In Loving Memory

August 1, 1994 – May 1, 2007

Buster Shepherd was cantankerous, persnickety, and one of the most loving dogs I’ve ever known.

He was adored by his ‘parents’ (my brother, Wes and sister-in-law, Anne); worshipped by his brother, Jake (a Chocolate Lab); and taunted with affection by his sister, Elsa (a cranky-yet-lovable tortoiseshell cat).

On numerous occasions, I had the pleasure of pet-sitting the family during which time I quickly learned who was in charge of the home. Long before the Blackberry, Buster was a living, breathing organism of organization, keeping track of every meal, every snack and every outing he and his brother were due, with almost obsessive precision. If I lapsed in the doling out of any of their treats, Buster would stare quizzically at me, one lip curled under his tooth, not letting the matter rest until all was right with the world.

Jake was the more laid back of the two because he had complete faith that Buster would take care of all their needs. They could often be found sleeping curled up next to one another, perhaps one soothing the other with a comforting tongue-bath. Sometimes, Buster would even be found snuggled up with Elsa (the cat) and almost seemed embarrassed to be discovered in their tryst.

Sadly, Buster was not in the best of health, suffering from many joint ailments and assorted infections. On May 1, 2007, after much agonizing by his parents, Buster was put to sleep where he will rest, as they say, in peace.

So many wonderful memories of a dog with so much life and character. I will never forget that old fellow…