REST IN PEACE PHREDDIE

I must pause from my regular reporting on building and operating my dream model railroad to offer a tribute to my four-legged companion of the past five years--our dog Phreddie.  Phreddie was a Brittany--a wonderful breed!  He was ideally suited to us and us to him.  In retirement, we could give him the attention he craved.  In return, he provided companionship, comfort and love. He alerted us to folk coming to the door, especially our regular UPS deliveryman.  He greeted my operating crews with a friendly face and attentiveness.

Early this year, we noted a growth on his right rear leg.  The lump is just visible in the photo above.  The veterinarian diagnosed cancer and gave him a short time.  He outlived that diagnosis by a considerable margin, but inevitably, the cancer took its toll and gradually reduced his mobility.  He adapted well for quite some time to ever more limiting use of that right rear leg.  When Phreddie could no longer be himself--a field dog, we knew it was time to end his suffering.  

On walks (at least two a day, rain or shine), Phreddie showed his spaniel nature--always sniffing, looking for game.  Squirrels and quail were favorites.  I found myself following his nose.  He loved a regular routine, but that still meant checking all of the usual spots every day.

In spite of being a field dog, Phreddie was a house dog.  Likely that was because he wanted--needed by breeding--to be close to us.  He provided us seemingly endless entertainment and mirth.  Every day provided at least one new laugh at some action on his part. Yes, as with all dogs, he sought any food scrap that might come his way.  He kept us on schedule.  Once we did an activity a second time, he expected that as part of his daily routine. 

The inexhaustible love shown by a dog is but a reflection of that shown by our Creator--God.  I hope we will meet again "on the other side."  Rest in peace loyal friend and companion.