This Sunday, Trojan turns 15 or in adult years, 105. She is a remarkable dog and clearly is a fighter. Almost four years ago, she was diagnosed with MVD, which means that she has a flapping value that is no longer attached. She was quickly put on medicine and a healthier diet. MVD be damn, she is still here with us and now we get to celebrate birthday fifteen.
Trojan came to us three days before Thanksgiving and true to that time period gave us much to be thankful for. She was our first pet and we fell in love with her the moment we saw her. Trojan was the shy female in the back of the box. The breeder quickly handed her to us and one look into those eyes and I just knew. That Thanksgiving, Trojan met everyone and was cheered on when she successful went to the door to go potty. That’s my good girl.
In her prime, Trojan was athletic. She loved to play ball ball. Daily walks were a must. On those long walks, I loved to hear the pitter patter of her paws next to meet. We did them in good weather and bad. Snow seemed to electrify her. She would dash outdoor, making trails throughout the backyard. When it was time to come in, tiny snow balls attached to her fur. Those long walks did my soul good and I will forever cherish them. We still walk today, but with a stroller. But my old girl, still bounces up each morning, very early, to join me.
She’s the best older sister. Imagine having the house to yourself and then over the years, two sisters join you. At first, there was an adjustment period, but over time, she learned to let them into her life. Pretty cute to watch Trojan and Mattie chase each other as pups. Today, the girls like to huddle together and sleep. Three older women, taking long naps together.
Trojan is a traveller. She never was completely comfortable outside of her homestead, but we took her places anyway. She’s been to the Outer Bank, where she endured extreme humidity. She has made annual trips to Ohio, where she walked the country roads that I grew up with. Trojan was a member of many a party at the Buchta house. She even took a dip in their pool, quiet by accident. With each trip, she wasn’t entirely happy, but she was content knowing that I was there.
As she enters the Golden Years of her life, there is much to reflect. When she finally goes, I lose my best friends, which makes me incredibly sad. I could be having the worse day ever, but to come and see her, tail wagging, barking, ready to go on our hike. ..how can you stay in a bad mood. She has certainly given unconditional love through the years. We’re so bonded that we can talk without words. It’s as if she knows my inner thoughts and knows when I need a snuggle or a quick kiss on the head.
Trojan fills me with such happiness. She will forever be a part of me and for that I am so incredibly thankful. Having a dog will bless you with many of the happiest days of your life, and one of the worst. That may be true, but I would take that trade over every time for my Trojan. I have gained a lot more than I’ll lose. In the end, I know she’ll be waiting at heaven’s gate ready to go for another long walk with me.
