RIP Freckles

drj211

drj211

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I had to send my 14 year old Lab mix "Freckles" to the Rainbow Bridge over the weekend. She was a great family dog that loved everybody, even if she hadn't met them before! A few months ago, we found out she had bladder cancer. She had a good couple of months, but we had to make the responsible decision as it started getting worse. We adopted her from our local pound and had 13 great years with her.

I've read many of these stories here over the years, and shed a tear for each of you guys. This is the third time I've sent a dog to the bridge, and it doesn't seem to be any easier as I get older!

When I read one of these stories in the past, I saw a poem that was posted about adopting a new pet. It was written from the deceased pet's perspective, and had something in there about using the love given to the old pet to put into loving a new pet. I've searched this forum every way I can think of, but can't find it.

Just wondering if anybody remembers the poem and where to find it. Thanks.
 
I'm sorry for your loss. Its always so hard.

I'm not sure if this is the poem you were talking about, but its the same sentiment.

"A DOG'S LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT:

Before humans die, they write their last will and testament, giving their home and all they have to those they leave behind. If, with my paws, I could do the same, this is what I’d ask…

To a poor and lonely stray, I’d give my happy home; my bowl and cozy bed, soft pillow and all my toys; the lap, which I loved so much; the hand that stroked my fur; and the sweet voice that spoke my name.

I’d will to the sad, scared, shelter dog the place I had in my human’s loving heart, of which there seemed no bounds.

So, when I die, please do not say, “I will never have a pet again, for the loss and the pain is more than I can stand.”

Instead, go find an unloved dog, one whose life has held no joy or hope, and give my place to him.

This is the only thing I can give…

The love I left behind."

– Author Unknown
 
True words, true sentiments. I am so sorry about Freckles.
 
It is really hard to take a family pet that you have spent years with on that final trip to the vet even when you know it's the right decision. You'll think about it for days.... My Dad used to just take the dogs for a walk in the woods when us kids were little. I don't know how he did it. But they were always outside dogs and it's different with inside pets as they really live and share your life with you. I feel for you.

My wife and i still talk about the cat we had to put asleep about a month ago. It brings tears to my eyes to think about it.
 
Thanks for the kind words guys. She was definitely a family member. We even planned family vacations around where we could and couldn't take her! When she saw us packing our suitcases, she would wait by the garage door so we couldn't get away without her!

Shann......that is exactly what I was looking for. Thank you.
 
drj211 said:
I had to send my 14 year old Lab mix "Freckles" to the Rainbow Bridge over the weekend. She was a great family dog that loved everybody, even if she hadn't met them before! A few months ago, we found out she had bladder cancer. She had a good couple of months, but we had to make the responsible decision as it started getting worse. We adopted her from our local pound and had 13 great years with her.

I've read many of these stories here over the years, and shed a tear for each of you guys. This is the third time I've sent a dog to the bridge, and it doesn't seem to be any easier as I get older!

When I read one of these stories in the past, I saw a poem that was posted about adopting a new pet. It was written from the deceased pet's perspective, and had something in there about using the love given to the old pet to put into loving a new pet. I've searched this forum every way I can think of, but can't find it.

Just wondering if anybody remembers the poem and where to find it. Thanks.
Click to expand...

Hello,

I am very sorry for your loss.

Cate

Here is the poem that you were interested in:

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...
 
Being there for their last breath is heart-wrenching. I've lost 2 pets, while I held them in my arms, and it's not easy to get over. Seriously, I have never cried so hard before, or since.

Prayers for your family, and you.
 
It's so painful, for us and our families. Our dogs are a part of us, and their bond is strong. I'm sorry that you have lost your Freckles, and I have faith that there is a place in heaven for our lot. Hang in there.
 
Know that feeling well as I have lost 5 in my life and it doe's not get any easier but now I don't have any animals at all as I figured they would out live me and I just could not see that in there future and could not let them to go through what I have in by gone years.!** Just put my last one down in April and it was my 5th Smokey ( German Shepard ) he is missed.!
My condolences to you and your family on your loss at times like this.^^
 
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