Casey....                   

Photograph ©1997 ShutterPup

April 18, 1992 - January 23, 2002

Casey, shown at 5 years, was our first Irish Wolfhound and as such holds a very special place in our hearts. She is wise, and she is wonderful. Her stoic acceptance of all that her life has dealt her serves as a lesson to us every day.

Not much is known about her first few years except that she was worn out from being bred too many times. She was afraid of almost everything and still becomes anxious when we are carrying sticks, or brooms, or shovels.

Definitely fearful of men, it took her several months to warm up to Bill. Now they are best buds, and dawn each morning finds them returning from their walk, having spent an hour in quiet camaraderie. VERY quiet, now that we think about it- we have NEVER heard Casey bark! 

We received Casey at age 4, and she has enjoyed clear sailing ever since. We consider ourselves her "cushy retirement home". Although technically now a senior citizen, Casey remains active. She has appointed herself "Mighty Varmint Killer", exhibiting great skill in the pursuit (and dispatch) of possums. They may imitate rugs for hours at a time, but Irish Wolfhounds are sighthounds through and through- they can MOVE when chasing their prey!

Shown here at 9½ years of age, and in her summer haircut, Casey is still an active and mighty varmint hunter. This photo was used to create a watercolor print, available from Angela McGraw- it, along with most other breeds is available from her website.

Casey was diagnosed with dilated cardio-myopathy on 9-19-01. She is tolerating her medications well, and we hope to see an improvement in how she feels very soon. While her disease is not curable, and is likely what she will die of, her quality of life remains good. She still rules the roost with the grace and dignity only an older Wolfhound can display!