It will never be better than it is today.
At first blush, this might sound morbid, but it isn't meant to be; it is meant as a reminder to remain mindful and grateful for the privilege of our time together. In many ways, caring for a senior dog can be similar to caring for a puppy. There are accidents, specific routines, and habits that can be intense and demanding. However, the difference between this season of life and that of a young puppy is that there isn’t a point where Bella will “grow out of it.” Each good (or great) day that she has is a gift. As I look into her precious, cloudy eyes, I know that it isn’t ever going to get better than it is today. And I am so thankful that we’re in a season where we have more good days than bad days. I know there will be a time when that isn’t the case. I’m not ready for it yet, but who could be?
Bella,
I could never do justice to the depth of feeling that comes with caring for you in your golden years. Thank you for letting me be your home. I wish desperately that I could spend the rest of my days with you, but I am more thankful than I can express that you are here, spending the rest of your days with me.
Things Bella Loves
Sniffs
Food
Walks
Naps
Popcorn
Rolling in the Grass
Munching on Snow
Golf Cart Rides
Car Rides
Things Bella Does Not Love
Snuggles
Being Carried
Olives
Lettuce
Toys
Plane Rides
Fireworks
Putting on her Rain Jacket
Shoes/Foot Coverings of any Kind