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In 1977 we hired our first narrowboat from Anglo Welsh at Market Harborough.From that moment our destiny was set. In 2006 we finally purchased our own brand new 57' narrowboat which we named 'Free Spirit'. Our aim is to travel the length and breadth of all the navigable rivers and canals of the UK. This will be our story as it unfolds.

Sunday 28 August 2011

Farewell Judy

Our good and faithful friend has gone to dogie heaven. I cant tell you how much she is missed. Yesterday was one of the hardest days when we had to make the decision to have her put down. We arrived back from Eastbourne on Friday and went straight to Christine's to pick her up. Both dogs greeted us excitedly even though we hadn't seen them for 3 weeks. Judy was noticeably thinner and she appeared to have many lumps and bumps all over her skin. Christine told us that her eating had gone down hill and for a Labrador not to eat tells it all.  Getting her back and onto the boat was a nightmare. She refused to walk across the pontoon and after Ian carried her down to her bed all she did was to collapse and look miserable. Next morning we tried to get her off for her tiddles and this time it was even worse. So the decision was made to take her to the local vet and let him make up our mind although we were pretty sure she wouldn't be coming back. The vet agreed that her quality of life was non existent. He found a heart murmur which may have caused the sudden collapses and confirmed what we already knew, that her back legs had no feeling in them. Ian held her until she closed her eyes for the last time. Her suffering is now over and although we wanted to keep her as long as possible she is at peace at last.Goodbye our wonderful courages friend. You will aways be in our hearts.

4 comments:

nb chance said...

Hi Irene and Ian, So sorry to hear of poor Judy, at least she didn't suffer and you have lovely memories to cherish for ever. Cant imagine how you must be feeling but as we are also nearing the same conclusion, we do feel for you both. Best Wishes Doug and James

Ian and Irene Jameison said...

Thank you both for your kind thoughts. It was the most difficult decision to make but we knew it was only a matter of time. I dont think Jade realises yet although she did panic when we left Mercia Marina. I'm sure she thought we were leaving Judy behind. She started to pant and pace through the boat. She's not gone off her food, though, which is a good sign. All we can do is keep her with us as much as possible and give her loads of fuss.
Kind Regards,
Irene.

Jo Lodge said...

Hi Irene and Ian. I can tell you after reading your posting, I am sat here with tears in my eyes. Judy was adorable as is Jade and I know how difficult it must has been for you to let Judy go, but she had a wonderful life with you both and is now at peace. You have so many wonderful memories to hold on to. I hope we see you all very soon if the canals stay open LOL.(Rain dance being done after I finish this).
Thank you for your message on my blog. Lots of hugsss xxxxx

Ian and Irene Jameison said...

Hi Jo,
We really appreciate your thoughts on Judy. Thankyou for those lovely and kind words. As the days go by it gets easier but I still get out two bowls instead of one and keep calling out for the "girl's" instead of girl! As we have "and dogs" on the side of our boat, a couple came by, spoke to Jade, and asked us where the other dog was. That was hard!!! It will get better but I hope it is sooner rather then later.
If all goes well we hope to be in Stoke Bruerne by the end of September so we will look forward to meeting up with you both then.
Love to both
Irene x

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