Sadly, today has been the toughest day I’ve ever had to face. Over the past year Jasmine (my 15 ½ yr old dog) has gone downhill drastically. After months of thinking about what was best for her, I decided it was time for her to be put to rest. It was the toughest decision I’ve ever had to make and I always hoped she would go peacefully in her sleep, but unfortunately that never happened and I could no longer watch her suffer. The past couple of months have been really tough on her and it completely broke my heart how badly she was suffering. Although, my decision was so tough, I know it was the most humane one to make and she is no longer suffering or dealing with all the difficulties she was facing.

As I mentioned, she was 15 ½ yrs old, which is a really long life. Equivalent to roughly 108 human years. Her life first began in Italy, when I was in the Navy. Yes, you read that correctly. Jasmine was born in Italy and she came to the United States when she was roughly 6 months old. Believe it or not, I’ve known Jasmine since the day she was born. That was the most amazing day ever as I was taking care of Mica (pronounced Meeka - her doggie mom) for a friend and was so excited to see all the little pups when I went over to their house. The 8 little pups were each the size of my hand with these tiny bodies, tiny ears, and closed eyes. As soon as I saw Jasmine, I instantly fell in love with her and said “That right there is my dog”. My poor friend was probably getting sick of me as I went over to his apartment every day I possibly could to see my “little dog”. After about 6-8 weeks I got to take Jasmine home and I still hadn’t decided on a name for her. I played with the idea of Malibu because I loved the drink, but in a way I thought it was a silly name for her so my Italian friend, Sara, and I went through a book of baby names and together we decided on Jasmine.

While we were in Italy Jasmine had made friends with all of my friends. In fact, my friend Jason still refers to her as “his dog” even though he hasn’t seen her in roughly 15 years. Jasmine even had a doggie sitter (Sara) who would watch her when I would have to go out to sea with my ship and Navy friends. Her favorite places in Italy were the beach and the bars. Oh yes, you read that correctly….. Jasmine has loved beer since she was a little pup. My little girl had some of the most creative ways to steel it.

Most of Jasmine’s life was spent in the United States. She had many human and doggie friends. In fact, she even had a boyfriend (Chips)! Early on my ex-husband and I discovered that her favorite place to go for long walks was on the grounds of Vanderbuilt Mansion. During the years I lived in Hyde Park, Jasmine got to visit Vanderbuilt very often. Thinking about it, she probably walked those grounds about 3-4 times a week. When I moved out of Hyde Park it was a little more difficult to get her there, so I would take her every Sunday morning. Somehow, she even knew when it was Sunday morning because she would harass me until we went. My friend Tim always met us for our Sunday walk and many other of my friends joined in whenever they could. Even some of my friends with dogs. Our walks at Vanderbuilt were always a really good time and we were always joined by others. Including, her boyfriend.

Over recent months Jasmine has made even more friends. She quickly bonded with my new boyfriend, Jim and his three boys: James, Aidan, and Felix. All four of the guys showed a lot of interest in Jasmine and have treated her really well. During this time Jim has been incredibly supportive of me and Jasmine and it has been wonderful having him by my side while I’m going through such a tough time. Last night I knew it would be too difficult to be alone and he and the boys stayed and helped me get through the night. Today Jim was by my side through everything. He even stayed in the room as I held Jasmine in my hands and cried while she passed. I’ve shed a lot of tears over the past week and I feel really blessed that Jim has been by my side to help me get through this. I know that it must have been really difficult for him and I am incredibly greatfull for everything he did to help. He even carried Jasmine out for me and helped me significantly with her burial. Jasmine has been buried in a very special place where I can visit her grave and talk to her any time I want. In fact, Jim’s Aunt thought it would be nice if I sat down with the boys and we painted a couple of rock’s to place at her burial site. I think that is a fantastic idea and I plan to do this with Jim and the kids within the next couple of weeks.

Jasmine was (and will always be) a very loved dog. Up until old age kicked in, she was an incredibly smart dog with plenty of tricks up her paws. She was very sweet and loving (with an exception of when she bit my sister in the a**, lol)! She was even incredibly awesome with my two Chihuahua’s and my parents two Chihuahua’s. In fact, I always thought she simply tolerated the Chihuahua’s until one day last March when I realized she actually cared for them very deeply! All three of my dogs were very close and it always made me realize how incredible they are.

Although today has been such a difficult day, I know my little girl is now in a better place as she is no longer suffering! I feel extremely lucky that I’ve had her in my life for so long. Here is a pic I got this morning of my little girl. She will never be forgotten as I will always cherish all of my wonderful memories of her! I’ve tried to share some of my memories with you all, but honestly I have so many that I could probably write a novel.

Thanks for reading my post and if you are religious, please feel free to say a little prayer for my baby girl. Hugs for all my blog followers and for everyone who has been a part of Jasmine’s life!