It’s a sad day on the ranch. Buddy’s walking, continence, and comfort level continued to deteriorate. This dog who was born on our ranch (in my closet actually), herded the cattle with great skill, miraculously broke up bull fights, and has now died on this ranch will be missed. Buddy’s pain led to mournful yelps these last weeks. But he died surrounded by his pack of dogs and humans while proudly overlooking his domain from his station in the back of the pickup. I feel compelled to write this sad note for all who knew Buddy personally and for those of you who knew him only through this blog. He was quite a dog!
By this morning the dark clouds of Hurricane Hanna had spread over south and central Texas including Medicine Spirit Ranch. No moisture has fallen to the ground as yet from the gray, ominous clouds, in contrast to that on our cheeks. Just after being laid to rest in a grave beside his mother, Mollie, the sun briefly broke through the dark sky, illuminating his still body like a spotlight. Interpret that as you will. Buddy died peacefully and at a time that was appropriate.
Buddy’s incredible herding skills moving cattle will be remembered. But even more so, we will miss his love for family. His bravery in the face of large animals was unsurpassed. He was the most loyal being I’ve ever known. For reasons known only to Buddy, he sought me out wherever. He was my constant companion. He laid beside me in the bed for six weeks when I was recovering from my own back injury. He was aptly named.
Perhaps such devotion, if in a human, would be seen as cult-like. Nevertheless, I cannot help but feel flattered by his allegiance and devotion to our family. Of course this is a Border collie trait, but Buddy showed this behavior in spades.
Buddy will be missed. What a dog!
Buddy as a younger dog. That’ll do Buddy.
Tagged: animal behavior, Border collie herding abilities, Border collies, Cattle Ranching, devotion from a dog, dogs, Hurricane Hanna, loyalty from a dog, Medicine Spirit Ranch, That'll do
Views From Medicine Spirit Ranch 
Buddy was in the right family.
So sorry for your loss!!! There’s no doubt that Buddy lived a great life!!! You and Trudy love all of your babies and I’m sure Buddy was loved very much!!!
I know you will talk about Buddy and tell wonderful stories of his full life on the Ranch!!!
I know your hearts are heavy today and we will keep you guys in our prayers for sure!!!! 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Love you all. I’ll call when I quit crying.
So sorry to hear. He can now run free with his mother! Peace to you.
So sorry about your dear “friend”, Buddy.
My heart is broken for your loss of this incredible Buddy! What a beautiful tribute written for him. I can tell how he was greatly loved by you & many who were lucky enough to know him. Thank you for loving him & giving him a wonderful life on the ranch. I know he will be greatly missed. May God bless you both. RIP Buddy!!🌈🐾🐾
So sorry for your loss!
I am really sad to read this, but it does sound like it was time. I’m so glad to know that Buddy was able to take his leave from his “station” in the pickup there, surrounded by his “pack of dogs and humans,” by those he loved and who loved him. What a dear friend and faithful helper he was, and how graced you all have been to have walked together through his years.
I am so sorry for your loss; hugs from across the pasture! 🐾🌈🐾
Amy, your husband is phenomenal at such times. I only wish everyone could have a vet as caring and sympathetic as Pat during such difficult times. Please thank him again for us. He is a veterinary jewel!