We have experienced a tragic loss in our family March 16, 2003. Our dog Jupiter was hit by a car. The grief is wrenching and we are recovering. One of the worst parts is the guilt and shame I feel. There are so many "what if" and "I should have" despite the fact that we gave as much care and love for Jupi as we ever could have.
The fact is I took him out for a walk without his leash. It was a fatal mistake and I wish I could undo the past. I can't. I'm posting this to implore that if you are a dog owner please make sure he is on a leash when you leave the house. I want to spare you the same level of grief that my family has to endure. If you have made the same mistake or in the future if you do make the mistake I've made, I just want to say, you will have a sympathetic ear with me. I won't judge or scold you.
Jupiter was a member of our family and our best friend. I'm sorry to our friends and family who also knew and loved Jupi. I won't make the same mistake.
You can view an internet memorial to Jupiter, or, Jubby or Jupi as we like to call him at The Dachshund Memorial Garden. (make sure the Kleenex is near by)
We have also dedicated our perennial garden in memory of Jupiter. We had Jupi cremated and the urn will be place amongst the flowers. The flowers where he loved to play.
Peace