In dog training, every journey is unique, filled with triumphs, setbacks, and the unwavering bond between trainers and their beloved companions.
After returning from attending Jay Jack’s transformative workshop in Sydney, filled with inspiration and newfound knowledge, Cooper’s journey took an unexpected turn.
On Wednesday, I resumed my dog walking responsibilities with Cooper in my other business, Clawbaby Pet Services. He loved joining me on adventurous outings with our clients’ beloved dogs.
Then, while out with me on Thursday, I noticed Cooper limping. Upon closer inspection, I realized his nails were overgrown, potentially contributing to his discomfort. I promptly trimmed his nails that night.
Panic Stations.
During the nail trim, I performed Jay Jack’s rubdown technique checking for any sore spots on Cooper’s leg. As we reached the end of the session, giving him a neck rub, my world came crashing down.
Underneath his jaw, I discovered multiple hard lumps. Overwhelmed with panic, I immediately reached out to Lisie from Cherished Pets for guidance while seeking comfort from a trusted friend.
After consulting Dr Google, indications pointed to swollen lymph glands. The potential causes ranged from lymphoma and cysts to infections, allergic reactions, and injury-related swelling. Cooper & Mojo had recently spent time boarding, so an infection seemed plausible, and I hoped antibiotics would be the solution.
Lisie responded, emphasizing the need to have the lumps examined. We made plans to connect the following morning.
"The risk of love is loss, and the price of loss is grief. But the pain of grief is
only a shadow when compared with the pain of never risking love."
- Hilary Stanton Zunin.
The Beginning Of The End.
With Lisie’s assistance, I secured an appointment at Armstrong Creek Vets to have Cooper thoroughly examined. It was there that my world shattered into pieces.
The veterinarian, Zara, revealed that Cooper’s shoulder and knee lymph glands were also swollen and hardened. With 95% certainty, she diagnosed Cooper with Lymphoma.
At that moment, without fully comprehending my decision, I opted for the least invasive route for Cooper’s well-being. I ruled out chemotherapy and bypassed the biopsy, a minor surgical procedure requiring anesthesia, which would only confirm the type of lymphoma. We transitioned directly into palliative care, administering prednisone steroids to support him during his remaining time—estimated at approximately two months.
I drove home, tears streaming down my face, questioning when those “two months” officially began.
The Bucket List.
Devastated by the news, I ugly cried until I realised Cooper’s life wasn’t over. I had been granted more time and was determined to make it count, offering him the most extraordinary farewell and creating lasting memories.
Thus, I set out to create a bucket list of everything we could still do together. Focusing initially on April, uncertain of the precise start of our time frame. The goal was to indulge in all the disgusting processed human foods he wouldn’t typically experience, organise fun adventures, and provide loved ones with an opportunity to bid him farewell.
Sharing our story on social media, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support we received. I remain eternally grateful for the incredible individuals surrounding us.
Kate & Ellie gifted him a studio photoshoot. While I arranged multiple get-togethers, Amy signed up to get him an Angus burger. Kim from Dogtivities invited us to her dog play yard in Creswick, still under construction. Sharon from Manners for Paws put her hand up to assess him for his Trick Title. Empire GRC club started organising a mock SR trial.
Witnessing such kindness and compassion reaffirmed my faith in humanity during this dark period.
Making The Most Of The Remaining Time.
I contacted Narelle from Canineceuticals to explore additional ways of supporting Cooper. She recommended herbal mixes specifically designed for Lymphoma and general cancer support. Additionally, I researched dietary supplements like steamed broccoli and pumpkin to enhance his well-being.
Cooper continued joining me on Clawbabys walks with our client’s dogs. He even achieved his Novice and Intermediate Tricks Titles, hiked in the You Yangs with his human companions, and celebrated his 11th birthday with a cake from Pure Paws Bakery. His progress in the GRC SR mock trial training was promising.
As we checked off items on the April bucket list, we began working on the May edition. I planned a holiday at Cedarwood Cottage, where we embarked on our first vacation together. Mojo would stay home with my mother while Amy from Peaceful Paws Pet Care would take care of his walks.
I hoped with everything we were doing. We would have until June.
When He Told Me It Was Time For Goodbye.
Friday, April 21st, as we engaged in our usual morning training session, Cooper struggled with exercises he had mastered many times. Desperately hoping it was just an off day, I begged for more time between tears. We completed a simple command to end the session positively before I headed to work.
That night when I got home, he came in happily and put himself in his crate, watching me intensely. He was doing his best to what I would later recognise as him letting me know it was time.
When I wake each morning, Cooper greets me at the side of my bed to get his chin rubs.
On Saturday, April 22nd, when he did not come into my room when I stirred, I knew something wasn’t right.
Alarmed, I rushed to find him in his favourite sleeping spot under my desk. Greeted by his warm smile, he made no attempt to rise.
Amidst my pleading and tears, I finally listened to his silent request. I contacted Lisie and arranged for her to visit that afternoon.
Meanwhile, Amy arrived to walk Mojo, allowing me to spend precious moments with Cooper.
I assisted him outside to relieve himself. Watching him move around with relative ease momentarily wavered my decision, but as soon as we returned indoors, he sought refuge under my desk.
Lisie arrived, providing Cooper with a dignified farewell in the comfort of our home, surrounded by love. Mojo also had the chance to bid his companion goodbye—a gesture I am forever grateful for.
"Don’t cry because it’s over, Smile because it happened."
- Ted Geisel (Dr. Seuss).
My Main Man Lives On.
I took time off work to grieve, and during that period, I resolved to fulfil as many of Cooper’s remaining bucket list items as possible.
So, here I sit, completing this blog at Cedarwood Cottages, cuddled up with Mojo after a day of hiking. This place is Cooper’s first vacation spot and is now Mojo’s, also. This marks our first non-work-related getaway together.
Dogs, and animals in general, are incredible creatures. Cooper taught me invaluable lessons about love, resilience, and the fragility of life. He showed me the strength of the human-animal bond, the power of community, and the beauty of cherishing every precious moment.
In Memory of Cooper.
My journey with Cooper taught me the immense power of love and resilience. He taught me so much about myself and the person I can be. He created my passion for dog training and behaviour modification and how I can help them live better lives.
He has reminded me to cherish every moment, embrace the joy that dogs bring into our lives, and strive to create a world where training is filled with compassion, understanding, and mutual respect.
As I bid farewell to Cooper, I hope his story inspires others to approach dog training with empathy, patience, and a commitment to the well-being of our canine companions.
Together, let’s create a community where training is not just about obedience but a celebration of the unique connections we forge with our pouches.
Cooper – Coop, Weirdo, Goober, Baboon Butt, Golden Child, Girls Best Friend – My Main Man, will forever be the spark that inspired my journey into dog training. And, forever, he will remain in my heart.
For dog obedience training and behaviour modification services in Geelong, the Bellarine,
Surf Coast and Golden Plains regions, contact King’s K9 Dog Training.