A week ago, Paz came into heat. We were able to keep her here with us this week, as today was her regularly scheduled pick up time for another training session at Lackland. On Tuesday, we learned that Paz would have to stay at the TSA puppy center for a few weeks, until she was out of heat. Because of the timing, and the logistics of driving the puppies back and forth from San Antonio, it was decided that Paz would not return to us. We were so sad, but not entirely surprised, by the news. Lately, Paz seemed so grown up and ready to go. Kate was particularly sad because she wouldn't be able to get home from college to tell Paz goodbye.
We've known from the very beginning that Paz was only "visiting" us until it was time for her to go to school, and then on to work protecting our country. She's been like a treasured friend, who moved in temporarily, so we could enjoy her company and spoil her a little bit. Still, we were expecting her to be hanging out with us til April; after all, we wanted her to be here to celebrate her 1st birthday!
So it was extra hard to get her ready for the drop off today. Packing ALL of her stuff up in a box, taking her crate apart, and loading it all in the car seemed so final- and it was. Even though Phil and I shed a few tears, Paz was excited to hop in the car and head off for another adventure! She seemed very happy to see the other puppies and TSA staff- in fact she was so excited it was hard to get her into the truck! Her tail was still wagging when we drove off, a good way for things to be.
We have so many great memories of the Paz over the last 9 months! Being a part of her growth and developent was such a treat! Even though she's gone, there are reminders of her all over the house: a few tooth marks on the remote, the towels she turned into tug-of-war ropes, frayed edges on a rug or two, my eyeglasses that have one earpiece that is shorter than the other... I know whenever I come across those things in the next few days and months, that they will make me smile. We are going to miss her terribly, but in a good way. She definitely left her paw prints all over our hearts.
What a bittersweet ending. I completely understand where you are coming from. Llarson went to his regular turn in and then it was decided he would move on to formal training early. I really enjoyed reading about Paz's adventures. It was nice to read about another perspective of raising these dogs. I am hoping for the best for Paz. I am sure she will do just fine for her final evaluation. Just curious, are you considering another puppy?
ReplyDeleteWhat a gift you have given - to her, to your family, to all of us!! Thank you for your dedication and care these past nine wonderful months!
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