Quite a journey

[Mr Kleb]

Stella had a birthday yesterday - she is fourteen. She is on a special diet - Dr. Pitcairn's home made diet. Stella's health is still pretty good. She's alert, wants to eat, drink, go out, walk (and still sometimes yodels when I pick up the leash), go for rides.


I know she is nearer than I prefer to the day that no dog owner looks forward. While I am sometimes a little sad about that, the gratitude for, satisfaction with, and pleasure of sharing the last thirteen plus years far outweigh that sadness.


We have had quite a journey since I adopted her in December 2003, a mental, physical, spiritual journey that has deeply enriched me. I have learned a lot about myself, about dogs, about life, and am well aware that I know very little. She has been a gift, challenge, and sometimes a trial. The right dog at the right time, a forever dog.

Today is a mild day so we are enjoying some deck time.

[barry581]

I'm sure she's happy to be taking in the sunshine!

[hunter]

Great pic! I hope you have her for awhile longer!

[Meeps83]

Happy birthday Stella!


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[Mr Kleb]

barry581, I think - I hope - she was happy to do so. It's good that winter wasn't too severe and we could enjoy more time outside than during recent winters. Eventually it was time to come inside to a softer bed.

hunter, thanks! We will have her for as long as god, fate, karma, what have you dictate. I intend to enjoy and appreciate every day.

Meeps83, thank you. Every day is a gift.
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I am in the middle of making her next week's batch of food. Ground pork, oats, a little oil, some vegetables, vitamins and minerals, bone meal. She eats almost every scrap except for the vegetables. Unfortunately I can't say 'Eat your vegetables or no dessert!'

[Mollysmomma]

Happy, Happy Birthday, Stella! It is plain to see that you are a very special girl! You your "parents" are so lucky to have found each other!

[katALlabs]

Happy 14th birthday Stella! Thank you for including us in your journey with her.

[Mr Kleb]

Mollysmomma, she is special as are each one of our pups.

katALlabs, thank you for coming along for the ride.
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Stella may be one of the few remaining Lab board pups from back in the day, eight and ten and more years ago. I came across a few photos.

After she earned her CGC.



Playing with Achilles.



A duck in a dog suit.


'I have no idea how the couch became disembowelled.'

[POPTOP]

Happy Birthday Stella!

You know you are the PERFECT age. You've given much and have much more to give. I wish for you many more pillows to destroy and even more to lay in the sunshine.

[Snowshoe]

Happy Birthday Stella, pretty girl.