Man's Best Friend - Blackjack
Last week, I suffered a huge loss in my life. Blackjack, my dog of 13 years, had to be put down on Friday night following a fight with a cancerous tumor in his shoulder. This story isn't about me however. It's about the Kansas City Chiefs and my fallen friend.
You might be wondering how my dog and a football team could possibly be connected. In truth, he didn't know one player on the team and never knew a preseason game from a playoff affair.
With that said, he always knew when they won and lost.
See, he had a section on one of our couches that was his. He would lay up there everyday, lounging around with my Father and I enjoying our time together. We watch a ton of sports in this house but nothing comes close to the intensity of a Chiefs game on a Sunday afternoon.
Blackjack would sit with us every week, seemingly knowing the game was about to commence. When the Chiefs did something positive we would cheer and he would come to life rigorously, wagging his tail with reckless abandon. When they scored, or hit on a big play, my Dad and I would jump up and celebrate. He would unfailingly come bounding off the couch and jump with us, celebrating a triumph he couldn't explain but never misunderstood.
There was nobody pulling harder on cold autumn and winter days for a Kansas City victory than that dog. He loved seeing us happy and a Chiefs win would invariably do that. When Jamaal Charles scored against Baltimore last year, it was hard to tell who was more excited.
When the decision was made to put him down, I cried most of the night. My father cried the whole night. We were losing our best friend. I can't explain to someone who doesn't have a pet how much you come to love them. It really is like losing a family member.
Watching the final seconds of his life evaporate in our hands, I'll never forget all the things I thought of. How much I love him, how much I'll miss him and how I need to make him proud by becoming a better person. The only other thing that crossed my mind was I really wished the Chiefs could've won a Super Bowl when he was here...he would have loved it.
I'm sure everybody says this about their pet, but there honestly wasn't a more kind or happy animal than Blackjack. He exemplified all the great qualities an individual can possess and what we should all try to be.
Every morning before work, I would always come out of my room and look for his happy face on the couch. I'd go over and give him a quick pet, then grab some juice and start typing away. Even though he's gone, I still look for him, searching for a memory I'll never replace.
Come next season, I will still watch every game with my Dad. We'll celebrate the good times and get through the bad, but it will never truly be the same. Say what you will, but Blackjack was a big part of our gameday experience.
Some people say that sports are just a game. Those people don't know my family, and didn't know my dog.
Rest in peace Blackjack, and go Chiefs.
34 recs | 187 comments
Sorry for your loss
I had a border collie as a pet when I was younger. Nothing can describe how I felt when she died of old age a few years ago.
Glad he was a Chiefs fan.
chiefs_fan_forever - February 16, 2012
Man's best friend!
Zulu Trader - February 16, 2012
RIP Blackjack
I lost my dog Elle this past year, so I know what you’re going through. While Sundays might not be the same without him, at least you got to spend that special time with him over 13 long years. Sorry for your loss, brother.
tyjury - February 16, 2012
So sorry about your dog
My lab s almost 14 and not doing so well these days. It pains my heart to think he won’t be around forever.
Spiderwomn69 - February 16, 2012
Same here. My English Setter is 15 and is now blind and deaf.
When you first get your dog, you never really think 15 years down the road.
NigerianNightmare - February 16, 2012
Yeah it's tough
My dog now is only my second dog. My first was a husky who died at 7, he was the product of bad inbreeding. I’ve had my lab since he was born. He’s been my best friend for nearly half my life…
Spiderwomn69 - February 16, 2012
What a sweetheart
I hope you have a few more wonderful years with him.
Ochophosphate - February 16, 2012
Me too
I just don’t even remember how to live without him
Spiderwomn69 - February 16, 2012
Beautiful pic, Spider. Thanks. :+) rec'd.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
rip blackjack
this is why i cant have a dog. had a rabbit as a kid and when it died it crushed me. i get attached to my friends dogs….i cant imagine 13 years and having to put it to sleep. would be depressed, really really depressed
SDChief - February 16, 2012
Tear Jerker
Big animal guy myself (I have six). My condolences to you and your father.
RIP BlackJack, you will be missed and honored
dudebuddyrage - February 16, 2012
also,
rec
dudebuddyrage - February 16, 2012
Really sorry to hear about your dog.
Made me think of how I would feel if I lost my dog, that suck to hear man, dogs are great friends, your story about your dogs spot on the couch reminds me of what my dog always tries to do on my couch.
Got a boxer and I dont allow him on the couch even though I know he gets on it while im gone. I will be watching T.V. and he will be just watching me, thinking im not looking he will put one paw up on the couch and just wait to see if I notice without moving for a while, then the next paw, and sits and waits, then slowly tries to put his upperbody up on the couch the whole time watching me like he is a sneaky special ops or something not moving if he senses me about to look at him, and slowly tries to get his whole body up. About then I had enough of his tricks and cant help but laugh knowing I knew the whole time what he was up to. So he gets down and it starts all over again. its classic.
chad unit - February 16, 2012
I have a Boxer
She is 1 now, does that same exact stuff. All you can do is laugh at them thinking they are being sneaky. Great dogs tho.
CWil03 - February 17, 2012
I had to rec this to several googles if I could. :+)
Great description of the psychology of dogs in action. Ehh, as much I love my dogs, all 4 have full run of the place. They have my bed, my couch and my recliner, and make me sleep on the floor. whimpers
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
I have 4 canine family members.
It is said you can tell a lot about a man by the way he treats and cares for his animals. Best post I have ever read on AP.
theothertonyg - February 16, 2012
Rec
It reminded me of when my last dog had to be put down, and I just about lost it. I have another one now and he is just a puppy. I’d rather lose a friend or family member than my best buddy.
Chiefs1 - February 16, 2012 via mobile
rather lose family member?
glad we arent brothers
TheScreenName - February 16, 2012
Me too
Chiefs1 - February 16, 2012 via mobile
I feel the same way
MadMartigan816 - February 16, 2012 via mobile
me too
TheScreenName - February 17, 2012
Sorry to hear that
Never easy losing a pet. Keep your head up
TheScreenName - February 16, 2012
I'm sorry for your loss, flowers
No greater loss than the loss of innocence, and that is exactly what dogs are for the people that love them.
Heart goes out to you to get through it
RememberDelaney37 - February 16, 2012 via mobile
yea there are never bad dogs just bad owners.
pitt bulls get a bad rap most the time they are great dogs also unless they get a bad owner.
chad unit - February 16, 2012
I think Pit Bull Terriers can go off without provocation though. I could be wrong.
They are banned in many cities here.
craig in calgary - February 16, 2012
Cocker-Spaniel
dudebuddyrage - February 16, 2012
are the most aggressive
dudebuddyrage - February 16, 2012
due to their "Rage Syndrome"
a genetic defect
dudebuddyrage - February 16, 2012
they are banned in many cities everywhere.
Rottweilers are the same way and I have one. Many home insurances wont cover you with those types of dogs….just like most other dogs if they are neglected they form some sort of “me against the world” attitude instead of “me and my buddy and life is a bowl of cherries” attitude and when they do go become aggressive they are capable of more damage than say a poodle, which are actually more likely to become agressive than a pitt or rott. Sorry about the soap box….being a rottweiler owner, their bad reputation is something im very passionate about.
dudeustupid - February 16, 2012
Pits and Rotts
are both banned in my city, but that doesn’t stop me from owning my pitbull… been almost 8 years and this dog will tackle you to lick your face… agreed 100% that it’s the owner not the dog… just like any dog can be trained to fight…
BlackDoom - February 17, 2012
Have to agree
Had a friend with two HUGE rot/lab mixes, and they were the sweetest heifers ever – like 90 and 100lbs of black furry love. Yes their bark was pretty fearsome, and if you just saw them in the yard they were intimidating, but they never gave me anything but love… why? Because their owner raised them that way. I’ve known folks with pits that were the same.
Used to date a girl who’s parents had a doberman, and it was the biggest pussy dog in all of the land, it would literally pee on the ground if a tiny dog would run up to it barking aggressively (like toy poodle small). She was sweet and loving though, again, because the owners made her that way. She was all bark, no bite.
Ochophosphate - February 17, 2012
This.
dudebuddyrage - February 16, 2012
SENSORED
craig in calgary - February 16, 2012
Memories
The memories we have filed away in our hearts always remain and time lessens the pain. Eventually, we can stroll down memory lane and appreciate the happiness we experienced with our pets.
I guess that’s why I keep getting new pets. The joy they bring while they’re with us far out weighs the sorrow we feel when they’re gone.
Chief Kate - February 16, 2012
Hi.
craig in calgary - February 16, 2012
Tears for you, my man, literally
Had to put down one of mine (Reuben) last summer after a tragic accident – sweetest dog I’ve ever known in my life. Not the one in my profile pic, Capo, but his younger brother from another mother (same breed). I cried like a baby when I buried him. This story brought back a lot of that.
I know what you mean by “I still look for him, searching for a memory I’ll never replace.” See, Reuben (and Capo for that matter) wasn’t a “licker”. You could put your face right up to his and he would just chill. Only on rare occasions, like when I would return from a business trip, I might get one single solitary kiss when we were first reunited… but otherwise, nothing. However, he would come up to you, lean in and press his cheek up to your mouth so you could give him kisses, which he loved. I used to lay flat on the floor with him on my chest/stomach so that his cheek would rest on my lips… and I’d rub his belly and chest and could feel him pressing his warm cheek against me. It’s one of my fondest memories.
Just last week, my youngest son was sitting on the couch with my sister-in-law, and he stood up and pressed his cheek against her face to get a kiss. My wife said “aww, just like Reuben”, and I damn near lost it. I had to leave the room.
As Capo gets older, I know his days are numbered as well and it won’t be too long before he joins his brother on the hill behind my house. I just try not to think of it and I give him as much love as possible while I still can.
My most sincere condolences for your loss. Cherish those memories and know that on gameday, every time you and your pops cheer, Blackjack is jumping off his couch in heaven and jumping and wagging his tail.
RIP good buddy.
Ochophosphate - February 16, 2012
That's really nice
Thanks so much, I’ll be thinking of that
Flowers24 - February 16, 2012
I hear you...
I lost my best friend when i was 16, had that good ol boy from the ripe age of 8 when he was so small he could fit in a coffee, cut. See he was the runt of the litter, thats why my mom got him, little did she know that a Black Lab/Newfoulndland could grow up the size of a black bear and run around with a regulation sized basketball in his mouth. Max grew into a Beast, he won the Sled Pull at our local fair! He was the best friend I’ve ever had, he knew when i was happy and when i was mad, and of course he knew when the chiefs lost. I remember him nuzzling up next to me and calming me when the Chiefs had the Monday night Melt down and DT was a firecracker. Since him its been sooo hard to even think about a new dog…ive had others but never gave them the same thing i had with my boy Max.
KChiefs58 - February 16, 2012
Great story too, KC.
I never had a dog big enough to carry full9size BB in his mouth though, lol. But the biggest dog I’ve ever had – who was half yellow lab-part GSD-and probably some breed bigger – that just passed away about 6 weeks ago would let me throw a football at him about as hard as I could wing it and he’d jump up and try to catch it with mouth AND front legs. No matter how hard I threw it, he’d always try to catch it. And he’d chase, corral with his legs, and try to pick up my basketball after every shot, or grab it when I was dribbling around him.
Soccer ball – same way; frisbee – same way. I have no doubt he would’ve tried to catch a baseball or softball if I threw at him like a pitcher. He had no fear of balls or anything flying towards him. I serve tennis balls from my deck for my dogs to chase.My coonhounds could care less about chasing balls, and my white GSD would always win the race for the tennis ball, baseball or softball, but Shadow would always give her competition.
And yes – dogs will always the BEST and only TRUE friend you’ll ever have. Thanks for the story. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Great story
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Sorry for your loss. A dog is like family member.
We had two dogs, a german shepperd/healer and a black lab. But they were constantly fighting so we ended up finding a new home for Sadie (lab). It’s not quite the loss you had, but i still miss her like crazy and think of her everyday. But thankfully, we still have Libby (german shepperd) so this helps and she’s a great dog as well. Hopefully another dog will come in be your best friend again.
jcrunninwild - February 16, 2012
Sorry man about Blackjack, i have two dogs, both are almost seven
Black jack and the Chiefs, i know what you mean, i know in time i will have to do the same but Rocky is like my best friend German Sheperd likes to watch tV watches whole progarams, the only thing he does’nt do is take the remote, When i am watching the Chiefs play he barks gets up and runs around with joy but the opponent team he growls at them because he things their trying to hurt our players.
i know what you mean man if anything, i would cry possilby for Days in Rocky was not with me any longer. My other dog is a Girl and she has no interest in the Chiefs nor any thing else on TV more a people person, she is my resue dog and loves me as much as he does.
antony555 - February 16, 2012
Thank you for getting a rescue dog, antony.
I hope more do like you did. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Total sympathy here...
just put down my best friend, Frank, yesterday afternoon. He got hit a few years back and had been gradually deteriorating recently. When he went after my wife, I knew we had to let him go. Stood there in the vet’s office explaining what had happened and cried like a baby. Loved that dog. Fortunately, I’ve got a dad and brother on the other side who I’m sure are playing with him right now. Gonna miss him.
Chiefs70man - February 16, 2012
Sorry man and i bet he is!
antony555 - February 16, 2012
Sorry for your loss
Losing pets is never easy.
fongKC - February 16, 2012
dude i go that same chiefs helmet
Old school
chiefnation - February 16, 2012 via mobile
Little bit eerie this post
We moved when I was ten from the country to a small town. Our neighbor across the street had Lab Puppies and asked if we’d take one. We’d just lost our 3-legged Husky so my Dad said sure. The result was a beautiful black lab/chow mix we named Blackjack.
Two years ago he had to be put down because of a tumor in his leg. That was the second time I’ve ever seen my Dad cry. He was more than a dog or a pet. He was family.
Our sympathy goes out to you, its never an easy thing losing family.
shotty - February 16, 2012
Man I gotta go stop
Whoever is cutting those onions
ChiefRoyal - February 16, 2012 via mobile
Scientist have proven people who own dogs live longer
So if its any consolation you may have to way a little longer to see BlackJack again………….
antony555 - February 16, 2012
Hey Flowers....really sorry man...
We have (3) buddies right now and I know its not going to be fun when one of their times come due…while Chiefs players may come and go, our pets are our own personal athletes, that we coach, mentor, cheer and discipline. They don’t ask for contract extensions, don’t have agent’s, don’t get pissed at blown tackles or bad play call’s (even though we might). They let us dress them up in team jersey’s, get excited when we get excited, and sometimes even growl at the TV when we’re growling at the TV…RIP Blackjack, and all those that have been lost before and will in the future….
Rokbrnc - February 16, 2012
You should be a poet that really hit the spot!!!!!!!!!!!!!
antony555 - February 16, 2012
Great eulogy to the dog, Rok. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Sorry for your loss
I have a 13-year old female Lab Pointer mix (Brandy). My wife and I have no children so she is very spoiled. I spent $3500 on her last XMas to have growths removed from her liver. I went through alot of the pains of thoughts of living without her so I know how you feel. She has recored very well and were back to walking 45 min-1hr per day. I know iots not easy for you but I hope it all works out for you and I am sure God has a special place for BlackJack.
TEXAN_CHIEF - February 16, 2012
Thank you for caring about her that much, Texan.
That makes you both very special people in my opinion. Unfortunately, there’s just no way I could afford that much to save any of my dogs, and I feel bad about that. So I hope it never comes to having let one die from something that could be fixed. I hope she continues to improve, and you have many more happy years together. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Dogs are tough to lose and they never lie to you like your wife.
My dad said he has only seen his dad cry once and that was when hes dog passed.
OJ In Nevada - February 16, 2012
Bravo on telling it like it is about wives and so-called "g/f's," OJ.
Again, the dog is the only TRULY, utterly, absolutely faithful, loyal best friend you’ll ever have unto death do you part. Humans suck …
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
my dog watches what games we can get down here in Texas with me. He does the same thing, freaking out with me, and even barks at the other team.
Joe Youngblood - February 16, 2012
To me
there are very few losses as great as the loss of a beloved pet. I feel for you. Thank you for sharing it with us.
KHAZAD - February 16, 2012
Don't feel bad for BlackJack, he is sitting on the couch with DT, watching all The Chiefs games.
………….awesome post, in my eyes, this is what AP is all about!!!
Masons - February 16, 2012
Now that's a comment.
Falcon58 - February 16, 2012
as rec worthy as they come imo.
Ochophosphate - February 16, 2012
And...
making the sign for a safety with his paws!
Wichita Chief - February 16, 2012
My heart breaks for your loss man.
That was really sad hearing your story. My parents had a boxer that I had the joy of living with my last few years of high school. I loved that dog so much and we would run and play fetch every time I went over to the house no matter how old either of us got. If it was cold or bad weather outside then we’d get down on the floor and wrestle for what felt like forever. He was my first real dog I was close to and I was so upset when we had to put him down two autumns ago. I actually had engagement pics scheduled that day and still had to take them after balling my eyes out after putting him down. I’ll never forget that day, or Truman. I actually cried more when we put him down than when my alcoholic grandfather passed away, which to me is strange to cry more about a dog than a human, but in a very real way I was closer to him than my grandfather, whom I maybe saw twice a year during the holidays.
Sorry again for your loss, I’ve felt your pain, and you’ll move on as I’m sure you know, but you’ll never forget the great memories. Thanks for the post all the same.
Lil'Sparky - February 16, 2012
my boxer loves to wrestle, whats with that?
Is it just that kind of dog? I say the word wrestle and he is all over it knowing what im talking about. Thats cool hearing another boxer does that also.
chad unit - February 16, 2012
Hahaha!
Yes, boxers do love to wrestle and play-fight. They are such loving, sweet companion dogs. But lots of dogs will love to wrestle and play-fight if you raise them that way.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Oh yeah ... my grandmother was the hardest losing.
My grandfather was fairly difficult. The only loss unimaginable would be losing my daughter. But all my dogs are/were the hardest loss next to my grandmother. Thanks for telling it like it is – that losing your dogs can be worse than people/family members.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Sorry for your loss
I to have a lab ad shorthair tht watch every game with me. I agree they uderstand our emotions and emulate them as well. I know when the time comes for my two it will be one of the greatest losses of my life. I am sure Blackjack’s memory will be there forever and you will remember those fond times you spent together. RIP Blackjack!
Birdhunter66 - February 16, 2012
I had to put my dog down a few months back.
Hard to do. It’s just nice to know I was able to give her such a good life, and I think I’ll see her in the next too.
bossmanham - February 16, 2012
Sorry for your loss
I know your pain, last August 15th I had to put down my best friend of 12 years Allie. She was a boxer that loved to watch the games with me. Her favorite toys were the Oakland Raider Beanie bears that I gave to her to tear into :) You’ll never replace a close friend but you can meet a new one like I’ve done with my new puppy, a female boxer named Roxy.
kc785856 - February 16, 2012
Teared up when you wished for the superbowl. It was like I could feel how you meant it.
<img src="http://
"/>
Dustin SLO,CA - February 16, 2012
Day after my surgery
From destroying my ankle on duty stuck in bed and 2 weeks after breaking up w/ my ex after 51/2 years.
Dustin SLO,CA - February 16, 2012
What a beaut!
She looks as soft as velvet.
Ochophosphate - February 16, 2012
Beautiful dog my man. Thanks for the pic. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
I voted yes to "have I ever owned a pet"
But I should’ve honestly voted no. Because you don’t own a pet, a pet owns you.
Sudden - February 16, 2012
so true ... my current owner knows that all too well (huge grin)
a Dobiegirl named Bella, rescue from about 9 yrs ago, she’s about 12ish and doing well so far, knock on whatever …
before that was Josephine … love of my life for 14 years, got her as a pound puppy … she was my best friend, partner, Jeeping navigator, camping buddy, muse, protector and child … all rolled into one (not to mention “surrogate mommy and babysitter” for a couple of others I had during her time)
never knew a dog could be so relaxed … been 8 or 9 years and even though I have my Bellagirl, I still miss Josephine
upamtn - February 16, 2012
Your dog and my dog should hang out.
KCMizzou - February 16, 2012
That's awesome
The whole thread is awesome, but this is a hoot!
Ochophosphate - February 16, 2012
Thank you for the pic, Ups. And rec.
Well … I hope you have Bella for 3,4, 5 more years at the least. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Ohh ... and a BIG THANK YOU ...
for getting rescue and pound puppies/dogs. :+) I rec you to infinity and beyond for that.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Sorry for your loss
Sorry to hear you lost your friend…cherish the many good memories you had with him.
rolu315 - February 16, 2012
I'm terribly sorry for your loss, Flowers24
my Border Collie, Tiff, also knows when the Chiefs win or lose. She’ll be 12 next month and I’ve had her since she was small enough to hold in one hand. She’s been my best friend for so long, I don’t know what I’ll do without her.
Chief Willie Wildcat - February 16, 2012
Yeah, I had my grandpa's border collies I inherited.
The female passed about a year ago at the age of barely 17 I think? Her brother passed away about 2 years ago. They were my grandfather’s cattle and sheep herders. They’d also herd the hogs, chickens, my daughter when she was little, and just about anything else you’d tell them too. Thanks for the pic. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Thank you for sharing your story, Flowers24.
It kinda’ made my day, actually. Brought back some memories.
Not everyone is lucky enough to have that kind of special relationship with an animal in their lifetime. And those of us that were, or are? We’re truly blessed. The loss is heartbreaking, no doubt about it. But all the good times…I wouldn’t trade for anything.
My sincere condolences on the loss of your friend.
Scott B. - February 16, 2012
soo sorry...
i lost my dog of 12 years when i lived in liberty also my dog currently has a cancerous tumor hes still kickin now but me and the family are preparing for him to move on glad to share the pain with ya buddy chiefs fans stick with each other throughout.
Zac Saleski - February 16, 2012
I'm sorry flowers
Had to go thru the same situation a year ago with my 14 year old yellow lab. Time will help buddy…hang in there
AZchiefdude - February 16, 2012 via mobile
Pets ARE family!!!
Sorry for you loss, brotha.
Pacific Chief - February 16, 2012
My heart goes out to you Flowers24 and RIP Blackjack
I completely understand how you feel, as we had to put down our beloved, silly, pointy-headed Duke a year & a half ago. It tore my heart out. His sister and mom are still with us and the sister, Sasha got sick the day we had to put Duke to sleep. She was perfectly fine the next day, although a bit quiet. They have so much heart and I think they understand a lot more than we realize.
Big puppy hugs my friend. Your Blackjack will be with you in spirit.
WorL4Chiefs - February 16, 2012
Thanks for the story and pic, Wor. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
There is no love as unconditional as the love a pet gives to a good owner.
nateforchiefs - February 16, 2012
AMEN! Nate. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Damnit, you made me cry
I had to put my dog of 16 years down about 3 years ago, and it just about killed me. Her name was KC (yep for the city and the team), and just like your dog, she was the best, sweetest living being in the world (funny how so many dogs meet that criteria).
The pain does wear off, but you never stop missing them. Hang in there. I know a Chiefs game will never be the same, but he’ll be watching and cheering as always.
Slurms McChiefy - February 16, 2012
Sorry for your loss. Nice story--Blackjack would be proud if he could read..
NFL season ticket holder - February 16, 2012
RIP Blackjack
Thanks for sharing. Lots of onions being cut around here.
Here’s my girl Sam in her Chiefs watching seat (exactly the same as yours, doesn’t know what’s going on, just is happy when I am.)
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 16, 2012
What kind of dog is Sam?
and how old?
ExRoyalsFan - February 16, 2012
2 years and change
she’s what we call a Chinese Farm Dog (read: Mutt). She must have some Dachshund in her because she’s long with stubby legs.
her eyes can make me do anything she wants….
here’s her puppy face at 2 months:
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 17, 2012
We adopted a pup this fall, think he's a Corgi/Chihuahua
ExRoyalsFan - February 17, 2012
oh man
look at that suave mofo right there!
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 17, 2012
Swagger
for sure
ExRoyalsFan - February 17, 2012
Heh ... that's damn good pic, Ex.
from a photographer’s prospective. Damn good use of light, shading, pose and props. Cute. :+) Btw: can’t blame you for being an EX-Royals fan; I am too.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
I promise you, I only lucked out with the picture.
I was not cognitive of light, shading, pose and all this technical stuff you speak of!
ExRoyalsFan - February 17, 2012
She's adorable!
WorL4Chiefs - February 17, 2012
What a cutie!
Wichita Chief - February 16, 2012
thanks. we like her :)
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 17, 2012
Rec'd for cuteness
KHAZAD - February 17, 2012
Thanks for the pics, Shanghai.
Heh, that’s the first time I’ve ever heard the phrase ‘Chinese Farm Dog’ used for a mutt. That’s a good one – I’ll have to rip that one off from you. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
one of the best things i've read on here as well
really sorry for your loss. rest in peace, blackjack.
shaytron - February 16, 2012
Thank you
for this post. I can’t imagine how you felt going through that. My dog isn’t even a year yet, and while I was reading that I was fighting back tears just thinking about it. Gotta love how dogs are. I recently had a small reaction to some medicine that I am taking. It just caused me to have these slight jerks or, as they call it, convulsions. Falkor, my dog, is very good about not jumping on our bed when he is not supposed to. He was asleep when they started, but soon woke up, starting freaking out a bit, and jumped up on the bed licking me. That’s a kind of love some of us could never understand.
Falkor is a lab/rot/shepherd mix. Here he is at 10 months:
KCMizzou - February 16, 2012
bet he kills you with those eye dots.
mine sure does. see above…
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 16, 2012
Ha. Yup.
Showed my girlfriend your dogs pic earlier. She went into her “We need another one” pouting face.
KCMizzou - February 16, 2012
I here that a lot from mine.
I’ll wait until we relocate back home and have a yard for a bigger dog.
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 16, 2012
Yeah, I understand that.
I have a lot of plans that aren’t solid right now, so I don’t want to do anything until I’m sure. Plus, I’d like Falkor to be at least 1.
Do you have a kind of dog in mind? I’m really all about saving dogs from the pound, but I have wanted a miniature doberman since I was a kid.
KCMizzou - February 16, 2012
definitely a rescue
Sam is 2 now and probably would only be able to handle a bigger dog. She needs a big guy to keep her in check.
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 16, 2012
Same story here, but the opposite.
Falkor is going on 70 pounds now. I really want something small to level him out (hopefully).
KCMizzou - February 16, 2012
Falkor as a pup btw
KCMizzou - February 16, 2012
Damn they grow up fast
Gotta love pups while you can – so awesome.
Ochophosphate - February 16, 2012
awesome dog, awesome name
rub his belly for all of AP
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 16, 2012
very cool dog
Flowers24 - February 17, 2012
*hear
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 16, 2012
Nice pic, Mizzou.
Sorry to hear about your tremors, Mizzou. Hope you’re okay now?
And rec’d to infinity and beyond for the absolute, utter truth. NO ONE will ever love more than your dog does. :+)LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
A big loss
Many moons ago I had a girlfriend that begged me to get a dog and she said she would take care of it by herself. I ended up sleeping out in front of the animal shelter because they told me they have received many calls for her and it was first come first serve. Of course, she didn’t take care of it and I ended up feeding, watering, walking, etc and when my girlfriend would be gone weeks at a time, I would be alone with the dog. She was like family to me.
When my girlfriend moved out (horrible relationship, who would have guessed), she took the dog with her. Apparently she couldn’t take care of the dog, so she just gave it to her parents a couple months after she moved out. Then the parents didn’t want the dog anymore, so they gave her to someone else.
No idea where she is anymore, but I hope she found a good home. Before she was put into the animal shelter she was abused. She had scars from her last owner putting cigarettes out on her and I can’t imagine what other kind of abuse she went through.
Anyway, I miss her. It’s not the same as your dog dying, but it was still a huge loss for me.
manofnothi - February 16, 2012
There's a special place in hell for people that treat dogs like that (the prior owners)
And bless you for taking care of her while you had her.
It’s a shame that they couldn’t give her back to you – hope she had a good life otherwise.
Ochophosphate - February 16, 2012
Thank you for your beliefs, and kind, supportive thoughts and comment for mano, Ocho. Rec'd.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
WOW THIS
I wish I knew who that dude was , because I would seriously punch him in the face, no questions asked. People who abuse animals and children, women are chicken shit plain and simple
saints_chiefsfan1979 - February 17, 2012
MUY props for thoughts and comment, as well ... Saints_Cheifs. Rec'd.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
You're an awesome human being, Mano, for actually caring for her. I rec'd you to infinity and beyond, out of this universe. :+)
You have no idea the admiration I have for you for doing all this for her. You were the ONLY true friend this dog ever had in her life! :+)
I hope this thing, and this thing’s family burn in hell for what this thing and this thing’s family did to you and this special, precious lifeMy last so-called girl*cough* fri*cough*but actual slut-whore, lying, two-faced, pretentious, back-stabbing, evil, pos fuck-thing more than anything elsetried pulling that shit with Shadow cause ‘this thing got him for this thing’s son’ … and of course this thing isn’t fit to take care of a pet rock, let alone her SON nor a dog.Best thing I EVER accomplished with this thing was convincing this thing needed to get this thing’s tubes tied so this thing could have this thing’s “sexual freedom” and not have to worry anymore about getting pregnant ever again; it was a major MIRACLE she never got pregnant before!?!? I still feel like I lost my own son.
And I feel so powerless that I can’t help him – as his
just barely better than his egg donorsperm donor got custody of him from this thing as part of a power and control trip. I wish I could’ve have gotten custody of him, too. Hopefully, he WILL go live with my daughter as soon as he hits 16, as they both want that. She considers him her brother. And to be fair – I’m fucked-up in many ways; and am, and always have been, a million miles from perfect. But my daughter is a million times plus something better than human, and beyond infinity better than I am.But because this thing’s son said he wanted me to keep him … cause I was the one that took care of HIM and Shadow … this thing let me have Shadow. Heh … I told this thing I’d see this thing in hell before this thing took Shadow; as this thing and this thing’s
You have no idea what I’d personally like to do to things like this. But let’s just say – DEATH and HELL would be FAR, far too kind. And the screwed up laws says I can’t, but they can do anything they want. Homo sapiens sapiens suck! But your a something better than human. Thank you from the bottom of my heart and soul for all you did for her sweet, precious life.whitetrash to be a kind understatementfamily all gave their dogs away after not giving damn about and neglecting them – so I took care of them too for a bit – just because they got them on impulse, or for whateverfucked-upreason in theirfucked-up worthless, sick, evil pos whitetrashminds.LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
I don't know, man. I'm not sure its a better thing ... at least in my not so humble opinions
But you’re just as entitled to you beliefs and feelings as I am. However, for me, I would be more devastated losing a dog, or having one taken from me. At least when you have them until death, you now what happened to them, and you know where they’re buried or cremated; whatever one’s choice is.
When I was in highschool, one of my grandpa’s coonhounds took off after a deer and just disappeared. He had a collar on with my grandpa’s contact info on it. So I went around to all the neighbors in a 5 mile radius asking and telling them if he wandered up – or had seen, or even heard what could possibly be him – to please call me about it, or hold him and call me. I posted lost ads in the papers, and even homemade signs on the telephone poles, and even on the stop signs, at road intersections … for 8 or 10 miles around in some places.
Went to the two pounds in the area and gave them a flyer, and called them everyday, or sometimes more than once a day. I searched the highway and gravel road ditches from dawn every day (yeah, even skipped school; but I did that a lot anyway cause school was horrible for me) and half the night until utter exhaustion, for 10 miles around until I finally found him 7 days later.
He’d been hit by a truck I imagine – which was my fear – as every bone in his body had been shattered instantaneously. I think and he was literally thrown into the road ditch – as his body wasn’t crushed or mutilated by a tire in any way; his abdomen was still intact, so he didn’t suffer any, thankfully. Also, thankfully, it had been below and just above freezing during that time, so he was frozen solid. Actually, he had almost been buried under a snow that had come after he was lost – I just finally noticed his legs sticking out.
I don’t know … I just refuse to lose a dog … and thankfully, I never have. Thank you for posting your story.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
I dread the day.
I can’t imagine having to make that decision. Hey Blackjack, say hey to Sammy, Sadie, Russel, Sadie II, and Schwartz for me.
Idahochief - February 16, 2012
one big reason dogs > cats: if a dog is the same size as you, that's just more love. if a cat is the same size as you, you're dinner.
here’s a nice story:
my best friend in high school had a group of 3 dogs, 1 of which was a dingo mutt mix that hated everyone but him. I was over there enough that she eventually would tolerate me handing him things without freaking out. if others did this, she would growl and bark and generally freak out. so I thought I was “in” with her.
a couple of years after this landmark, my buddy was in a serious car accident. after being released from the hospital, he was bedridden for a long while. 1st day home I went over to make him some grub. As I am sitting by his bed hand-feeding him, she came in and I thought “oh no, here we go”.
Instead, she came over and jumped on my lap and licked my face as she knew I was taking care of our boy.
Probably one of the most touching things I have ever experienced in my life.
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 16, 2012
Never ceases to amaze me
how smart dogs really are – awesome story, thanks for sharing!
Ochophosphate - February 16, 2012
yeah, I'm gonna take a long lunch in a bit and go home and hang out with mine...
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 16, 2012
True, true.
I remember a time when I went hunting with my dog, and we were quail hunting. I was following it around and saw it pointing towards a bush so it went to go flush it out, and a rabbit ran out. I was frustrated that it had pointed out a rabbit so out of anger I kicked it in the side. I immediately felt terrible, and it was only worsened by the fact that as soon as I kicked my dog, the a huge flock of quail flew out of the exact bush it had been pointing at.
Obviously, I felt like a total asshole. I tried to pet it in a feeble attempt to make it up to him, but it just looked at me all sad like and cowered away.
But the very next day, it acted as though nothing happened. They truly are man’s best friend, the only thing in the world that will forget the abuse you put upon it and truly, unconditionally will always love you.
NigerianNightmare - February 16, 2012
Bwhahahahahahahahahahahah!!! That's freaking frakking effing funny ritch thar, Shanghai. Rec'd to the max and your story. :+)
And SOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! True!!! There’s hella smart people on here. They make me feel so dumb. Hell … I am dumb, but at least I know and can admit to it, lol.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
He may have never seen a gray wolf
saints_chiefsfan1979 - February 17, 2012
And I'm totally ripping this off from you too! :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Yes, Shanghai, dogs are smart. But dingos, wolves and coyotes are smarter.
Yes, dogs have become extremely intelligent and adept through, the ages of living with and being trained by us, at reading people’s facial expressions and body language; communicating with us in facial expressions, body language, and even verbally to varying degrees; and even mimicking our behavior to some extent.
But perhaps they’re strongest suit is SENSING and DECIPHERING our INTENTIONS by scenting our hormonal responses. And although this following theory certainly isn’t mainstream, and thus not accepted by most biologists and animal behaviorists, I almost certainly believe it to be true: they can discern and decipher our intentions by way of sensing and reading our energy – i.e. reading our electromagnetic field that our brains generate and broadcast constantly.
Now all dogs are individuals, so individuals – and maybe even a certain higher percentage of individuals in certain breeds for certain things in general – are better at this than others, to be sure. For instance – dogs that are seeing eye dogs; assistance dogs for both the physically and mentally disabled, and even the emotionally disabled; and then lastly, the ones that can sense seizures and detect cancer cells.
She knew exactly your intentions! :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
I'v been there, so I can feel your pain.
Sorry to hear about the loss of your dog, and companion. I know how it feels, I lost my boxer zeus, who was an incredible dog.
It’s amazing how much of part of you and your family they become. You can always confide in you dog, and they just look at you with this look like they really understand you.
Just honor your dogs memory and never forget the time you shared.
ChiefofNJ - February 16, 2012
So sorry...
I have been a long time AP reader and have never signed up to comment, but after reading this I had to. I am so sorry for your loss. I have lost some good “friends” over the years. My wife loves to put Chiefs bandannas on our dogs during Sunday games. They love the excitement of my friends and I hopping around the house during good games, and they are there for comfort when the game doesn’t go our way. Either way they get the leftovers of the smoked brisket!!
Elizabub - February 16, 2012
Welcome!
Couldn’t have picked a better thread to comment in.
Thanks for contributing your story!
Ochophosphate - February 16, 2012
very sorry to hear
makes me sick to think cause my two yellow labs r 9 now & nearing the end. Can’t imagine being without them. Respects to u Flowers24
HIT34MAN - February 16, 2012
Condolences Flowers
Dogs are just another member of the family. I haven’t had one in a long time, mostly because my wife and I work a lot and I don’t think it’s right to just leave them cooped up in the house alone.
One of my favorite stories about me and a dog was the summer before I started college. I stayed with an Aunt and Uncle who lived on a lake. The reason I was there was because I was given a job on the lake for the summer working on a silt rig. If you don’t know what that is, don’t worry, you aren’t missing a whole lot. It’s basically a big pump with an auger that floats on pontoons. It digs silt off the bottom, sucks it up and shoots it through a pipeline to get it out of the lake.
Anyway they had a wire haired fox terrier named Buttons. On days that it rained, I couldn’t work so Buttons and I spent some quality time together. Buttons was notorius for pulling dirty clothes out of the clothes hamper and stringing them all over the house. He knew he was a bad dog for doing it but he did it for attention.
One day, I decided that rather than chase him and take the clothes away, I was going to try the old subliminal trick of ignoring him. Should’a worked too. Buttons was way to smart though. He normally would peek around the corner of the hallway with some article of clothing (usually underwear—dogs love those smells) and wait for me to see him and he would take off running for a good 15 minutes of fun.
On this day, I ignored him. For a couple of minutes he couldn’t figure out what to do, the he decided to creep a bit closer. It was then that I decided that no matter how close he got i wasn’t going to do anything. I wanted to see what he would do.
Buttons crept closer and closer to me and I was unshakeable. Eventually that dog jumped up on the couch I was laying on, walked up my legs and stomach, turned around with is ass in my face and sat down on my chest with the underwear still hanging out of his mouth!!
I reached up and grabbed the underwear and somehow I could just see in his eyes the thought, “What’s the matter dude? No playing today? What gives?”.
Buttons is buried in my Uncle’s yard. Dogs really are part of the family. Blackjack will live forever in your mind. I can still see Buttons doing mischief, just like you can still see Blackjack on the couch. Don’t worry, you’ll never really lose him.
Aiken_Drum - February 16, 2012
Thanks Aiken
How true that is
Flowers24 - February 16, 2012
Awesome story, Aiken. :+) And rec'd.
Yes, the original full-size terrier breeds are extremely smart. But I think Buttons was even more so than the average one by quite a bit.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Thanks Loco
Buttons was special. He was a show dog and was a grand champion more than once. He was very smart but he was also high strung. He did much better one on one than in a room full of people. He did love to play though. Terriers have a pretty long snout. Buttons would come over and sit on my lap when I was sitting on the floor and push my hand until I would open my hand, palm down and stick my hand in his mouth to the back of his jaw. Then I would grab his jaw and literally roll him over, back and forth on the floor and gently drag him around by his jaws. He never once bit down hard enough to hurt me, but he held on and was pushed and pulled around the floor like a dust rag on a broom stick. I loved that crazy critter.
Aiken_Drum - February 18, 2012
My condolences Flowers24.
OnlyKCFanNVA - February 16, 2012
Sorry for your loss Flowers
Thanks for sharing this story with us. I have two australian shepherds ages 8 and two. Thanks for reminding me not to take my time with them for granted.This is my favorite thread ever. Dogs and Chiefs and I’m crying like a baby haha.
chiefsrule! - February 16, 2012 via mobile
Thank you for sharing, Flowers.
I’ve got two furballs at home myself. Andre is a Yorkie-Poodle mix (almost 10) and Sadie is my beagle (8.5). They are our kids. We just had our first offspring and we were praying that everything would be okay between the new kid and the fur kids. Thankfully everything has been great. I don’t look forward to losing either one of them or having to make that hardest of decisions. Alex will be old enough to have to go through it with us and it will be one hell of a life lesson. But when they are gone, we’ll adopt someone new.
Because a home isn’t a home without a DOG. (or two)
Falcon58 - February 16, 2012
Amen, Falcon! I couldn't live without dogs.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
RIP, Blackjack...
this thread is making me choke up with tears…because It actually reminds of my old labor named Bo because it was easy for me to call her name. She looked very similar to your. There will never be one like her because she actually understood that I am deaf and that helped me a lot like when someone’s knocking at the door, she would run to me then run to the door and stare at it for few then back to me wagging all erratically then back to the door which prompted me to go investigate. My old roommate left the gate open and… well, let’s just leave it at that. No wonder why I am such an angrydeafman because there’s hasn’t been one like her ever since…
They are man’s best friend for a good reason…(sniffs).
angrydeafman - February 16, 2012
Dang, so sorry to hear about that
You’ve GOT to get another! A Hearing Ear Dog (vs. seeing eye dog)!!
Ochophosphate - February 17, 2012
Oh yes ... they train assistance dogs for the deaf/hard-of-hearing.
They also train them to help physically disabled people by attaching special pulls and special self-latching lever handles on things around the house. They turn light switches on and off, open the fridge and get you almost anything if its stored in a container with a rigid handle on it, or fetch you a beer, can of pop, whatever. And even get you food or cookware out of a floor level cabinet as long as it has a handle they can hold, open the oven door. Even have a special phone-electronic device they can yank that auto-digitally dials 911 – if you can afford that stuff, or get it donated for you.
Put the right handle and pull on just about anything and they can open it. Now it seems only a very few dogs can learn and be trained to do these very specialized tasks, and only a few trainers dedicate themselves to it. For instance, only about 1-2 in 10 dogs started out in training eventually pass all the requirements to become a seeing-eye dog, and they’re usually started out at around a year old, and are 2 to 2-1/2 by the time they become that. Its about a year to an 18 month training and certification process. And then you have to match the individual dogs to the individual owners for the best results – for a like a 30-60 day trial period.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Thanks to everyone
Who commented. I can’t express to all of you how much you guys telling your stories have made me smile. While I will always miss Blackjack, it’s great to see people who have love in their heart for the pets in the house.
Thanks for reading about Blackjack and taking a few moments to write something. AP really is a wonderful place.
Flowers24 - February 16, 2012
Cheers F24
Give yourself some time to grieve. Sometime down the road, maybe when you’re not thinking of it, another little pup will steal your heart. 15 years after I put Bear down and when I was 99% against getting a dog, we found Sam.
Sooooo… what helps the passing game more: beef on OL or monster running game? :)
Shanghai_Chiefs - February 16, 2012
RIP Blackjack
All us dog owners understand that type of bond. One year ago today we lost the family dog to some sort of cancer we didnt even know he had. His name was Bossco and he was hiding in a corner of the house for some reason. My rottweiler Sheriff knew something was wrong with Bossco and layed down next to him and whined and got our attention. We rushed Bossco to the vet and he died there that night. Sheriff and Bossco both knew when the Chiefs were doin well.
dudeustupid - February 16, 2012
RIP BlackJack
He seemed like a great dog. I can’t imagine what it’d be like losing my dog. I’ve had for barely over a year, and I can’t imagine my life without him! His name is Willie. He watches some Chiefs games with my dad and I and also likes joining in when we start cheering and celebrating. My condolences go to you, your father and your family. This is my dog, can’t imagine life without him!
AaronMannicci - February 16, 2012
lol I scare my dogs sometimes when I watch the Chiefs and Saints play
With my cheering and in the case of KC this year , yelling at the TV
saints_chiefsfan1979 - February 17, 2012
He needs a bigger bone
Ochophosphate - February 17, 2012
Heh ... he needs a real whole cow leg femur, lol. ;=) With dried meat still on the bone... they're about that size too.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
Tully
fairmont - February 16, 2012
My condolences Flowers24
fairmont - February 16, 2012
hilarious pic
Flowers24 - February 17, 2012
All dogs go to heaven
I feel ya bro. My shepard-heeler mix is getting up there, and Ive begun preparing myself emotionally for when her call to Zion comes. Cant match the loyalty of man’s best friend.
PS- Cassel sux
ArrowDread - February 16, 2012
RIP Blackjack
There is nothing like man’s best friend
LadyChief - February 16, 2012
I'm sorry Flowers
I feel your pain! A couple months ago I lost my dog Chief! He was my first dog and the reason I am, and forever will be a Chiefs fan! My parents bought him when I was in the second grade. At the time, and due to living in SoCal and having the dumb chargers and raiders air on tv all the time, I never knew about the Chiefs. Well long story short that year I was laying on the floor with Chief and saw a highlight of the KC Chiefs and my life changed forever; for the better!
It is Hard losing your best friend. All I can say is never let the memories fade! No matter how painful it can be, just remember all the good time you had and all the good that can from Blackjack! That’s what I do. Every time I watch a Chiefs game I think of my dog (Chief) and all the good memories we had!
RIP Blackjack, Chief, and all the other loved one out there!
O.C.ChiefsFan - February 16, 2012
Sounds like both of you were lucky to have each other.
I feel your pain. We had to put our Saint down 2 years ago at 13 years old (which is old for a Saint). We still miss her but she gave us great memories.
Chiefs_40 - February 16, 2012
Thanks for the story! My condolences...
My house has always had a dog in it as long as I remember. My 1st dog I owned after living on my own was an afghan hound I drove all the way to Boulder Co. to pick up after falling in love with the puppy pictures I was sent from her breeder. Traveling back with this new “kid” I was nervous and hoping it would work out. I had given her a bbq rib bone to gnaw on to break the ice and keep her occupied on a portion of the drive. Worried she might start swallowing pieces of bone after she had cleaned the meat off of it I attempted to take it from her. She gave a playful growl and proceeded to play catch me with it if you can while my ex drove us down the road. She grew into a beautiful girl who loved walks and would love to get on the couch or bed to snooze. When caught she’d look at you with those big eyes and give a wag of the tail and I’d cave in. Shaunda was my girl till tumors took her too in approx. ‘86.
I resisted having another dog knowing any other would not measure to my girl. As luck would have it a long haired miniature weiner dog found it’s way to our home. I like bigger dogs but my ‘ol lady “but honey” me’d to death and relented. He’s a pretty cool little guy. He has a Chiefs shirt to wear when it’s cold out to go with his Chiefs collar and leash. He loves to snuggle under the covers at night and stretch out causing me and mama to get about 1 1/2’ on each side of a king size bed. Move him and you get a little “hrumph” out of him. The little bastard. He’s getting a little grey on his snout so he’s not a pup no more. I make sure I play ball with him each night (which he HAS to do while he grabs chunks out of his food bowl). Binks changed my mind about smaller dogs. He’s very smart and not barky like some little ones. I love my little red weiner! I mean, oh never mind. He profits from KC victories too. When the niece and nephew get ice cream due to a KC victory he usually gets a taste too.
Hang in there.
Wichita Chief - February 16, 2012
Ya that's pretty rough
We have 3 dogs. 2 Bassets (1 is 19 years old!) and a mix. The 2 youngest we got at the same time about a year and a half ago. I hope they live for a long time. It sucks they can’t live as long as we can
saints_chiefsfan1979 - February 17, 2012
Thanks for the pic of yours, Saints. rec'd.
And yes, it absolutely sucks donkey balls they don’t live anywhere long enough, let alone as long as we do. My horse is 27 and I keep on doubting she’ll make it a year longer, let alone two … but she’s proven me wrong for two years so far. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
I have been to AP thousands of times. I joined up long after I started checking out the site. Never posted though. I’m not sure why. It doesn’t matter.
I have come to recognize way-too-many user-names.
—Flowers24…. I have probably read every single post and comment you have made.
I lost my best friend late last March. So… about a year! I tell myself that I will never get that emotionally attached again. The bond is irreplaceable.
They truly are family!
Flowers24… Just know that we we’ll all be there with you…. either cursing or jumping! Mostly jumping of course! Go Chiefs.
Take care!
Kamikaze Bonzi - February 17, 2012
Thanks alot man
Glad to know I have a fan and thanks for the kind words.
Flowers24 - February 17, 2012
Kamikaze
You should get another Dog. Misty, my childhood dog, lived to be 20 yrs old. We grew up together. When she died I felt destroyed, and decided I would never have another one, as I felt no one could take her place, adn I never wanted to feel that pain again.
My Wife had just adopted a dog, Rusty, an older dachshund, when I met her. I was standoffish at first, but the little guy won my heart, and taught me that not only that I could love another dog, but that the love and companionship was filling an empty spot I didn’t even know I had. Don’t cheat yourself out of that.
6 months after Rusty passed away, we adopted Holly, an abandoned 7 year old miniature doxie with some special needs. She might as well have been our baby, that’s how much we loved her. When she passed in October, I cried more than I had since I lost Misty years ago.
A few years ago, we rescued Ajax, a neglected poodle mix who had been penned outdoors and pretty much left ungroomed for the first two years of his life, as a late in life playmate for Holly. Since we had to go through potty training with him, we decided to adopt a puppy just yesterday. She is crying right now in her crate, going through the stress of separation from her Mom (who was rescued while pregnant and has been adopted) and her siblings. (The Crate is part of the potty training, in a month she’ll probably be sleeping in bed with us)
It never gets easier when they pass. And there may never be one quite like your first. But the joy that they give you on the way, as well as the good you can do for them, as someone who will treat them as family, is priceless!
KHAZAD - February 17, 2012
Thank you very much for adopting older dogs with special needs, Khazad.
I have a donkey … yes, a real donkey … that I adopted from being put down. He’s blind in one eye, and his vision is deteriorating in the other. But I’ll keep him even if he becomes totally blind until he dies. You and your wife are something beyond regular humans as well. :+)
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
the most heartfelt post ive read on this site
I was feeling your loss with every word. The 2012 season is dedicated to blackjack.
Rupert Daniels - February 17, 2012 via mobile
Can we petition to get a patch on the team jerseys?
Ochophosphate - February 17, 2012
Sorry for your loss, I'm glad your dog had a great life
As many others have said here, I’m sorry to hear about blackjack’s passing but it truly sounds like he was an amazing family member and he sounds like he lived a happy life.
Grieving the loss of a dog is terrible, I remember losing our dog seven years ago, my family is a huge animal lover family and we’ve had almost every pet you could imagine but we haven’t had another dog since our last one passed. For me it was the most helpless and sad feeling I’ve ever felt, I was thankful for her life (my dog survived a car accident, and also had cancer and was given three months to live but we took care of her and she lived a year and a half after diagnosis), it’s one of those things you’ll never be the same without again however I assure you as time passes you’ll always smile when you remember that beloved member of your family.
Cheers to blackjack, and cheers to the Chiefs making him proud in doggy heaven.
Krans24 - February 17, 2012
Cool Dog.
CurtMerzFan - February 17, 2012
Wow
Black Jack looked so much like Gunner my heeler shepard mix it made me cry. Gunner was 15 when he died last spring. I thought we would never have another dog. Then somebody abandoned a 3-4 year old blond lab retriever mix at the hospital I work at last fall. Nobody would take her and so the old softy that I am I brought Goldie home. She is like Gunner’s sister from another mister. Dogs are the most optimistic animals I’ve ever seen. They always get excited when someone knocks on the door and it’s never for them. Hang in there bro. The pain will ease over time.
dklogue1 - February 17, 2012
Nice post man..
Sorry about Blackjack.. Yet another reason why dogs are far more superior than cats.
Matt in KC - February 17, 2012
I had to put my cat down last week...
but cats don’t give a shit about football :(
stag - February 17, 2012
They're such pussies :)
All the same, sorry about your loss. Love is love, and losing something you love is painful no matter what form it is/was in.
Ochophosphate - February 17, 2012
Thanks, man
I’ve been super bummed. I got her in college, and when I moved out on my own it was just me and her for a couple years. When something/someone relies solely on you and you alone for their entire life, it sort of feels like you’ve let them down when they’re gone. And it REALLY sucked not having football last Sunday to take my mind off it for a couple hours.
stag - February 17, 2012
Sorry for your loss
I’m a dog lover too and I especially love the bigger dogs like labs as they have the best personalities IMO.
aFan4Life - February 17, 2012
Sounds like a great family member Flowers..
I’m sorry for your loss, but Blackjack isn’t suffering anymore and he’s happy looking down at you everyday.
I’m a big dog lover myself. I’ve got two boys, a blue heeler named Charlie and a golden retriever named Truman. They get excited when I do, and almost confused when I get mad at the game! I love them though. I’ll cherish the moments everyday I have with them. Thanks for the touching story and sorry for the late response. I’m at work at the moment and I wish I was at home hugging my dogs! Take care.
GaryfromIA - February 17, 2012
Pets
I grew up on a farm and had many different dogs. They weren’t the brightest dogs so they didn’t live long due to liking to chase cars. I remember though one I cared for the most. My dad and I buried him in one of our fields. Afterwards I came in to the back of our house and my mom was doing the dishes. She said son come help me with the dishes and I said…Mom don’t you have any sympathy for a boy that just lost his dog. I think I was about 10 at the time. Feel for you man. My kids when they are in town keep asking me to get a pet. This story right here makes me think about it more. Would be nice to have someone by me to cheer on the Chiefs!!
VWRocks - February 17, 2012
My father and I are going through the same thing
our boston terrier named Kaycee he is 17 years old. He can’t hold his blatter any more. but I gotta say from the day we got direct tv he was on the couch watching the games with us. he isn’t gonna be here too much longer that’s why I had to comment. sorry for your loss .
njchiefs - February 17, 2012 via Android app
Best Friends
sorry for your loss Flowers, been there more times than care to think about. my current hunting/ fishing partner and friend is Gunther. he’s an 80lb Weimaraner that owns me. theres a pic of him and I together at the mill on one of our walks in my avatar. I could relate a hundred stories about my relationship’s with my best friends, but I’ll give you one of my favorite quotes instead.
He is your friend, your partner, your defender. You are his life, his love his leader.
He will be yours faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart.
We owe it to them, to be worthy of such devotion. “unknown”
Always remember the best place to bury a good dog, is in your heart.
Hoochdawg - February 17, 2012
Sorry for your loss, Flowers.
Thanks for a great, but bittersweet story; as is life for us all. I just lost one of my dogs about 6 weeks ago to congestive heart failure. Hang loose, but hang hella tough, bro. :) And rec’d out of the universe of course. Have lots of fun in heaven, Black Jack. :)
Btw: Brandon Flowers is my second fave player now. He was my fave from 2008-2010. But yeah, he’s been supplanted by Eric Berry now after that awesome performance EB put on in the SD 31-0 blowout last year. I gotta hang with my awesome Chiefs safties first and foremost – as that’s what I tried to pretend to be in highschool and club ball lol.
#26-Gary Barbaro, was my first fave player, and first jersey as a kid, in the late 70’s and early 80’s. Then it was the awesome, #20-Deron Cherry. Ehh, I liked Mark Collins a lot (he really got screwed over either King Carl, or Schottenheimer, or both), Lloyd Burruss, Charles Mincy, Jerome Woods and even Greg Wesley too.
LocoLoboChico - February 17, 2012
You must Login with your SB Nation account and be a member of Arrowhead Pride to post a comment.