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ELSIE - Pedigree Dekdays:
ELSIE was my first and only pedigree Border Collie. We personally prefer to adopt rescued dogs and puppies and give those that have suffered in the past a chance to live in a loving home and environment. Even with the best pedigrees, things can go wrong, so it is always worth considering a rescue. We collected Elsie from a farm breeder near Manchester, when she was just 7 weeks old. She was beautiful, just like an angel.
I can still picture the sparkle in her eyes, smell her distinct farm scent and sweet puppy breath. Her unusual markings meant that she was not a popular choice to work as a sheep dog or use as a show dog. Predominantly white Border Collies and white faced collies, unless strong eyed tend not to be respected by flocks of sheep and frowned upon by farmers and in the show ring. However, to us she was perfect.
It still hurts and tears easily fall when I think about her and she is still missed terribly. She only lived until she was 16 months old, but during the time we had her she lived the life of a princess. She had strong working instincts and was eager to learn. We enjoyed training, going long country walks, fun and games, but sadly due to inherent genes she developed an incurable problem that meant her behaviour was extremely unpredicatable and a severe risk to the public and no amount of training, rehabilitation, socializing or eventually drugs could prevent our beautiful Border Collie turning from a sweet working collie, to the confused and severely aggressive dog we so sadly said farewell too. Other dogs come and go and on each sad passing they take a piece of your heart with them, but leave you with so many wonderful memories to treasure. Elsie was an inspiration and still is, and thankfully I have never come across a dog with such a bad inherited condition since. Most behaviours can be modified or even eradicated, but occasionally nothing can be done and even though it's heartbreaking - euthanasia is the only safe and sensible option... So you see not even a Canine Behaviourist can help in some cases, although in most we are able to advise and modify unacceptable behaviour.
Yes, we grieve the loss of our pets - it's perfectly natural and something we all as pet owner's at some stage sadly experience. I decided to do this small website tribute to show others that they can have a lasting memory and that the pain although it never goes away, it does get easier. I have supplied many links to help you with your pet loss and you are welcome to join my Angels Pet Loss Webring and leave a link to your permanent website memorial of your much loved pet.
Please visit my 'Forum' and tell myself and others about the pets you too have lost, your experiences and memories. It often helps to express your feelings, which in turn will help others. Remember - You are not alone in your grief... You are also welcome to email me at: acoupar@btopenworld.com and use "Pet Loss" as a title,
Angela - Canine Behaviour Consultant.
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