Remembering Ian

It is with tremendous sadness that we share the passing of Ian Mulligan Ryan O'Day, on May 5th, 2008 at age 9 years, 10 months. (here at 9 years 9 months)

Many years ago, although it seems like yesterday, we saw Ian at the house of a friend of the breeder, Sheri Day, whom she was visiting. From the first moment we saw him running through the field he was our hearthound, even though he was Sheri's dog. We were seeking a dog with features that complimented Tulia's. Tulia was large boned and strong and loving and gentle. Ian was swift and agile and loving and gentle.

Sheri entertained our request to use Ian at stud, but mentioned in passing that she might have to place him because of her health problems and so he might not be available. After a very rapid discussion we asked to have him placed with us. It took Sheri several months to check us out and to decide, and then Ian came to live with us.

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He brought into our lives considerable love and a tail that was long and white tipped. A characteristic that he has passed on to his pups and his grand-pups

Shortly after he arrived he was willing to help Bill with his stretching exercises.

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Ian with Tulia. He adored her.
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In February, 2001 he sired the Valentine litter with Tulia. He was a terrific sire, delighted to play with the pups (here in May, 2001). 2001-05-20-puppies-1 (50K) 2005-05-08-puppies-1 (86K)

A Presidents' puppy, Liam, and Ian
(Aug,2005)

Ian with some Presidents' Day Litter puppies
(Aug,2005)

Ian in the sprinkler (June, 2007)

He never lost his smile (July, 2007)

Ian developed atrial fibrilation and DCM in his last years, but responded well to medication. Unfortunately the manufacturer of of the digoxin (Digitek brand) released tablets with toxic levels of digoxin and, before we were aware of the problem, we watched him decline rapidly. Our pharmacy notified us of the problem, we stopped the medication, but he never recovered and died in his sleep the morning of May 5th with both of us in attendance.

The way he left us was curious. Just as he was dying, he began "running." Those without poetry could say he was having a seizure, but he really looked like he was running. We choose to believe that he was running to be with Tulia, waiting for us on the field besides the Rainbow Bridge.
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