Magnolia and her Airstreams

[BAB]

Today, we had to put our almost 14 year old basset hound, Magnolia (fondly known as Nola) down. Many of my Airstream friends got to know her and her younger breed-mate, Rhododendron (Rhoda). The two "BG's" -- "basset girls" went everywhere with us. It just seems as if dogs and Airstreams go together, and we made many friends as a result of floppy ears and wagging tails. Both of them easily managed the steps into the trailer -- but into the truck? After the front paws were in place they'd turn around, look at you and seem to say, "well, I'm ready for my boost!" But, over the past months it was apparent that Nola's quality of life was slipping. It was clear that she could no longer manage the simple joys of a dog's life. Having had to do this with two other basset's over the years, I dreaded the inevitable day. But, this morning, Glenn and I took her in and watched as she slipped gently away. Somehow, I feel like we will be together again and share the open road. If you have a pet, give him or her a special hug before you go to bed tonight. Barry and Glenn

[Lily&Me]

So sorry to hear that, Barry.

May memories of her life with you provide comfort.

Maggie

[overlander63]

Barry, I'm sorry to hear this. Nola always would come over, and want to be petted, or scratched behind the ears, whenever I saw her.

Sophie just gave me a hearty lick to pass along-- Might be best to pretend it was a hug and a handshake next time we see you.

[SteveSueMac]

So sorry to hear this. That's a particularly sweet breed of pooch. 😢

[BAB]

Terry, thanks so much for your good thoughts. You, Marie and Sophie are special folks. The only thing to do when you lose a dog is a puppy. We'll wait until after Lewisburg to start that process. Fortunately, Rhoda (sometimes known as "velcro dog") will do her best to fill in the empty space. Barry

[rmkrum]

I've found that after a loss, another rescue dog (or two) fills the hole nicely. I have a pair on my lap right now that we got off the street. Sweet little bonded male litter mates, probably turned out from a puppy mill, that need nothing more than lots of lap time. (Plus food, water, cleaning up after, grooming, and veterinary attention). That's why they are called Cash and Karey. 😀

Dogs have some base need for human attention. Once these two got some attention, they started behaving like well-adjusted doggies, and fit right into our little pack of other rescues.

I still wonder who rescues who...


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[NWRVR]

Sorry for your loss, nothing brings a smile to campers on a walk like a happy dog. Hopefully, you will find a new mate for Rhoda to continue your travels.

[fairtheewell]

I am so sorry for your loss.

[Pagey]

Sorry that I am now just responding. We have lousy internet connections in Yellowstone, even with our own mifi.

I remember the first time I met Nola. It was at our first Alumalina when we camped in our Volvo, our Airstream still a dream. She walked up, looked me in the eye and never changed her gazed. She grabbed my heart then, and all I could think was Gloria Swanson, and "Mr. DeVille, I am ready for my closeup" ala Carol Burnett.

I am grieved for your loss, Barry and Glenn. Magnolia was a wonderful spirit.

[markdoane]

Azalea? Camellia? Hydrangea? Dogwood?

[BAB]

...Page, thanks so much for the kind words. Nola has been gone almost a month now, and we still miss her. Tomorrow it'll get a bit easier as we pick up our new puppy, "Gardenia" (that's for my B-I-L above who's name is not Mark Doane, it's Don. Mark was my Uncle.) Don't think about this too much as it's confusing. Anyway, Gardenia arrives tomorrow to take up residency int he house and in SilverLeaf II. We have nicknamed her "Deena."

[rmkrum]

Sweet. Awwww. The soft ears and gentle face.

Our Quinn has been gone over ten years. I still cry over him. We have others, but not the same. I'm surrounded by rescues at the moment, all sleeping quietly in a slightly too warm house tonight. All's well with the world.


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[centennialman]

Congratulations on Gardenia....she is lucky to be going to your home! Nothing better than a dog in the house/Airstream!

She is a cutie!!

[rmkrum]

It's interesting how quickly dogs decide the airstream and TV are their personal territory.

Had one of ours get off his leash and collar one night when I had him out for a walk. He explored a little, then went right back to our parked rig and waited to be let in.

The only issue we have occasionally is that they want to be up on the bed, which they seem to think is like the couches they are allowed on at home. No equivalent in our AS, so it's an occasional battle.

They also are much more patient at feeding time. They seem to understand that they need to politely take turns. Not easy when they are really hungry, but they try.


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[Pagey]

I look forward to meeting Deena. I agree, she is a cutie! I hope that Rhoda has welcomed her into your home and Silverleaf II warmly. Just watch out for those puppy puddles.

[BAB]

After 24 hours in her new home, Gardenia is running things. Even at only 8 pounds, she is throwing her weight around! Based on the size of her parents, she'll probably get close to 70 pounds when she's full grown. That'll be a lot of basset in the Airstream with two of them looking for their special "spot" -- which is (of course) what all dogs do. Puppy puddles are inevitable, but having another dog makes this a bit simpler as she'll follow Rhoda's lead. Hope you're enjoying Yellowstone, Page!