Our dear “Wilson” went to the Rainbow Bridge last weekend. Our Beagle boy was diagnosed with advanced colon cancer suddenly last week and was in a lot of pain. He was also distressed by kidney stones and prostate trouble. His prognosis was grim. Upon the recommendation of two of our veterinarians, we agreed to end Wilson’s suffering peacefully, which is never an easy decision.

“Wilson” was unique in that he became a Last Hope dog twice, and did get to experience love from two sets of Last Hope volunteers.  First in 2009, when he arrived at our Lindenhurst center as a stray from Huntington Town Shelter; and again several months ago, when at 9 years of age, his owners surrendered him at Wantagh because of their baby’s allergies. Wilson may have been older than 9. We will never know.

Wilson’s former adopters had been diligent about his veterinary care, so it may be that his malignancy surfaced quickly. There is no reason to feel he had ever been neglected in that respect. During his last few months, we were all Wilson’s family, and he knew how much his Last Hope fans loved him. RIP, dear Wilson boy. We will never forget you.