Vassallo: The Loss of a Friend Is Never Easy

We lost our companion of 15 wonderful years, Trixie, on Thursday. The Lab/Chow mixed breed taught our family a great deal more than she ever learned from us. In her later years, she was unable to walk fast, but she could always walk far, navigating the Ole Miss campus several thousand times.
Canines are special angels placed on this planet for a multitude of reasons, some we may never discover. Trixie reminded us over and over again about the important things in life. Each day is a special blessing regardless of the weather. A simple ride in the car is a bonus, as exploration of one’s surroundings is always a treat. And, last but not least, anticipating and receiving your next meal is always a welcome experience.
Trixie’s life did not start out on third base, as she was always one step ahead of the dogcatcher. Once we adopted her, Trixie’s life changed, as did ours—both for the better. Several years later, Trixie would go from cage to cage at the Madison ARK in helping to select her future companion, Daphne.
For those of us considering what to give to a loved one this Christmas, visiting the Oxford-Lafayette Humane Society, located at 413 McElroy Drive, might well solve the dilemma. If the level of “love” that Trixie generated is anything close to the next pooch awaiting a home, there is really no downside to the equation.
Trixie’s tenure on earth was not a fast track, but definitely a long one, for which Rosie, Daphne and I will be forever grateful!

Steve Vassallo is a HottyToddy.com contributor. Steve writes on Ole Miss athletics, Oxford business, politics and other subjects. He is an Ole Miss grad and former radio announcer for the basketball team. Currently, Steve is a highly successful leader in the real estate business who lives in Oxford with his wife Rosie. You can contact Steve at sovassallo@gmail.com or call him at 985-852-7745.