It's never easy to say goodbye to one of our canine friends. When they have wagged their way into your heart and soul and become such a huge part of your everyday life, it is even harder. I had to put Lazlo to sleep at the University of Pennsylnaia's Ryan Veterinary Hospital on November 4, 2013 after some previously misdiagnosed cancer problems by my local vet were correctly identified by Penn and it was obvious Lazlo was suffering and there was no chance of recovery. Many thanks to the great vets at Penn who were very professional and extremely compassionate at that heartbreaking point.
We rescued Lazlo in February of 2008 from a shelter who told us that he was found wandering in the Northeast section of Philadelphia battered and bleeeding. They said he was probably a victim of dog fighting abuse by some of the recent immigrants to this country. That explained a lot about his high strung demeanor and his absolute refusal to allow anyone to touch his paws or try to trim his nails.
My son used to called him Spazlo and my daughter said he had no sense of humor but, man, did he ever have a major league personality. He was hardly ever away from my wife's side and was her constant bodyguard, not always a good thing as he was constantly underfoot.
Lazlo was a Ridgeback / Viszla mix and exhibited traits from both breeds and we considered him a one of a kind, unique dog. Each day since he's been gone, I am still looking for his water dish to top it off or looking for his food bowl to add some Beneful. I still expect to see him curled up against Sharon when I walk into the family room. But by far the thing I miss the most is his happy dance when I come home and open the front door. I still expect him to be there to greet me but I guess that expectation will slowly fade in time.
Rest in Peace, Lazlo. You were a good dog.


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