Maisy

It would be all too easy in the agony and ecstasy of the 50 mile hike to forget that on Friday we had to have poor little Maisy put to sleep. It was an easy decision in the end as her back legs were no longer functioning, her hips were worn out and she just couldn't get herself up. It has been quite a quick deterioration over the last few weeks, although she has been slowing down for a few months.

I have been carrying her up the hill for a few months after walks and lifting up steps too. Despite that she has been alert and has continued to feed well. She went to the vet on Thursday and we were given anti-inflammatories and paracetamol for her as she had impressed the vet by trotting over to her for treats. Food has always been a big motivator for her!

Sadly, the end was not far away though and it was entirely the right thing to do. Maisy was 16 and two months which is a good age for her breed and any dog.

One of the saddest things for us is that she was Natasha's dog and her loss signifies the ending of a tangible link with Natasha. We'd got her as a reward for working so hard in her GCSEs and travelled to Littlehampton for her. One of the happiest things though is that both Evie and Amelia were able to see her and to get to know her. Of course, she has always been around for Maria who has taken it hard, as might be expected.

The photos show just how photogenic she was, a lovely looking dog and very gentle natured too. We will miss her very  much.