“Hippity Hoppity” are well-known lyrics from Peter Cottontail and in this case, a term of endearment my mom gave our Hopsie dog. After nearly 16 years of life, this week we had to say goodbye to our lhasa apso pup.
This is a very difficult blog post for me to write, but I wanted to share Hopsie’s story. In 2001, we officially adopted Hopsie at 3 years old, from my aunt. Although, I considered her part of the family long before that.
In the summer of 1999, my mom and I “babysat” Hopsie and her partner in crime, Harley. We spent a few weeks watching them at my aunt’s house while they went on vacation. During that short time, I remember wishing Hopsie was mine; I cried when it was over.
So, it’s no wonder that when we were finally given the opportunity to take Hopsie and Harley into our homes, we couldn’t say no.
I have a number of great memories with Hopsie – too many to list off. But I can tell you, I remember her waiting for me to come home from school. I always saw her peeking out the front door, wagging her tail and getting ready to celebrate my return – that was every day, without fail.
My mom has taken such good care of all our pets. And that statement rings especially true with Hopsie. My mom gave up her own time, skipped parties, and pulled all-nighters for Hopsie – making sure she wasn’t left alone in her elderly age. My mom kept her comfortable, full and content until her final days on earth. It is because of my mother that Hopsie got to live out her life to the fullest. So for that, I thank you Mom.
I am told Hopsie is in the arms of an angel. And one day we will be reunited. I can’t wait to see you again, Hippity Hoppity Hopsie Dog.
