In loving memory of Vegas

In this blog, I will to tell you about Vegas. Not the city, Las Vegas, but it's the name of our former dog. He was a beautiful, golden-brown/white Sheltie who stole everyone's heart! With his smile and joyful enthusiasm, he was friends with everyone.
As I write this, it's been over 12 years since we brought him home. This blog is entirely dedicated to my sweet friend, whom I still miss every day. Join me as I share some fun stories, quirks, and facts about him.

Ears
Vegas was a stubborn little dog in his own way. He often did his own thing and didn't fit the 'average' mold. It started with his ears. Normally, a Sheltie's ears have a slight fold or 'kink' so the tips hang down a bit. Vegas’ ears didn't care about that—they stood straight up his entire life!

Hugs
One of the typical characteristics of Shelties is that they're a bit reserved around new people. Vegas was different! Anyone he met could count on a big hug and kisses if they came close. With his smile, cute face, and beautiful coat, he always drew attention!

On the road
When we went on vacation, Vegas either came with us or stayed at a kennel. He loved both! When he traveled with us on a road trip, he adapted perfectly. Even if we visited many different places, Vegas was happy and loved it. He saw a lot of Europe, including the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Germany, England, Scotland, Wales, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Austria, Switzerland, Italy, Spain, and even Portugal.
He was also in his element at the kennel. When we dropped him off, he quickly forgot all about his owners. He would rush off with the caregivers to see his doggie friends!

Knee surgery
In April 2020, right at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Vegas had surgery. He had torn the cruciate ligament in one of his back knees and couldn't use his leg anymore. He needed an operation to get an artificial ligament so he could walk properly again. It was a difficult time, but he was incredibly brave. He healed completely, and after some rehabilitation, he was able to walk normally again. I was so proud of him!

Tattoos
After his surgery, I requested a graph of his heartbeat. I used this to get a tattoo on my arm, along with the text "Strong one," because he was always so strong and never whined or complained when he was in pain or not feeling well.
After he passed away, I had his paw print tattooed on my leg so he will always walk with me.

Fun stories
Vegas always got super excited when we grabbed his leash for a walk. He would first run away, making a game of it! But if it was raining outside, he would want to go back in quickly. Water and Vegas were not friends. At the beach, he was scared of the sea, and in the rehabilitation pool, he'd pull his legs up to keep them dry for as long as possible!

He was a picky but also a smart eater. At the vet, he once refused two different treats, only to eat all three (including the first two) right after they offered him a third one!

During puppy training, he was so bored on the field that he decided to run away and join the other group of dogs training nearby! He did, however, win a medal there for being able to catch a ball as a puppy. That was another proud moment for this dog mom!

Farewell, my dear Vegas
During his knee surgery, the vet noticed a slight heart murmur. Luckily, it didn't bother him for years, but eventually, the symptoms appeared. Right up until the very end, he still had his smile and a happy hug for his owners.
I cherish all the beautiful memories of him and often think of him when our current dog, Shadow, does something that reminds me of Vegas.
Vegas forever!