When my brother lost his beloved German Shepherd many years ago, he decided he would never get another dog because he couldn't deal with the grief. I have raised two GSDs on my own, Max and Dash, and rescued four greyhounds: Willow, Dot, Allan and Lily. I have lost four of them now, all but Dash and Lily, but it has never dampened my love of dogs, nor my desire for their companionship. Even though I had to lose them, I am much better off having known them and having shared their company while they were alive. They will never be replaced, but they will always be a part of me and, as long as I am able to care for them, there will always be a dog or two to comfort me when I'm down, to share in my joys as well as my disappointments, to provide me with lifelong memories, laughs and fun, and a lifetime of unconditional love and devotion.
Gary Shapiro
Spc. Dash - 9-year-old GSD
Spc. Lily - 5-year-old Greyhound
and Spc. Allan (DOTL Rainbow Division) - now waiting at the Bridge with Max, Willow & Dot
1992 Winnebago Brave 27' Class A
Dash on the dash: The Only Way to Travel!
The first few days are so hard to get through... but you will, because you must. And then things will start to get a little easier, once the mind begins to process and accept this new reality.
Take care of yourselves, and get out and walk with Suzie. It will help her and you, even if it sounds like the last thing in the world you want to do.
susan
What I want to know is, when are they going to start selling Comfort Zone for HUMANS????? 'Cause some days...
Richard and Sue - deepest sympathies from Liane and me. Nothing we can say will ease the sorrow and pain of your loss right now, although those of us who have followed this story for so long (and especially those of us who have been privileged to meet you and Fella - we met you in Colorado) are feeling a deep sense of loss and sorrow today, as well. Fella is in heaven right now and is surely waiting for you on the other side of the bridge.
God Bless.
2004.5 Dodge Ram 2500 QC CTD 4x4 SLT; 2007 Coachmen Chaparral 267RLS;
Reese 15K Slider;Prodigy;JT Stabilizers;2 Honda EU2000i's;
2006 Glastron MX175; rv-forums
2005 Dodge Magnum for the DW
I am not a regular poster, but am definitely a regular reader of the Old Fella thread.
Tonight, my heart is heavy and my eyes are crying. As a lot of other posters have said, "Old Fella's legacy will live on". He has left his paw print on my heart and thousands of others.
God Bless you, Richard and Sue, for sharing your home and your lives with this lovable old dog who, without you and your kindness, did not have a chance. Now, he has been reunited with Levi and
many others dogs at the Bridge.
A couple of months back I was looking through the forums and came across this thread. I took the time to read almost every bit of it, from beginning to end. Although like some others, I have not posted, I have faithfully checked on you and Old Fella every day, first thing in the morning and last thing at night and followed his story through your loving eyes. It has been, and I'm sure will continue to be an amazing journey.
My heart hurts and I am saddened for you beyond belief that Fella has passed from this earth. He was a special gift to you, your family, and your extended forum family, as you all were to him and I know he's an Angel at the bridge. It is truly amazing to me how one dog can do so much for so many and through you, his legacy of love will live on through many many years to come!
I send my healing thoughts and prayers to you during this time of sorrow and as you go to through the difficult days ahead, and I hope that one day soon you can think of him without sadness, but with joy -the joy of knowing you shared your life with one very special dog.
Take good care. Gentle hugs for you both, and for Susie and Izzy.
Wendy
* This post was
edited 06/30/08 12:55am by SPANIELMOM *
Dan, Wendy & Furkids, Springer Molly & Cavalier Phoebe
"My goal in life is to be as good a person as my dog already thinks I am!"
pawatt wrote: Old Fella was one Lucky dog after he found you & you are some wonderful people for doing all that you have done. The Old Fella legend is known by 1000's worldwide and will continue to benefit animals for many years to come. The spirit of Old Fella will
continue on.
Hi,
I could not have said it better myself, and with tears in my eyes, I will just copy and paste this post that says what I wanted to say.
Old Fella has found a great friend in you. I am sure that he had a much better life once you brought him into your life. I feel so sorry for those that mis-treated him before you met him.
Fred.
Money can't buy happiness but somehow it's more comfortable to cry in a Porsche or Country Coach!
This morning there was no leg to wrap, no paw to put a bootie on, no Old Fella to prepare breakfast for. Suzie is confused about where Fella is and keeps trying to figure out what is going on.
I am at a loss as to how to deal with the void that is in our lives and would love to have things back the way there were. Fella is still all around me as I look at the booties and socks that are left behind and his bed in the family room and the bedroom that is empty. I can't find it in myself to move anything or put it out of sight just yet. One day at a time as Sue and I get use to life without Fella.
Thank you for your words of comfort and thank you for letting us know just how many friends Old Fella had and still has. It helps to know so many care.
* This post was
edited 06/30/08 06:21am by Dixie Flyer *
2005 Ford XLT F250 Supercab - 6.0 Turbo Diesel
2005 27RL Wildcat Fifth wheel/Reese 16K hitch
Wife Sue
Pets: Old Fella, Levi and Charlie at Rainbow Bridge. Suzie the Imp, Peaches the Princess and Izzie the cat.
Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some sort of battle.... Live simply, love wholly, give generously, care deeply, speak kindly.
Perhaps you could have Fella creamated, and no matter where you are his ashes and memories will be with you
I have 5 of my beloved companions with me in the motorhome, in their special compartment above the passenger side.
One day at a time ......we are all grieving with you
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