Farewell to A True Friend and Family Member.....

Zevon left this world Friday, February 17th around 10:45 am.  Scott and I did the hardest thing we have ever had to do, and brought him to the vet to release his soul.  In looking back we realized just how much a part of this family he has been.  A year before Fiona was born, and immediately following the purchase of our first house Scott and I decided to adopt a shelter dog.  We found a picture of Zevon on a website called "One Tail at A Time Rescue".  The group is formed by volunteers who shuttle animals from "kill" shelters down south to safer shelters and families up north.  It was truly love at first sight.  I have been so proud of him since the first time I held him!  Zevon spent his first year commuting to school with me. I was teaching kindergarten at a private school, which graciously allowed me to keep my puppy in the classroom.  Within a year we had Fiona, and he was so excepting and protective of her.  Zevon was also a great protector of me.  Scott always felt safe leaving me home alone when he went on patrol with the Coast Guard for weeks at a time.  Zevon would never let anyone near the house.  Soon Ethan followed and Zevon just rolled with it.  The kids have never known life without Z...  I have a hard time remembering what it was like before he came into our lives.  The sadness Scott and I feel over this loss has been tremendous, and frankly shocking.  I regret not sympathizing enough for those who have lost pets in the past.  Honestly, this is something that truly took experiencing to grasp the full depth of sorrow.
     We are starting to move through the pain.  I received Zevon's ashes yesterday, and we have set him on the mantel...  As we continue our journey through life we will take our friend with us.  We will sprinkle some of his ashes in the Saco River, in Gammy and Gampy's yard, Lynn Woods, and around Nahant.  I have gathered a few of our favorite photos of our handsome mutt.  R.I.P Zevon