Loss of a Loved One

Kylee last summer with Chris and Sami.

A few weeks ago I had posted about an issue with our dog Kylee having what seemed to be doggie vertigo. June 27, while we were on vacation, our beloved pet of almost 13 years died in my neighbors arms. Sounds dramatic, but it's true. (You know how us Jacobs' can't do anything without drama)

My neighbor Keri called us around 8 pm saying that Kylee was having the same symptoms that she had a few weeks ago. We told her where the Dramamine was and what to do. We honestly figured she would give her the medicine and a few hours later she would be running around as she did a few weeks ago. I kept calling to check in and she seemed to slowly be getting better. Keri told me that she planned on staying the night at the house just to watch Kylee and then Matt would be home the next day to take care of her. At 11:30 pm Keri called and told us that Kylee died in her arms. She wasn't alone and she didn't seem to be in pain. She just slipped away.

We got Kylee in October 1995. She would have been 13 years old on July 3. Kylee had a wonderful life and was a huge part of our family. When our family had been turned upside down Kylee was the one constant in our kids lives. I remember Emily clutching and hugging Kylee all the time after Allison died. When she was a puppy Matt and I used to push a newborn Emily in the stroller while the other one walked Kylee on a leash. She moved with us three times. She loved to go visit at my parents house and play with their dogs. My parents loved Kylee like she was their own dog. (And for a few months during our moves she was their dog)

She was old in dog years. We were very blessed to have almost 13 wonderful years with her. It was hard not being here when she went. But for the kids sake it was probably better. I feel horrible that Keri had to deal with it all, but I am so glad she was here and Kylee didn't spend her last few moments alone. It was hard coming home Saturday after being gone two weeks and not have her greet us at the door. Our house just seems –– quiet.

We plan on getting another dog, just not right now. But I couldn't help but sneak food to the cat that found its way to our front porch last night. While I am not a cat person, it felt, well... right.

Goodbye Kylee. We miss you.