Remembering Milo

We first introduced you to Milo in June of 2012. He was a collie, several years old, broken in spirit and struggling with poor health and lack of care. We were very fortunate that Minnesota Wisconsin Collie Rescue was willing to take him and he went immediately to an experienced foster home.

The first order of business was to shave him down completely to get rid of his mats and allow treatment of sores on his skin. He looked pretty ridiculous, but I'm sure he was feeling better already.

Gradually his coat grew in lush and beautiful and he gained confidence in and out of the foster home. He loved the collies in his home, the cats and all the people he met. He even learned some sheep herding skills.

Andi, his foster mom gave him every medical treatment and loved him until he really was one of her own. She wrote a blog and posted photos regularly just for Milo. He was a very happy dog.

Karen and I got to see Milo again last fall. Sweet Andi brought him to downtown Minneapolis just so Karen, Polly, and Milo could have a reunion.

Unfortunately, despite everyone's best efforts, Milo's bloodwork was never normal and then he started to have increasing problems getting around. It still was a shock when we learned on his blog that he had crossed the Rainbow Bridge.

Karen and Andi have been in touch and she has been going through a difficult time, but stepped up again to foster a 12-month-old collie girl on Craigslist that was going to be euthanized. Andi said, "As you know, there is always another that needs help even as we grieve our special friends."

I know that Milo's time in heaven began before he crossed the bridge.

ANDI'S FINAL POST ON MILO'S BLOG:
27 July 2014

On Thursday, July 24 we said goodbye to our dearest boy Milo.

Life had become very challenging for Milo as his mobility had decreased to the point where daily trips out to potty were becoming increasingly arduous for him and he needed assistance not only to rise, but to potty without collapsing.

While logically I know that quality of life over quantity of life is the best thing we can offer our beloved pets, it is a very different journey emotionally. I wanted so much for him to rally and share more time with all of us, but he was existing and not living.

It was a terrible decision to have to make, but it was the kindest thing for him.

I was so grateful to our vet who helped us navigate through the many health issues and, for this final visit, allowed Milo to rest comfortably in the grass outside the clinic and drift off to sleep. No stress from slippery tiles and medicinal rooms.

Milo was so very loved and so very missed by me and by the many who shared his journey.

Sleep well my friend. There have been many tears for you.

VIDEO FROM MILO'S BLOG: