Iggy Pup died today. We found out he had bone cancer in his jaw about three weeks ago, and that it had metastasized into his lungs. We have been hand-feeding him little pieces of roast beef, stewed chicken, hot dogs, apple fritters, mashed potatoes, and cheeseburgers, but he was losing weight rapidly, and yesterday he wouldn’t eat at all. We had his chest drained of fluid on Tuesday by a veterinary oncologist in Seattle, but it filled again on Wednesday, and last night he couldn’t breathe if he lay down. He spent the night standing while Pia and I took turns comforting him. When he drank from the water dish, the water turn red from the blood in his mouth.
This morning we brought him to our vet’s office and she ended his suffering while Pia and I held him. Iggy was, as usual, calm and peaceful. Our other dog Frankie was in the room, and he provided comfort to all three of us. I think being there will help Frank to understand what has happened.
My relationship with Iggy changed many things in my life – what I do for a living, how I think and feel about animals in general and dogs in particular, and even how I think and feel about people. Yes, he was a dog, and I am a human, yet I try to emulate him in many ways. I would be a better man if I could be as calm as he was, or as predictable, or as reliable. I feel very lucky to have known Iggy, and to have shared many wonderful adventures with him. Though he died at only seven, I knew him less than half of his life. I will remember him the rest of mine.
The Dog Guy 
RIP Iggy…you did so much good work here on Earth….run free at Rainbow Bridge good boy…you’re already sorely missed ❤
And I will remember him for the rest of my life as well. So sorry. He and you have inspired me on so many levels.
The best mastiff I have ever known, we loved him too.
I am so sorry to hear of Iggy’s passing. Sending healing thoughts.
My heart goes out to you Michael, Pia and Frankie. Iggy was such a wonderful dog and companion. I will miss him and am glad that I knew him.
RIP Iggy. You were a good dog and therefore, priceless on this earth.
Michael, Moses died of bloat on August 4th, so I know what you and Pia are feeling. One of the saddest facts of loving a dog, is that there are with us for too short a time. but then again; maybe that is why – they are able to live and fifteen year or less life span and give all the love and devotion we give in one with eighty years. They teach us so much and it is such a shame more people do not learn from them. So sorry for your loss.
My heart breaks for you and Pia and your animal family. I never had the great fortune to meet Iggy but have followed your journey and adventures together through the Positive Canine Guidance site and facebook, thanks for sharing Michael. Sending my condolences and love.
I am so so sorry to hear this, my heart goes out to you and Pia. What a loss.
We are so sorry to hear this Michael and Pia. Though we never had the privilege of meeting Iggy we know he was a very awesome dog and such a treasure. Hugs from the Knorr family.
I’m so sorry for this…my heart goes out to you all.
Liberty and I are very sorry to hear of your loss. We have a mastiff buddy and know that they are the best dogs. We send our heartfelt condolences. -Aubree (from class)
Tears for ole Iggy here… thx for the eulogy Mike
Sending much love your way! Though we never met in person Steph Strummer And I will miss Iggy and his positive light!
May your hearts be comforted in knowing that you made his life a great one, you were as much a blessing to him… God bless you guys for loving a beautiful and humble creature.
So sorry to hear about Iggy, Michael. Phoebe and I enjoy watching the clips with Frankie and Iggy Pup. May all the memories of good times you shared together help get you through this very sad time.
Michael, I’m so sorry for your loss. Losing a dog is one of the hardest things I’ve ever been through, so I really feel for you. I hope you know that there are many of us who understand what you’re going through. I’m sure Frankie will be there for you as Leo was for us when we lost Isis.
So sorry for your loss Michael…I could tell you had a strong bond with Iggy.
You and your family are in my thoughts. Nothing compares to the loss of a pet, I am so very sorry for your loss.
Andrea, Zach, Ryan, Brogan, Luna and I will take a special stroll in Iggy’s honor today. Losing a beloved friend is so hard, and Iggy was so lucky to have such a great, loving handler. He will always be with you Michael, looking down and watching over you – I believe that is how they repay all of the love we have given them while they were alive.
Mike, this is heartbreaking. Iggy’s significance in your life was obvious to me the very first time you introduced him to me. He represents a great shift, a point of light that you’ll always be able to look back on and say “Iggy fuckin’ Pup.”
Thinking of you & Pia today.
Mike – So sorry to hear about Iggy. I am so glad you got to be with him at the end, and took such good care of him, as he has always taken such good care of you. I know this time is difficult, but please remember all the fun times, and how much you have learned from him. Hugs to you, Pia and Frankie.
Thank you for the kind words — we really appreciate it.