Rufus
Rufus was our smooth Chow Chow mix. He was our special friend and companion
for almost 14 years. Rufus became part of our family in 1993 when we
answered an ad in our local newspaper. We drove to the nearby house and saw
the playpen full of gorgeous puppies. I swooped down and scooped him out
of the playpen and held him close to me. I went to set him back down and
something kept me from letting go of him. That day was the start of a
lifelong friendship that we will never forget. Rufus spent his first
five years growing up in the Proctor District in North Tacoma. He was very
smart and perceptive from an early age. Some thought we had an electric
fence and others thought he was a trained service dog. He was such a good
boy that he inspired others to get dogs of their own. He enjoyed walks in
the Proctor District, Old Town, Wright's Park,and through the campus of
the University of Puget Sound. At two years old he tore both anterior
cruciate ligaments and underwent surgeries. Our $35.00 dog ended up costing
a few pennies more. He became a big dog over the years, usually weighing
around 85 pounds. We always knew that his knees would eventually wear out
and cause future health issues, but he was our boy. He spent his adult and
senior years living in University Place. We joked about buying a one level
home. I would say we got it so it would be easier for Rufus to get around
as he aged. Rufus acquired numerous nicknames over the years, each one with
special meaning and so many nice memories. He loved to be with the people
and we loved to be with him. He enjoyed his vet check-ups, especially
stepping onto their big scale and the special bathes from Felicity a couple
times a year (usually after camping trips - sorry!). He enjoyed visits from
his favorite Uncle Jeff who would occasionally watch him when we traveled.
He loved going for walks with Uncle Jeff. Rufus liked to ham it up and show
off whenever possible. He was special in that way, he brought out the best
in everyone. Arthritis set in as he aged and we did everything possible
over the years to ease any discomfort. A special thanks to the doctors
and staff at Chambers Creek Vet. They took such good care of Rufus his
entire life. Eventually he could no longer get up on his own and needed us
to help him stand. We were always there to help him. He got an "A" for
effort. He still liked to go outside and sniff around. He also enjoyed
working on his chew sticks and cattle snouts. He would pick them up and
throw them in the air. He continued to try and play with his special treats
and enjoyed chewing on them up until the time he left us. Rufus was
mentally sharp and he was a proud boy. The cold, wet, and windy weather
the winter of 2006 was especially tough on him. Rufus was a fighter, an old
soldier, and a dog that we'll never forget. We miss the group hugs, sweet
kisses, greetings, and caring for our sweet and special little boy. He left
footprints on our hearts and now he's now running down a dream. Until we
meet again special one, sweet dreams little boy, the people love
you. Remember, - slow and easy wins the race.
Tom & Lisa K
Last Edited: Oct 14, 2008 3:18 PM
