October 30, 2011

It is with sad news that I have to share that Baker passed away on Saturday, Oct 29th. Who knew that Baker, of the Baker Dozen puppies, would be blessed with 12 years of wonderful life after such a horrible start at a puppy mill. Followed by the kidney failure induced by a topical flea treatment, he came back to RAGOM after being adopted initially. I told my husband it would be at least a 3 month wait for a dog upon submitting my application - who knew that Baker was waiting for us!! I think God knew! I'll never forget the home visit - Baker came in the house, destroyed the three stuffed dog toys from our resident Golden, spilled the water bowl all over the kitchen and knocked most everything tail level off. I looked at my husband and said we'll take him. That was Baker. His whirlwind of a tail, this sincere look with the chocolate brown eyes, his constant presence by my side. We took on agility and had great success. Then after a couple years, he stopped jumping. A x-ray diagnosed him with severe hip displasia. He had probably been in pain for a while, but still did what I asked him to do because he wanted to please me.

If I asked him to lay still while the girls climbed all over him, he did it. Although usually gave me a look that said "Seriously Mom, there had better be a treat." His favorite place was our cabin. I think Baker smiled when he would get in the boat. He was always so obedient fully knowing that the end of the 6 hour trip resulted in true dog freedom. Free to run, swim, chase chipmunks, and anything else that crossed his path. He "helped" us pick blueberries. Helping himself to the pile in my hand that was freshly picked or picking some for himself.

This summer he started to experience black out like episodes. Nothing could be seen on x-rays other than the horribly arthritic back. With help from our chiropractor, Baker had a wonderful summer. Recently he had started to be unable to eat his food and finally stopped getting up. Our hearts were breaking, but we knew that Baker wasn't living a good life any more. His time had come and so we helped nudge him to the Rainbow Bridge.

Thank you so much RAGOM for the work you do. Without Baker, we wouldn't have known his unconditional love and spirit. I hope to one day adopt from RAGOM again and will be lurking in the background until that day arrives.

We miss you Shake N Bake!!

Love Jill, Steve, Delaney, Talley & Boden