Petunia Atkinson

Petunia Atkinson

2003-2019

May 31st, 2019- Kuala Lumpur, Petunia Atkinson passed away surrounded by family, she was sixteen years old.

Petunia was born in Arkansas in a quasi puppy farm supplying dubious AKC papers. Anyone that encountered her knew right away she was not Westminster material. Short ears, longish legs…she was by all accounts the “sporty” model of the iconic Bassett physique. Proportions aside, the nose came standard and she was an accomplished huntress. Purchased in 2003 from an ‘OBO’ advert at a local pet store she quickly settled in as first born to the Atkinson Family. 

Petunia grew up at the prestigious Texas Corinthian Yacht Club in lovely Kemah, Texas. It was there her love for the bay and all things outdoors was cultivated. She enjoyed walks down the pier, fishing at the halfway house and sailing on the Sunfish. While not an adept swimmer- she made life on the water her own. 

It was at TCYC where she met the love of her life Otis Norwood-Gunter. Otis and Petunia were inseparable. They split their time together hunting rabbits, enjoying sunset cruises on Gumbo and lazing the afternoons away on the flats.  

In 2005 Petunia became a big sister to Evangeline Grace, and a short while later to baby brother Davis Flournoy. Petunia took her duties as eldest sibling seriously; a loyal companion, trustworthy guard dog and an eager playmate. Petunia’s non deserneing palette served her well- she was always game for a forlorned chicken nugget or the stray goldfish. Hoovering up floor bits made her a welcomed guest in some of Houston's most prestigious homes.

At the ripe old age of 10 the tides changed for Petunia and she traveled with her family to Perth Australia. Her loyalty knew no bounds enduring long stints in quarantine and the humiliation of crate training to accompany them. But, sacrifice has its rewards- Petunia thrived the the cool temperatures, enjoying naps on the beach and delicious new delicacies made from kangaroo!

           Life as an expat suited Petunia and soon she was jetting off to Southeast Asia, landing in exotic Kuala Lumpur. KL was a mecca of smells and new things to eat! Sadly at this point Petunia had lost most of her eye sight so grand adventures were limited to the backyard. Amazingly she memorized the layout of the house and navigated things well- her nose letting her know exactly when dinner was served. 

            Petunia will be remembered for her large personality, her strong will and her distain for baths. She loved car rides, lasagna, sunny spots in the yard and expensive upholstery. We are all better for having her in our lives- she was a loyal and generous companion. One of a kind.

           We take comfort in knowing she is in a better place- hunting rabbits in the woods, cleaning up under the burger bar, lounging in the sun, home at the bay.

           In lieu of donations please take a moment to give your fury companion an extra belly rub or treat. It is a lonely life without these crazy animals we call ours- thanks is due.