Losing someone close to our hearts is utterly devastating. This includes our beloved dogs. There is no doubt that once we take them in, they become members of our family. They are highly-devoted creatures that give all their love.
For Marine Corporal Jeff DeYoung, his dog Cena is even more than a family member. They are best friends and partners. Together, they have gone on three tours, having each other’s back. And when the black labrador retired, he joined Jeff’s family.
So when Cena was diagnosed with terminal bone cancer, Jeff was utterly devastated.
A strong bond
Jeff and Cena were first paired in 2009. They went on tour together and served as a bomb detection team. From then on, they went on three different deployments. They relied on each other a lot during those times and developed a powerful bond.
After five years of working together, Cena retired because of his age, and Jeff immediately adopted him. The whole family welcomed the dog, and he eventually became Jeff’s service dog.
The marine corporal developed post-traumatic stress disorder. And the senior pooch knew how to calm him down. They became even more inseparable as Cena helped him overcome his mental and emotional challenges.
So when Jeff learned that Cena, who was ten years old then, had terminal cancer, he was crushed. It was going to be difficult to say goodbye. But he had no other choice, so he made it very memorable.
Emotional farewell
The sad dog owner made a bucket list for Cena, and last on the list was a final drive for the two of them. Jeff rented a topless Jeep as he wanted to let the pup feel the wind on the road. As it turned out, other jeep owners learned about his plan, and they joined the last ride.
The ride ended at a museum ship in Michigan. That is where Cena had his final breath. Hundreds of people, including many veterans, joined Jeff as he laid his best friend to rest. The dog’s service to his country, and his days as a loyal pet, will always be remembered.
Source: Inside Edition via Youtube
