Cocker Spaniel Adoption Center Blog

In Memory of David

David died Sunday morning of kidney failure. He died as he lived, with courage and on his own terms. We only had him 18 months, but we were truly blessed for every minute of those 18 months.

For those of you who never got to meet David, I feel truly sorry for you. He lived for 12 years in a tiny wire crate in a puppymill, and was rescued by Linda Koser along with the other "American Idols." He had to have an eye removed when he came into rescue (it had been injured and never tended to--I hate to think of the pain he was in all of that time). David was not in very good shape, and Linda told me she was worried about him. Bob and I agreed to foster him, thinking we could help this poor little soul. Stupid, stupid us--that little dog taught us more about love and courage and perseverance and just being cool than we ever thought possible.

David was our ambassador of goodwill--he would always greet new fosters when they came in as if to say 'this isn't such a bad place, you'll be ok.' He'd show them the water bowl and the beds, and would often lie down next to them when they first arrived. When Linda was dying, he stayed by her until she passed and then he howled when her spirit was gone. God knows I howled when his spirit departed.

He is at peace now, out of pain. He died on his own, and he lies next to Charlie in the ever expanding doggie memorial garden. Thanks, CSAC, for giving us such a precious gift. There is nothing quite like these older PM dogs--and I had the best one of all.

Nancy