To Zeus

Friday, August 22, 2008
This piece is in loving memory of my family's dog Zeus on the occasion of his 30th year in Heaven. His sunset was August 25th of '78. Please let it be known just ho much I miss my beloved canine brother.

You came to my family as our savior. You were the dog we needed to groom to protect us and become a loving family member. You had the traits we looked for in a watchdog and you didn't let us down. We got so much more than a watchdog and a pet, when we adopted you.

We hired a professional dog trainer to teach you and you took to your training very well. It was a pleasure to be part of you life and for us to have worked with each other.

I remember very well, the first time we met back in '68 and how you were successful in getting us to adopt you instead of your 2 brothers who were in your cage too. You were the assertive dog we needed and you became the scourge of the neighborhood and we never were robbed once under your watchful guidance and protection.

You were Duchess' companion, and our wonderful helper and friend. We all loved you. Duchess was the only dog you let near you.

I only regret that I was not in America when you were put to sleep. I was overseas in Israel on that horrid and fateful day. I also had not seen you for about 2 and ½ years as I was living on my own and not near the family.

Duchess loved you as did my parents, sister and my maternal grandparents. Well, my grandma was petrified of you but my grandpa loved you and used to bring bones for you and Duchess to chomp on.

I know that you are now with all my forebears and that you are playing in the World to Come with my family. Duchess and you are reunited in the heavenly spheres.

Thirty years is a long time. Still, my memories of you are undimmed and undiminished. It seems like just yesterday when you were with us all and it seems to be in
recent memory that you were a part of our family.

I wish I could be like you actually. You were so handsome and strong. You were a good sport and very much admired by me when I was growing up. I miss our wrestling matches too.

I still have you in my thoughts and even in my dreams. I always love to think about you and our other animals. But you will always have a special place in my heart as distinguished from Duchess and Princess.