1. I'm writing this blog post on Thursday, August 27th and will begin with what took place this morning.
Shortly after 6:00, Copper staggered into my bedroom, collapsed, and let out two weak, but adamant wails. The wails woke me up. I'd never heard him make this sound before.
The sound of his wail made me all but certain that Copper's life was nearly over and he wanted us to spend the time he had left together.
After over five years of not wanting me to hold him, Copper rested in my arms and on my lap. After a while, I wrapped him in a soft towel and placed him atop a soft ottoman and stroked him, encouraged him to let go, and watched his life slowly pass from his being.
At about 7:10, Copper surrendered. He died at home. He died in the room where he spent most of his time. He died close to me.
I took time to gaze upon Copper, to fix in my mind the assurance that he was resting in peace.
2. Now back to Wednesday.
Debbie and I had a superb telephone conversation.
We talked about having Copper euthanized.
We talked about timing, about when euthanasia feels merciful.
I told Debbie that I hoped Copper would die at home, that we would experience the end of his life together, but that I would see how Copper was doing on Thursday morning and, if it felt right, I'd call Dr. Cook and schedule a consultation, asking him to assess Copper's condition and advise me on how to move forward.
Copper took matters into his own paws and I didn't have to make that call.
I felt great relief, having known for quite a few days that Copper's life was nearing its end, that he came to my room, woke me up, accepted being in my arms and on my lap, and passed away at home.
3. I might write more about the book The Birds Audubon Missed another time. For now, I'll simply report that I finished the book and it further fed my wonder regarding how complex and mutable the natural world is, including human beings.
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