Hazel: The Sheep [Irreplaceable] Dog

Hazel came to our family in April of 2010. Full of spunk and a fluffy ball of fur, she instantly stole our hearts and the hearts of all who came to know her. 

In August of 2011, things were not right. She wasn't acting like herself and we knew quickly something was very wrong. After taking her to our vet, they immediately sent us to the emergency vet to get a blood transfusion for Hazel. After running many tests it came back that Hazel had Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, a tickborne illness, and her odds of recovering from it were slim.

But despite her odds, our fluffy fighter fought her way through two blood transfusions, countless rounds of steroids, antibiotics and daily blood tests.       .

little lion

 

Best Buds

She immediately took on the role of protector and watch dog. Even more so after Brooks was born. You could tell she took that role very seriously when it came to her buddy. Always close by, always watching.

Most days during the summer, Brooks and I would head outside in the morning to find Hazel laying on the concrete of the front porch to keep cool. Brooks seized this opportunity and would always come with plenty of smooches, hugs and fur pulling. Hazel never seemed to mind, but given the opportunity to escape, she'd go for it.

Hazel Hugs <3

 

Always wanting to be loved on. Always wanting to play. Always there to greet you. Tug-of-war was her game. Adored her best friend Lady. Protector of her family. Stubborn as all get out. Gentle as could be.

Last night, we lost Hazel. I don't think it's fully set in yet. I can't wrap my brain around the fact that she's gone. Can't believe she's not going to be sitting on the front porch, watching out for us. There are so many things that I miss about her. But she's just a dog. Just a dog that was a part of our family. A dog that loved our babies and us unconditionally. A dog that we will never be able to replace.