Puppy Love

[December 11th, 2002] I'm back at the animal clinic. One of my dogs, Oscer Martinez Beck, has to undergo a minor operation.

I know Oscer will be fine. I also know he'll be treated with compassion. That's because, as I recounted the last few weeks of my life to the vet, Dr. McCoy, I saw tears rolling down the doctor's cheeks. You see, one month ago, late on election night, my partner and I put down one of our other dogs, our beloved 11-year-old Jade Beck Martinez. And, as they say, it was like losing a member of our family.

That's what pets are to queers: family.

I know that straight people, especially childless couples, singles and seniors, have the same attachment to their furry balls of unconditional love. But, the reality is--if they so opt and are able--straight people have kids and grandkids. Sure, I say I want children. But it's more of a vague idea, sort of like wanting to be an astronaut.

Next to my partner, Juan, my pets are my personal saviors. Over the years, they've pulled me out of the bar scene, my myopic mopiness--and best of all, their love has helped me pull my head out of my ass.

That's why it was so hard to lose Jade. She didn't have an easy start. When we adopted her, she had already been returned to the pound--twice. It took her a long time to warm up to us, but when she did, she was a loyal companion. She also knew how to push our buttons. She loved to dig out. Lately I've had a lot of dreams about her trying to dig back into our yard. I also have a recurring dream where I trade places with Jade, and I am the one who is being put down. I always wake up right before I take my last breath.

I can't wait to get Oscer home. I'm going to hug him like crazy.

SEASON OF GIVING
Give unconditional love by donating to one of the programs at Dove Lewis Emergency Animal Clinic. The Senior and Financial Assistance Fund helps treat pets whose owners could not otherwise afford to do so. Finances for homeless animals can be given to the Stray Animal Fund. The Pet Memorial Tree funds the pet-loss support group and allows you to have your animal pal's name displayed on a "tree" at one of their hospitals. Dove Lewis also offers "Expressions of the Bond," a photo calendar of pets and their owners with proceeds benefiting the Animal Assisted Therapy and Education Program. Donations can be made at www.dovelewis.org or mailed to Dove Lewis, 1984 NW Pettygrove St., Portland OR 97209.