In Memory of Tasha 1993-2008

Tasha came to FBRN in April 2007 by a circuitous route, surrendered to an all-breed shelter. The shelter thought she was “old”, eight or nine. An ever-vigilant FBRN “shelter-watcher” discovered her, and she was whisked away to a foster home with Frenchie and Boxer siblings. While she was there FBRN discovered she was tattooed, and using that information found she was an AKC champion and that she was much older than originally thought, thirteen and a half years! Given the typical Frenchie lifespan, she was already on borrowed time.

But she was apparently healthy, except for her grotty teeth. Her original foster mom and I think she was well cared for and loved most of her life, but that something happened to her owners. Since she came with clumps of hair cut out and a large pink MagicMarker heart on her belly, we suspect she ended up in a family with young children. A lady of distinguished age does not have to tolerate such indignaties! We all know Frenchies “talk”, but this gal had a unique, piercing “turkey call” that allowed her to alert the humans whenever her immediate needs were not being met. She quickly won the heart of her foster mom and the FBRN Board of Directors.

Given her advanced age, the Board looked for a volunteer that would provide a loving home rather than putting her through the routine adoption process. I was so happy to be chosen, and she joined our family two weeks after coming into FBRN. Making the frightening decision to anesthetize her to take care of her teeth was a committee decision, prompted by the opinions of three veterinarians. She came through like the champion she was. In the 15 months she graced our family she faced many health issues, always with strength and courage, she was a fighter who wanted to live.

Tasha formed strong bonds with all the Frenchies, but most especially Peg, my rescue 11 year old who had a leg amputated last August. What a pair these two old ladies were! They loved each other, they loved nylabones and stuffies, treats and dinner, riding in the van, sleeping on the bed, and me. They loved life!

Tasha celebrated her 14th birthday in style, but started to decline several months later. She had made her public debut at the 2007 New England Frenchie Social, and made an encore appearance in 2008. After that, we had a nightly discussion during cuddle time, she was to let me know when she was ready to leave her debilitated body. Like so many of us, I think I refused to listen, but in June, when her turkey call diminished to a croak and her eyes lost their sparkle, I knew it was time. Cradled in my arms, she peacefully crossed the bridge.

I do not think she is waiting for me, I believe she has joyfully reunited with the family that loved her for so many years. So au revoir, my sweet lady, thank you for blessing our lives, even for a short time. You will never be forgotten.