R.I.P. Athena - You went out with dignity!

I have lost the second dog in just over a year.  Athena came to live with me and my other 2 dogs at the time, Rosie and Blue, almost 3 years ago.  She was  gentle soul with a deep, disturbing bark.  However, at my house she never tried to bite anyone.  When Athena came to us she was between 10 and 12 years old.  

She had some health problems but generally enjoyed life.  Right up to the end she stood up for herself with the other dogs.  She even teased and played with Blue, Luna and Sol as recently as a few days ago.

Athena liked her naps but she was always ready to go for our walks 3 times a day.  She was gentle and loving, seeming to savor her "retirement" here at Casa Jay.

Yesterday she went on our short morning walk and had breakfast as usual.  She took a nap and then continued sleeping most of the day.  She did not respond to our usual lunchtime treat, nor to our afternoon walk.  She made it clear that she just wanted to be left alone.  She didn't eat dinner, but did drink some water.  Around 9 p.m. she got up, went outside and drank some more water.  Sometime overnight she died as she had lived, quietly and with dignity.   Blue, Luna, Sol and I will miss you!