Bronson

I got an email last night from a good friend, Julie. She and her husband Greg lost their dog, Bronson, on December 28. Julie's letter was both heartbreaking and heartwarming. Heartbreaking because I know how much Bronson was loved, and how hard they fought to keep him happy and healthy. Heartwarming because...well, for the same reasons.

Julie and Greg are our kindred spirits in the animal department. Their pets are their children. Bronson was diagnosed with cancer several years ago, but thanks to expert medical care, radiation, and the love of his parents, Bronson came through with flying colors. To my knowledge, that cancer was still gone when he left this world.

As with most aging dogs, Bronson eventually developed arthritis, but Greg and Julie faithfully took him to underwater treadmill. Bronson even got a diet makeover to raw food, which he loved. I've heard many stories about him barking in the wee morning hours, demanding to be fed! (Which, of course, he would be!)

Late last year, Bronson developed a large tumor on his hip, which turned out to be bone cancer. All too quickly, the cancer became painful, and Bronson couldn't bear weight on that leg. Greg and Julie knew it was time to let him go.

On December 28, 2010, at 13 years 5 months old, Bronson left this world, cradled in love by his parents. Julie writes that Bronson was with them for 13 years, 1 day, and 6 hours. My heart is breaking for our friends. I know the kind of love they had for their son, and I know the pain they feel now.

I hope that in time, Greg and Julie can find comfort in the fact that they were the best parents any dog could ever ask for. They showed incredible love, commitment, dedication, and sacrifice. The world is a sadder place now that Bronson is gone, but he will always be a brave soul, who though taken by one form of cancer, still battled another and won.