I changed my Avatar today in honor of our Daughter’s beloved three year old red Doberman, Honey. Apologies for length and somber post.
Saturday, our daughter left both dogs, Honey and Cash at home while she went to the gym, then Yoga. She arrived home at 11:30 am and saw Cash in the yard as they sometimes are to greet her.
She went to the front door, opened it and couldn’t see her hand in front of her face. It was strange and out of context and she immediately called for 3 year old Honey- who was her whole heart. Smoke alarms were ringing but couldn’t be heard outside. She then ran around to the back door which has a doggie door and leads into the kitchen. It was darker and thicker there, and there appeared to be debris on the floor.
She ran to the patio door and flipped on the light and turned on her cell flashlight. Screaming for Honey. She only made it a few steps and could not see or breathe. She went back out took her shirt off, covered her mouth and nose and tried again. No response and no sounds and she then saw flames in the kitchen. She had to give up her efforts and called 911.
We were there within 10 minutes and the fire and law enforcement let us through. We used to service the police vehicles for the town and they know us and her well.
I won’t ever forget her grief and her distress. Or the black face and red eyes. Her total grief. Cash was safely locked in an air conditioned vehicle frantic and confused. A few moments later fire fighters lovingly and reverently brought Honey to us. She looked perfect, as though asleep. Tried pressing on her chest and did mouth nose breathing. It was too late.
Took firefighters 45 minutes to knock the fire down. Two and a half hours before CO2 levels were low enough to go in for a leash for Cash. Exterior of the home is perfect. Smoke and and water damage are throughout and very extensive. Nothing is untouched. Interior kitchen total loss. Small appliance malfunction is ruled the cause. Fire damage pretty much limited to kitchen. Whole house is wet and puddled understandably.
Paramedics that treated her for smoke inhalation were incredible. Each fire fighter came and took a knee and expressed their sorrow for her loss. Some had tears on their faces. They and law enforcement were incredible.
We are grateful beyond measure this didn’t end with the loss of our daughter. According to the fire chief and first on scene police chief, who attempted to go in for Honey, it was thickest black smoke he has seen recently and nothing would have survived.
We are also blessed we can provide her a place to live temporarily and love for she and Cash. Our friends and family have been incredibly supportive and generous to her and that too, is something we are grateful for. The Red Cross called that afternoon and have been great.
She asked us to bring Honey to our home. And she is buried next to our Firstie’s beloved dog of 14 years.
Hearts are broken, but we are blessed in many ways.
If you choose, raise a glass to sweet Honey.
And love your people.
….does that count??
