UPDATE:
Hundreds of people, with pups in tow, showed up to bid Walnut farewell on Saturday. Mark Woods, dog-dad to Walnut, posted an invitation on social media for pet lovers to join on his dog’s final walk before saying goodbye. Little did he know that a whole crowd of people would come to offer support, condolences, and to celebrate a dog’s life that was well-lived.
Woods thought that taking Walnut to his favorite beach before the vet appointment would be the best way to spend the morning.
“I didn’t want to just sit here moping around, I thought we should go for a last walk so his day was reasonably normal, and mine was reasonably normal as well,” he said in a story by The Telegraph.
When Walnut passed away, it as quickly, peacefully, and in Mark Woods’ arms. And Woods is beyond grateful that so many people were there to make his dog feel happy and loved on his last day.
“I got as message from a guy who really put his finger on it, he said how dogs really bring the best out in people, and then people do the best things,” he told The Telegraph.
“Thank you to the hundreds of people that attended this walk this morning and to all those that had their own walks with their beloved pets at 9.30am all around the world,” he in the story. “I also want to thank the wonderful people of Newquay for their support which I will never forget as long as I live. God bless you all.”
Related: 5 Special Gifts For Anyone Who Has Lost A Dog
Original Story:
Mark Woods of Cornwall, England is heartbroken at the thought of saying goodbye to his beloved Whippet, Walnut. But he’ll overcome his sadness in order to take his furry friend on one last visit to his favorite beach.
Adopted as a puppy, Walnut and Woods have enjoyed a long and fulfilling 18-year friendship. And for the comfort of his pup, whose health is failing, Woods has decided to send him over the Rainbow Bridge in peace and dignity.
But first, they’re going to have one last hurrah. Woods has invited friends, family, four-legged pals, and dog-loving strangers to join them at one of Walnut’s favorite places on Saturday.
He wrote on Facebook:
Sadly I am having to have Walnut euthanised on Saturday 12th November and so we will be having a last walk together on his beloved Porth Beach at 9.30am.
I would love it if dog lovers/owners and friends would join us for a celebration of Walnut on his favourite Porth Beach.
He has had an incredible life and having reached the grand age of 18 is ready for his final sleep. Hope to see you on Saturday.
According to The Telegraph, one commenter asked if it was really Walnut’s time to go, since he could still walk. But no one knows their dogs as well as their own humans do.
“If you saw him and looked into his eyes you would know,” Woods responded.
In the days that lead up to the final goodbye, Woods has taken time off of work in order to enjoy every second he has left with his canine companion.
Woods and Walnut have received hundreds of messages of love and support. We hope that Walnut enjoys his day surrounded by friends, family, love, and happiness. What a beautiful way to celebrate so many wonderful years on earth!
(h/t: The Telegraph)
