Russell, you joined our family in 1997. I think it was early November, when you were about three-months old. I remember being picked up from a camp at school and there you were, in a crate in the back seat and busily chewing at the newspaper. It was such a fantastic surprise. The first few weeks were rough - we had no idea about caring for a dog and you needed so much attention and toilet training.
We went to obedience school together. I was so proud that when told to "come", you would run to me whereas the other dogs walked to their owners before sitting down. We failed our first exam - you had no idea but I was heart-broken. You loved the after-class agility exercises and so did I.
You chewed up countless pagers, sandals and slippers. You were a greedy little one and we came home many times to a bloated dog hiding under the sofa. You knew how to sit, come, heel, lie down, shake hand and roll over. Perhaps I'll give you half credit for the last one since you could only roll over starting on your right side (clockwise if looking at you). You knew your way to grandma's flat and loved to visit her. Popo called you "la-soh" and gave you many good treats. Your favorite words were "biscuit" and "gai-gai*". You hated going to the vet, taking a shower or any water activity, and you didn't like it when people fought. You were the peace-maker of the household.
One time we had the air-conditioning man over and the front door was left unlocked. I wasn't paying attention and you managed to steal away to the park downstairs and we nearly lost you. Fortunately mummy was on her way home and caught sight of you. Your relationship with mummy was slightly weird but very endearing. She never wanted a dog as she had a phobia. When you first arrived, we put a bell on your collar so she could hear where you were at all times. Sometimes you snuck up on her when she was sitting down on the floor to fold the clothes and she would scream. It was quite hilarious. But soon she grew very fond of you and she was your favorite - you'd follow her everywhere in the house, especially when she was cooking.
You were a little dog with a big heart. You loved being around people and my friends loved to play with you. Playing under the covers and fetching the tennis ball were some of your favorite. I'm sorry you grew old and got sick. You are no longer with us now and you are dearly missed in our hearts. Goodbye Russell. I love you. Thank you for sixteen years of fun, love and joy.
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*gai-gai means to go for a walk.
