Nelson's Last Day

Nelson (above, and about 9 years old) is my mechanics dog. I've been seeing the same mechanic for about 15 years and Nelson has always been there to greet anyone pulling up or retrieving their vehicle.

A few years ago, the mechanic adopted another dog, Honey, from a person who was living in their car and could no longer take care of her. He had to put her down in December due to neurological issues. 

She was a sweet girl with more gums than teeth, but always happy to say hello. For years I'd bring treats for the marketing department when dropping off or picking up a vehicle. Knowing Honey had passed was sad and the mechanic was obviously hurt by seeing her go.

Today I came by for a scheduled inspection and had a chance to meet the mechanics adult daughter and infant granddaughter. The daughter let me know they were taking Nelson to the vet this very day. He would not be coming home. 

Again, the mechanic was obviously distraught, as he'd had Nelson for a decade and a half. I told him we could do our appointment another time, but he said he liked to be busy. I got to say goodbye to Nelson, which Im glad for since I didn't get to say anything to Honey. 

Having had to make that decision for Rufus, I do not envy anyone who has to say goodbye to a beloved companion. 

Below are the last photos I'll ever take of Nelson. I saw him twice this week and his fur was falling out, not growing back from a vet visit months ago, when he was shaved; his skin was dry and chapped all over. He wobbled when he walked, could barely stand and, once up, could hardly sit. Noting his skin thr other day I asked if he'd been drinking water and the mechanic said, no, that he'd been making him a bone broth mixture to drink. 

Please say goodbye to Nelson. He is probably already gone as Im typing this a few hours after seeing him. 

And today:

May you run happy and healthy at the Rainbow Bridge, my friend.