by Patrick McMillan
After having Brook with me for twelve years I had to put her down just a few days after Christmas in 1997. Brook developed cancer in her jaw. Even as the tumor grew she never let her illness stand in the way of giving unconditional love everyday. When I took her to the vet I was the one who held her in my arms as the vet inserted the needle into her leg. The needle that would take her from my life. As I looked down her eyes were pleading with me as if to say "dad what is happening here?" "All I want is to be outside and play a game of fetch or go home and curl up in front of a warm blazing fire." As the life ebbed from her I stroked her head and kissed her face telling her that I loved her. My warm tears fell onto her and I knew at that moment I did the right thing for her. She had no hopes of getting well and the best love that I could show her was to let her go before she suffered. My eyes burned with tears on the drive home and my heart felt so heavy. I had her remains cremated and she now sits in our best cookie jar placed in our bedroom
were she awlays slept. Every once in a while I pick up her red collar and nuzzle it to my face and I can still smell her scent. I hope that Brook is waiting for me at the Rainbow Bridge and she is getting all the treats she can eat! WHen I get to see her again what a reunion it will be. I will run to her and drop to my knees with out stretched arms wrapping them around her to hold her tight. Brook I miss you everyday and you have a special place in my heart. Be a good girl until we can be together. Bye Brooker I love you.
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