Scruff!

“Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”

I’ve gone back and forth about sharing this because I like to keep this space full of joy - heaven knows the world is grim enough as it is. But then I thought, what better way to honour Scruff than with a celebration shared with the wonderful readers of Our Country Life? A celebration of loyalty, of life, and of every little moment that, in hindsight, were the best times of my life.

Dr. Seuss put it best: “Sometimes you will never know the value of a moment until it becomes a memory.”

Scruff!

On Wednesday, 12th February at precisely 3:45pm, my world collapsed. I had to let my lovely Scruff cross the rainbow bridge. It was a shock, we weren’t prepared, and I certainly wasn’t ready for that decision to be made for us. For almost 15 years, my life revolved around that fluffy little whirlwind (and his equally mischievous brother), and I will forever be grateful for every moment we shared.

So, join me as we take a trip down memory lane - 15 years of Scruff, the quirkiest, cuddliest, and most selectively stubborn dog I’ve ever known.

It’s just a dog…

Is it? Perhaps to some - usually those who have never experienced the unconditional love and boundless joy our four-legged furry friends bring.

Personally, I’d choose to be surrounded by dogs and animals over people any day but that’s just my preference (and probably says a lot about me!).

For many, dogs are more than just pets; they are companions, lifelines, and even the very purpose that gives life meaning. My animals are exactly that for me - a source of comfort, love, and unwavering loyalty.

Because, at the end of the day, who else greets you with such pure excitement, no matter how long you’ve been away?

In the beginning…

Scruff was actually named by accident. Housetraining him was an absolute nightmare, and during that first week, every time he had an accident, I’d sigh and say, “Oh, you scruff!” Somehow, the name just stuck.

Of course, over time, a few nicknames naturally developed. Scruff also became known as Puffin - and he’d happily respond to that too! I think I started using the softer name after feeling a little guilty for calling him Scruff in the first place. But in the end, he suited the name perfectly!

Scruff was born in April 2010 and found his forever home with me as a tiny puppy. Back then, I was living in a city and would take him everywhere - even to university. Yes, it was a little bit Legally Blonde! We’d pop into the library for study sessions before heading to the local coffee shop, where he’d enjoy a pupuccino while I sipped my latte. Since those early days, he’s been by my side through five house moves, evolving from a city pup into a fully-fledged country dog.

When I moved back to my hometown, Scruff would spend his days at my parents’ house while I was at work. In the evenings, I’d pick him up, and now and then, we’d swing by the McDonald’s drive-thru. He’d sit patiently in the passenger seat, eyes fixed on the bag, waiting for his well-earned chicken nugget. Then, it was back home to our little haven, where we’d curl up together for a cosy night of truly terrible TV.

As a young pup, Scruff was partly raised among my mum’s three Shih Tzus, which had an... unusual impact. For a long while, he would pee like a lady dog. It wasn’t until Gus arrived, demonstrating the art of leg-lifting, that Scruff had his lightbulb moment and transitioned to a more ‘traditional’ technique. An interesting take on the nature vs nurture debate, I guess.

When Gus came into the picture, Scruff and I developed a secret communication system to sneak off for some peaceful alone time. Sometimes Gus, in all his puppy enthusiasm, was a bit much for Scruff, so we’d exchange subtle signals. A glance here, a nod there, and Scruff would quietly follow me away for some well-earned solitude (and the occasional sneaky treat).

Scruff: The Creature of Comfort

As he got older and wiser, Scruff became a seasoned professional in relaxation. He much preferred to be nestled indoors, usually napping like an old man after Sunday lunch. Every night, without fail, I’d switch off the lamp, only to feel a tiny paw tap my arm - his polite yet persistent invitation for a snuggle. Naturally, I obliged, and he’d settle in for a cuddle before getting snug in his own bed.

Walkies

Scruff loved the idea of going on walks. The harness would go on, excitement levels would peak, and then... five minutes in, he’d decide that actually, home was far superior. On more than one occasion, I’d set off only to find that he’d taken himself back home. That said, whenever we’d visit a new place, suddenly he was an intrepid explorer, marching on for hours, pausing only to sniff flowers and say hello to passing dogs. He was particularly fond of walking with his fur-friends, Daisy and Binky - though, if we’re honest, his admiration for Daisy was somewhat unreciprocated.

Scruff, Gus, and Daisy

Scruff & Binky

The Great Garden Shenanigans

Spring was Scruff’s time to shine. He loved nothing more than pottering around the garden, inspecting every leaf and sniffing every blade of grass. His favourite pastime was watching the chickens. Though, given the way he eyed them up, I suspect he wasn’t admiring their personalities.

One day, I took Gus for a quick walk, leaving Scruff at home - he was never a fan of woodland terrain. We’d barely made it to the back of the woods when we heard a screech from the garden. We sprinted back, fully expecting to find an intruder, only to see Scruff, cool as a cucumber, amidst a flurry of feathers. He’d decided to introduce himself to the hens. Poor Winnie lost some tail feathers that day, but thankfully, all of the hens were fine. Scruff, however, remained completely unbothered, casually trotting around the garden as if he hadn't just started a poultry panic.

Look at that face!

Brotherly Love

Whenever Scruff was in the garden, Gus was never far behind, watching his every move. These two were inseparable, with Gus naturally stepping into the role of Scruff’s protector. But, truth be told, it was Scruff who was always the first to bare his teeth and stand up for his little-but-larger brother.

I’ll never forget the time when Gus was a puppy, and we were out on a walk when a local troublemaker of a dog came charging towards us. It went straight for Gus, and before I could react, Scruff was already there - barking, growling, and making it clear that no one was messing with his brother. Their bond was something truly special, and one I’ll always admire.

Gus and Scruff exploring the garden.

Happy 14th Birthday, Scruff!

Last year, Scruff reached the grand age of 14 - that’s 98 in human years! Of course, such a milestone called for a proper celebration, so we threw him a doggy birthday party at my mum’s house. Gus, Daisy, and Binky were all there, ready to join in the fun, and Scruff even had his very own birthday cake.

There were treats galore and plenty of belly rubs for the birthday boy. When the cake came out - specially made just for dogs - Scruff wasted no time tucking in, happily sharing with his furry guests. It was a day filled with wagging tails, lots of laughter, and plenty of extra cuddles for my old boy. A celebration well deserved!

Scruffs 14th Birthday Party

Forever in My Heart

Scruff was more than just a pet; he was my shadow, my comfort, my constant, my little old man with a heart of gold. Life without him feels very strange, but I am endlessly thankful for the years we had. So this Sunday, I invite you to celebrate with me - to raise a toast (or a dog biscuit) to loyalty, to love, and to those little moments that, in the end, mean absolutely everything.

Sleep well, my beautiful Scruff. You were, and always will be, my very best boy.

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Thank you so much for reading my tribute to Scruff – your interest in his little life means the world to me!

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