Last night my BF called me to let me know that he had to put his American Bulldog bitch down due to some severe health issues (cancer). She has lived a very fulfilled 10 years of life and will be greatly missed by all who knew her! She was an amazing dog with an amazing temperment. She kept me safe throughout my stay in Chicago. She would keep all the "bad guys" away, well, actually she kept everyone away from me until they got my "approval". For as much of a show she would put on all it'd take was a quiet "Marina, that's enough!" from me and she would calmly return to my side and sit quietly staring at the person. She probably wanted to go further but she respected me enough not to when I asked her to quit. She was such a well trained dog and so stable!
Marina and two of her pups, Tank on the left and Coco on the right
The only time Marina would break a heal with me is if she was assessing a threat, then she would place herself between me and it and would only go back to a heel when she was sure the threat was gone or I told her to.
It hurt me to hear of Marina's passing as I have been privlidged enough not only to know her, but to have lived a short time with her. She went from not wanting anything to do with me, to being my protector. When I would take her and Tank and my Siberian Husky, Oceano for a walk she would always place herself between me and anything she percieved to be a threat. And if that threat was strong enough, she would be active in making it clear that she would do whatever it takes to keep that threat away...even if the "threat" was simply an ambulance truck passing us too closely. I love this bitch like I love my own dogs and will miss her greatly! Marina, it may have taken a few days for me to gain your trust (like it did for anyone who was lucky enough to be graced by your presence) but once I had it, I knew I had it for good! Rest in peace dear sweet girl, until we meet again!
Me, Tank and Marina on one of our many walks together.
LOL
