mybuddybinks
Member Since 2010
It may seem the wrong place to post this, but when you read on,
I believe you will agree that this is EXACTLY where this story belongs.
This morning, my sister Tamara's Bernese Mountain Dog- Nigel "Nip" Simmons- crossed The Bridge.
His history is somewhat the same as my Adoptocats- when my sis went to the nursing home,
he and the 2 kitties were left here unsupervised at her house.
But two years into their isolation, Nip became a "public nuisance"-
barking incessantly, disturbing the neighbors (as would any lonely, ignored dog).
So to avoid citations, fines, etc.- he moved down the street to live with my mother.
As many of you know, I come from a ranch family that firmly believes animals are food, tools, or pests-
and pets are a ridiculous luxury. My mother subscribed to this belief- and hated having to care for Tam's 'cast-offs'.
(Her reaction to my treating Binks was the same as many of you have experienced- absolute disbelief, disparagement, and ridicule.)
But Nip's good manners and gentle nature began to grow on her- and three years ago when she fell seriously ill and
took to her bed (refusing to call anyone for help) this remarkable dog stayed by her side for three days-
and finally broke through a screened window and went to the neighbor's house, barked until they came outside,
then led them back to Mom, who was taken to the hospital.
Nip was an old fellow, and last week he went into renal failure.
As we were deciding on the best way to proceed, my mother finally broke down and turned to me in tears-
and said "NOW I understand...you did what you did for Binks because of their love and devotion"
(BTW- this is the third time in my life I have ever seen my mom cry,
and the first time she has spoken Binks' name- heretofore she referred to him as "That Cat")
Nip passed this morning with his head cradled in my mother's lap.
So I raise a glass to you, Nigel "Nip" Simmons- for your kindness, your gentle caring way...
and most of all- for opening a needful heart to the beauty and wonder of unconditional love.
Land softly, Big Fella...you will be lovingly remembered and sorely missed.
Celi
I believe you will agree that this is EXACTLY where this story belongs.
This morning, my sister Tamara's Bernese Mountain Dog- Nigel "Nip" Simmons- crossed The Bridge.
His history is somewhat the same as my Adoptocats- when my sis went to the nursing home,
he and the 2 kitties were left here unsupervised at her house.
But two years into their isolation, Nip became a "public nuisance"-
barking incessantly, disturbing the neighbors (as would any lonely, ignored dog).
So to avoid citations, fines, etc.- he moved down the street to live with my mother.
As many of you know, I come from a ranch family that firmly believes animals are food, tools, or pests-
and pets are a ridiculous luxury. My mother subscribed to this belief- and hated having to care for Tam's 'cast-offs'.
(Her reaction to my treating Binks was the same as many of you have experienced- absolute disbelief, disparagement, and ridicule.)
But Nip's good manners and gentle nature began to grow on her- and three years ago when she fell seriously ill and
took to her bed (refusing to call anyone for help) this remarkable dog stayed by her side for three days-
and finally broke through a screened window and went to the neighbor's house, barked until they came outside,
then led them back to Mom, who was taken to the hospital.
Nip was an old fellow, and last week he went into renal failure.
As we were deciding on the best way to proceed, my mother finally broke down and turned to me in tears-
and said "NOW I understand...you did what you did for Binks because of their love and devotion"
(BTW- this is the third time in my life I have ever seen my mom cry,
and the first time she has spoken Binks' name- heretofore she referred to him as "That Cat")
Nip passed this morning with his head cradled in my mother's lap.
So I raise a glass to you, Nigel "Nip" Simmons- for your kindness, your gentle caring way...
and most of all- for opening a needful heart to the beauty and wonder of unconditional love.
Land softly, Big Fella...you will be lovingly remembered and sorely missed.
Celi
