This is a non-fictional piece by the given author dedicated to Thunder Raj
I remember how my sister really wanted a dog. She wrote an essay in school titled, "Thunder." In her essay, she explained how she would take care of him and everything she would do to prepare for his arrival. Her begging and pleading finally paid off. My parents were well convinced with her proposal.
The special day in 1989 arrived at last. It was appropriately stormy with sounds of "thunder" in the sky. The mother was standing nearby while all her puppies were playing and running around the farm. They were collie puppies. My sister found the cutest and naughtiest one of them all.
I will never forget the ride home. We had a newspaper spread out on the back seat. Thunder wouldn't stop barking because he missed his family. He also threw up in the car. But we knew he would be okay because we would be his new family.
We welcomed him to his brand new home. He began running around excitedly in the spacious backyard. He was the most precious and adorable addition to our family from that day forward.
Thunder went through all the normal stages of growing up like "teething," becoming "house broken," and so fourth. He never liked eating much and was a true dieter in every sense. Like most dogs, he disliked taking baths. He wasn't too fond of roller bladers and water either!
As he grew up, he displayed a remarkable shiny rough coat of brown and white. People would often compliment him on how beautiful he was. He was like "Lassie." He was extremely friendly and would greet others with a kind "paw" shake.
We would often take him for walks and he would join us during our camping and hiking adventures. He was the "leader of the pack." He would always check to make sure everyone was there when we would go hiking along trails and in the mountains. .
We had many nicknames for him including, "Monie," "Thundu Pundu," and "Pundashie."
He showed such unconditional love and would never judge you. He was a great listener, incredibly patient, and wise beyond his years. There were times we wouldn't even think of him as a dog because he was more like a human being. My father would always say how he must have been a saint in his last life.
Unfortunately, the fear of losing him had become a harsh and painful reality. He passed away in 2001 due to spleen cancer. We will never forget him and he will always be in our hearts. We cherish his memories and that is all we can take with us.
We know you are watching over us "Monie.". You will always be remembered for your compassion, guidance, maturity, and loving spirit. We can learn so much from animals.
A pet isn't just a pet but he or she is your best friend, confidant, and teacher for life.
If only God could have them live as long as we do.
RIP Thunder Raj
4/11/88-1/29/01
