Pet Stories: In Your Own Words

I would like to share the story of my dog, Libbi. She is a 14 year old black lab, who recently lost all of her eyesight. Ten years ago we were told that she would loose all her eyesight within 6 months.

Libbi has always had a real zest for life; a real-seize-the-moment kind of dog. She has never liked being confined, and as a result shattered the bone in her back leg while trying to escape the compounds of a kennel. After the leg healed, she was back to her old shenanigans. Of course, age and blindness have slowed her down, but this wonderful animal does not let her handicaps stop her from enjoying life. She still loves to play, go for short walks, and can maneuver around any obstacle in her path.

Libbi has taught me some very important lessons in life. One, seize the moment, get out and enjoy life. Second, never let your handicap(s) interfere with your life, and when life puts an obstacle in your path, simply walk around it. And, probably most importantly, let your inner child come out and play. It's what keeps us young.

Libbi is still with us, and for that I am very grateful. She amazes me on a daily basis. And even though the white of her eyes have faded to black, and she now sports a gray beard, you can still see the youthful "puppy" in her face.