In Tribute to Tuffy

Children and pets may keep us young at heart, but their aging is a dramatic indicator of the passage of time. It seems like just yesterday GrrrD and her Canadian brother Tuffy posed in these pre-wedding photographs with their college buddy owners. That was over six years ago. Both men now have established careers and several children apiece. GrrrD is a crotchety senior spaniel, and sadly, Tuffy has passed away.

Tuffy's recent death has been a topic of much reflection in my home this week. He was a beautiful and funny dog, and he touched many lives--internationally!

The strength and endurance of the sibling bond between Tuffy and GrrrD was enchanting. GrrrD (aka "the Snerd") has always been a persnickety female dog. Around other dogs she typically remains aloof, protesting loudly and viciously when another canine crowds her space (luckily she is all bark and no bite). But she loved Tuffy. And amazingly she never forgot him!

On two occasions GrrrD accompanied my husband, oldest son and me to Manitoba to visit our dear Canadian friends and their dog Tuffy. Both times we watched in wonder as GrrrD leapt from the car after the long drive, exchanged a civil sniff with her black-and-white brother and immediately fell into crazy "puppy" play. It was unusually friendly behavior for GrrrD on any account. What makes it even more amazing is that it had been years since the littermates had last seen each other!

The bond between these spaniel siblings was special but not unique. As a veterinarian I've had more than one pet anxiously watch me examine its pal, showing more trepidation than the animal under inspection. I've met numerous dogs and cats who have grieved the loss of a fellow housemate (I don't think they necessarily grasp the concept of death, but loss they certainly do). I find these demonstrations of animal empathy and loyalty remarkable! The relationship between Tuffy and GrrrD has shown me that animal fondness can withstand separation by both miles and years.

Good dog, Tuffy.