Here it is, April 5th, and Gary and I want to take a moment to thank our lucky stars for the gift we were given one year ago today. What was once a 1 1/4-inch photo on Petfinder.com, and trekked hundreds of miles up from Tennessee, quickly became one of the most unique, floppy, tender and affectionate dogs we have ever known. He instantly became one of those dogs you will never, ever forget.
We picked Brewer up in Connecticut from a transport company called PETS LLC. That was an incredible experience of its own. The above photo was taken in the first few moments we shared with him.
Brewer met his new brother on the beach that day, and we were amazed at how well the introduction went! At the end of that first day, nothing could have been more heartwarming than seeing the two brothers curled up together on the same bed. It was clear that from that first day that Brewer and Bromley – though 9 years apart in age – were the most incredible play pals we could have ever wished for. Bromley’s youth immediately returned, and at the same time, he helps to calm Brewer’s excitement when needed.
I think the best moment is when you wake up the next day and have a new face like this in your life:
Brewer has brought a different energy to our household. Being a southern boy, and equal parts hound and lab, his endearing traits are balanced out by equal parts stubbornness and a seeming willingness to trail any scent his nose latches onto.
This winter, we discovered that Brewer had contracted heartworm – an often-deadly disease that is more common in the south and may take six months to show up in tests. We were crushed that our little boy had to undergo such harsh treatment, and it certainly took a noticeable toll on his body – but that endearing personality kept on shining through!
We can hardly believe how lucky we are to have two such incredible dogs in our lives. With their mellow and loving touch, Bromley & Brewer are walking advertisements for pet adoption every day.
Personally, something very special that Brewer has brought to my life is the comfort that I’ll be able to rise up again after Bromley passes. Bromley has been with me for 11 years, and I can work myself into instant tears any time I start to think about losing him (yep, see? that was easy). My forever-dog. An irreplaceable hold on my heart. But thanks to Brewer, I know someone will be there to lick my tears, tug me back out for a walk, and offer up a sweet-smelling furry neck for endless embracing.
So, Brewer… HAPPY GOTCHA DAY! We’re happy to provide you with a warm bed, a full dish and an ample supply of belly-rubs, but it is you who has given us so much more than we could have imagined.
by Stacey
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