For the past week here in Northeast Florida, we’ve had nothing but steady rain and down pours. Yesterday was the first day we could venture out and stay dry. We are not in the hurricane zone in the panhandle region, and I don’t think our soggy weather pattern is even related to that storm, now historically the latest hurricane to form in hurricane season. I do know people there and how scary and destructive it can be in the storm’s direct path. I wish for them a soft landing.

But, even the rain couldn’t dampen the occasion of my dog Quint’s 5th birthday. Quint came into my life just three weeks after Rich’s passing. Not long after, it became apparent that he was born with limited vision. Because of their visiual limitations, blind dogs are not as active as others, it’s something Quint’s former veterinarian shared with me. He tends to be a floor hugger and when finally coerced, he enjoys going out for his walks, but scurries back home to his favorite role as a fluffy area rug.

Alas, during his last vet check up, he was put back on a low calorie specialty dog food with very limited treats and of course suggestions of longer faster walks.  We even have a weigh-in scheduled for the middle of next month. He’s had his blood panels done to rule out thryroid problems. He just likes his food and not moving about so much, otherwise he’s in good health.

Because I do want him to be around for as long as possible, I know it’s important to get him down several pounds and I know that even a few can make all the difference in the world.

Despite this challenge, he is as quirky and entertaining as ever with his head strong personality.

Quint loves people and going places. As a young pup he went everywhere with me. He wants to interact with everyone around him and in my earliest stages of widowhood, he got me out of the house and into the world more than anyone can imagine. His adorable face and fluffy hair (not fur as he doesn’t shed) attracted lots of admiration and still does. The Blind leading the blonde. 

Quint’s life got off to a rough start in California. His momma, Shasta, was abandoned by her owner and was brought to a shelter where it was determined that she was about to give birth. Due to the help of Joy Manley of R & R Sanctuary and wonderful fosters Ola and Roberta, Shasta and her pups were able to get themselves to good homes. Sadly, Shasta, who was adopted by her fosters, passed away this summer after a sudden illness. 

I’ve been writing alot about this these days and I’m at the stage where I’m rereading once again and sending out excerpts to those who are prominently mentioned in my memoir. The writing process has been a steadying force for me during the past two years and I hope to make it available by next summer while working on my next project. 

Quint was named for the shark hunter played by Rich’s favorite actor Robert Shaw in his favorite movie JAWS. It is a name derived from Middle English meaning prudent, crafty or clever. It pairs well with Rich’s beloved Portugues Water Dog, Hooper. 

Now we are a four dog home. If we get another I think we’re going to need a bigger house! 

Here’s to Quint, Rich, Robert Shaw and all the dogs out there waiting for a good human to celebrate their special days. 

And a special remembrance to little sister, Daisy, celebrating at The Rainbow Bridge.