Well. This isn't the most cheerful post.

About two weeks ago, we made the extremely painful decision to have Sookie put to sleep.

After spending a weekend with my little niece and nephew, it finally dawned on me...We wouldn't EVER be okay with having Sookie around kids. Even if she improved leaps and bounds with training, she would still remain a dog with poor bite inhibition, who we knew for a fact had extreme issues and WOULD bite when afraid. How could we let a dog like that around children? How could we live with ourselves if she ever hurt someone?

After many hours of talking and tears, we decided the best thing would be to take her to the vet. We couldn't expect someone else to accept the liability if we ourselves could not, and it would have been inhumane to just put her in a shelter where she would be terrified and ultimately put down because of her temperament anyway.

We were able to be with her the whole time, and it seemed to be very peaceful. She was such a good girl.

I really miss her.

Sometimes, I really just want a Sookie-style face lick or cuddle session. When I get out of the shower, I still somewhat expect to see her lying on the floor towel waiting for me. And I miss her whole body-wiggle tail wag. I miss her.

But, I think it was for the best. Gatsby has been so much more calm...I didn't realize how much of an effect she was having on him. We are able to do so much more now, and we are trying to appreciate it. We took Gatsby down to Dead Horse Beach at low tide and let him off the leash to run around. He really enjoyed frolicking in the water and chasing sticks and seagulls. To be honest, he doesn't seem to be grieving. I actually think he likes having our undivided attention again.

Well, I raise a toast to my Sookie-girl. We really loved you and miss you a lot. I hope wherever you are now, you have found the peace you couldn't find here.

<3