Our dog Mija at Melton Lake Park, one of her favorite places to visit, in the fall of 2011.
Some of you might have noticed that we had fewer posts than usual these past few days.
That’s because we lost our older dog, Mija, this past weekend. Also, it was Father’s Day, and we decided to take off most of the weekend.
Mija’s death—she was 16—came three weeks after we unexpectedly lost one of our cats, Lily. She was 12 and a wedding present for us.
Oak Ridge Today should be mostly back to normal today. We dedicate today’s news to Mija and Lily.
maremartell says
I am truly sorry for the loss of your members. I will miss them too.
johnhuotari says
Thank you, Mare. What about Mija’s Chewbacca sounds? Lucky’s lost two-thirds of his pack if you include Lily as a dog, instead of a cat, since she seemed to prefer hanging out with the dogs.
Jim Harris says
Sorry man. Losing a dog (especially a longtime companion) sucks!
johnhuotari says
Thank you, Jim. I had Mija since about the time I left Seattle, my hometown. She had a good, long life—16 years old is good for a medium-sized dog. I like to think she lived a long time because of all the running and hiking we used to in Denver. The good thing is we’ve had some time to prepare because she’s had arthritis for a while (about 1.5 years), and we knew this day was coming. It’s still tough, but I think she’s better off now. And she’s still here in spirit.
J Martin says
Sorry to hear about the loss of your furbabies. I lost my sweet 11 year-old dog almost a year ago on 6/19/12 and I still miss him terribly. He was my best friend and loyal companion for 10 years. I’m so glad that you had yours for so long. I know they are all at the Rainbow Bridge.
Anne Garrison Ross says
So sorry for your loss John. It’s never easy losing a fur kid.
Helen Standifer says
So sorry for your loss, it is so hard to lose your furbaby. I lost one, Riley a mini schnauzer, in January and I still get sad and miss him really bad. I rescued another one and it has helped.
Mandy Kilpatrick says
John,
So sorry to hear about Mija and Lily. Mija was such a good girl. I’m glad I got to meet her. Losing a friend is one of the hardest things…even when you know it’s time. I know you all will miss her.
johnhuotari says
Thank you, Mandy. We brought her to a few of her favorite places, including Pet Supplies Plus, in her last few days as part of a “going-away party.” She seemed to enjoy it.
MyraJo says
So sorry to hear of your loss. Pets are part of the family and losing a pet can be heartbreaking. Thinking you you all.
johnhuotari says
Thank you, Myra.
Jason Allison says
Sorry for your loss. We could have waited as long as it would have taken.
johnhuotari says
Thank you, Jason.
David A. Vudragovich says
On a positive note, congrats on 12 years of marriage. Even with fur and fangs, they hold a spot in our hearts but I know I treasure all my furry family in the memories I keep. And grieving is a process, it reminds me I am human and I am not always in control. May you find peace.
johnhuotari says
Thanks to all those who I haven’t already replied to (David, Anne, Helen, and Joan) for your condolences and anniversary congratulations. And I’m sorry also for the pets you have lost. We do believe in both of our cases that they are in better places now.
Kay Williamson says
john, i read this several weeks ago, but I have a hard time replying to these types of stories, Animals lovers and pet owners know exactly how much it hurts when you loose one of your animal children, for years they are a part of your life and when they are gone to heaven to the rainbow bridge to play and wait to see you one day again,, i felt your pain, prayers to you and your family, love k
johnhuotari says
Thank you, Kay. We miss both of them, but they’re still with us in spirit.