06/11/2025
Sometimes our dogs want to be snuggled up tight to their families and right in the middle of things, always underfoot and present. Sometimes not so much. And then there’s Astro. Always ready to hike a mountain with you or sing you a song. But also, so independent and, on the occasion of a vet visit, so very stubborn (I had to carry him into the office). But he was so loved by everyone. Astro retired from DBF just 2 years ago. On Oct 3rd, his family let us know that he has died. So we go through all the old pictures, re-read the little notes, wander through the path of memories.
Astro was born in June 2009 and first came to DBF in January 2015. He was a bit shy, didn’t like thunder, was known to do a little demolition work on his “grandfather’s” house if left alone. His abuela (grandfather) found DBF. So began a wonderful friendship with this amazing creature and his family. Astro was a Keeshond/Husky mix with that thick, silver and black coat that allowed him to stay outside in all kinds of weather. Outside is where Astro liked to be. As we understand it, there were times when Astro preferred to stay outside so a nice, safe shelter was set up in his barn. When family life got to be a bit much, it was his space. Respect. Astro entertained us with his gracefulness and athleticism when he played with his friends. He was gorgeous to watch. And he sang for us when he got here in the morning. And he got others singing with him, including Rob. He was part of our pack. He played chase with Danny, went on WOW trail hikes with Samantha. He was a joy. But old age comes to all of us. His folks went on an extended vacation in 2023 and, as we often ask for, left us “end of life” guidance. His Dad wrote “As Astro ages I want to make sure that he enjoys his remaining time…and the rest of his days”. A short while later, Astro decided it was time to retire from DBF. He let us know it was time simply by refusing to get in the car to come here. He’d decided it was his time to stay home. We were sad but so proud of his family for respecting this time in his life. And Astro did enjoy the past 2 years. Made peace with his cat, saw the children grow, visited his neighborhood on occasion. He lived out his genes to the age of 16½. Faithful, loyal, happy, independent, stubborn and so loved. His picture will move to our “Memory Wall” and, as with all the others, will be labelled with one word that we hope represents him. Respect. Astro had a dignity about him that called for respect and his family did. He is survived by his family, Nick & Hayley, Jessi and Ivy; his grandfolks, and friends who valued his character and will miss him dearly and remember him always. And keep an eye out, Astro may touch base with us on next year’s Dia de los Perros.
