9/16/22 Riley Rocco is doing well, he has come along way. You were such a great dog I paid the love you showed and paid it forward and gave a loving home to another fur baby in need. Such as you were and gave you 10 years you never would have had. We think of you often love Mommy and Daddy

1/12/2021 Thinking of you and what a good friend you were. Mommy and Tinkerbelle miss you very much and the empty space in the space in the morning that you used to fill with your loving presence. Love Mommy and Daddy

01/14/21 Riley I hope Heid is showing you the ropes, and your having a good time running and playing with Heid and Shasta. Don't chase Blackie. We miss you and are sorry you are not here. Tinkerbelle misses you greatly. Love mommy and Daddy

1/17/21 Buddy hope you are playing with Heid and Shasta and enjoying being young agin. We are taking care of TinkerBelle, she misses you very much as we all miss you. Love Mommy and Daddy

1/23/21 Riley it has been two weeks since you went to the Bridge, and we still have a hard time believeing you are gone. We think of you often and Tink misses you as we all do. Love mommy and daddy

01/31/21 Riley we miss you a lot and hope you are having fun with Heidi and Shasta. No chasing squirrels. Love Mommy and Daddy

2/5/21 Riley today we found out we are getting a new playmate for your little buddy. Wish us luck and be with us. Nobody can ever replace you. We were a team and together taught each other about friendship and loyalty. TinkerBelle has missed you and has been poopy. Love Mommy and Daddy

3/4/21 Riley we miss you, Rocco is doing well your Buddy Tink misses you seems to to be getting along with Rocco. Always in our hearts Mommy and Daddy

3/8/21 Hi Buddy it has been 2 months since you went to the Bridge. We still can:t believe your gone, we miss you and think of often, Always in our hearts Love mommy and Daddy.

5/8/21 Buddy it seems like yesterday that you left. the house is not the same with out you, no one to share my breakfast with and following me around in the morning. Hope you are fitting in with your new friends, and don't chase Blackie. Heidi and Shasta showing you the sights. Tink is doing all right and Roco is fitting in. We are paying it forward and giving another good dog who needs a home. Tink missed you and getting better. Love Mommy and Daddy

9/19/21 Buddy we think of you often, Tink sleeps in your spot on the bed. I am sure she misses you as much as we do. Rocco is doing well, he lost his best friend as well. He lost his home and our home lost you so I guess if it had to be we our paying it forward the privilege of knowing you. Love Mommy and Daddy.

11/8/2021 Riley it has been almost a year since you went to the Bridge, it still seems like yesterday. We think of you often. We paid it forward in your memory and Rocco is doing good and likes having a home . Tinkerbelle misses you. Love Mommy and Daddy

12/17/21 A TIME TO REMEMBER

05/01/22 You taught TinkerBelle well, she still lifts her leg to mark her spot. Rocco treats your budding very well and is doing better. You are always missed and still seems a shame your time was up so soon. We got to spend 10 years together which is better than never have gotten to know you at all. Love always Mommy and Daddy (:-)

01/08/2022 It has been a year since we sent you to the Bridge, it still seems like yesterday I still can see you coming up stairs in the morning and giving you your banana and coolwip We wish you could have had more time. Hope you are behaving yourself at the bridge and having fun with Heidi and shasta. Love Mommy and Daddy

02/08/2022 To have loved and then said farewell, is better than to have never loved at all.
For all of the times that you have stooped and touched my head, fed me my favorite treat and returned the love that I so unconditionally gave to you.
For the care that you gave to me so unselfishly.
For all of these things I am grateful and thankful.

11/30/22 Thinking of you. Added this poem to your list. Rocco is doing good, paying it forward has brought a good life for another fur baby. Love Mommy and Daddy

01/08/23 Riley it has been 2 years since you went to the Bridge, it still seems like yesterday. TinkerBelle still misses you as we all do. Rocco is doing well and has come a long way. My friend rest in peace wait for me at the Bridge. Go play with Heidi and Shasta. Love Mommy and Daddy. (:-)

9/15/23 Riley you are still missed and thought of often. Hope you playing with Heid and Shasta and no squirrel chasing. Love mommy and Daddy

4/9/24 Riley I hope you found your pal. She went to the Bridge in January and was probably glad to see you. We miss her greatly and wish she was still here with us. Rocco misses her a lot. Love Mommy and Daddy.

HEAVEN'S DOGGY-DOOR

My best friend closed his eyes last night,
As his head was in my hand.
The Doctors said he was in pain,
And it was hard for him to stand.

The thoughts that scurried through my head,
As I cradled him in my arms.
Were of his younger, puppy years,
And OH...his many charms.

Today, there was no gentle nudge
With an intense "I love you gaze",
Only a heart thats filled with tears
Remembering our joy filled days.

But an Angel just appeared to me,
And he said, "You should cry no more,
GOD also loves our canine friends,
HE's installed a 'doggy-door"!

I hold you 'till Life's Breath is gone
I cry for all I'm worth
Even though I know we share a memory
Of you and I on Earth.

As I sit upon the windowsill
Looking out into the rain
There's still a brightness in the sky
That clears away the pain

As I look into the Heavens
I feel that you are gone
But I know that you are there with God
Singing Life's Eternal song.

I ask that you not grieve for the loss, but rejoice in the fact that we lived, loved and touched each others lives. My life was fuller because you were there, not as a master/owner, but as my FRIEND.

Today I am as I was in my youth. The grass is always green, butterflies flit among the flowers and the Sun shines gently down upon all of God's creatures.
I can run, jump, play and do all of the things that I did in my youth. There is no sickness, no aching joints and no regrets and no aging.

reat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.

Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.

Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ear.

When it is cold and wet, please take me inside... for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements... and I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth... though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land... for you are my god... and I am your devoted worshiper.

Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.

And, beloved master, should the Great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest...and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.

We await the arrival of our lifelong companions and know that togetherness is forever.
You live in our hearts as we do in yours. Companions such as you are so rare and unique.
Don't hold the love that you have within yourself. Give it to another like me and then I will live forever. For love never really dies, and you are loved and missed as surely as we are.

The time has come I think you know
the Lord is calling so I must go
I love you so much; I wish it wasn't so
I wish I could stay; I don't want to go

You're the best family a dog ever had
so kind and gentle never mean or mad
I'll never forget the day that we met
I was so lucky to become your pet

You opened your door and showed me your heart
I'll never forget you; we'll never part
You loved me and cared for me over the years
you taught me everything and took away my fears

The Lord is calling now I must go
but before I go I want you to know
I know it hurts to lose a friend
but I'll always be with you

They come into our lives for such a short time
a time we wouldn't trade not even for a dime
Then before you know it the years have flown by
and then all of the sudden we're saying good-bye

It wasn't that long ago we said our good-byes
we held on to you tight as you closed your eyes
Your spirit has flown home on the wings of a dove
into God's loving arm's; in heaven above

Over the days we've shed many tears
but the memories we have will live on for years
We feel your presence and we know that your near
you're keeping us safe and calming our fear

We think about memories from years past
when you were young and strong and ran so fast
we remember all the great times that we all had
how you always made us happy never made us mad

They were the best and happiest years we had
we'll always look back on them and never be sad
We look forward to the time we'll be together again
and we thank the Lord for such a great friend

Now you run and play up in Heaven above
cradled in God's arms covered with his love
Playing by the Bridge waiting for the day
we come down thru the meadow to the bridge to stay

The love that you showed us we'll never forget
because to us you're one very special pet
You're like a star in the dark of night
always watching over us with the Lord's light

So now we take time to remember our best friend
who will always be with us even to the end
We'll always remember you the way you were
one big lovable huggable pile of fur

Fragile Circle

"We who choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own, live within a fragile circle, easily and often breached.
Unable to accept its awful gaps, we still would live no other way.
We cherish memory as the only certain immortality,
never fully understanding the necessary plan."

FROM FRIEND TO FRIEND

You're giving me a special gift,
So sorrowfully endowed,
And through these last few cherished days,
Your courage makes me proud.

But really, love is knowing
When your best friend is in pain,
And understanding earthly acts
Will only be in vain.

So looking deep into your eyes,
Beyond, into your soul,
I see in you the magic, that will
Once more make me whole.

The strength that you possess,
Is why I look to you today,
To do this thing that must be done,
For it's the only way.

That strength is why I've followed you,
And chose you as my friend,
And why I've loved you all these years...
My partner 'til the end.

Please, understand just what this gift,
You're giving, means to me,
It gives me back the strength I've lost,
And all my dignity.

You take a stand on my behalf,
For that is what friends do.
And know that what you do is right,
For I believe it too.

So one last time, I breathe your scent,
And through your hand I feel,
The courage that's within you,
To now grant me this appeal.

Cut the leash that holds me here,
Dear friend, and let me run,
Once more a strong and steady dog,
My pain and struggle done.

And don't despair my passing,
For I won't be far away,
Forever here, within your heart,
And memory I'll stay.

I'll be there watching over you,
Your ever faithful friend,
And in your memories I'll run,
...a young dog once again.

If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done,
For this -- the last battle -- can't be won.
You will be sad I understand,
But don't let grief then stay your hand,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship must stand the test.
We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.
Take me to where to my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree
It is a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.
Don't grieve that it must be you
Who has to decide this thing to do;
We've been so close -- we two -- these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

Your Pets In Heaven To have loved and then said farewell, is better than to have never loved at all.
For all of the times that you have stooped and touched my head, fed me my favorite treat and returned the love that I so unconditionally gave to you.
For the care that you gave to me so unselfishly.
For all of these things I am grateful and thankful.

I ask that you not grieve for the loss, but rejoice in the fact that we lived, loved and touched each others lives. My life was fuller because you were there, not as a master/owner, but as my FRIEND.

Today I am as I was in my youth. The grass is always green, butterflies flit among the flowers and the Sun shines gently down upon all of God's creatures.
I can run, jump, play and do all of the things that I did in my youth. There is no sickness, no aching joints and no regrets and no aging.

We await the arrival of our lifelong companions and know that togetherness is forever.
You live in our hearts as we do in yours. Companions such as you are so rare and unique.
Don't hold the love that you have within yourself. Give it to another like me and then I will live forever. For love never really dies, and you are loved and missed as surely as we are.

The day they laid you down to sleep
I prayed to the Lord; your soul he'll keep
Until the appointed day and time
when together we'll meet; and all will be fine

With all God's; creatures great and small
go run and play now, have a ball
No more aches; and no more pain
just bright sunshine; no more rain

Rest in peace; for now best friend
cradled in God's arms; to the end
Dream of that special; day and time
when we'll meet at the Bridge; one last time

Although we'll be separated; for a long time
we'll be together then; and all will be fine
We'll cross Rainbow Bridge; side by side
with a soft warm feeling; deep down inside

Once again then; all will be fine
we're together forever; till the end of time

Tribute To A Best Friend

Sunlight streams through window pane
unto a spot on the floor....
then I remember,
it's where you used to lie,
but now you are no more.
Our feet walk down a hall of carpet,
and muted echoes sound....
then I remember,
It's where your paws would joyously abound.
A voice is heard along the road,
and up beyond the hill,
then I remember it can't be yours....
your golden voice is still.
But I'll take that vacant spot of floor
and empty muted hall
and lay them with the absent voice
and unused dish along the wall.
I'll wrap these treasured memorials
in a blanket of my love
and keep them for my best friend
until we meet above.

I have done mostly what most men do,
And pushed it out of my mind;
But I can't forget, if I wanted to,
Four-Feet trotting behind.

Day after day, the whole day through --
Wherever my road inclined --
Four-feet said, "I am coming with you!"
And trotted along behind.

Now I must go by some other round, --
Which I shall never find --
Somewhere that does not carry the sound
Of Four-Feet trotting behind.

A Heart Of Gold
A heart of gold stopped beating,

Two shining eyes at rest.

God broke our hearts to prove to us,

He only takes the best. I know that you can't see me,

But trust me I'm right here.

Although I'm up in Heaven,

My love for you stays near.

So often I see you crying,

Many times you call my name.

I want so much to lick your face,

And ease some of your pain.

I wish that I could make you see,

That Heaven is in deed real.

If you could see me run and play,

How much better you would feel.

But our loving God has promised me,

That when the time is right,

You'll step into the darkness,

And meet me in the light

1/13/21Sunlight streams through window pane onto a spot on the floor.....
then I remember,
it's where you used to lie, but now you are no more.

Our feet walk down a hall of carpet and muted echoes sound.....
then I remember,
it's where your paws would joyously abound.

A voice is heard along the road, and up beyond the hill,
then I remember,
it can't be yours..... your golden voice is still.

But I'll take that vacant spot of floor and empty muted hall,
and lay them with the absent voice and unused dish along the wall.

I'll wrap these treasured memories in a blanket of my love,
and keep them for my best friend until we meet above.

"Don't Cry for Me"
Mommy, Daddy
Don't cry for me
Can't you just see
I am forever free?

Free from agony and pain
From diseases that restrain
My body and my brain.

I am no longer scared
I am not despaired
From suffering I am spared
My body is now repaired!

I am no longer stressed
I am not depressed
No way am I distressed
I feel oh so blessed!

Mommy, Daddy
Don't weep at my grave
I'm not there, I'm away
But know that I am safe.

At the Bridge I play
In angels' arms I sway
On a cloud I pray
For you to be brave
I sleep with your heart
In my sweet embrace.

So Mommy, Daddy
Make the mourning brief
Then let go of your grief
Hold on to this belief:
Your side I will never ever leave.

the house,
An entire week since we carried you away,
To the place where we did not know your future,
But just last week,
You were here.

Another day passes;
a week ago, you were still with us,
In daily reports from the clinic,
They did not know your future,
But we could still hope, and,
You were here.

More days pass,;
A week ago you left us,
Your head cradled in our hands,
Your spirit gracefully moving upward,
But for a few hours of that day,
You were here.

Sadness invades again,
As I know that once those hours pass,
I can no longer look back,
Over the span of a familiar week's time,
To find that comforting point when,
You were here.

More time will pass;
Sadness will not so much invade as menace,
And I will mark the days,
Saying things like,
"last month, last summer, last Halloween, last year,"
You were here.

I dread that day,
One year from now,
That first marking of the time,
That your body was no longer with us;
Though we will never forget you,
Your tangible memory fades,
The feel of your fur, your head, your back, your weight against us,
The smell and sounds of you when,
You were here.

The emptiness is beginning to fade,
To change into another reality,
One with you still playing a part,
But a role of ethereal presence rather than physical comfort we crave;
Your memory, your spirit, your essence and counsel,
Dwell with us, but this feeling is not the same as when,
You were here.

Bridge Called Love

It takes us back to brighter years,
to happier sunlit days
and to precious moments
that will be with us always.
And these fond recollections
are treasured in the heart
to bring us always close to those
from whom we had to part.

There is a bridge of memories
from earth to Heaven above...
It keeps our dear ones near us

It's the bridge that we call love.

In the Candle's Glow"

Warm light coming from far below,
Twinkling, sparkling is the candle's glow.
All is well up on the ridge,
The place we know as Rainbow Bridge.

Furbabies sleeping in heaven's light,
Tended by candles in the night.
Peaceful dreams be theirs to keep,
As they slumber in this night so deep.

Hearts on earth that miss them so,
Take comfort in the candle's glow.
Watching for them in skies above,
Bound eternally by a cord of lov

I was chosen today
I'm learning to fly
the world took me away,
but please don't you cry

And I chose you today
to try and be strong
so please don't you cry
and don't say that I'm gone

When you're feeling alone
just remember our love,
I'm up near the stars
looking down from above.

Remember our love
In a moment you'll see
that I'm still here beside you
when you're thinking of me.
Looking back on the memory of
the dance we shared, beneath the stars above.
For a moment all the world was right,
how was I to know that you'd ever say good bye?
And now I'm glad I didn't know
the way it all would end, the way it all would go.
Our lives are better left to chance,
I could have missed the pain,
but I'd have had to miss the dance.
Holding you, I held everything,
for a moment, wasn't I the king?
If I'd only known how the king would fall
hey who's to say, you know I might have changed it all.
And now I'm glad I didn't know
the way it all would end, the way it all would go.
Our lives are better left to chance,
I could have missed the pain,
but I'd have had to miss the dance.

What do you do when a good friend dies?

What do you do when a good friend dies?
Do you lash out in anger and curse at the sky.
Or grasp hard denial, the means of the weak,
In an effort to kindle the comfort you seek.

What do you do when a good friend dies?
Once life's breath, so precious, gives the chest final rise.
In haste you take blame, no other at fault,
You kneel upturned earth and deem all happiness to halt.

What do you do when a good friend dies?
When with him the times, both good and bad, lie.
Do you cast aside the past, for memories hurt much too much,
Or struggle and fight for that last lingering touch.

What do you do when a good friend dies?
When all of the tears have all but been cried.
No matter how much, no matter how hard you try,
The only thing to do is say farewell.
Goodbye.

I ONLY WANTED YOU

They say memories are golden
well maybe that is true.
I never wanted memories,
I only wanted you.

A million times I needed you,
a million times I cried.
If love alone could have saved you
you never would have died.

In life I loved you dearly,
In death I love you still.
In my heart you hold a place
no one could ever fill.

If tears could build a stairway
and heartache make a lane,
I'd walk the path to heaven
and bring you back again.

Our family chain is broken,
and nothing seems the same.
But as God calls us one by one,
the chain will link again.

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