Greylock

Greylock I am in the examining room of Greylock's Veterinarian. I lift Greylock, onto the examining table, and my heart is breaking 'cause he's not trying to wiggle out of my arms. As the Doc examines Grey with tender care, I bow my head with resignation. I couldn't help but think, a month earlier my, independent cat would have none of her poking and prodding. There is a chair by the wall and I bring it over to sit in front of Greylock, his chin resting on the aluminum table. I bring my face close to his and gently rub his head. I am saying goodbye to my beloved companion of twenty years, always with a leg rub for his Dad. A quick glance from Greylock's eyes to the Doctor and I can see, she is ready with the injection of phenobarbital. I nod while continuing to softly pet his head. “It won't be long.”, she says. I hold back the tears, not wanting to upset Grey. “Such a good boy, what a good boy you are.” Slowly, his eyes closed, and the Doctor placed the stethoscope on Greylock's chest. “He has passed.” She says to take as much time as I need. I sit there caressing the fur on Greylock's back and remember our life together. The sadness, I felt was deep. I know my grief for him will prove a grief felt, only for a few humans. Before leaving I look at Grey's closed eyes, and with one last scratch behind his ears say, “You've been such a good boy, such a good boy, and you know, my good boy, your old man will miss you 'till his dying day.” I did not have a pet after Greylock.