Robbie was 'my' dog mostly until I broke my heel on 2/12/11 and I could not walk him for 3 months. Gary took Robbie to work with him and he became the office dog. After I could get around again, Gary still took Robbie to the athletic fields of the high school across the street on weekends to let him run free. Gary played, "Where's Robbie" where the dog would run like a little greyhound, dodging and weaving to avoid being caught. Gary was the 'one' person who would always get down on the floor, pat it and Robbie would flop down beside him for 'tummy scratches'. Robbie is not a slobbery face licker. He quietly shows his affection for special people by dabbing his tongue on your hand. He also loves to press into a person he loves and hug you with his body while burying his head into your arm.
On the morning of October 17, 2012 Robbie was allowed on Gary's bed in hospice. He immediately started kissing Gary's hand, but Gary could not respond. He was dying and even Robbie's kisses could not help him.
Robbie has been different since Gary's death. Like me, he still expects Gary to come home. He still runs to the door if he hears a truck. If we walk by a white pickup, Robbie looks intently at it. If he were loose, I know he would jump in the open door of any white pickup. He loved riding with us when we traveled for Gary's job. The places we have seen! Robbie has gotten to see mountains, desert and swim in the ocean.
He has run on the beach and chased gophers in Bakersfield. He's a Good Dog in every sense of the word.
Gary had pretty high standards for dog behavior and Robbie nearly met them all. He rarely barks, is perfectly house trained and has the humility to be embarrassed when caught on the bed.
The one thing Robbie doesn't have anymore is Gary.
Robbie has gotten thinner in the month since Gary died. He sleeps more and eats less. There is no grief therapy for dogs.
Robbie is a very special dog and friend...did the hat accessory come from your mom? (a moment of humor)
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