I'm heartbroken to report that on July 17, I said goodbye to my Springer Spaniel and travel partner Annie . About 6 weeks earlier, she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma (bone cancer) in her front left shoulder area. I explored all treatment possibilities, consulting with 4 different vets here in Kharkiv as well as my vet back home.
The tumor grew rapidly, and it got to the point where even when maxed out on all available meds, she was still in pain. It would have been cruel to make her endure it any longer, so we decided to let her rest in peace.
Also known as "HumanitariAnnie", she was so perfect for this trip to Ukraine, bringing joy to every place we'd visit. Whether it was a home for internally-displaced Ukrainians or delivering supplies to Ukrainian soldiers, everyone who met her had a smile on their face and couldn't wait to cuddle with her. She was a magnet for love and affection.
Aside from the normal grief of losing a pet you love, I'm filled with gratitude for all the great years we had together. She was a gem of a dog, so full of love and the need to be loved. Thank you, my sweet Annie, for being a source of endless entertainment, snuggling, humor and unconditional love.
I've put together a little tribute video in her memory.
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