You went to Rainbow Bridge on a Wednesday morning August the 6th 2008.

I'll never forget the day we first met. You were to quietest one of the bunch and I knew it was you for me and me for you. So began our journey together for 14 years as father and son. You have been with me alone, watched me get married, bring you a baby girl only to watch her grow to 6 years old and a baby boy that you watched grow to 2. They love you so much and so do I.

I put you on our bed and stroked your soft floppy chocolate lab ears that morning as the sun shined lightly through the window blinds. I knew you loved that but also know that I found comfort in that as well. All the windows and doors were open as we listened to the birds and looked out at the big green eucalyptus tree out back. The ceiling fan gently turned and we lied there listening to the wind blow the wind chimes in harmony with the leaves in the tree. The creek, in which you loved to lie in, also trickled in the yard. A hummingbird came to greet us at the door twice as you napped in my arms. You were perfect. I think you knew it was time - you gave me a look. I knew you hurt and were in pain. Don't worry about not being able to control yourself because it will happen to us all. And don't feel bad about it because I knew it bothered you. And don't worry that you could not go very far on your walks - my feet are starting to hurt me too. I won't let you do this alone.

They say that dogs don't live as long as humans because people are born so that they can learn how to live a good life like loving everybody all the time and being nice and dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long. You are proof of that with your unconditional love.

I will never say goodbye. I could see in your eyes that you said to me -

"On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so. ALWAYS!"

.....and I will always love you my faithful son and have you right here in my heart. I will see you again when I cross at the bridge.
Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Leave the rest to
God!!

NESTLE DOG

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so. ALWAYS!

I love you, O LORD, my strength.
The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer;
my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge.
He is my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
Psalm 18:1-2