Our Bugs, a perfectly grand lady, made her way into our home and hearts when she was already a senior girl. Rescued when she was approximately ten years old, she shared our lives for nearly eight years. This badly abused and abandon girl somehow maintained her ability to trust and love. Every minute she spent with us was pure joy. She was never an ounce of trouble. Her greatest joy was just to be with us. Her favorite activity was a ride in the truck.

"I don't want a Boxer and I don't want a female." ( The "no Boxer" remark was predicated by my husband's belief that Boxers were drooling machines. His "no female" requirement was because he was certain a female would kill the lawn--but we have no back lawn.) OOPS, I must have forgotten my husband's stipulations when I visited the adoption fair.

Mouseover the photos to pause.

We never trained Bugs, she didn't need it, she was truly an angel. From the first day we had her she never left our sides when on a walk. She was never pushy or rude and always grateful for the smallest bit of attention. We often called Bugs the referee because she kept the youngsters in line--it only took a low level growl from Bugs to set the pups straight. She ruled with such dignity. Bugs never learned to play with toys but she did learn what Mom called senior agility. How she loved to show off working the barless jumps, weaving in the poles and playing in the tunnel.

Bugs' health deteriorated rapidly. On April 18, 2005, I held our sweet girl, kissed her goodbye and let her go to her final peace. She ask for nothing but gave so much. Our hearts are heavy but our memories are full, for Bugs gave us love and devotion. Each day with her was filled with joy. We will smile when remembering Bugs and be grateful we were privileged to share our lives with this special lady.