RIP A Pug Named Fender
A Pug Named Fender died today.
I've always wanted a pug. My dream was fulfilled when I got A Pug Named Fender in 2009. He was cuter than most pugs I'd ever seen but full of the bubbly personality indicative of his breed. I dubbed him the official Friday Favecast mascot as he always stayed up with me during my late night podcasting sessions. I looked forward to spending years with him by my feet, nodding to the beat of fantastic music. That dream was cut short today.
I remember being nauseous when A Pug Named Fender went missing last autumn. When everyone told me to charge his disappearance to the game, I believed he would return and he did.
A Pug Named Fender was marking his territory something serious in addition to dry humping any free leg he could find. Against my better judgment, I made an appointment to have him neutered. I knew it was best, but as a male I felt bad being the one responsible for taking his nuts. There was an 8-week waiting list so at least we had some time to come to terms with the procedure. His surgery was set for May 1st.
We had a breezy morning drive to the SNAP clinic and the people there were very pleasant. The vet warned me that, due to his heartworms and short nose, that there was a possibility he may not make it. I knew that he would, so I confidently dropped him off so they could do their thing. I picked him up that afternoon and he was high as a kite (from the pain medicine).
I read over how he was to stay indoors and only go out to use the restroom. All week, I babied him more than normal despite his annoying snorts and flatulence all over the house. I sprung for the additional pain medicine to keep him "happy" a little longer -- it was the least I could do for having ordered his testicular removal.
He was healing up, regaining his appetite and returning to his cheerful self. I let him out on the back patio to handle his business while I grabbed the phone. When I returned 10 minutes later to bring him back inside, I found him laying next to the fence where he normally takes a leak. He wasn't breathing. His body was still warm and pliable but not for long. A Pug Named Fender was no more.
It hasn't really hit me yet. It's only been a few hours and I've been battling technical difficulties with my Macbook Pro most of the day on top of having my iPhone data wiped (it's been a sucky day overall). I'm not sure how I will feel when the reality of his death comes crashing down on me. I don't know how I could have prevented this -- he was only outside for a few minutes to relieve himself. He took his medicine, the incision was healing and his appetite returned quickly. Was it an infection? Did his heartworms act out? Was it too hot outside (despite having gone out earlier)? Should I have kept him inside longer? Did I not check his incision enough? Should I have just kept his nuts intact? Did I play favorites too much (I have another dog -- a lab/pitt mix named Clyde)? All the questions in the world won't bring my A Pug Named Fender back.
I can never replace him; do to so would be blasphemous. He was more than my dog/mascot -- he represented my dream to have a ridiculously cool canine. At this point, I don't want another pet. . . ever.
Rest in peace, A Pug Named Fender.
Anjuan says:
I am very saddened by your loss. The suddeness of it shocked menso I can only imagine how you feel. I pray that you are consoled and encouraged through this. Let me know if you need anything.
Dr Wright says:
I am so sorry to hear about Fender. I still think Angel was hoping he could come for a sleep over. Be blessed bro , the love of a pet is awesome!
Dr. Wright
arinmaya says:
damn. this is such a sad story
i'm not even a dog person (though my sister and mother both have dogs that i love dearly...by association i guess) and i'm now sad about your loss. i'm so sorry... RIP a pug named fender
Charisse says:
WOW, Danyelle Jorden just hipped me to your site/page. I'm thoroughly impressed with your talent (ability to convey your true emotions and musical interests)! I wanted to cry while reading about Fender's short time with you...Keep up the good work. I've subscribed to your APNF comic strip and look forward to your future successes