Neal Thompson - Big Dog

"What is man without the beasts? If all the beasts were gone, man would die from a great loneliness of spirit. For whatever happens to the beasts, soon happens to man. All the things are connected."

 ~ Chief Seattle

There are many tales I will someday write about this overgrown tail-wagger... a friend this ornery and loyal provides several introductory lines, today I will strive for a selfish directness to save my swollen eyes, over-stuffed nose and the tissue boxes that have long been emptied.


Neal Thompson... who loved his family without fail. 


An aficionado of the well booted ankle, but would happily sample all uniformed individuals if he thought he could sneak a nip.... 


Father figure and playmate to more kittens, puppies, rats, frogs, turtles and small children than he could have ever dreamed of... or licked clean.  (But he sure tried)


Chaser of intruding figures, real and imaginary (intruder or not).... whether we wanted him to or not :/


Chaser of whomever was playing ball... chaser of everyone BUT the ball.... 


Swimmer, Lover, Whiner, Beggar, m&m Appreciator, Thief, Side-swiper, Drooler, Moaner-Groaner-Grass Roller, Sneak, Best Friend


Yesterday, our family was once more changed by the loss of a friend. After 12 years of joy and heartache... we released Neal and a beautiful feathered friend to the open valleys to run with friends he hasn't seen in a while, to meet new who are waiting to welcome him. 


You are already missed more than we will ever be able to put to words.