Go on as long as you want, Tbogg, do what you gotta do.

Love that beach pic, I think I know just where that is, I used to live in your neighborhood.

I think most everyone who comes to visit you here feels the same way about dogs as you. And even if they don’t, there is no need for you to apologize for expressing your grief.

Loss of our dogs leaves a hole in the heart that never completely closes. If it weren’t that way we wouldn’t go through all the trouble it takes to share a home with them.

Thank you for bringing Beckham out for me to visit each week. He was a silly, funny, petulant, interesting, beautiful boy, and I loved him in spite of never getting to scratch him behind the ears.

My sympathies to the Tbogg family. So sad when a pet goes young.

So sorry to read this news. My condolences to you and your family.

It’s gonna be tough for awhile, but I wholeheartedly endorse the idea of getting a Bassett Bud for Fenway. We are so attached to our Boodah (Actually, no joke, full name – Fenway’s Lucky Boodah (don’t laugh, it worked!)), that we’ll be lost when his ticket is finally punched. They aren’t like family…they are family.

All the best…take some time off…the political misery will still be here when you return.

TBogg, mrs TBogg and L&T,

Please accept our most heartfelt condolences.

oldnslow & CBL

As superfly said, you’ve no need to apologize or explain. A death in the family is a big deal, and your grief and sorrow matter.

Satchmo’s passing still feels fresh; and now this random, senseless and sudden loss, leaving no time to prepare or adjust. How is one supposed to cope with that? Well, they’re not. And so, you must not worry about the blog or explaining yourself or anything other than taking care of yourselves and each other.

I hope the vet lab can get to the bottom of whatever caused this, be it viral or something in the environment. Whatever the cause, I just hope you all can have some closure on this.

My only consolation, and it’s not much considering there’s no way to know, is that Beckham is with Satchmo in some glorious other world where favourite foods materialize at will and every dog at the beach is Beckham’s bitch.

By the way, lest it not be apparent, although Beckham’s face was naturally grumpy and we all poked fun at his phenomenally entertaining expressions, he was very obviously a real charmer and quite possibly a big marshmallow.

And now, I must apologize for going on…

Again, if there’s anything we can do to help, we’re here for you all.

Words fail. TBogg and family: I’m so, so sorry. Best wishes for a speedy recovery for Fenway, and please give him an extra pet for us. This is an incredible blow.

Big, tough Ump here at the computer with tears in his eyes. The boys are family to all of us. We comprehend but we don’t understand this sudden loss. Give an extra hug to Mrs. T-Bogg, L&T Casey and Fenway.

Really sorry about this–I’ve lurked on your blog for years, but this is the first time I’ve commented. Very sorry indeed.

TBogg, no need for excuses or apologies. Beckham is part of your family, and you are devastated by his loss. I have two cats, and I will be a mess when they go. It’s the agony of having animals as family because for the most part, they are with us for far too little time.

I am surrounding you and your loved ones, including Beckham and Fenway, with a white light during this sorrowful time. Please keep us updated on Fenway, and again, my deepest sympathies.

When you adopt a dog, you are setting yourself up for grief. But those of us who love dogs take that bet every time. Because in the end, the love we get from them far outweighs the sadness when we lose them. It seems sometimes that maybe the grief wins because it is so strong and so painful at first, but over time, we look back on that one-of-a-kind love and realize how lucky we were.

Thank you for sharing that love and joy with us. We are lucky to have known Beckham, too.

Those memories that are so painful now will ultimately be the ones that sustain you.

This surely blows. I know it seems callous, but for us, getting another dog sooner rather than later has always helped the grief. The hole they leave is so large that it just sucks everything in. Fenway feels it and he will be so much happier when you bring him a new buddy. Grieve, but get another dog as soon as you feel comfortable doing so….all of you will feel better with the puppy breath in your face. Beckham will understand completely.

Be gentle with yourselves and each other, TBoggs (human and canine). You will know when it’s time for a new puppy. I hope the affection of many for you and your dogs will help sustain you.

Thanks very much for the update on Fenway. I’ve been kind of worried about him and I know I won’t feel calm until he’s fully well and home again.

More hugs to all of you.

There should be a rule that dogs don’t die until their families do. Tomorrow is the 1st anniversary of the death of our old dog. Even tho we got another dog 2 months later, we miss our old boy every. single. day. Partly because he was so very different, the new pup helped all of us, even Original Dog #2 whom he tormented mercilessly with his puppy teeth. :)

Thanks, TBogg, for posting a follow-up and another picture. What a great dog. All my best to you and your family, and my especial tender condolences to the L&T Casey, because she and my daughter are the same age and I recall how anguished April was when our boy died.

There are no words to adequately express my sorry at the loss of your Beckham. All I can say is I am so, so sorry.

Oh, jeez. So very sorry for your loss.

I’m a dog person, I make no excuses.

From a cat person to a dog person: that’s exactly as it should be. There are a hell of a lot of us who understand the depth of your feelings for your companions.

The hole in your lives he leaves behind is vast. But the treasure of memories is greater by far.

We, your readers, got to share a small portion of those memories, and we’re all grateful for that. And I, at least, will recall with laughter many of your tales of Beckham. I never got to stroke his ears, but I mourn his passing and yet recall the joy he brought even to remote strangers like me.

I’ve been in the L&T Casey’s shoes, and it hurts like hell.

Peace to her and to you all, TBogg.

(((((tboggg, Mrstbogg, L&TCasey, Fenway)))))

I’m a cat person rather than dog person but understand what you are dealing with. For me, after I lost my previous companion, I grieved for a year before finding my current companion. We all take the steps that work best for us individually (or collectively as a family)

Peace.

Nothing to apologize for. I still have strong feelings about when my first dog suddenly passed away, and that was over 20 years ago.

I want to say something that will comfort you and your family but I know that some paths we must walk down are too narrow even for words. They say when a dog dies it takes a piece of your heart with it, but leaves a piece of its own with you. I think that’s true for those of us who never got to meet Beckham but knew and loved him none the less. Please know you and your family are in our thoughts.
Fred
ironicusmaximus.blogspot.com

I’m so sorry for your loss — hugs to the entire TBogg family.

I am so very sorry for your loss. You and the Tbogg family are in my thoughts and prayers…..

I made a donation in Beckham’s name to the home for senior bassets, The House of Puddles. My heart is with the Tbogg family.

Well you ask me if I’ll forget my baby.
I guess I will, someday.
I don’t like it but I guess things happen that way.
You ask me if I’ll get along.
I guess I will, someway.
I don’t like it but I guess things happen that way.

– Johnny Cash

Adding my thoughts…been following you since before you landed here at Firedoglake, always enjoy your posts & the comments, never bothered to register…am also a dog lover & looked forward to Thursday Basset Blogging…

My Mackey died suddenly in my bed one morning, before his 8th birthday. The pain eased with time & another puppy, but it all came flooding back when I clicked on your page, expecting to see some cute basset pix & amusing anecdote…

I registered after all this time to say how very very sorry I am for your loss & the pain that you and your family is going through…time heals all wounds, but the scar tissue remains…HUGS to the TBogg family

Dear Tom and family,

I share this memento with you that sits inside each of the wooden urns that hold the ashes of our Katie and Dudley. And even though they both died seven weeks apart almost five years ago, I still can not read this without my eyes filling with tears and sobbing as if it were only yesterday. I wish you all peace and the joyful memories of the time you shared with Beckham.

Within this memorial are the deposited remains of one who possessed beauty without vanity, strength without insolence, courage without ferocity, and all the virtues of man without his vices. This praise, which would be unmeaning flattery, if inscribed over human ashes, is but a tribute to my dog, my friend, my companion.

We are all grateful to have the privilege and blessing of happy memories left behind by our beloved dog.

Thom

Been off the tubes for a couple of days and just checked in to see how the boys were doing. Now I’m sitting here with tears running down my face. So fuckin’ sorry for your loss.

Our Jack has been gone since Sept. 21st and I still miss him every day. You’ve every right to inconsolable.

Fare thee well, good sir Beckham.

The big storm last night knocked out power here, and while I had doped Arthur, somehow my arm connected with his teeth. When he goes, it will be the worst thing in the world. U take all the time there is, TBogg – not having the chance to say goodbye means it will be slow.

In a week of sad news, this is easily the most tragic. Your dogs mean the world to us as well. I am bereft at your loss.

Two funerals this week and now word of Beckham’s passing.
I’ll miss seeing his mug and reading of his adventures. I have been reading you for years without comment but just want to say I am sorry for your loss. Our best wishes to the TBoggs.

Oh, I am so very sorry. Enormous hugs to you and the whole family.

I’m a cat person, but I feel your pain. So sorry to hear about Beckham, who had such presence. I woke up thinking it was exactly a year ago I took the best cat that ever lived to the vet, only to lose him two weeks later. The suddenness makes it so much worse. My condolences to all of you.

For some time now, you have enriched my Friday mornings by giving me a window into life with the boys. I missed the blog yesterday, so the last I’d heard, B and F were just not feeling so well. What a shock. Starting Friday with tears in my eyes, and knowing it is nothing compared to what you feel. Heartfelt condolences to you and your family.

Oh man, almost the same thing happened to our dog – a diagnosis of diabetes at age 4, then a stomach virus, then hypoglycemic shock. She spent all day at the vet’s; at 7 pm they called to say she should pull through; at 9 pm they called to have us come say goodbye. Her name was our then-2-year-old’s first word.

Best wishes for the next few months.

I’ve been reading your blog for years, but this is the first time I’ve commented. I’m so, so sorry, Tbogg. Warm thoughts to you and your family.

“Ain’t but three things in this world that’s worth a solitary dime
But old dogs and children and watermelon wine.”
Tom T. Hall

Peace with you.

I’ve never been weepy over a dog I never met, but I can’t stop the tears. My dogs are my furry kids and I get it. I’m staggeringly sorry.

Out of the blue, this song kept running through my head this morning…

It was only one hour ago
It was all so different then
There’s nothing yet has really sunk in
Looks like it always did
This flesh and bone
It’s just the way that you would tied in
Now there’s no-one home

I grieve for you
You leave me
‘so hard to move on
Still loving what’s gone
They say life carries on
Carries on and on and on and on

The news that truly shocks is the empty empty page
While the final rattle rocks it’s empty empty cage
And i can’t handle this

I grieve for you
You leave me
Let it out and move on
Missing what’s gone
They say life carries on
They say life carries on and on and on

Life carries on
In the people i meet
In everyone that’s out on the street
In all the dogs and cats
In the flies and rats
In the rot and the rust
In the ashes and the dust
Life carries on and on and on and on
Life carries on and on and on

It’s just the car that we ride in
A home we reside in
The face that we hide in
The way we are tied in
And life carries on and on and on and on
Life carries on and on and on

Did I dream this belief?
Or did i believe this dream?
Now i can find relief
I grieve

-Peter Gabriel

Somehow I always feel better after hearing it.

Hugs to the tbogg family, and everyone who’s lost a beloved pet.

This came far too soon after Satchmo and far too young for Beckham. My heart goes out to you and the TBogg family.

(((((((Beckham’s humans)))))))

So sorry to read this, Tbogg.

I had babysitting duty last night, so I didn’t have a chance to keep up after you told us how sick Beckham was. It’s a complete shock to lose a buddy so young, my heart goes out to you, Mrs. Tbogg and the L & T Casey for your loss. Hopefully your memories of the little grumpy guy will sustain you all while you mourn.

Poor Fenway–it’s never easy to understand the loss of your best mate. I hope he pulls through his illness.

We have three Yorkies who are getting up there in age, the youngest will be 9 this year and his parents are a few years older, so we are very lucky to have had all the time we did have with them.

I think you should name the next one Antheil, YMMV.

I am so, so sorry for your loss. Your “online family” shares your grief. That was a beautiful photo on the beach, btw.

I’m going to go home and give my dog a hug.

Your family gave Beckham a fabulous life. He wasn’t just a great dog. He wasn’t just a great companion. He was a star. His bedroom eyes were a symbol for me of the canine capacity for true, unadulterated and unconditional love. My beloved Seamus doesn’t understand why I’m holding him so tight today and wetting his head with my tears. He only knows that I’m sad and wants to make it better. Look to Fenway. He’ll show you the way through the grief.

Godspeed Beckham and long live Bassett blogging!

I am so sorry for your loss. I just lost my Chessie a week ago after a long struggle with Degenerative Myelopathy. The house just feels empty without a dog. Every dog is unique and though you may get another basset he will never replace Beckham, just take his place next to Fenway while he works his way into the hearts of the TBogg family in his own inimitable way.

The first time I looked at the beach photo of Beckham, I could imagine Satchmo and Cooder, standing just beyond the frame, wagging their tails in greeting.

Thank you for leaving us with such a sweet image of your boy.

Another lurker coming by to offer my deepest condolences. Like everybody here, Thursday isn’t complete without basset blogging. I was late checking yesterday, so I missed the first post. I gasped when I saw the news.

Echoing what one of my people said yesterday, baruch dayan emet.

So very sorry to hear of your loss. I know the hole this can leave. again I’m so sorry.

I’m a bit late, but … I am so, so sorry. And even in tears (honestly).

Every pet owner should spend the evening with their four-legged kids as a tribute. I know I will …

I am so sorry for this loss in your family. You and your dogs give so much pleasure and this seems terribly unfair.

No consolation, but the quality of life you give all your boys is matchless. My sympathies, tbogg, mrs tbogg, and l&TC..

My deepest sympathies for your loss.
Being a cat person, I still understand.
And I am still getting over the loss of our last Burmese, Sasha.
She joined the choir invisible 15 months ago at 14.
Following her brother Nikko by 2 years.

I am looking forward to seeing your new addition.

I am in shock as I read this this morning. What a sad situation. My heart goes out to you all upon this turn of events.

Blessed Beckham

I’m so sorry; I wish all the Tboggs the best in this very, very hard time.

I didn’t realize Beckham had been that sick as a pup, nor that his health was permanently compromised by it.

You gave him a doubly fine life, then: not very many people would have fought so hard to keep him alive from the very start, staying with him every night to make sure he could breath, sparing no expense. And he enjoyed a real dog’s life: to run (well… as much as bassets ever do) and play and romp on the beach, not be stuck with an invalid’s life of sterile surroundings, no other doggies, and no physical exertions “for his own good.” Believe me – if you’re wondering at all whether you did right by him – Beckham was a thousand times better off and happier with you than he would have been with anyone else.

(I continue to let my kitties go outside pretty much whenever they ask, despite so many people saying they’d be safer longer indoors. Safer? Maybe, but they’d be absolutely miserable, with no trails to explore, no bushes and trees to lurk under, no birds and squirrels to obsess over, and no chance to run under the sky. What good is a life that’s long in duration but short on joy?)

Blessings be to Beckham, and to his family; and to the new puppy, whenever you bring him or her home. Will L&TC be able to pick the new baby out during Spring Break, or would you not want to wait that long?

Satchmo was almost 7 when we brought Beckham home and intially he wasn’t especially happy to give up his only dog status. But in a very short time, he and Becks were the best of buddies. When we started noticing that Satchmo was slowing down, and knowing that Beckham would be lost without him, we decided to add another pup to the pack and Fenway became part of the family. Little did we know that in such a short time, we would be back to only.
There are 2 things getting me through right now…one is knowing deep in my heart that my two lovely boys are back togther..healthy and happy. The other is the outpouring of love and support from all of you. Thank you is so inadequate….but thank you, more than I can ever say.

And to my little buddy…my butthead…my baby…you will be with me, like a handprint on my heart. I guess in this case it would be a pawprint…… We miss you love.

{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{{TBogg, Mrs. TBogg, L&T Casey, & Fenway}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}}

It doesn’t matter if you’re a dog or a cat person. I lost my two kitties within a year of each other, and had to put each one down in the same room at the Animal Medical Center in NYC.

I still haven’t replaced them. Ten years later.

The great ones always go too soon.

To the Tbogg family, my heartfelt condolences. Your posts yesterday and today brought tears to my eyes–a testimonial to how powerfully you can get complete strangers to care about you and yours. Special hugs to the L&T Casey–I have a couple of L&T’s of my own.

Your love for Beckham is so obvious and strong that it makes strangers, including me, cry from thousands of miles away. I feel so bad for Fenway, to whom you can’t explain what happened.

Love, M.

well I have been crying off and on since oldnslow told me at 5 am. “horrible wrong” indeed TBogg, particularly cruel in it’s capriciousness.

I have put off commenting in hopes I could say something that would be worthy of all TBogg and family have given to me – alas, too many tears and hurt

Mrs TBogg, though long under the spell of TNBB, I didn’t really fall in love with Becks until you came on to the threads not that long ago and spoke of him and how he was your boy – it enriched every thursday night thereafter – so very touching and authentic. like so many here, I would do anything to ease your pain right now

god damn I loved your boy

peace, comfort, and grace to all at Casa TBogg

cynthia

I took at run at the news today and became depressed so I thought I’d look at Thursday Bassett Blogging because that always cheers me up and then this. I’m just so sorry.

Oh TBogg, I’m so sorry to hear Beckham has passed. Old dogs don’t have to learn new tricks, being with us is the biggest gift of all.

my wife and i are so sorry for your loss. being “dog people” as well, we know exactly what you and your family are going through. hang in there, cherish the memories and don’t forget to hug fenway

So very sorry for your loss.

You and yours are in our prayers.

:-(

Having been a TBogganeer since before Beckham arrived, I feel like I’ve lost a family member, too. And your plain but eloquent words make it all the more clear.

I think I’ll go find my dog and give him a hug. Again.

Dear T,

As I’ve mentioned before, we’re here on Maui with four furry chow chows, so if the L&T Casey needs some dog hair and cuddling before she can get home for spring break, tell her she would be welcome here. Iner-island air fare is less than that to the Mainland.

Also, if there is a rescue organization we could contribute to in Beckham’s honor, I’m sure even $5 each from 300-400 folks here would help them, and I know I’d be glad to do it.

Next week I’m off to the Mainland to care for a house full of rescues so the “parents” can take a vacation.

Hugs to you all.

No apologies needed, as you see, you are in a safe place here to mourn your dog.

I feel for the L&T Casey so much – my last dog died while I was away at college. My folks came to Parents’ Day shortly afterward – it was so hard for them to tell me that they nearly left without doing it.
When my dad, the brave one, finally told me, I sobbed for hours, leaning on my bf’s shoulder in the parking lot. It was horrible.

And I’m still looking unconsciously for my bestest favorite most pain-in-the-butt cat, who died in my lap on Dec. 11th. Only time will help.

“Alas, poor Beckham. A dog of infinite jest–I knew him well.”

(Hamlet speaking of Yorrick, modified.)

My Jack Russell, Waylon, was living with my parents while I was living far away across the country, and he died while I was gone. It was very hard, but Mr. Votus said the above line regarding Waylon, and somehow it helped a little.

From his photos, I can see that Beckham was a dog of infinite jest, and you were lucky to have known him well.

I’m so very sorry to hear about Beckham. My condolences to you and your family.

Tbogg, I’m so sorry for your loss. I’m a dog person too, and would be inconsolable if something happened to my pet. We’ll miss hearing about the “lil bastard” and hope the human and canine Tboggs can find some solace with your memories of Beckham.

Oh, dear. This is so sad. I have a beloved cat who is now eleven, and I can only imagine how empty you all feel right now. I’ve followed the dogs’ adventures for a long time. I miss him, too.

This was the unkindliest cut of all.

This is the saddest thing I’ve heard all week, and it’s ben a week of very sad news. As someone who lost his beloved Jack Russell Terrier Buster at age 16 last year, I truly feel your pain. For what they’re worth, I send my most sincere condolences to the entire Tbogg family. I’m so sorry.

Dude, we understand. Fenway looking for his pal brought tears to my eyes, again. You didn’t need to tell me he was a sweet boy, it was obvious. Take good care.

It takes a big heart like yours to hold a pancake pawprint.

When it’s your time, Mrs. TBogg, the Rainbow Bridge will have a red carpet and be very crowded.

I’m very sorry for your loss. My wife and I have had to say good bye to 3 different dogs in our 15 years together, most recently this past November.

No need to apologize. Anyone who expresses sentiments along the lines of “It was just a dog, get over it” should be punched in the junk. Hard.

That sucks. He was only six? He’s been hanging around this site for as long as I can remember. He’ll be missed. Take it from somebody who likes dogs more than he likes most people: The best cure for the sadness of your loss is a new puppy.

Max

Enjoy.

It’s amazing how a dog I don’t know belonging to a person I undoubtedly will never meet can seem so close to me. My sincerest condolences.

I’ve stayed clear of the internet for a few days to keep blood pressure down, so I had no idea. I’m also a dog person and understand fully. I’m very sorry.

Dogs are the best people, and even when they have a good span, they are with us for too short a time. After five years, I still miss Max terribly, and am at a loss trying to console what I know to be inconsolable.

Sounds like Beckham and Satchmo had the best life they could have. It’s not much right now, but it’s something.

Over the years, the many weekly photos have been wonderful but I’ve equally enjoyed the stories describing the antics of the boys. When a person writes as skillfully as TBogg, one cannot get enough story telling.

I look forward to many more years of amusing photos and anecdotes about Fenway and his future companions. The world needs as much silliness as it can get, and bassets never fail to deliver.

And though we will move forward, Satchmo and Beckham will always figure prominently to remind us of where we’ve been and who is boss, like ornate portraits of important and imposing ancestors that line any grand stairwell.

TBogg-

I’m just seeing this now for the first time. So sorry for your loss. Thursday Basset Blogging is a highlight of my week. I hope you continue to post some pics of Beckham for a while.

I can’t wait to meet Fenway’s future friend. I have no doube s/he will be completely nuts, like all good (bad) bassets.

TBogg and family,

We are all dog people here and know how devastated you must feel. It is so shocking when you lose a buddy so unexpectedly. We are all devastated too as your pups are somehow ours too in that we check on them every week and chuckle at their antics. My thoughts are with you. I know it hurts like hell.

I’m a dog person myself having six four-leggers right now and know quite well the heartache of losing beloved dogs. I love the pix of Beckham on the surf because it captures so much of him.

All one can offer as a consolation is believing in your heart today that you did everything possible for Beckham to have a good life and that you have no regets.

I still play the youtube video of the “Deerhunter” theme you and your wife posted after Satchmo died. I watched it again last night, with tears running down my face, as always. It is a shame that God’s best gift to people, the dog, lives so shortly. Take care.

Oh, I am so sorry for your loss, TBogg and Mrs. T and Casey and Fenway.

TBogg, because the world is so full of insanity (on the news, at any rate) the Thursday Night Basset Blogging has been a gift. I don’t think you have a full grasp of what you’ve passed on to many of us non-dog owners.
Sometimes, basset blogs have cleared my brain of the madness of holy wars and the insanity of lunatic politicians like nothing else that I’ve ever encountered.
He was a gift.

Losing a beloved pet is absolutely dreadful. My condolences on your loss.

My heartfelt condolences on your loss of such a beautiful dog.
Just know in your heart, they wait for you over the bridge, strong and healthy and running together.

My heart breaks for all the Tboggs. Thank you for sharing Beckham’s life with us these few short years. He was part of my life every Thursday night since he came into your lives, and I miss him terribly already. Peace to you all.

Beckhan and Satchmo were such lovely dogs. Thank you for letting us enjoy them along with you and your family. I miss them both terribly.

I am a cat person. I am also TBoggs brother. For two days now i’ve been sitting reading all the wonderful postings and outpouring of love for the TBogg family with tears running down my face. About two months ago i had the privilege of house/bassett sitting for my brother and sister-in-law while they were out of town to watch the L&TCasey play soccer. After a couple of days i knew i was really caring for the equivalent of a canine Batman & Robin. Fenway was Robin…young, eager headstrong,raring to go. Beckham was Batman (if you can picture Abe Vigoda playing Batman)…methodical but crafty. My brother tried to warn me about taking both the boys out for a walk at the same time. Did i listen? Nope. I soon felt i was being taken advantage of, much like a 7th grade substitute teacher. At the time i didn’t know about Bassett telepathy. I do now. It never failed on our 4 or 5 walks a day that we would approach a tree or telephone pole and Beckham would tell Fenway “Hey Fen you go right and i’ll go left and next tree we’ll switch”. Telepathically of course. Leaving me with a face full of splinters. Of course the boys were giggling and mentally highfiving each other. At the end of the week i thought “i can’t do this anymore”. Now, sadly, i won’t be able to do that anymore and i want to. My brother and i have not yet spoken mainly because i can’t find the words to help ease the pain and sorrow that i know is consumming the entire family. I love you all and we will talk soon.

I am so, so sorry for your loss. Thank you for letting me share Beckham’s too-short life. May you be comforted.

And the Tbogg family is fortunate indeed to have fbogg to write such a tribute.

I just came home from having to put my wonderful dog Molly to sleep. The cancer was too great a foe for my loving and faithful companion of 12 years to vanquish.

So I thought I’d turn to Thursday Night Basset Blogging for some greatly needed comfort and solace. And now I learn of the passing of that mischievous imp Beckham. I’m so sorry. He and the rest of the Bogg hounds have always felt like family to me. I will miss him greatly. If it’s possible, I’m even more heartbroken than before.

To all the Boggs, my deepest sympathy. I know it’s an overused cliche, but right now I really do feel your pain.

But on a happier note, I’m certain that my Molly and your Beckham will be lucky enough to attend the same new arrival orientation class at Doggie Heaven. They will meet and become fast and eternal friends. I’m sure of it.

Tbogg, it is a testament to how devoted your readers are- with the outpouring of support for y’all- that upon hearing of Beckham’s passing, that two florists in SE Iowa (me and my mom) cried.

Many hugs to you, Mrs. TBogg, L&T Casey and Fenway.

Tbogg
Add my condolences. With all the negative crap coming at us every day I become inured to so much. This kind of hit like a bat. Sorry for your loss.

On a day I find myself crying for my country, I cry for a dog I never petted.

Such are these days of loss.

May the Goddess bless you TBogg, Mrs. T and L&T Casey…

Grumpy face? Maybe. To me it always looked like Beckham was plotting something.

Now he plans the takeover of doggy heaven.

A round of Irish Coffees to help ease the realities into memories.
And as you said, those memories are with you forever.
Peace

You go on about Becks as much as you like, TBogg.
I can’t tell you how sorry I am for you and the whole family.
Cliff 105 at #100 says it for me, too. My heart aches for you all. He was well worth loving, which is why it hurts so much that he’s gone.
Be very kind to yourselves.

FunnyDiva

I’m just heartbroken and I never met the little guy, hard to imagine the loss to the Tbogg family. My deepest condolences. Here’s hoping that Beckham and Satchmo are reunited.

We here in Savannah continue to send hugs and purrs. Losing an older animal is hard, but it’s especially hard to lose a young one. Give Fenway and extra skritch behind those magnificent ears for us.

Absolutely no need to make excuses. I have two cats that I miss every day when I’m at work. Your writing about your dogs reminds me of what it means to be an animal lover.

Someone above asked for any rescues that people could donate to. If you go to http://www.dailydrool.com/rescue.html there is a list of basset rescues by state on the left…they, like all rescues, are going through a rough time…BROOD in VA has to turn away dogs for the first time! If you can help any of them, I am sure Beckham, Satchmo and Miss Kify would shower you with good luck..or drool (same thing!).

That is the longest drive home you will ever make…I am truly sorry that you are in that same place of pain that we are. It’s an awful place to be. Please feel free to bask in the love and support from our wonderful internet family of dog (and cat)lovers…there is more than enough to go around. And once Molly and Beckham get through orientation, Cooder and Satchmo will be there to show them the ropes. Wonderful dogs all.

My condolences, TBogg. My dogs are getting on in age and I am getting ready for the inevitable, myself. I hate to bring this up and perhaps I am sounding paranoid, but have you considered the possibility of foul play concerning your dogs? We had something like that happen with a couple of cats in my neighborhood and it turned out that a neighbor who didn’t like them messing with his bird feeder had poisoned them. Sorry to bring this up so soon after his passing, but you might want to consider an autopsy.

In the last 8 months I have lost both my buddies, both 15 years old. Dusty boy just last Friday. Hard to explain to anyone how important they were to me. I can more than merely empathize with you, I am in mourning as well. Taylor even had the same type build as Beckham, after 15 years of watching that happy guy I have a particularly special liking for those short, walking meatloafs. My sincerest condolences.

My condolences to you and the TBogg family.

We just lost two of our kitties this month, with their passing only eight days apart. Plus, I just found out today that a dear friend’s dog was diagnosed with cancer.

It leaves a hole that seems to take a very long time to fill. The best we can do is love them when they’re alive, and remember them when they’re gone.

My heart goes out to you and the family. I’ve visited for a few years now, and had to finally comment for the first time as I’ve been in your shoes before and know how tough it is. I’m sorry for your loss, and if nothing else, at least it looks as if he had six or so really good years with you.

I’ve never posted here, but my sister and I check often, and always, always have looked forward to Thursday Bassetts – - like some others, we remember back to when dear Beckham was junior member to Satchmo’s Sage Pack Leader. I’m so very sorry, and shocked; we didn’t know his health was delicate. What voids they leave behind, our four-footed colleagues and friends, when they leave us – - but there’s a real, solid sense in which Beckham will always be with you. And he, too (after initial grumpiness!) would appreciate a new puppy.

All our sympathies to you and Mrs. T. and Casey, TBogg. You’re great dog-people and great people.

Linda and Mary Ellen

Our plan is to get him up and on his feet and hopefully very soon we will be bring another basset buddy for him into the mix.

A small happy thought for you: When you eventually bring home that puppy, Fenway will be the Old Hand. “You know what they really enjoy? Here, I’ll help you climb out on the roof! HOURS of entertainment for the whole family… “

Thanks for the kind words, Mrs. B. Sleep is not coming easy for me tonight but at least it’s comforting to sit here at this late hour and read your response.

It’s good to know that The Mollster and Beckham will be shown the ropes by Cooder and Satchmo. And I have a feeling that C & S will be assisted in their endeavors by the long departed furry companions of my youth: Cindy, the wonderful Beagle and the first dog I ever knew. A gentler soul never walked the face of the earth. There was Snoopy, another Beagle, who was almost certainly poisoned by a landowner who didn’t like The Snoopster going over the mountain every night and killing his ducks. There were Nikki and Lisa, two noble Dobermans that my father dreamt of breeding but never did. Also Nikki II, another Dobie, who used to sit for hours in the family room with his butt up on the couch and his front paws on the floor. And the poor, unfortunate Weimer Reiner (whose name I can’t recall) that got Distemper and went mad only a day or two after we brought her home. There was Heidi, wonderful Heidi, another Dachshund and the neighborhood treasure. She would make her rounds every morning barking at each neighbor’s front door until they came out and gave her cookies. And every step of the way she carried her beloved tennis ball. There was Chloe, the spaniel who absolutely adored my mom. And last but not least Max, another Dachshund and my favorite of them all. Max was a sh*t eater, literally. But despite his one really awful gastronomical fault he had the greatest personality of any dog I’ve ever know. He set the standard for me by which all other dogs are judged.

Maybe I’ve forgotten a dog or two. There were so many and lack of sleep and grief have me thinking a bit unclearly right now. To any doggie I may have forgotten, I apologize.

But yes, I’m sure they’ll all be there together in Doggie Heaven. Molly, Beckham, Satchmo with his white face so like my Molly’s, Heidi with her tennis ball, Max with his terrible breath and all the others. Let the romping begin!

I’m a dog person, I make no excuses.

I’m not really a dog person, but my family had a basset hound when I was young. No other dog has ever quite measured up. The problem is that bassets are more than mere dogs. There is just something about them…

(I know everyone’s dogs are very special to them, and I have no argument with that at all.)

Tbogg -

My condolences.

It’s been a long time since I last commented and it’s not something I wanted to stop by about… we lost our oldest dog just about a week ago, so I understand a bit of what you’re feeling.

It sucks. It really does.

I didn’t know about this until just now, TBogg (I just surfed in from James Wolcott’s blog). My fiancee and I just lost a beloved cat last November 13th and I’ve lost countless pets in the past so I have a keen sense of how you and Mrs. TBogg feel.

They really are members of our families, appealing to our better natures.

Beckham knew you and your family loved him, rescued and helped him. And he was grateful, trust me. They always know.

There is nothing more important than our dogs, unless we have children. My heart goes out to you and your family.

From a fellow San Diegan; Clairemont High School..and dog lover..there’s not much more that I can add except that all of us love you, your family, your humor, your snark; and especially ‘The Boys’.

I call mine ‘Stupid’ because she acts like a blithering idiot half the time…but I have never, ever invited anyone into my home where my ‘stupid’ dog wasn’t the star. I’ve had ex-boyfriends knock on my door asking if they can please visit with my dog or take her for a walk because they can’t forget her. And do you know what? I don’t care as long as they love my dog.

I believe that dogs are the windows to our souls..they say our eyes are, but anyone who has ever had a dog knows differently.

Best Dog in the World
By T’Mara Goodsell

Years ago, I owned the very best dog in the world. I was a child when we got her. She was a graceful brown hound, a foundling who taught me that our pets are not purchased, but ordained. She romped when I did and knew how to smile in that funny way that only some dogs have. She grew up with me, always there when I needed her. My grown hand still remembers the sleek bump on the top of her head and that gentle divot just past her nose that fit my index finger just perfectly. She passed away during one of my college vacations. My heart broke then, and I knew that there would never be another dog like her, and there hasn’t been. I was sure that I could never love another dog as much as I’d loved her.

Fortunately, I was wrong about that part. My next dog came into my life when I was married. My husband traveled for a living, and I was often lonely. This dog grew into a lumbering Wolfhound and Sheepdog mix who taught me patience. He was a large, grizzled sentry, that dog. He rarely left my side until the children were born, and then he became their guardian, too. I can still feel that swirl of fur along his back and the weight of his chin when it rested in my lap. When he passed away, my heart broke. As much as I had loved that childhood dog, I had been wrong. This was the very best dog in the world. There would never be another dog like him, and there hasn’ t been. I was sure I would never love another dog as much as I’d loved him.

I was wrong again.

We got the next one, a loping black Lab-and-Terrier mix, when the children were little. He taught me the importance of adapting. He was everyone’s dog from the beginning, and that was just as it should be. When he played tug of war with the children, he dragged them across the kitchen floor as they shrieked with laughter. He always seemed to sleep in the room of the child who needed his company the most….These days his face is expressively gray, and he spends more time with me since the almost-grown children aren’t around so much. The other day my oldest, home from college, played tug of war. We all laughed–just a little–as the dog was gently pulled across the kitchen floor. He is, of course, the very best dog in the world. I will never forget that exquisitely soft tuft of fur behind his ears or the tickly feel when he nuzzles. There won’t be another dog like him. And that’s okay, because we will never be at this point in our lives again.

Sometimes I’ve wondered why two species that get along so well should have such different life spans. It just doesn’t seem right. And then I wonder if that’s part of the lesson: To teach us that love itself has a spirit that returns again and again and never really dies. It’s amazing, in a way, how they bring to our ever-changing lives exactly what it is that we need at the moment. They make room for one another, this family of dogs who has never even met. And they fit–into our families, into our lives, into our memories, and into our hearts–because they always have been and always will be the best dogs in the world.

i am a dog, cat, pig, hamster, rabbit and you name it person – hell i cried when my fish died.

i cannot imagine the loss you feel – and just know that both of your friends are always looking out for you.

I was away from the internets for a couple of days and I return to find a hole where an animal familiar in the shape of a basset hound used to be. I feel like I knew Beckham from your pictures and your wonderfully funny stories. I am praying to my higher power, who is beyond my understanding, for you and your lost chum.

Tbogg, Mrs. Tbogg, LT Casey–I had not caught up with your blogs until now, and I feel terrible about Beckham, and will for a good while. I am so very sorry. I have two Bassets, and think I sent you pics when I got the newest one at age 9 months–a 7 year-old boy and a 2.75 year-old girl. They spend a lot of time together in diff. corners of the house, or on the deck, and of course they mourn, and are confused when one is gone, just as we are, and I sure hope Fenway gets back to physical and emotional health as soon as possible.

I lost a Basset for a month a few years ago when she ran into the woods behind the house (I took my eye off the ball to water a plant for 20 seconds and she took off after a squirrel). I did an all out search for her with 800 laminated signs on poles, and passed out flyers as kids got off school buses, and at schools, and the flyers helped a family find her 30 days later. It was a small miracle. My other Basset, the mother, wouldn’t get out of bed most days, and was obviously depressed until we got the daughter back.