Large Fierce Mammal

I am both saddened and honoured to bear the news to the world that yesterday, in his own bed and in the company of those who loved him with all their hearts, Alf vom Garreler Esch, also known as Alf, went to sleep for the last time.

Magnificent Alf (Sullivan photo)

Originally brought to Canada from Germany, and coming from a sturdy working line, Alf embodied perfection in a German Shepherd Dog. Big, brave, powerful, robust, beautiful, faithful, intelligent, and completely self-confident, we find joy in that he was not lost to us before passing on his perfection to the world, both in progeny and memories for those of us honoured to have known him. In my mind’s dictionary, a picture of Alf illustrates the word “magnificent”.

Our Ailsa, grand daughter of Alf. Click the picture for a larger version. Photo by Mrs. LFM

Before retiring from Unica Kennels, Alf sired Dogs that have gone on to greatness throughout the world, and two of his line number among the ranks of the pack Mrs LFM and I lead – he was sire to Dasha, and grandsire to Ailsa. We have also been privileged to have met and worked with others that carry his genes, and it has never failed to be a pleasure.

Alf’s life was full and accomplished, and when his time came to retire it was with two of this world’s finest people. Fay – a woman of sensitivity, strength, wisdom, and beauty; and Michael – he of a quiet, natural, and radiant power. I describe them as a Dog might see them and as, I believe, Alf did. I am certain that their combined energy was of inestimable comfort to him in the end because to be present in their home, and experience the chemistry of Humans and Dogs intertwined as one, was pure magick.

Dasha – daughter of Alf. Click the picture for a larger version. Photo by Mrs. LFM

Any Leader of Dogs worthy of the title understands and accepts the responsibilities that come with fully embracing the beautiful thing that is a relationship with a Dog, and knows going in that the relationship comes with an expiry date – one that, with all likelihood, will lead to their being dragged kicking and screaming into being the one who must decide when to end the life of somebody they only want to love and protect forever.

This is the one terribly painful part of Leadership, for it tears at the heart and leaves a searing hole. Those who willingly walk this path in the joyful company of a Dog, who strive to lead wisely and well, and do not flinch from the final responsibility to lead their charge out of this life when the time comes, are far finer and stronger creatures than he who speaks the words, “It’s just a dog”, for that one will never enjoy aid, comfort, nor friendship from us. The lesson that life is too short and precious to waste is hard won, but as hard as it is to endure, to have your calming voice be the last thing your trusty comrade ever hears is a gift that carries power beyond measure.

Surviving Alf in Fay and Michael’s household is his daughter, beautiful Gaby – sister of Dasha and mother of Ailsa. Nothing anyone can say will speed their passage across the dark waters of grief, nor should it, for theirs is a personal journey. We do know they will draw strength from each other, and hope they will find some comfort in the knowledge that they have true friends waiting for them on the shore.

Here, back in March of 2009, I published an article in memory of Mrs. LFM’s father, Ryszard. I’m going to quote myself here because I believe the words are appropriate to the loss of any loved one:

“As I’ve gone through the grieving process myself, and watched others do the same, it has become clear to me that, in the end, the power and joy of a life well lived is not diminished by the final footnote that it came to an end. That grief is a path leading to a place where, without trivializing our loss or assuming a pretense that the one departed isn’t missed, we can once again think and speak of them fondly and often, without spontaneously melting into a weeping puddle of goo. That their lives will have meaning as long as those of us who remember still draw breath.”

Join us in a toast to Alf, and then break your glass, for only a very fortunate and blessed few will ever know his like. We will never forget him.

Alf on the first day or spring 2010. We will never forget him. (Sullivan photo)