Post by Heather (& KC) on Jul 29, 2017 14:40:43 GMT -5
Thunder went to the rainbow bridge after a short battle with Osteosarcoma at the age of 6 1/2. Thunder was a big solid boy but was a total sweetheart and we miss him terribly. He has left a huge hole in our hearts and lives. I miss his snuggles, his silent willfulness, his crazy rooing and general goofy personality. Sweet sweet boy. We miss you.
He wasn't all that sure of fury things that's likely why he was retired from racing so quickly. He was fast, and was actually faster than his brother who had more than 100 races. Thunder was likely unsuccessful for a couple of reasons. First, he didn't do anything that wasn't his idea and second, he didn't like fuzzy creatures so Rusty wasn't likely of interest. If he'd see a dog or squirrel he'd pull in the other direction!
He played more and more with toys as time went on but in the beginning we would just find toys on our bed. Then if he was on the bed I'd take a squeak toy and put it on the bed and leave and we'd hear squeak, squeak, squeak coming from the bedroom! If you went in the bedroom to celebrate, he'd stop and pretend it wasn't happening!! Over the past year, he would actually squeak them in front of us, a real development and we were so proud.. But, if we acknowledged it, he'd stop. If we suggested he get up on the couch, he'd lay on his pillow! He also let a brand new fluffy slumberball sit empty for 5 months and finally started to use it in the days before we brought home his brother. He loved his slumberball and you'd often find him roaching.
Thunder had an amazing sense of time and was better than an alarm clock. He loved to snuggle on the couch or if he had already claimed the bed, was more than happy if I got in beside him. He was such a great snuggler and sleeper. So calm, content and peaceful. He'd only give up the human bed for daddy. He rooed for his breakfast and dinner and was bouncing for his food right up to the end. He lived for food and I'm so happy he was still chomping down on special treats.
He loved to run with his brother Bruce and even did a little running in the last few weeks, much to our concern! They continually synchronized when laying on their pillows or slept. They were a great pair and spent all their time together.
Losing Thunder has left a huge hole in our hearts and in our lives. We love you little buddy, little man, Tee, Boo Boo. We are so blessed to have shared your retirement with you. Every day was a gift with you. You're forever in our hearts. Run free.