Bonnie and Clyde Files (Last Chapter)

I write this convulsed in grief: Clyde was euthanized Wednesday morning. My great friend, canine and human, one of the primary agents of rescuing me from oblivion, a singular inspiration for my new creative life, is gone.

A little over a week ago I was walking with him and Bonnie along the river, thinking joyfully of our upcoming summer together: barbecues, poetry, fishing. Cancer invaded his spleen with astonishing speed and euthanasia was the merciful decision. It all happened so quickly that I’ve forgotten some of the details.

I got to spend a final half hour with him on the back yard of the sanctuary. The sun was shining. The river moved below us. I could hear birds. I fed Clyde treats for the last time and told him I loved him. I thanked him. I wrapped my arms around him. I called him a “treat hound.” His eyes sagged, his body was sick, and he knew.

I’ll continue visiting the sanctuary to see Bonnie, commune with the river, and work on the grounds. But the Bonnie and Clyde Files as I knew them, are closed and another beloved dog has left this world, but never my heart. I can only hope my forthcoming book about my adventures with Bonnie and Clyde will honor his service to me and do justice to the wonderful woman who introduced me to the dogs and invited me to help care for them. That invitation is something I will never forget and I will try to invite others in a similar capacity for the rest of my life.

(If you have enjoyed my writing about Bonnie and Clyde, please consider making a contribution to support the ongoing work of the Angels for Sara Sanctuary. Visit their FB page and donate, please.)