My Journey

Now back to the story.....

The date was February 23, 2020.....we very fortunate that day that we arrived as our previous campsite was available.....and it really was a great spot.....rebuilding the firering was my labor of love.....and a way to burn the nervous energy.....

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The dogs immediately began to recon the area.....nothing of course had changed.....

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Yukon she doesn't last too long on her feet anymore.....

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.....and fairly quickly she returns to one of her previously dug spots in the tall grass.....

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Tanner and I got in a bit of hiking while Yukon slept the afternoon and evening away.....

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Once again the night came too soon.....I never recall in my life wishing to stop the passing of time so bad.....there just isn't / wasn't enough. The night was cold and we all slept well. I seem to base everything on the nights.....there was an early morning layer of ice on the Jeep and kayaks.....

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It was now February 24, 2020.....I called the veterinarian at 8:00 a.m. and asked that they cancel Yukons 3:00 p.m. appointment.....we felt as though it was not the day.....and I would have given anything for just one more day.....

We decided to drive into Tucson to get groceries and then return that evening.....it was beautiful here.....quite here.....peaceful here.....

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Surprisingly our drive into Tucson was not a good one and Yukon cried for nearly the entire drive. She was unable to get comfortable and continued to stand up and lay back down the entire drive.....maybe one and one half hour. Finally I had to stop to slip her an extra pain killer.....now this was beyond what the veterinarian had allowed.....I swore I would never go that far. I called the veterinarian and they said to bring her in.....the day had finally come.....

We have had many lasts these last few months, and weeks and days but now it was time for the last meal. We chose Outback Steakhouse.....what dog doesn't like a good steak.....

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I got her the best steak on the menu, and got two baked potatoes, french fries, and french bread covered in butter.....

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At first Yukon just didn't know what to think.....she stared at the platter and I'm guessing that she was thinking that this can't possibly be for me.....and then she devoured it with a passion.....as if it was her last meal.....

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The tears were rolling off my cheeks and I just don't recall ever being so sad.....

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My camera was recording everything.....it was as if a thousand pictures would somehow diffuse my pain.....my anguish.....

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Now I had brought her to this spot where the grass grew green and thick.....Yukon has always loved to roll around in the grass and that's exactly what she did next. Then we had a long talk.....I explained to her that she would be leaving Tanner and I shortly and like the thousand pictures I told her over and over how much we loved her. I told her about Rainbow Bridge and that she was going there soon and that her best friend ever, Montana, would be there and that one day we would all be reunited again. And I hugged her and hugged her and finally it was time.....and then she was gone.....

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Sticky9

Member
Jerry, I haven't been able to put into words what my mind is thinking, feeling. I think about my past four legged friends, my two current ones... I think about Montana and Yukon, and Tanner. Then I realize, there is nothing that can be said to ease the pain. I've heard people say, "We don't deserve dogs"... while I don't know exactly if I believe that or what it means, I know you gave Yukon the best life she could have. I think that's where you find your peace. I hope all is well, and safe travels.

Michael
 
On pages 172 and 173 you will find REMEMBERING YUKON.....my tribute to my best friend......


We have finally left Tucson, Arizona and are back on the road again. My friend left a few days after Yukon passed away so now it's just Tanner and I plying the highways and backroads. We have adventures planned, mountains to climb, dreams to fulfill.....

I'll be posting soon about our two weeks in Tucson waiting for Yukons remains. It was eventful yet uneventful at the same time. The drive out of Tucson was challenging.....and I'll speak to that as well.....

Thanks to all.....

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Mekcanix

Camper
Jerry my heart goes out to you and Tanner. I came back to work today knowing what I might find here. I am at my desk fighting hard not to break out into full sobbing. I might add I am not doing a stellar job of that at the moment.
You gave Yukon the best life any dog could have dreamed, hell I am envious.
I know its tough but Tanner needs you more than ever.
And as always, Thank you for sharing even the tough stuff we are all there with you my friend
God Speed Yukon
 

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