Our Beloved Benji - Pavon Cat Stevens

Benji in 2016

by Andy Hosmanek

Benji entered my life at a time when I really needed him. I had never adopted an older dog before, but my good Corgi Chester had recently passed away at about age 15. I missed Chester's goofy grin and sweet manner so much. When I was introduced to Benji, age 9, I immediately saw a kindred spirit, so much that we joked he was like "Chester II." Benji stepped into my life and helped heal me from the loss of Chester, but also became so much more to me. Now that Benji has passed on, I don't think anyone can ever compare to him. He was one of a kind and I am so grateful I got to share six years with him.

Baby Benji

Above: Baby Benji and littermates. Caption from Ulfig's owner Jane: "Ulfig with his litter. He's the little silvery gray guy (no tail) climbing up the side of the pen. He was part of the "C" litter all named after musicians. Originally named Chick Corea, he's with five of his six littermates - brothers Cole Porter, Cat Stevens, and Chucho Rodriguez, and sisters Chaka Khan and Chynna Phillips. Littlest pup, Carly Simon, was likely avoiding the fray. They were the sweetest puppies. It was fun visiting them weekly until we could take Ulf home."

Agility and Adoption

Benji's first "career" was as an agility dog, with his first owner in Illinois. The video below from 2012 shows him running the course, cute little tail wagging! His first owner loved Benji very much, but physical problems led to her seeking a good new home for him. We are forever grateful to Linda for choosing us to adopt Benji.

Benji and Family

Benji quickly became the alpha of our pack, and I often referred to him as my "Little King." He kept everyone in line, including Bridget the Rottweiler. And in turn, all our dogs worshipped Benji. We are blessed to have several members of Benji's family tree- his niece Skadi, and grandnieces Celine and Dove.

In this May 2016 video, Benji runs around the yard, tail held high. We had recently adopted him. Our Collie Bailey, another king of dogs, accepted Benji right from the beginning. This is one of the only videos I have of them together, and I treasure it.

In 2019, we had the wonderful treat of meeting Benji's littermate Carly, and spent time together at Carly's mom's house in Wisconsin. We brought several of our dogs and had a wonderful time. Benji and Carly were reunited for the first time in almost 13 years. I made this special video to commemorate the occasion. Although the pandemic made visits difficult, Ben and Carly got together again shortly before he passed. They once again had an amazing time together.

In June 2021, we took Benji and Celine to Iowa City for Benji Appreciation Day. They went on a shopping spree at Leash on Life, where we got lots of treats and goodies. Then, they enjoyed homemade strawberry ice cream at Delux Bakery. Everyone loved seeing Ben and celebrating his special day.

In this August 2021 video, you can clearly see how much grandnieces Dove and Celine love their great uncle Ben.

Benji loved to eat tasty food. In August 2021, he came with us to Kenosha, Wisconsin. Here he is doing the traditional Swedish Vallhund "face-skiing" after a delicious meal.

Benji Lives on With Us

It has been incredibly difficult not to have Benji here every day. As he got older, I spent more and more time with him. I carried him up and down the stairs to the yard or to our bedroom, and every time I picked him up, I gave him a kiss. I was honored to carry my strong little man and help him get around. In the evenings, I would sit with him on his cushy beds and cuddle with him, pet him, and tell him how good he was. Not having this time with him each day has left a huge hole in my life. I am grateful for our other pets who remind me that they need love each day too. And I'm grateful for our friends and their kind words.

For all those who knew Benji, and for all those who have lost someone dear to them, I hope these pictures and videos might bring a smile to your face. Benji loves us and wants us to be happy... and to eat a little "sweet" or a tasty snack.