Remembering my dear Lama Yeshe

On Saturday Nov. 21, my dear rescue dog, Lama Yeshe, passed away due to a ravaging invasive cancer that destroyed her body and long life. She went on her terms and died peacefully midmorning here at my small animal refuge after engaging with all the other animals.

I monitored her condition closely day to day to ensure she was as comfortable as possible.

Alert and engaging, she was more in discomfort than pain, so I decided not to have her put down.

She continued to desire to be amongst her fellow pack in the loving company of one another. That’s how it is here. The animals unite as one and care for each other.

Everyone comforted her throughout the coming days as I did.

She was truly a special dog, a gentle sentient being whose kindness was unparalleled.

Sadly, I will no longer be awakened with a cold nose gently and lovingly touching my face every morning for all of the many years she resided here.

It was emblematic of her so very sweet demeanor, one that we shared for so very long.

Now when I begin my day, it is noticeably absent.

Gestures such as this one, along with so many countless others from the animals that have resided here over the many years, come and go but the precious memories remain forever.

Each animal has a very special way of communicating their affection, reflecting their individual personality. All are unique but all share the adoring expression of love and harmony.

I knew that everything was coming to an end for beloved Lama Yeshe, when two days before her passing, she did not get up from her bed to greet me with her daily morning gesture.

I knew this wonderful connection we had every morning for so many years was coming to an end but I needed to be strong and be there for her.

Reminiscence over past memories would come later.

Our connection grew from the moment she entered my life.

One late night, when a friend and I were returning from dining at one of our favorite Thai restaurants in Davis, we found her standing on the side of a country road.

Her coat was as black as the night with only her eyes reflecting in the headlights of the small pickup truck we were riding in. Without hesitation, we pulled over and I cautiously opened the door and calmly called for her. Neither she nor I felt threatened and after slowly walking toward the truck, this smart, young intuitive animal jumped into my lap.

My friend and I were both pleasantly surprised by the ease of this rescue and the timing of it all.

It was meant to happen, beginning a lasting and enduring friendship.

Upon returning home, she rested on a large pillow under my night table as if she had lived with me always. My long time veterinarian, Dr. Barnes, DVM examined her the following day.

In the coming weeks, no one claimed her and there were no visible postings for this animal.

She was abandoned like so many others are on back country roads that are cruelly dumped and left to fend for themselves. Some are fortunate to come across a caring passerby but many perish. My sweet Lama Yeshe was one of the lucky ones and so was I, being blessed to have her as part of my life.

This mixed cattle dog was given vaccines and spayed. Once her needs were met, she became an instrumental part of everyone’s life here.

I named her Yeshe, because this Tibetan word means “wise one” which she was.

Countless times I found myself pondering how a dog could be so perceptive. Such a quality is enlightenment. Naming her Lama Yeshe seemed natural and appropriate, fitting her perfectly.

She grew to a medium large size black dog, with a white rim around her lip, standing ears, slim body and strong legs that ran with her carefree spirit.

Lama Yeshe had many animal friends here but her special play friend was Gia, a very small Chihuahua that loved the back and forth play and Lama Yeshe would lovingly and gently nose her little friend. From puppyhood to an adult dog, she never changed and remained the sweet pup until the very end. There is no replacement. Over the many animals that have lived their lives here throughout the numerous years, it is never easy to say goodbye.

Lama Yeshe, I loved you dearly, you truly touched my heart.