Sampson

Sampson died in the summer of 2003. He was the best dog I have ever known. A large dog weighing in at 110 lbs. When I moved into my rural home he lived about a mile down the road and is owners often neglected him, letting him fend for himself. He essentially grew-up to be somewhat of a wild animal. One day he came by the house, I threw him a stick and he never left.

Sampson adopted me when he was about 7 years old. He did not leave my property until his owners said "take him, we don't want him". There were signs that he was an abused dog. He was always a perfect gentleman with the ladies, but men he did not like unless they were related to me.

Sampson and I spent many wonderful days in the wilderness. He was my shadow and faithful photo companion for 6 years. Occasionally, he would get whiff of something and go for 2-3 hour runs through the forests near Parry Sound, Ontario. He always returned unscathed. One day something wasn't right with him, as we began our daily walk, Sampson stopped after a few steps, turned, wanting to go back to the house. I knew we had just completed our last walk together. I took him to the vet where he was diagnosed with a large tumor in his abdomen. The next day Sampson died in his sleep at home. He was 13 years old. I had him cremated and scattered his ashes by a small lake, deep in the woods where we used to frequently walk.

Tweaked this photo with Nik's Silver Efex

Look forward to comments.

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I think it is a gorgeous portrait and a touching account. What a blessing for both of you that you two found each other.

Andrew, Beautiful photo and touching story - thanks for sharing!!

Beautiful image, Andrew. I love the vignette and toning. Sounds like Sampson was a very wonderful dog. Thanks for sharing his portrait and story! :S3:

Wonderful story and image of Sampson, Andrew. A true companion. :S3:

Great portrait of Sampson, Andrew. I'm sure this brings happy memories to you. Thanks for sharing.

I'm glad that you found each other. Smpson sounds like a wonderful companion. He looks very noble in your beautiful portrait!

Andrew, Such a touching story. I have tears rolling down my face. I can't believe anyone could abuse or neglect an animal. I am so glad he found you. Beautiful portrait and nice application of Nik.

Hey Andrew,
Story and photo are perfect together. Great tribute to a wonderful friend!

Beautiful dog and wonderful story of friendship, Andrew. TFS

Thanks to everyone for the kind words. I appreciate them very much!

I know how it feels, I lost my dog of 16 years 3 weeks ago...it sucks they have to be so short lived, finding a good one is tough...noble looking dog...

Hi Paul, thanks for comments, much appreciated. Very sorry to hear that you lost your dog recently.

Andrew, lovely image and story to go with it. It is so sad to lose them, as they give unconditionally and firmly plant themselves in our hearts.

Beautiful portrait of this handsome dog. What a sweet story of your relationship.