The say a dog is a man’s best friend, boy did that hit home for me recently.
My best friend Hugo sadly went to sleep for the last time yesterday, my heart strings tug as I write this, my little baby, I’m going to miss him!
The coolest little Jack Russell, so much character and energy, a pure and gentle soul. He could do no harm.
You cannot compare the levels of companionship, a dog displays for you, unconditionally! My little buddy.
For whatever reason he came into my life and touched my heart, I am eternally grateful, he taught me so much and gave my family and I boundless joy. For such a tiny creature, he has left a big impact on me and those around me, he was nothing but smiles and happiness. I’ve been flicking through snaps, each brings back a fun time shared or a funny story about my silly Hugo.
Humans are so overrated, dogs do not judge you, and are always a companion, for they seek that connection. The understanding between 2 different species. I had a little friend in Hugo, he was my little boy.
We went on walks together and played ball and tug. Copious amounts of energy, such an excitable little dog, the quest for adventure and cute characteristics.
Just a few days ago, he did something he has never done before, he took the treats bag out of the carrier bag, took it to the garden, opened the wrapper and ate it, blissfully, without a care in the world…. When he saw me coming, he scrambled, tried to hide the wrapper. Caught him I did and gave him a right telling off. Oh how I feel so guilty now, that was the last treat he had from me.
“Kumee Kumee Janaa” which very roughly translates to “Do you want to go for walkies?” This Kumee was literally Hugo’s language, everyone that walked him, used it either to actually take him, or spark a reaction. and what a reaction it was, regardless of his mood, energy levels or indeed where inside the house he was, you just needed to say those words and he would self-summon.
The outside was an adventure, every single walk, his exploratory senses would burst. As soon as he heard the words, he was up, like a bolt, a few barks of appreciation and awaiting your prompt travel to the front passage, ready for his leash. If you took your time, a few more barks. Hugo doesn’t usually bark, he is a sensible dog, quiet and interested, his attention darts, looking at you, or that sound, when his ear props up, and he would sharply tilt his head.
Dog and Ball, if you mentioned this spherical object, he would go nuts!
Brings a smile to my face to think about the number of times, I would whisper “Where’s the ball” His face would light up, but because of the faint volume I so purposefully used, he wouldn’t be 100% sure, so waits and listens with an intent stare… “Where’s the ball” I tone up the volume, WOOF, he’s off, searching, barking, excited, we playing ball!! and off he would run. You wouldn’t even need to throw the ball, just the arm action was enough.
Here is a short snap from the garden, where we played countless times:
He formed unique relationships with everyone in the house and was able to lift the mood regardless of the situation.
Coming home from work or a long weekend to have the pitter patter of his paws on the wooden floor.
His excited tail wagging and even if you didn’t instigate, he would find a ball and bring it to you.. my buddy!
I found him a chew/tug toy online, this became his kryptonite, he could sink his teeth in and get a good lock, but never tear it. This really brought the animal out in him, so eager to tug and exercise his jaw.
He had so much perseverance and determination, if he wanted the toy, he was damm sure he was going to get it, either through his own might or plights for your help.
I could talk forever about his little quriks, love for cheese and epic chases of cats, you just had to say Billy (Cat in Punjabi) and he was on the case! My eyes are sore and deep down it hurts to know I am not going to be able to throw a ball for him or entice him with some halloumi, I’ve learnt lots from you Hugy, I wish you all the fun in little doggy heaven and hope you remember all the fun and games we had.
If we can all be loyal like a dog, protrude love and compassion and just enjoy each day, we will all be much better off.
This has been an emotional post, I just had to get something off my chest, my heart is heavy, but also brought me back a realisation I once knew; LIFE IS SHORT.
A few of my favourite pictures of my beloved Hugo:
Such a simple dog, with no worries in the world, just took each day as it came and lived a happy life, whereas we humans stress and strife. These creatures live for a lot less number of years than us and yet manage to be exuberant and honest. I’ve been putting off blogging for some time, but LIFE IS TOO SHORT.
This post or a few pictures and videos will never do justice to the memories Hugo has left us with, he will never fade, my best friend!
I know this was emotion fuelled.. my next post will be about PURPOSE, already in draft form… please sign up to the mailing list below to be kept up to date.
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-In Hugo’s memory, Sumit Sharma
