The Loss of a Good Friend

Zippety-do-Dah was not the dog I ran with. But, man we did enjoy the growling fun of vigorous bedtime wrestling challenges. Zippy competed in many loud singing & howling duets with the worst of them - me, and deftly curved her talented hands - I mean paws - to work through problem barriers or grasp toys and wrists. She was always on alert to know when "they're here!". And how high into orbit she twisted in an effort to gulp every possible drop from forceful water hose or oscillating lawn sprinkler. She was tiny and shiny, a little bald, and jet black, invariably so gentle, and ever trusting and good natured, even in her last halting, but determined, months. She was a little friend. But, now her 16 1/2 years of life are completed; her last moments spent caressed in my arms. A little dog, so wanted by a little girl long ago, who lived up to her name - Zippy.  She was the best..  -- May 15, 2011. 1:00 pm.