It has been exactly 13 years since I traveled alone to the USA, to Wisconsin, to visit longtime Alaskan Malamute breeders Cindy and Tom Uraynar of OAKIOK Alaskan Malamute Kennel.
I was terrified of the long journey, my first long-haul flight, and the fact that I had to do it all on my own. But what wouldn’t a person do when there’s a puppy waiting on the other side of the ocean? I made it.
Cindy and Tom are wonderful people. They picked me up at the airport and welcomed me into their beautiful home by the pond. A huge yard, dog runs everywhere. For me, it was a dream come true. And there they were—three boys from the litter, running around, waiting for me to choose.
Today, I know it was Spike. I picked him up, and we began our journey home. There was no time left to worry about traveling. Those worries were replaced by concerns about whether a little puppy could handle the crate, the long flight, the layover in Warsaw, and finally arriving in Prague.
My brother was waiting for me at the airport, and Spike stepped out of his crate as if to say, “Alright, I’m here!” Then he proudly strutted through the airport with his head held high. In truth, that was his approach to life from that day on. 🙂
And today, after 13 years, the day has come when I had to say goodbye. Once again, it was one of those farewells no one wants to face—the kind of decision that ultimately falls on the owner.
Spike was never sick a single day in his life. He was always full of energy. Even at an age when most dogs begin to slow down, he was still ready for anything. But then a large tumor was discovered on his spleen, and we were left with only one choice—to stay by his side for as long as we could.
Spike, say hello to Lady for us. You two were an incredible team. You ran countless miles together pulling the scooter, and I was never quite sure whether I would make it back alive. You were fast, strong, and unstoppable.
May you both continue your journey across the endless plains over the Rainbow Bridge…