A Piece of My Heart
It is with a heavy heart that I say that Gus, the 12-year old beloved Basenji, passed away last week. I didn’t mention anything about his illness, as we were hoping for more good days and more time with him.
I met Gus about a decade ago when I met Chris (my ex). When Chris and I started sharing our lives together, Gus became my dog, too. When Chris and I split up last year, Gus stayed with Chris. Over the last year, I was lucky enough to get extended “custody” visits while Chris traveled.
Gus suffered from tumors on his spine. They were inoperable and benign. As they grew, they began to effect the movement on one side of his body until it was too difficult for him to get around. Chris made sure he had the very best of treatments. Gus was not in pain.
Here’s what I’ll remember about Gus.
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Gus was a sweet and funny guy. |
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He and Ike were best friends from the moment they met.
Gus was totally the boss, and Ike was cool with that. |
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Gus and Ike were a great team.
Before Chris and I moved in together, both dogs had huge issues with separation anxiety. Once they had each other, they could hardly care less when the humans left the house. |
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The family grew and changed, and every dog that came into the house knew to respect Gus. |
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Unlike other Basenjis I’ve known, Gus enjoyed quiet time on his own.
While everyone else was crowding in for a spot on my lap, Gus could be found happily chillin’, away from the chaos. |
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Gus was a smallish Basenji, and super fast.
It was a nightmare to ever have to catch him when he didn’t want to be caught. |
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Gus lived more places than most people. He was born in Texas, then moved to Detroit. Then Chris was transferred to Seattle, where we met. The four of us (Chris, me, Gus, and Ike) were transferred to The Netherlands. Then it was Houston, with extended stays in Austin with me.
He also traveled across the country in a car several times. He was a super good car dog. |
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His official official name was Augustus Africanis, or something very close.
His full name was Gustopher Wayne. He answered to Gus, Gussy, Gussy Wayne, Baby G – and when he was a puppy, “Dammit Gus!”. (He was a difficult puppy.) |
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Over the last several years, Gus and Ike have both mellowed-out and become more predictable dogs. No more worrying about someone eating the sofa, ripping up carpet, or hiding a toilet brush in the bed. |
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Basenjis are “barkless”, but Gus was quiet even by Basenji standards. When he was super happy he would wag his tail and make an excited little whine – but he never “barooed”.
I always said that the only time Gus would make a noise is when someone stepped on him, which was pretty accurate. |
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He was both sweet and demanding.
He would gently bite anyone who dared to stop petting him. |
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There are lots of people who are going to miss Gus and his big personality.
Chris and I both miss him very much. |
I’d like to end this post on a happy note. This is how I’ll remember him most. Gus had a great sense of humor. While he was truly frightened by a few things – children, thunderstorms, and bouncing balls….there were a few things he pretended to hate for the comedy factor – pepper, chapstick, and spray bottles.
Here’s a little video of Gus reacting to chapstick.
aw, thanks for sharing all of this, staci. i know you and chris will miss him lots. i know i do.
take care.
Comment by meg — October 21, 2008 @ 9:37 am
I am so sorry for your loss. Hugs for you and your fur people.
Comment by Heather — October 21, 2008 @ 9:40 am
I know its trite, but it really does help (after a while) to imagine them young again, free of pain and waiting for us. It is so hard to let them go, they ask so little of us. Letting them go is pure love for another being.
Peace Staci
Comment by Melody — October 21, 2008 @ 9:42 am
My heart just broke a little for you. Love to you and all who loved Gus, from me and my half-breed Basenji mutts. xoxoxo
Comment by Sarah — October 21, 2008 @ 9:43 am
I’m so sorry for your loss, Staci. Thanks for sharing Gus with us.
Comment by Carrie — October 21, 2008 @ 9:46 am
Noooooo! I’m so sorry. Hell, I’ll miss him too.
(And I find his fear of children sort of hilarious)
Hugs for everyone.
Comment by m — October 21, 2008 @ 9:51 am
I’m so sorry Staci. What a great dog.
Comment by Abbe — October 21, 2008 @ 10:10 am
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I’m sending lots of warm thoughts and prayers your way. I agree with the others here….thank you for sharing Gus with all of us!
Comment by Bri — October 21, 2008 @ 10:10 am
I’m so sorry for your loss. Cuddle the others as you remember him.
Comment by ccr in MA — October 21, 2008 @ 10:34 am
Comment by Kate — October 21, 2008 @ 10:38 am
so sorry for your loss. losing a pet is very difficult. hang in!
Comment by Kate — October 21, 2008 @ 10:41 am
Aw, Staci, what an awful couple of weeks you’re having. I’m so sorry. Big hugs to you and the pups.
Comment by Ashley — October 21, 2008 @ 11:00 am
So sorry to hear about your sad news. What a lovely tribute to a very special dog.
Comment by Danielle — October 21, 2008 @ 11:03 am
What a great tribute to him. He was a fabulous dog, and I’m honored to have met him and been witness to his awesomeness.
Comment by Christine — October 21, 2008 @ 11:10 am
Staci, I’m so sorry; Gus was a real charmer, and I’ll miss seeing him!
Comment by Donna — October 21, 2008 @ 11:12 am
Here is a last respect from the Netherlands for the dog Gus on wooden shoes! You made a beautiful memorial for him!
Comment by yvonnep — October 21, 2008 @ 11:18 am
he will be missed. by even those who never met him.
Comment by zeghsy — October 21, 2008 @ 11:30 am
Oh, Staci, so sorry to hear about Gus. Sending comforting thoughts your way…
Comment by Jodie — October 21, 2008 @ 12:32 pm
I’m so sorry Staci, I know all your dogs were important to you. You took such good care of him through his illnesses.
Peter said that he saw Chris outside this weekend. But when Peter said that there was only one dog, I told him that it couldn’t have been Chris. But I guess it probably was him. I hope Lou is doing okay by himself.
Comment by Laura — October 21, 2008 @ 12:48 pm
So sorry to hear about Gus!
Comment by ~drew emborsky~ — October 21, 2008 @ 12:52 pm
I am so so sorry to hear about Gus. Sounds like he was such a good boy, and it’s never ever easy to lose one of the furry friends.
The picture of him relaxing in the potted palm is priceless.
Hugs for you (and Gus’s dog-mates too)!
Comment by Anne — October 21, 2008 @ 12:59 pm
Staci,
My heart goes out to you and Chris both. It pains me to hear when others lose their family members, and as far as I am concerned, dogs are family members. May he be in peace, running around and happy as he can be. Gus will be watching over you, Lou, Ike, Abe, Tippy & Chris. He’s your Angel.
Huggs
Comment by Lexie — October 21, 2008 @ 1:06 pm
Aw, Stace! I’m so sorry! I know how hard it is to lose doggies, especially the extra special ones like Gus. Thanks for sharing him with us. I’m sure he is chasing tubes of Chapstick all over heaven. Big hugs!
Comment by Stacey — October 21, 2008 @ 1:09 pm
Staci,
I’m so sorry to you and your family for your loss. The video made me laugh in spite of the heaviness in my heart!
Hugs from Seattle,
Comment by Genie — October 21, 2008 @ 1:21 pm
This is a beautiful “good-bye” to a beautiful boy. we will all remember Gus in your pictures and writings about him and his co-horts. I feel as though I have lost a good friend.
Comment by Beth — October 21, 2008 @ 1:22 pm
So sorry to hear about your loss, Staci. Because of you and Chris, Gus lived a happy and adventurous life. That is a funny video. Thank you for sharing!
Hugs!
Comment by Fran — October 21, 2008 @ 1:55 pm
Staci, what a difficult week you’ve had Alwx and now Gus. Thank you for the photo of the little guy and taking us down memory lane. Your the best Staci
Jo Ann
Comment by Auntie JoJo — October 21, 2008 @ 2:56 pm
Oh I am so sorry to hear the news. You did a terrific job sharing your stories and photos and videos on your blog and we’ve all got to know him. He certainly had a very good life with you and you’re honoring his life in a very special way.
I can understand how you feel as I’ve been through it too – and I’m going to take a whole bunch more photos because I think that really helps. ((hugs))to you and your doggie gang
~Denise
Comment by Denise — October 21, 2008 @ 3:05 pm
I am so sorry to hear about Gus, I am sure he will be missed. I loved seeing all the pictures of him. I hope time will heal your pain. Hugs to you and your doggies.
Comment by Melissa D — October 21, 2008 @ 4:02 pm
I’m sorry.
Comment by teki — October 21, 2008 @ 4:12 pm
I’m so sorry to hear about it.
Comment by Sally Villarreal — October 21, 2008 @ 5:26 pm
I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you find comfort with the ones (dogs & humans) you love.
Comment by Michelle — October 21, 2008 @ 5:46 pm
Staci, when my daughter had cancer and we were losing a lot of our friend’s children, I had a favourite sympathy card that read “Sincere sympathy in the loss of someone so very special”.
My sincerest sympathy in the loss of your beloved Gus. There is nothing like the love of a dog to show you what is important in life: you were lucky to have had each other. I’m sorry it’s been such a yucky week for you.
Comment by Lori — October 21, 2008 @ 8:07 pm
Oh, Staci, I am so sorry.
I was afraid when I saw the shaved patch on Gus’s rump a couple of weeks ago, and more afraid because you didn’t explain. Still, I hoped that whatever was wrong could be treated. I know that he got the best of care, and that he didn’t suffer.
I was so happy when you and Ike met Chris and Gus; is seemed like it was just meant to be. Things didn’t turn out quite like the ‘happily ever after’ I wished for you, but the four of you shared lots of good times, and surely it helps ease the sorrow now to look back on them.
The video of him and Ike scampering away in basenji silliness is especially sweet. Gus had a great life.
My sincere sympathy to you and Chris and to all who loved Gus.
Comment by Chey — October 21, 2008 @ 8:49 pm
I always love hearing about your guys, and I know you will remember him lovingly…but I’m so sorry to hear that he’s gone. What a tough time for you – but you are handling it with so much grace. Hope you find peace and happier days ahead.
Comment by Susan — October 21, 2008 @ 9:15 pm
I’m so, so sorry…incredibly shitty week for you. But Gus had a GREAT LIFE! No one could have loved him more. Hang in.
Comment by jana — October 21, 2008 @ 9:47 pm
oh staci, this must have been a hard week for you. thanks for sharing about gus– i like and miss him already and i haven’t even met him. sending lots of hugs in your direction.
Comment by Eunice — October 21, 2008 @ 9:48 pm
Sorry to hear of your loss.
Comment by Wanda — October 21, 2008 @ 9:55 pm
That potted palm picture is priceless! I’m so sorry for your loss~I know from experience how hard it is to lose a pet and a member of the family. Be thankful you have so many great pictures to look at and remember.
Comment by linda — October 22, 2008 @ 6:18 am
It is so obvious how loved Gus was and how he felt the love! Your pictorial tribute to him is wonderful. Hopefully you will find peace that he is in a more peaceful place….Sylvia
Comment by Sylvia — October 22, 2008 @ 6:52 am
I’m so sorry to hear that you lost your Gus. The video of Gus and his posse making a run for it at the sight of the chapstick is wonderful. Take care of yourself and make sure to get extra hugs and smooches from your boys.
Comment by Molls — October 22, 2008 @ 7:36 am
Aw Staci that is terrible. I am so sorry. My dogs are members of my family, and my best friends, and I can tell that you feel the same way about yours. Take care.
Comment by Catherine — October 22, 2008 @ 8:41 am
Staci,
I am so sorry to hear about Gus. Your tribute to him brought tears to my eyes. If I have a next life, I want to come back as one of your pets! I know it’s hard right now, and my heart goes out to you.
Comment by Diane — October 22, 2008 @ 9:56 am
What a sweet, sweet guy. Deedle is 12 now, and sometimes I think about the day she will no longer be around. It’s really difficult to imagine. Gus had a good life!
Comment by Mariko — October 22, 2008 @ 11:02 am
Hugs…Gus was a well-loved dog and I know you and the boys will miss him dearly. I’ll be thinking about you.
Comment by Kristin — October 22, 2008 @ 2:28 pm
I’m so sorry for your loss, Staci. Gus was a very well loved dog, and your tribute to him was heartfelt and moving.
Comment by Jet — October 22, 2008 @ 2:32 pm
Staci~ ~ ~
I’m so sorry.
Been there too. Lovely tribute.
Comment by Ahrisha — October 22, 2008 @ 2:35 pm
So sorry about Gus. Loved your tribute and the video made me laugh out loud. He was a handsome devil.
Comment by Lenette — October 22, 2008 @ 5:07 pm
Staci –
Your post brought tears to my eyes. I don’t look forward to that day where one of my beloved Bs need to cross over.
You and your pack are in my thoughts and prayers.
Comment by Victoria — October 22, 2008 @ 6:23 pm
I am so sorry to hear about Gus. I know you and Chris and the boys will miss him terribly.
Hugs to you. Reenie
Comment by Reenie — October 22, 2008 @ 7:42 pm
There’ll always be a little “Gus” hole in your heart, like all the little friends I’ve lost. But he was a cutie – and way too smart for Chapstick!
Comment by Malena — October 22, 2008 @ 9:08 pm
Well this just sucks. I’ll miss seeing him walking by my house.
Hope you’re OK.
Comment by Strider's Mistress — October 23, 2008 @ 5:39 am
I lost my beloved Dylan, a border collie one year ago this November 4th. I know how you feel, Gus is so beautiful. May I leave you with this poem that I stole from Lord Byron, and also placed upon Dylan’s final resting spot. I think it holds true for many dogs.
Near this Spot
are deposited the Remains of one
who possessed Beauty without Vanity,
Strength without Insolence,
Courage without Ferosity,
and all the Virtues of Man without his Vices.
This praise, which would be unmeaning Flattery
if inscribed over human Ashes,
is but a just tribute to the Memory of
BOATSWAIN, a DOG,
Comment by Keana — October 23, 2008 @ 6:50 am
I’m so sorry. It’s awful to lose a friend. I always wish for something to say to help the person feel better, but truth is words can’t. I hope that soon all your thoughts of him will bring you smiles instead of tears.
Comment by Sam — October 23, 2008 @ 2:37 pm
Everyone who knows me knows how much I absolutely adored Gus. He certainly wasn’t just a dog to me, nor even just “man’s best friend.” He was such a big part of my life for so long that he was more like a son. Lou and I miss him so much. These photos bring back lots of great memories. Thanks, Staci, for putting this together.
Comment by Chris & Lou — October 23, 2008 @ 4:46 pm
Staci, I’m so sorry. Remembering all the wonderful times that you shared, I’m sure that you know more than anyone that without you guys in his life, he might have walked a far different path. Many hugs!!
Comment by Rosie — October 24, 2008 @ 12:21 am
I’m so sorry to hear about Gus. He couldn’t have asked for a more loving tribute though. He was a very lucky dog for sure.
Comment by Mark — October 24, 2008 @ 7:04 am
Hugs to you and the boys, Staci. I echo what so many others have already said: Gus had a wonderful life, and I know he was a very happy doggy.
Comment by Kim in Blacksburg — October 24, 2008 @ 9:36 am
This is a beautiful memorial to a wonderful friend.
Good night, sweet Gus.
Comment by Keet — October 24, 2008 @ 11:28 pm
Hi Staci,
I’m so sorry – what a brave and beautiful boy.
Comment by Rita — October 25, 2008 @ 6:44 am
I am so saddened by this news.
I can’t quite figure out how we are supposed to get past these losses of our friends and family members that our dogs have become, but I do know that we have given them the best that we could during their time with us and they have given their best back to us many times over. I hope you are comforted by the great memories of your time with him.
Take care, and know that lots of people that you don’t even know have you in their thoughts and prayers.
Comment by Ruth in Kansas — October 25, 2008 @ 12:02 pm
Staci (and Chris), I’m so so sorry to hear about Gus. I love this moving tribute you posted for him. What a good and brave little guy.
Comment by Janet — October 26, 2008 @ 6:22 pm
My condolences to you. Gus was such a happy and well cared for, boy. (hugs)
Comment by Tara — October 27, 2008 @ 4:28 pm
Aw, no. I’ll miss Gussy.
I didn’t even have to know him to know he was super cool. He oozed sheer Cool in every picture.
Comment by Katy — October 27, 2008 @ 9:39 pm
I’m so sorry about Gus. Thank you for sharing his story.
Comment by Kathy — October 28, 2008 @ 6:56 am
I’m tearing up – I’m so sorry for your loss. His pictures were always my favorites, and I’m sure he’ll be greatly missed. *hugs*
Comment by Kate — October 28, 2008 @ 12:59 pm
I’m sorry for your loss. Which sounds trite, but really. I’ve been sitting here trying to come up with words than convey what I want to say, but it’s not happening. At least there’s no chapstick in doggie heaven.
Comment by avalynda — October 29, 2008 @ 1:26 pm
I’m so so sorry to hear about Gus’ passing. Losing a family member is never easy but you’ll find much comfort in your memories of him. Take care…
Comment by Ms. Tracker — October 31, 2008 @ 1:37 pm
Staci,
I open your page when I need a basenji fix, laugh & to follow your great photo journal (I wish I was that clever). I always close your page with a smile on my face. Today is different. I am so sorry for your loss, know that Gus is running free with no pains or cares (maybe a posssum or two). Take care.
Comment by Kim — October 31, 2008 @ 8:44 pm
My heart hurts for you.
Comment by Cynthia — November 1, 2008 @ 9:19 am
I’m so sorry Stacy.
Comment by Dena — November 1, 2008 @ 5:39 pm
what a wonderful life Gus had! I’m sorry he’s gone. lucy the jack russell sends your boys big slurpy licks.
Comment by mairin — November 1, 2008 @ 8:41 pm
I’m so sorry about Gus. I adored your Gus retrospective – he was clearly well loved
Comment by Octopus Knits — November 1, 2008 @ 11:47 pm
Oh, Staci, I’m so sorry. Gus had a good family, thanks to you guys. And dogs.
Comment by kelp! — November 2, 2008 @ 7:49 pm
We lost one of ours on October 24 (the second loss of 2008) and I can’t help but laugh because Fred was 14 and LOVED to eat Chapstick. And Kleenex. And now we’re left behind with chapped lips and nothing to wipe our eyes with.
Say hi to Fred, Gus. She’s the fat little lunchbox bitch with the boy’s name
Comment by Frank — November 4, 2008 @ 6:33 pm
Hey Girl,
I am sitting here right now with tears in my eyes thinking about Gus. He was a stubborn little bugger, but so much fun to have around. Hank and Ike were easy to win over, but Gus was no pushover. I’m so glad I got to have a little time with him so many years ago. He had more influence on Kuma than any other creature. You have no idea how many times his name is mentioned in our house. So much of Kuma’s dominant behavior she learned from him. I think of him everytime I see a Basenji or have to wash the cover on my chair with the Gus head size hole in the side.
Please let Chris know I’m thinking about him. I know this is hard on both of you. Take care.
Kae
Comment by Kae — November 9, 2008 @ 4:47 pm