Farewell to a Much-Loved Pet

I just finished reading Scott Harrison’s Ventura County Life column, “Last Goodbye to Woody Slowly Soaking In,” (Jan. 18) and was deeply moved.

Our golden retriever, Winston, is now 13 and is showing the inevitable signs of aging. Scott’s description of Woody’s place in the family struck a familiar chord as Winston has helped us in spoiling and comforting four grandchildren.

Winston has also been a great teacher. We are volunteer puppy raisers for Guide Dogs of America, and Winston has taught a succession of puppies how to be dogs. He still has his way of gently letting another dog know when it has crossed over the line of proper decorum.

Winston became known as a watchdog because of his feat of devouring five wristwatches on a day when he felt he wasn’t receiving adequate attention.

We still have Winston but are ruing the day when we don’t. Winston will always have a place in our hearts just as Woody will always be remembered by the Harrisons.

Thanks for the insight, Scott.

BILL SCULLY

Oak Park