Farewell Wilson

today i received some more sad news. Wilson, the truly charming and ultra-handsome yellow lab i had the pleasure of photographing, was put to rest at his home yesterday with his loving momma by his side…

who shared her thoughts with me in an email: “He was enduring too much pain for me to let things continue. He fought with so much courage and grace for a full year – when doctors said I would be lucky to get three months with him. In that year I have learned to respect him so very much because – despite his illness – every day he was positive, enthusiastic and thankful for all of the small pleasures in his life. This was a hard decision because mentally he was still trying to fight. But the pain was more than I could let him endure.”

when i first met 8-year-old Wilson in September of 2010, his health was failing, but true to his courageous character, he was bright and sprightly for our time together. we had so much fun, wandering the grounds of his home, people-watching and playing with his favourite ball. at the time it was unknown how much time he had left. every day he was treated like a king and given all the love in the world. i heard he had the best time of his life at his cottage vacation in the fall.

he was such a loving and happy guy and it showed through my lens. not surprisingly, i fell in love with every single image from my session with Wilson. i was so excited to help create the Wall of Wilson for his home.

my heart goes out to you Linda. i know how special your relationship with your boy was. he was incredibly lucky to have been loved by you. you gave him the most fantastic life any dog could wish for.

 

seriously, wasn’t he super handsome?

he sure loved his belly rubs!

mmmm…and treats?!

Wilson loved playing fetch with his favourite ball.

and still acted like a pup.

he loved to sit and watch the people pass by.

and show off for them.

he was so soulful, so expressive.

and so incredibly HAPPY!

he was always aware of where his momma was at all times. i think it’s fair to say he was a momma’s boy.

he followed her everywhere and they enjoyed their many walks together.

he had one of the best smiles i have ever captured!

and one of the saddest faces too. Wilson you are such a heart-breaker…you will be missed. xo

for more photos of Wilson, here is a musical slideshow of his session:

14 comments on “Farewell Wilson”

  1. Grace says:

    I am so sorry to hear of the passing of handsome Wilson. What a gorgeous dog he was, and he obviously had a wonderful life and a very, very loving family. Our dog is only 4 (today!), but seeing these photos and reading the stories just makes me realize how lucky we are that he is still so young and healthy. I know he, too, will be gone some day, and I can only begin to imagine how you are feeling. Hugs.

  2. Danica says:

    What beautiful photos that show Wilson’s joie de vivre. My condolences, Linda. This is one of the most difficult yet courageous choices we have to make for our furry companions.

  3. Maureen says:

    so nice and fun and what a fine tribute to a special dog!

  4. Karen says:

    Linda – Wilson will certainly be missed by all and his wonderful personality and unwavering love for you was beautiful to witness. Both you and Wilson got so much out of your relationship and he was so very fortunate to have found himself as a member of your family. These photos are a beautiful depiction of Wilson and I hope that they will serve to always remind you of the warmth, love and caring that accompanied every moment with your special boy.

  5. Lynn says:

    Linda My thoughts are with you. It took great courage to make the decision you did for Wilson. I will miss my wonderful, beautiful neighbour. I am so pleased that I was able to be part of Wilson’s circle of friends.

  6. Vicki says:

    Linda,
    How thoughtful of you to share such a sad moment with your friends and family. In that way, you reached out at a time when we need to reach out to you. Wilson was more than your dog; he was your faithful companion in life, showing unwavering love, concern and he was ever present. May he remain as he was: in spirit, in your heart and in your mind’s eye, telling you how loved you are.
    Peacefully yours – Vicki

  7. Susan says:

    What gorgeous pictures of a wonderful relationship. A treasure to keep, for sure. I love you, Linda.

  8. Jane says:

    Linda – thinking of you as I experienced these remarkable pictures and shared in the tribute of Wilson’s life with you. We love our animal companions, and we love you.
    Thankyou Marcia.

  9. Nancy says:

    My heart hurts for yours in this, and rejoices in the joy that was yours and Wilson’s.

  10. LISA GILBERT says:

    I AM SURE THAT YOUR LIFE, WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN, “SO” ENRICHED WITHOUT HIM! I’AM NOT JUST “SAYING THIS” AS AN OVER THE YEARS , LABRADOR OWNER BUT—– LABS ROCK! DOGS ARE NOT OUR WHOLE LIFE- BUT THEY MAKE OUR LIVES WHOLE! SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS!- LISA GILBERT

  11. Kirsten says:

    Dear Wilson’s Mom,
    I just watched the slideshow of Wilson and feel heartbroken for your loss. The photos showed such joy in the simple things and an overarching theme of sweetness coming through in every one. How lucky you each were to have one another. He was just beautiful.

  12. Heather says:

    Linda, my heart goes out to you. I didn’t personally know Wilson, although these photos make me feel like I did! And I know how important he was to you. I’m sending you a Dutch size hug from Holland!

  13. Linda, I am so sorry for your loss. As a new lab owner (9 months), I know how deep that attachment runs, and how much Wilson will be missed. He was a beautiful dog, and the love and compassion in his eyes speaks volumes. I am so very sorry.

  14. Elaine says:

    I am so sorry for your loss. I am in the same spot with our lab Ike. I know how hard this decision can be and how lucky we are to have them as long as we do.

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