It is with great sadness that we announce the loss of our beloved two-year-old Labrador Retriever, Lincoln.
Although he was diagnosed with Valley Fever only three months ago, he showed little signs of illness before passing away in his sleep. He was intelligent, obedient, loving and a great companion. He wasn’t just a good boy; he was a great dog.
Lincoln loved to play. He had his own way of asking for play time — grab one of his toys and place it on your lap. He loved to play fetch. And walks and hikes were always on his list. Just say the word walk and Lincoln would start jumping, all four legs off the ground!
Each one of his family members called Lincoln their dog. Cassandra, who is studying to be a veterinarian in Colorado, claimed Lincoln from the beginning, and always scared us by claiming she was, “taking Lincoln with her.” Chase always came home from high school and would exclaim, “Where’s my dog?” or “Where’s Yellow Man?” whenever Lincoln was having a play date with many of his doggy friends.
Kim, being a mom, claimed Lincoln was her newest child, “my Lincoln,” and treated him with so much love. Lincoln was her constant companion. And Randy, well, Lincoln claimed him as his dad, jumping and showing his excitement each and every day Randy came home — and maybe the treats helped a bit too!
And Lincoln had quite an extended family, and friends who all adored him. They are all missing him, and we appreciate all the kind words and support.
Lincoln had many furry friends at Happy Pets. He was very popular and playful at their doggy daycare program. But Sydney, a slightly younger Golden Retriever and self-proclaimed girlfriend, will miss him most as they played together both at Happy Pets and at Sydney’s home.
As a puppy, Lincoln was a constant hole digger, as it was just in his nature. We suspect that may be where he contracted Valley Fever, and it progressed without our knowing. When he finally got diagnosed, maybe it was just too late to turn it around. We may never know. But maybe Lincoln’s passing can teach all of us that it’s never too early to have your dog tested.
Ironically, Lincoln passed away on Love Your Pet Day. He will be truly missed by each and every person he spent time with.
For more information about Valley Fever, the University of Arizona has a Center of Excellence focused on the disease. Visit the website — vfce.arizona.edu.