Recently, we visited our local shelter in search of a small lap dog and a companion for our adopted Border Collie, Rowdy . After much searching and researching we decided on a 4 month old dachshund mix. We named him Guido. He was playful, sweet and loved Rowdy. He had his choice of laps and loved laying on his back with legs spread for belly rubs. He had bushy eyebrows and ears that were so long, you could fold them over his eyes during his afternoon nap. He had the cutest little beagle like bark. My daughter was just smitten and took Guido everywhere.
This past week, I noticed that his nose was crusty and occassionally, he was shaking. I immediately took him to the vet. He was diagnosed with Distemper. The vet explained that he must have been exposed to the disease prior to the vaccinations and the virus had reached his nervous system. There was nothing that could be done, except to make him comfortable. Hours later, it was obvious that he was unable to rest, due to the constant shaking. Our family had to say goodbye. It is the first loss my 10 and 13 years old children have experienced . We are all devasted in shock that our sweet baby boy is gone. However, we all agree that although he was only with us for 20 days, he gave back ten times more love and laughs than what our broken hearts are experiencing at this moment. We would make the same decision, to bring him home all over again. He was truly family. I hope to find one more wire hair dachshund that needs us, just as Guido did. We'll look to the shelters, once again, for a new family member, but never forget our Guido.
Dallas, TX
