Today was a very sad day in the Viehmann household. After two weeks of increasing illness, we had to lay Winston to rest. It was a difficult decision to make but it was just too hard watch him lay there and watch us move about the house but not be able to follow. As of last night, he was having difficulty standing while trying to potty. It was time. I called a couple of mobile veterinarians to find one that would come to our home. I came home from work at 1:00 to spend some time with Winston and Tate before our appointment time of 2:30. Richard & Jan were supposed to leave this morning but opted to stay for moral and emotional support. I’m glad they did. They were able to assist with the details while Tate and I said our final goodbyes. We chose to make Winston’s final resting place in our back yard under the master bathroom window. I hope to find some sort of evergreen plant or shrub to place in that spot to represent the love and joy he brought to our lives. Thank you for your kind words and prayers. It really means a lot to both of us.

Tate doesn’t normally write in our blogs but I asked him to write some of his thoughts and feelings about Winston…

First, I want to thank everyone for their well wishes. It helped so much to hear from our close friends.

Most of you know that I considered Winston my son. He was the first dog I had as an adult. I got him when he was 6 weeks old and I was married to my first wife. When we split 6 months later there was no dispute that Winston was my dog. He then became my best friend, comforting me in a time in my life that was very hard. We spent the next several years traveling the country, best friend at my side. He has always been there for me. Until I moved to California I did not have too many close friends. Winston filled that hole for me and it was wonderful. After 11 years and many adventures it was his time. It was very hard for me to let him go. I know it was the right thing to do but it will still be even harder to not see his face to greet me when I come home. I take solace in that Winston was only sick for a short time and that I have great friends to support Reneé and I. Once again, thank you for caring and being there for us. -Tate

Here is a slideshow of our Winston: