Remembering Keetna

Just last week I got a note from a member telling me her dog had died. She wrote eloquently about the end of an era of the dog who had taught her so much. My heart went out to her and I admired her for being able to put her feelings on paper so soon.

I have struggled with just that task for almost a year - August 18th marks the day last year that we lost our beautiful Keetna. She is the inspiration for this community, the reason I learned about caring for sick animals and how close you grow in that care. She had lived with diabetes mellitus for almost three years, along with arthritis, thyroid problems and failing sight. Through it all she was just the same - the dog that everybody loved.

That really is her legacy - love. Even people who weren't "dog people" found themselves unable to resist her gentle warmth. She'd limp over to give you a kiss, wagging her tail with the enthusiasm of a pup. My mother-in-law grew up on the farm - she thought dogs were supposed to stay outside. But at age 85, when it was hard for her to move too, she would wind up on the floor snuggling with that dog.

It's not just my husband and I who miss her - people still ask about her, especially little kids. A year is a long time in a child's life, but Lily, who is six, tells me that Keetna is in doggie heaven. Erin, at age eight, tells me she wishes she was still around.

Thank you, Keetna, for the 14 wonderful years you were our companion and friend. We rely on you now as our angel.


Link to Keetna video