Susie, A Golden Ray Of Sunshine

        SUSIE

“Beep, beep, beep”, the pager sounded in the wee hours of the night.  I squinted at the device, trying to read the numbers.  A few minutes later, I was dressed and driving to the clinic.  Golden Retriever puppies were on their way and I was summoned to make sure the delivery went well.  Little did I know, months later the most energetic of these little ones would boomerang back and become part of my family.

In August 2008 Susie turns 14 years old.  I attribute her longevity to a healthy appetite, boundless energy, a good sense of curiosity and the disposition of a saint.  Her move to Arizona and ability to swim regularly have also helped.

It must be said that Susie values humans over all other creatures.  When meeting fellow dog walkers she immediately wags her entire body then sits so that the approaching humans can pet her.  She wallows in any human attention.  Other animals, it would seem, are merely a distraction.  Most people can not resist petting and talking to her.  Those who own Goldens know what I mean.

Susie is a good natured dog and always happy to do just about anything as long as I or my husband are involved.  When I helped with her delivery, I had no expectation of having Susie join the family.  But she was so elevated in her energy level that she bounced through four homes before I was asked to take her. 
Susie did eventually settle down . . . when the arthritis started.  I am a better human being for having known her.  She has transformed my life.

Published by kristennelsondvm

Dr. Kristen Nelson grew up on a farm in Watertown, Minn., where she developed a deep love for animals of all kinds. She received a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine. Kris then completed a small-animal internship at the prestigious Animal Medical Center in New York City. In addition to writing and speaking, she cares for small and exotic animals in Scottsdale, Az. Dr. Nelson is widely quoted in the media. Her credits include Ladies’ Home Journal, USA TODAY, the Los Angeles Times and numerous radio and television interviews. Dr. Nelson has written two books, Coated With Fur: A Vet’s Life and Coated With Fur: A Blind Cat’s Love. Kris and her husband Steve share their home with rescued cats, birds and a dog.