Richmond, our handsome beagle had been our first foster/adoptee 6 months prior. He had been a very badly neglected, sick hunting dog, mostly unsocialized and not used to home living. Although he had made positive progress, we thought a female beagle companion was just the right ticket. He was not so sure!

One look at Girlie, gorgeous, petite, blonde & fawn colored lass was enough to make him go Woof, Woof! What an energetic, happy, loving bundle of joy. Just looking at her big smile, soulful brown eyes & constantly wagging tail was enough to melt anyone's heart. Our elder statesman, Mr. Kitty was patient and understanding over our new family member.

Living with these wonderful 3 musketeers, watching them play, tease, laugh, run, lie in piles on a 4 poster bed or each other, share the car's back seat traveling to the beach, bask in afternoon rays of light, talk to each other, tug over toys, curl up by the fireplace, nursing each other when sick or,,,,, most importantly love each other (and us) was truly a gift. No matter what trials and tribulations we were experiencing they made our days brighter, are hearts softer and reminded us of the simple joys in life.

February, 2012 Richmond (17+) and Mr. Kitty (20) joined together in their journey to Rainbows Bridge. They have been so happy, patiently awaiting Girlie's arrival. Yesterday was that day! They were overjoyed seeing her bound over the hill, ears flapping in the breeze, her big beautiful eyes filled with light, grinning ear to ear at the sight of her pals.

As we reflect on the past few days about her young age of 11, her illness being so sudden, shocking & acute, we asked ourselves how this could be? We had just spent another wonderful Christmas season and New Years together. Her unwavering devotion, trust and expressions of love were this Season's most cherished gifts.

Yesterday as we placed our hands on her still .......warm body, kissed her and said "we love you Girlie Dog" we knew this precious Girl deserved to be pain free, receive God's Blessings and journey to Rainbows Bridge. We trust she awaits there in total wellness, experiencing carefree, fun filled days until we join her in eternal peace.

Love Forever until We Meet Again,
Mom and Dad

For Girlie (my first Dog) from DAD

"I Miss my Dog"

I miss my little faithful friend
who closed her eyes last night
as I wiped away my flowing tears
and held her really tight

She was my therapist - my confidant
whom I spoke to every day
And I knew that I could rely on her
in every little way

She always listened without judging
and never repeated what I said
and all she asked for in return
was for some food and a bed

Today there was no wagging tails
not even a whimper or bark
Today there are no comforting hugs
or long walks in the park

My heart is filled with sadness
Remembering those days
As she sat there looking up at me
with her adoring, loving gaze

Of all the precious memories
the one that cannot be measured
Is how much she was loved by me
and how much she was treasured

Love.....beyond Words

Your Dad

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