Daisey was taken from our family too soon. As a young 2-year-old puppy she had a lot of life left in her. She touched our lives with her loving blue eyes and her crazy howls in the back yard or when we came home from work or school. We will never forget our dear Daisey bird because everybody has heard the bird was, and still is, the word.

I got my beautiful boy from Tails of the Tundra. When he came to me his name was Ramses. He was a great companion for six years and he is missed very much especially by his brothers Ceasar and Endar. Thank you Tails of the Tundra for placing this wonderful boy with us.

In July of 1999 we requested a young siberian husky for our son from the Long Island Siberian Husky Rescue and in the course of one day we were contacted because a young husky wandered up someone's driveway in the Coney Island section of Brooklyn and the family already had two dogs. They contacted the rescue mission and a match was made. Everything fell into place for us to welcome this beautiful pet into our family. The children named the dog Sky because of his beautifully striking blue eyes and we kept that name. He turned out to be well trained but was bleeding from his left rear paw, which had no toes and he also had a scar up that leg that contrasted his beautiful white fur. The vet who first examined him put his age at over 24 months, not the puppy we thought we were getting. As it turns out, he always hated the vet, but loved everyone else in the world. He traveled with us on family vacations to the Jersey shore, Boston, and he became a special companion for my wife and most important of all strongly bonded with my two sons. He would do anything for a biscuit, or human food. He was a strong fellow, surviving an attack of bloat in September 2008, enduring serious arthritis in the past year, but always ready to walk with us and if we didn't ask him, he would tell us it was time. He had an excellent clock in his head. On Saturday, February 13th, Sky crossed over to a more peaceful and pain free place, where he will be able to run and play like he did for so many years. Have a good walk Sky.

Our beloved Queenie passed over the bridge with her entire entourage present. Queenie was a special girl indeed and touched many lives. She chose her friends, she chose her family, she chose her vet, and she chose who she would allow to take her on midday walks. She was comical, bitchy (in a good way), and a true angel in fur. The "Q" was a special and dear member of our family. She let children ride her, she raised a kitten, and she was quite the kitchen conosssieur with pasta, salmon, and pizza among her favorites. She passed quickly in the arms of all of her biggest fans.

We miss her terribly.

Max. I miss you bud. It's hard to type this and not cry. Since that day dad took you to the vet that last time while I was at work I have not been the same. I still remember the nights growing up when you used to steal my covers from me when I was asleep on those winter nights and how you would wake me up for school and when you protected me from the neighborhood bully, the neighbors st Bernard that tried to attack me and protected Jenny from the German shephard that tried to attack her in the front yard. I also remember the blizzard of 1993 or the ice storm of 1996 you didn't know what to think. It was one of the few times it had snowed in Alabama I had never seen anyone be so happy in the snow or take a running start only to sit down suddenly and slide on the ice. I am truly blessed to have spent those 14 1/2 years with you. My wife says that I am a very loving, wise and compassionate person... I owe it all to you. You shared with me your love and compassion! You taught me to love indescriminantly. Your wisdom taught me how to be a good father and husband. You helped me get back to normal after coming home from the marines I can't thank you enough for that. When dad told me what he did I broke down. I literally cried for weeks. How can someone that brought so much joy also bring so much pain? Shadow didn't eat for almost a week and did nothing but howl for you. You always have and always will be my best buddy forever. You were my first dog and first Siberian husky. I can't forget you. You are always in my heart and mind. I can still remember the day my mom brought you to me. You were 6 weeks old and mom had brought you with her to pick me up from school. I was so excited to see you and from that moment on our hearts, minds and spirits were linked. I still feel alone at times but all I have to do is look down at my side and I still see you there looking up at me giving me that look as if saying "it's ok.. We can do this". I miss! you and love you very much. Till we meet again at the other end of that bridge. Wait for me and make certain the path is safe just like you always have. I love you bud.

Your best bud.

Tasha the Siberian Husky died peacefully on Friday, August 7, 2009, at the Claremont, California, Veterinary Hospital due to multiple chronic conditions associated with aging. She was approximately thirteen years old.

Tasha’s place of birth is unknown, but she was brought to live in Princeton, N.J., in September 2001, a week before 9/11, by members of the Delaware Valley Tails of the Tundra Siberian Husky Rescue group, which had rescued her from a dog pound in Reading, Pennsylvania. In Princeton she led a fine life in a big house with a huge backyard and two cats, Molly and Albert. Her best times occurred during the Princeton winters when she was allowed to run on the snow-covered trails of the Mountain Lake preserve. She’d chase an occasional deer, and scared many a Canada goose into flight as she approached the water’s edge. Her worst known time was her cross-country relocation trip from New Jersey to California on Continental Airlines, during which she shredded her bedding into bits of cloth and polyester that floated out of the kennel when the door was opened. She was the sweetest of dogs and everyone loved her dignified demeanor, blue eyes, shaggy tail, and friendly smile. For the past several months she was no longer able to lift that shaggy tail over her back or hear commands and endearments.

Tasha is survived by Alice, who loved her the most; by Molly the housecat-diva who never considered Tasha her animal equal; and by the many admirers in New Jersey and California who thought she was the most beautiful dog they had ever seen. Joggers and dog walkers on both coasts directed the word “beautiful” at her so often that she answered to that word as well. She also leaves behind her girlfriends Allie and Shelby-- though of pure-bred lineage herself, Tasha never looked down her snout at these friendly mutts. She was predeceased by various felines and her stepsister Miyax the Samoyed, who died in 1984 at the age of 10-1/2, and stepbrother Misha the Husky/Sammy mix, who died in 1996 at the age of 15. Both have welcomed her into the Big Aurora Borealis Kennel in the Arctic Sky. Her small pile of ashes will be mixed with the earth under a California dogwood sapling.

On Tasha’s last slow and painful walk, a speed walker called from across the street, “You have a beautiful dog!” Indeed. She will be sorely missed.

Dear Tails Family:

It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that I write this e-mail. On February 12, our beloved rescue dog Boomhauer crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. He had been very sick this past year and was finally diagnosed with hypothyroidism. He had chronic diarrhea and was just not acting like himself. Once we finally got the diagnosis, we thought we had the disease under control with medication. Unfortunately, the meds he was initially taking were bad for his liver. The secondary meds did not work for him and he continued to get worse every day. Our family had to make a decision to have him with us for maybe a few more weeks and watch him suffer, or let him go peacefully and ensure he wasn’t alone. None of us wanted to see him go either way, but in the words of a TOTTSHR founder, “sometimes the right thing to do is the hardest thing to do”. He went to sleep peacefully while laying on Lacey’s lap at the age of 7 ½ years.

As some of you know, Boomhauer was part of a litter of pups born in our basement to a rescue dog named Hannah. We watched him during his birth, his puppyhood, and adopted him into our pack as his personality developed into a good, lovable, fun, gentle 140 pound lap dog with the best disposition out of the whole pack. The nick name I gave him as a puppy stayed with him his whole life…the baby dog! And that he was, a big baby with a big heart.

12/28/07, 5:45 PM -- Our hearts are broken! Unfortunately, last night we lost the fight to keep Chakka strong, healthy, and alive. Run free little girl and wear your Silver Harness with pride! Mommy tried all she could to save you, my darling Chakka. You are now in the arms of angels until we reunite once more....

Chakka was "tentatively" diagnoised with degenerative mylopathy November 2006. Although, please read my "Was it Cushing's Disease or Degenerative Mylopathy" (DM)...

I now question Chakka's Vet, Dr. Wilson of Animal Clinic of Sterling Heights of this diagnosis. I feel she had Cushing's Disease now that I've reviewed all of Chakka's medical records. DM is a debilitating disease that attacks the mylonin in the spinal cord and gets progressively worse with time until finally your pet is unable to stand or walk on their own. It's a paralyzing disease which also effects their incontenance and back end. This disease is similar to that of multiple sclerosis in humans. There is no cure for this dreadful disease and the pet will eventually lose their battle to walk entirely in about 12 months after diagnosis. We did all we could for the year and one month after her diagnosis to make sure Chakka stayed strong and healthy. One of the things we did was purchased a wheelcart in June 07 when the disease showed it's first sign of agressively attacking her spine. She was unable to get up one Saturday morning and could not stand nor walk. She was taken to vet emergency and was prescribed Prednisone (an extremely agressive steroid) for 6 weeks. She responded well to treatment and was up walking by 2 weeks after beginning treatment. I did therapy on her legs daily, used hot pads, stimulated her spinal column nightly, and worked with her diligently helping her re-learn to move her back legs. By the end of treatment, a miracle happened and Chakka was able to get up on her own and walk by herself. We hung up the wheelcart and for the entire summer of 2007, my little buddy walked side by side with me up and down the street. The neighbors were amazed as were her doctors...

Boating for Chakka ~ Chakka's final boat ride was the maiden voyage May 2007. Chakka, Chrissy, Brandon, Traci, Colin, and I took "Knot Today" for her maiden voyage of 2007 to the Moot where Chakka had spent many many hours right there in the past 8 years by my side. I never left dock without that little girl in 8 years. She was a star at the Moot, always enjoying the attention while wearing her stylish shades riding on her floaty or riding in her little blow up boat, floating up and down the gauntlet. Boaters always snapping her picture and stopping us to pet her...

Summer past, then Autumn, Winter 07 had just begun and Chakka went back down and never made it up... For 17 days and through Christmas, I layed by her side night and day to give her comfort and love. I never imagined even entertaining the idea of euthanasia for Chakka...! Then, the 16th day, I couldn't bare to see my baby girl just lay there. Her quality of life was gone and she was in pain... When I woke the morning of December 28, 2007, I made that dreadful phone call to the vet's office. At 4:00 pm, Traca drove the SUV while I rode in the back with Chakka to the vet's office. The ride was actually good. I didn't think I was going to go through with it. I was hoping for Chakks to get up and take off running and never look back. She never did.... They had a room ready when we arrived. With her blanket in my arms, I wheelbarreled her into the room. She went into that room, laid down on her blanket, and put her head right down as if she were ready for eternal rest. Watching the nurse putting that IV line into Chakka's arm was unimagineably the worst feeling in any pet owner's life. Traca and I spent 45 minutes alone with Chakka before the drug was administered. The Dr came in at 5:45 pm, Traca had to leave the room. I was on the floor with Chakka holding her close in my arms as I held on to her for dear life with my head buried into her neck as the Dr administered the lethal dose into her IV. 30 seconds later, Chakka's heart had beat it's final beat...That day shall haunt me forever...!!!

It has been 4 days since her passing and the pain and numbness still linger in my heart... I picked up her remains today and am waiting for her urn to be made along with a sterling silver heart necklace which will hold some of her remains that I shall wear around my neck forever.....

Those who were blessed enough to have known Chakka, knew she was a fighter - never giving up. This was one fight she could not win...

She was treated like a queen and was our raye of sunshine for 12 years 2 months 22 days... Until we meet again at the "Rainbow Bridge"...

I love you so much, Mommy xxoo

My bud Sebastian left me last week to head north of the Rainbow Bridge. He was 5 years old and I adopted him 6 months ago from a Siberian Rescue in Northwest Ohio and Michigan. From the first sight of Sebastian, I knew he was the one I wanted to be my life long friend. He was as loving and beautiful as a Husky could get. He had the eyes of an angel and made friends everywhere he went. I remember every time I would go to bed he would run upstairs and claim his spot on the bed. He gave me some of the best memories I could ask for and I will carry him in my heart forever.

Sebastian went into the Veterinary to be treated for pneumonia last week and was doing better with everyday that passed, I went in and visited him for 30 minutes Wednesday before they closed for the day and we went on a short walk and I gave him a belly rub and back scratch like he loved best and gave him kisses and told him everything was going to be ok and I would be back to bring you home shortly. He gave me a hug and kiss before he returned to his kennel for the night. Later that night they attempted to drain his lungs of the fluid build up in which he went from good to bad quickly, he passed away unexpectedly during the surgery. Later on they found out he had a large heart tumor the covered the whole right side. Though the short time we spent together and the great memories we shared, I find this by far the toughest loss I ever experienced. Sebastian will always have my heart and until we are together again, I miss you more than anything in this world and would do anything to have you back in my arms again. I know your smiling down watching over me, run free bud and I'll meet you at the Rainbow Bridge.

Lucky would come to us in on July 4th of 1992. It wasn't a day of celebration for her, as she was thrown from a moving car in the parking lot where her soon to be new mom was working. She was just a little black dog and a co-worker gave her the name Lucky as her one white paw was a sign of luck; and the name stuck. I got a phone call to come and pick her up as she would be coming home with us. All the local shelters would have put her down within 5 days, so leaving her behind was not an option. I’ll never forget that as she and I rode home she rested her little head in my lap; feeling safe at last.

Lucky and her sister Misty bonded very quickly and would become especially close. Lucky must have felt like she'd gone to heaven as our home was in the country and she was a city dog. She would become the alpha dog in our pack that would eventually include three other huskies; so she became an 'honorary husky'. She got into everything, and once chewed on some interesting things like pieces of concrete and aluminum soda cans. She soon earned the nickname, ‘rodent dog’ as she had a little rats’ tail that she wagged constantly, and for her questionable dietary choices. She was a fun-loving dog who loved to play, joining her brother and sisters on hikes and for walks around the neighborhood. She was sometimes over looked in a home with much bigger dogs, but made up for it with a joyous spirit. Lucky was diagnosed with lung cancer on early March of 2006. She crossed over just 5 days after we got this awful news when her mom and I were both at work. I wished we'd been there to say goodbye, but Lucky left us on her own terms. She was an honorary husky who lived the good life for 14 plus years, we still miss you girl.

Our beautiful Siberian Husky Sherpa passed away today. He enriched our lives and we will miss him dearly…the house is already eerily quiet and empty.

We got Sherpa in August 2002, shortly after we moved to Paraguay. He gave us a few sleepless nights in the beginning, but soon his curious and fun-loving personality had won our hearts in a way that few animals can. Over the course of the next six years he made many friends wherever he went.

Our memories of Sherpa are too many to list here, but I think the one phrase that sums him up is “he makes me laugh everyday,” which was just one of the many things that Konna loved about him. For me, he was my companion on many, many long runs and listened to my problems and frustrations without complaint.

He was my best friend and I will carry him in my heart wherever I go.

Nykita was born in San Antonio, TX on April 15, 1993. He became a son of an Air Force family and kept mother company during many lonely days and nights. Later in life, he became a brother to a girl who grew up with him and loved him unconditionally; as did mom and dad and he in return.

Unfortunately, the end of life never passes by and affects all of us. Nykita left us for the Rainbow Bridge on November 19, 2008 at 1826 hrs. at VCA Conewaga Hospital in Hanover, PA after a short illness. Although we know that he will be waiting at the Rainbow Bridge for us, he will be missed regardlessly.

The Blades family and Nykita would all like to thank VCA Conewago Hospital for keeping him alive and healthy through the years so we would get to know and love him more, and more everyday. We love you Nykita and we'll meet again at the Rainbow Bridge.

You're forever in our hearts our beautiful blue eyed boy! Run free at the Rainbow Bridge until we meet you there. We loved you dearly in your short little life it wasn't long enough and though we don't know the reason God wanted you back with him we have to learn to be patient until we can see you again.

Our family adopted Qiyan on September 23, 2006 from Tails of the Tundra while living in Easton, Pennsylvania. He was a shy fellow and enjoyed our small dog, Dixie who seemed to be the boss. Qiyan grew to be quite the dog and loved his family over all. He protected us and barked at everyone.

We now live in Hemingford, Nebraska (small town) where Qiyan and our 8-month old black lab puppy got out. He was found dead on the railroad tracks with no marking of any sort. The puppy (Maggie) dragged herself home earlier that morning and is in very bad condition, she might have to be put to sleep to ease her pain.
Our whole family including myself Amber, my husband Larry, Oldest child Kelsi, Middle Dustin and youngest Makenzy are all in tears and will miss him so very much. He will never loose our love and we hope he is watching over us in Heaven and is happy.

Dixie is mourning very much as well as Maggie. Please wish hope for our family and pray to Qiyan, our pride and joy. We'll still be in heartache, but hopefully he'll be there for us.

Disco was a member of the Hazlet Nine rescue and had the distinction of being the first dog adopted from that group. Disco was adopted from Tails of the Tundra on August 31, 2003.

Her mom writes, "Since Disco came from a situation with 28 huskies in one house, she was truly a pack animal. She got along well with all dogs and asserted herself if necessary but never using the authoritarian (in your face) style of leadership. She was very diplomatic. All love was on her terms, she was not a Velcro dog. She loved a long walk, and if you stopped walking she would become visibly annoyed and scolded you loudly until you started moving again. About 3 years ago, we were walking in front of the U.S. Capitol Building and a tour trolley was moving by us. The guide said to the passengers 'On your right, a Siberian Husky.' The tourists began to laugh, and we were so proud! We started calling Disco 'Our National Treasure.'

Disco was a beauty, a stone cold killer, and a Ninja. She was so quick with the wild flips, turns and twists, and she magically would appear and disappear. The backyard was her domain and she was all about the great outdoors. When she first came to us, she spent 23 out of 24 hours outside. Our backyard is now empty, and there is a hole in our hearts.

Disco has been a hard loss. Even though this is loss number 6 in our family of dogs beginning in 1987, this one was the hardest for me. Maybe it was too soon as she was only 7 years old. Maybe it was because she was very low-maintenance and so easy to care for. Maybe it was her chaotic beginning. I don't know, but her passing has left me sadder than any of the others."

.

It's been almost 2 months. And I still think it's hard to walk in & not hear our "Monkey Boy" any more. He could make more noises that didn't sound like a dog. His best fete was he always knew a mile down the road that we were close to the dog show, even if he had never been there before.

Dear Tails of the Tundra,

This is by far the most difficult email I have ever had to write. Our beloved angel, Rocky, passed away yesterday. He had been suffering with lots of old age ailments recently. He had developed, but then recovered from, aspiration pnemonia, small seizures, difficulty controlling his bladder, muscle loss and had trouble getting to his feet. He also had developed a condition where the flaps to his larynx would not open completely making it more difficult for him to breath during exercise. Though we will never know for sure, our vet thought Rocky to be at least 13 years old. Yesterday Rocky had a major seizures that left him unable to walk. The vet did an ekg and said that his heart rate kept dropping to 80 bpm. With advise from the vet, I made the final decision to have him put down. The vet said I gave him a gift in not making him suffer any longer. The vet was wrong. It was Rocky who gave me the gift; the gift of sharing his life and his love with us over the last six years. To say he will be missed does not do him justice. He will live on in my memories and heart for the rest of my life. Sincerely, Martine

Lobo passed over in July. He was a tremendous Siberian Husky and wonderful friend. He overcame adnocarcinoma at age 5 and lived almost 11 years beyond the 6 weeks they promised us. Lobo leaves behind a very sad human family of a Dad, a Mom, two sisters and a brother. He also is dearly missed by his two 4 legged brothers from Tails of the Tundra Rescue. We love you "Bo."

When we had to put Lobo down a friend sent this to me and I hope it will help others in some small way.

Dear Friend,
I know you are nervous as you pace up and down
Although I can't see it. I sense that you frown
You're sad today and yes, I know why;
The decision you've scheduled has made you cry.

Weep not for me nor what you must do
What a wonderful life I've had here with you.
Where could a stray with no place to go
Be accepted so easily by those he didn't know?

I've had freedom to run and good food to eat;
Children to play with and a warm place to sleep.
But the kids are now grown, they've all moved away;
And I've grown old and can no longer play.

I don't see anymore nor hear very much;
Sleep most of the time, respond slightly to touch.
Yes, my dear friend, I have given my all;
For sixteen years I've lived life to it's full.
I'm ready to go. Now is the time.
Let's go to the vet, don't change your mind.
You'll stay with me till I go to sleep,
And then bowing your head you'll softly weep.

Maybe not right away, but in time to come,
You'll understand you were my dearest friend

Author Unknown

Our Precious Tonya Girl was our Beautiful 16 year old Siberian Husky. Daddy loved you as much as you loved him.Tonya Girl I know you were waiting 10 years for Daddy to join you at the "GATE OF HEAVEN" on July 22,2004.I know you are so happy again with Daddy Monarque.We all love and miss you both.Our Family chain is broken and nothing seems the same, but as God calls us one by one the chain will link again.All of our LOVE FOREVER,Michelle,ValerieTerry,and Suzanne Monarque. TONZ & DADDY TOGETHER FOREVER! We will see you on the other side.xoxoxoxoxox

Mom and David,
We're so sorry for your loss. Skye is in Heaven now, free of pain, and her spirit will be with you always. You gave her a wonderful life, and she and the angels are smiling down on you.
With Love & Our Deepest Sympathy,
Laurie, Mitch & Rachel.

We lost the most senior member of our pack when we lost Misty. She was a pure bred Siberian that we adopted from an AKC store 16 and a half years ago. We knew she'd be trouble when the first thing she did in front of us was poop the floor. She was only 6 weeks old when we bought her. Because of her longevity there isn't enough space to relate all of our memories of her. But here are a few; as a puppy she barked at her own reflection in the mirror. She chased a black bear out into the woods. She needed to keep an eye at all the children who were in our swimming pool, even though she couldn't swim. She loved to help her dad in the yard, and to antagonize her younger brother Simba who was ten years her junior. As I said we have enough memories of her to fill a book. I will miss her most of all because I was her dad, and I think we had a special bond. Her picture is tatooed on my arm. Misty there'll never be another one like you. Goodbye puppygirl.

We lost our beautiful Guinevere on May 16, 2008. She was the absolute love of my life. She was a perfect animal in every way and she will be missed by all that knew and loved her. It was so sudden and such a shock, I will never get over this loss. She was my love and my life for ten short years..

He was a cherished pet/friend to us and to his litter mate "Alexandra" for the 11 yrs and 8 months. Nick would still be w/us if he had not gotten sick suddenly, so he missed his 12th birthday by 4 months. We miss him dearly.

Tasha crossed the bridge this evening as a grande dame of 15+ years.

We love her so very much and will miss her more than words can say. As we grieve for her, we are comforted by her 2002 Success Story here at TOTTSHR.

We were blessed to have 5 1/2 years with her. We cannot thank you enough for allowing us to share our lives with her. We know she is finally at peace. We are a better family for having loved her.

Thank you so much for all the efforts and support from everyone involved in searching for Taiga. We can never thank you enough.
Her gentleness and playfulness will be missed greatly. She was a sweet girl. 'We will never forget you, Taiga..we love you!'

Our little Shelly. Such a precious little ball of fluff who instantly walked right into our hearts and will forever remain. Fourteen years seems like such a short time. We will love you always and miss you dearly.

Otis lived in a Frat House in Philly her first nine months and then her first dad, our cousin, had to move and she moved in with her Mommy, Brenda. When she was 9 months old she was almost bald because of a skin condition and nobody knew that when her hair grew in it would be the exact same color as Brenda's! She was a very sweet but silly puppy who got into everything! When she was 8 years old she and her mommy moved in her aunt Judy & her uncle Harvey and she had three people who adored her! She really loved men...maybe because of her puppy years and Harvey always said that he was the closest thing she had to a Frat House. She was a very smart girl because her grandmom taught her almost every word in the English language. Ottie loved to play and play and play. Her heart could not make it any longer....probably it got so big because she loved so much. She was our little red angel, our peanut, our sniglet, our oatmeal and when she was grumpy she was our Mrs. Grinch. Helping you cross today was the hardest thing we ever had to do but we knew it was best for you. We miss you so much and we always will. You were our sweet little girl and we hope you don't try to fight Sebastian or Zen in heaven.

Misty Blue as we called was very special to us. We got her when she was 6 weeks old. She loved to "talk" to us, she could make us laugh or cry. When my husband passed away unexpectedly 5 years ago. Blue told every one her sad "story". When it came time to let her go (she wouldn't go on her own), it was the hardest decision I had to make, because my children wouldn't make the decision. As I watched her and prayed that she would just go to sleep. The decision was made, that her final day would be on the fifth anniversary of my husband's passing. She had to get the last word in though. When we were asked how much she weighed, she got up on her own and walked to the scale. Canadian Misty Blue was 15+ years old. We miss her now and always will.

A true,and loyal friend who will be missed with every passing day.

Our beloved dog Cujo was taken away much to soon. We will miss him dearly. He was our families best friend, Always the happy Husky. We will miss him for the rest of our lives.

Riley passed on this evening at the vet's. He was such a good boy and it hurts so much to have let him go but we could not allow him to continue on for us when he was so very uncomfortable and weak. We feel so very blessed that he was in our lives for as long as he was. Riley you enriched our lives and really were so very special, we miss you and love you so much. You were our R-Man! You were our good boy!

Alaska mommy loves you and you will never be replaced. I cant wait to see you when I go to Heaven. Watch over me please.

DOB - January 1, 1995 -Lupi, my baby, my little girl -you are my best friend and my heart and soul. After you came others, but you outlasted all of them. You were highly intelligent, creative; so funny and beautiful. I became again the best friend of the most popular girl. Sweetheart, I miss you so much, you are the love of my life and no one will replace you, ever!I miss when you talked at the same time I had conversions with others.I miss how we played hide and seek and then I chased your bum.I miss how you used to flip the sheets and pillows off the bed for 10 mins when you were frustrated about something.I miss how you stared at me when you thought I wasn't looking then turn your head when I saw you. Who will protect me from mosqitoes - remember you had to lay on me and lick my face to keep those bugs off me. "OH Lupi, you have some esplaining to do" "The Lupinator" "Lupi; Lupi; Lupi; Lupi" You had the expressions on your face that I could always tell what you were thinking of and you knew what I was thinking of too! Lupika, I love you always and forever until we meet again soon at the rainbow bridge, be there for me I need your leadership. Mummy.

Nvwati was born on April 1, 1997, the second of five pups born to Miko, a timber wolf. Miko came into my life two years earlier, gifted to me in the Will of an elderly woman who passed away. I am American Indian and belong to the wolf clan. This grandmother knew of my love for wolves, so when she passed away she left Miko to me. I had no idea Miko was capable of having pups! I thought by that age she would have either been spayed or sterile.Miko met Timber, a black and white Siberian Husky and they fell in love. They would both cry for hours after their play dates together. I had to be out of town for a week and Miko went to spend that time with Timber and his human mom. When I returned home I was told they had mated.Sixty three days to the day, five pups were born. Nvwati was the largest, and the second one to make his appearance. He was born butt first and I had to help him come out.Two weeks later I was awakened one night to the sound of howling. Imagine my surprise when I went into the Solarium and found Miko howling at the full mooon with little Nvwati sitting beside her, his little head up high howling along!As people came to decide which pup they wanted I would all but push Nvati into their hands but each time they would say "No". Being a blonde he didnt look as "wolfie" as the other pups did and so before long I was left with only two needing a home, Nvwati and his brother. After his mother Miko died suddenly, he wiggled his way into my heart and remained with me, my constant companion.Nvwati loved to sing and would sing along with me whenever I took up my drum. He competed in and came in second in an International Pet Singing Competition. He was on several tv shows including Breakfast Television, Oprah Show, Erin Davis show, etc. Nvwati can be seen singing on his dogster site at www.dogster.com/dogs/83943. Over the next 10.5 years Nvwati brought me so many wonderful memories. Whether it was of him singing as I drummed, or the countless times his attitude would come through, he always brought me joy. He lived up to his name which is a Cherokee word for "Good Medicine". During times I was so ill I didnt know if I could go on any more he would be there for me , loving me and showing me that I had better not leave him! Nvwati was so very gentle to all he met, but especially loving to homeless people. Its as though he seemed to sense they needed a little extra loving. Time after time I told him how he better not die before me because I couldnt bear the loss. I told him this just the night before he passed away. On Friday, Sept. 28, 2007 while out for our afternoon trip to the park, I noticed he was walking slowly. Jokingly I said, "Hey bubbs, you re slow today. Whats wrong? Are you an old man now?" Upon our return from the park he lay down at the doorway to my bedroom and let out a yelp. It was by far not the worst yelp I had heard from him over the years but his beautiful eyes told me soemthing was terribly wrong. I helped him to my bed and called the Animal Hospital. I was told to bring him right over. Thinking it must have been something he ate, I put him on leash and began the 3 block scoot to the Animal hospital. Two blocks from home, my darling wobbled then sat down. He put his head down and died right there on the sidewalk, one block from our destination.His autopsy showed he had Pericarditis, a large bag of fluid around his precious heart making it hard for it to beat. He died of a massive heart attack.It feels as though my heart will explode from grief. As I left the Animal Hospital, I sat outside on my scooter (wheelchair type thing) and looked up at the sky. On the one side of the street where I was, the sky was blue and sunny. Directly across the street the sky was black and it was raining. It was as though the heavens had opened to welcome my beloved Nvwati home!

I have always taken in abused animals cats, dogs, horses you name I have had it at my home sometime in my life. When Kayla came into my life she was 6 months old badly beaten by her former owner. I took her to my vet he cleaned her up an closed 3 gashes in her back. Once I had her back home I had my hands full with her she would fight with my other dogs tear up anything she could sink her teeth in. It took 3 months of showing her that her new owner was a kind loving person. I never knew what a wonderful companion she would turn out to be. I had Kayla Ann for 18+ years. I was giving her a bath one day I found a small bump on her belly that turned out to be a cancerous tumor the vet said nothing could be done for Kayla but love her. It was 8 months later when it was time and it was so hard to let her go but it was the most loving thing I could do for my best friend so she wouldn't suffer anymore. I never realized what a large hole she would leave in my life as well! in my heart. I will always miss Kayla and our times together. The day I pass over I know in my heart Kayle will be there waiting for me.

Her name was Cheyanne...and she was my Best Friend and Buddy... Her blue eyes and her beautiful face...always greeted me and she even could say..."I LOVE YOU" and it's not a liar...I taught her that...and her howling...was just music too my ears... I had her for 14yrs. and each and everyday was Special... I remember taking her for long walks... when she finally calmed down...but when I first got her...she was 7 months old...and we use too tell people too watch the front door as you know... when they are puppies and getting in the first years... they love too run...and take off...we had a few incidents...too go rescue her...but she was always glad too come back home...and so was I...I miss her each and everyday...and keep her in my thoughts... only wishing I could have another one...but my husband has allergies...and can't be around dogs that sheld alot...(this is my second marriage)... and he feels really bad... but I understand... the time I did spend with Cheyanne was the BEST... I keep our special memories in my Heart...and know..that she is in heaven..(Doggy) that is... playing with her Buddies and one day soon...we will be reunited... Love, Kathy...Jack...Kellyanne...and Shannon...!

Dear, sweet Sikora. It's coming fast upon your 11th birthday. Last year at this time we were taking our "Sikora walks". You had been diagnosed with your aggressive cancer and I was trying not to mourn your passing pre-maturely. I was trying to live each day with you while you were still here. You helped me do that. You passed onto the Rainbow Bridge, finally secuming to that awful disease. You went on your own, not wanting me to have to make that decision I knew was fast coming to me. The one I didn't want to make.

I thank you everyday for giving me sooo much. You are the reason I am who I am. You are the reason I became a trainer...since the trainers I talked to told me I should put you down at the age of 2 when you started snapping when someone walked near your food. You're the reason I started trying to figure out how to help fix the problem. I wasn't going to give up on my beloved girl. We had our ups and downs, but in the end you did so well! Coming to work with me everyday, making friends with the girls at work,and putting up with the silly puppies all around. I still ask your forgiveness for using those 'traditional' methods on you. You were a husky. I had to make things seem like it was your idea. I had to be gentle and patient and understanding of why you did what you did and why I made you the way you were. I learned though, thanks to you. You totally changed my life.

Thank you for giving me chance after chance and teaching me so much. My love for you is stronger today than the day I first saw you as a darling, shy puppy. You were my first husky and the reason I will always have that wonderful, intelligent breed in my life. Basha and Yukon carry on your legacy.

I miss you so much, my dear, sweet girl. It's still so hard, after almost a year,not to have you snoring by my side at night, not to have you in the seat next to me in the car. I love you my Sikora-butt.

Sammie Wright was my retired police dog. She was a loyal and faithful dog both professionally and personally. She did countless demos providing great community relations to the pd and public. She was always on patrol, but gentle at home. Sammie was 13 1/2 when she went to the bridge. Her health failing, but her sprit the same as the first day I got her. She could barely walk, and when she did she looked at me with such questions like Why are you making me do this? She would do it though, but it was only because I asked her to. One of the toughest things I had to do was to end her pain. Then ours began. I passed her from my arms to God. She will be missed, now with her pal Jake who passed 2 yrs ago. Our home is empty without them both. Jake Sammie til we all meet again.... With Love, Kevin and Cheri

I will never forget you Moriah. You were my best friend, buddy and pal. You brought immense joy to our lives and great heartache when we had to let you go. Because Linda and I never had children, you became all that more special to us. I remember you as puppy.... silly, spunky, one blue eye and one brown eye, full of energy and life. Then as you became an adult, you looked regal, strong, and ran with such grace and majesty. We had a lot of fun playing catch with the tennis ball. I remember how you loved to rough house with me. I also remember you just coming out and laying down near me when I would smoke my pipe out on the back patio. And of course, your favorite thing of all, going on our walk walks. Oh, how you loved your walks and going on trips. It never ceased to amaze me how so many people commented on how beautiful you were and how people were so attracted to you. God truly made you special. Then, as you got older, it was hard to watch you slow down because you were always so strong and vibrant. But even though your mind was still sharp and your heart still young, your body wouldn't cooperate. You hung in their for as long as you could, but we couldn't watch you deteriorate anymore and didn't want you to suffer, as you could no longer walk.

Please forgive us for letting you go. It's the hardest thing I've ever had to do. For nearly 14 years you were my buddy boy. And because the last 5 years my office was in the home, we bonded all that much more.

I think you will like your resting place. It's at Pat and Kim's house. I remember how you loved to roam their property. Now, you will rest under one of the Pepper trees near their house. As often as I'm in the area, I will visit you, my friend. I love you buddy. I miss our walks and your friendship so much. Rest in peace.

We already had 3 members in our pack but in the August of 2000 we saw an ad in the local paper, "Female husky desperately needs a home." That husky turned out to be a ten year old girl named Aurora. She had been renamed at the shelter for one of her vocalizations, 'A-rah-rah'. After being with the same family for all of her ten years, she was given up because she ran away once too often. We took her into our home, where she blended right in with our pack but not the cat at first. She had a strong spirit, and like most huskies she was a runner(she escaped from us twice). She was always the princess as her photo suggests. She loved tennis balls, not to fetch but to devour; usually ripping one to shreds within minutes. At night she liked to sleep under my side of the bed. This did stop as she got older as it got more difficult for her.One Friday in December of 2003 she started acting oddly lethargic. Over that weekend her condition deteriorated rapidly. A visit to the vet's office early Monday morning told us the shocking news. She had liver disease and was too far gone to cure. This couldn't be, she'd only been with us for three and a half years. Our only option at that point was to let her go. I'm not sure if she knew I was even there at that last moment. Saying goodbye to her was very hard as she was the first dog I'd lost since I was growing up and the pain I felt that morning lingered with me for weeks. I hope that we made her last three plus years happy ones, making up for the betrayal she must have felt before. I hope there's always an extra tennis ball around just for you Miss Aurora. We'll miss you always.

since i was a little girl i always wanted a wolf but knowing you couldn't have one was hard on me. so i fell in love with siberian husky's.one day after i got old enough to work and get good pay i deside it was time i get my dream come true so like always i would pray to god to send me a dog that was have wolf and siberian husky mixed.one day was all it took when i found what god sent me the most beautiful and caring wolfhybrid who was there for my every need and when it come my sad and awful time when i felt that the world and my life was giving up on me,she was there. she wasn't going to let me throw away life.when i came home one day i broke down crying from loosing a best friend and a grandma in one week. dakota came and climbed in my lap and looked at me so like always i would talk to her about what was going on.she was always there to listen.my family always said when i was gone from the house she would stay in the drive way till i came back.well 2 weeks went by and i was moving on in life.one day when i was coming home from vaction i come around the curve looking for dakota,waiting to see her and give her a kiss i rounded the curve and there she was laying there dead on the rd. i cried for months and still do. i miss her more than anything. one day i prayed to god and i heard a voice say she's with me. people can call me crazy but i will never Quit telling the story about how god had sent me an angel for me.as for dakota i will never forget her no matter what. she tought me alot.and i want to say i love her for ever more.and one dy i will see you again.in loving memory of.. *DAKOTA LEE BENNETT*

You are the love of my life and left a huge void in my heart. I will always love you till we meet again someday. Diana

A.J. was diagnosed with a tumor on his adrenal gland. He was almost 13 at the time. There was no way to no if it was cancerous. Because of his age and the other complications involved, we decided to let him live out his life. It was so sad to see a boy that was so robust and happy waste away to nothing. Making that last trip with him to the vet's office was the hardest thing that I'll ever do. I think of him often and hope that he's now back to being the happy boy we all grew to know and love. Goodbye old friend.

Mya will never be forgotten.She was only 6 months old, A beautiful Siberian Husky.we did all we could to save her but she ate a rock that was just too big for het to digest on her own,had surgery but the rock done too much damage,I feed her by hand with liquids for 3 weeks after the surgery but she just kept losing weight and going down hill so I couldn't let her surfer any more so I made the choice to put her to sleep ,I will never forget her,she was very special puppy.

Saying goodbye was the hardest thing in the world, but we will always remember you.

We loved you and tried to give you a good home..may you be playing and running over the bridge.

Polar Bear is been in pet heaven for 7th year, I can't have other without missing him so much, Ithink of you so much, you left me sad-lonely without a friend to walk to the park.

There were two angels, Jada and her sister Tina.. Unfortunately we lost Tina. Came home one day from work and found her in the backyard. Was one of the worse days of my life. She was an amazing pet and a great part of our family. She is dearly missed still up to this day.
Miss You Tina. Love You

Sweet Sweet Little Lou, you came to me as a sick little foster puppy on 9/17/06 at only 3 months old. So frail and in need of attention and time. It took us a bit and some specialty visits and tests to get to the root of what was ailing you, and you withstood every test, scraping and poke with grace and ease that even the doctors couldn't believe.....you were amazing. You touched many hearts along the way, but most of all you touched mine. A wise person once told me that it is not the easy foster dogs that touch you the most...it is the ones you put the most time and energy into that pull so deeply at your heartstrings...they were so right. Between the special baths and lotions, the medications twice a day, the specialist visits and everything in between Lou....you and I grew inseperable. Wherever you saw me, Lou was not two steps behind. Wherever I was sitting Lou was on my lap or right next to me.....she was my comfort during two terrible losses over the last two months and I was hers when she was relapsing from her disease and she wasn't feeling well. I am not sure why she had to be taken so young or so unexpectedly....and it has been one week and I am still having a very hard time dealing with her loss. I miss her terribly....my heart feels empty and I just want her back. She was technically still a foster but was not leaving here in my head:) It just seems so unfair to loose them so young, she was just a baby.....run free from that dreaded disease Little Lou, no more medicine, no more skin scrapings and no more pain. Mommy misses you more than anyone will ever know....you left the deepest puppy paw prints imaginable on my heart. Godspeed baby...until we met again.

My CodaBodaBear......I will forever miss that big old hugable head of yours. I rescued you when you were 13 years old and thought I would only have you but a short time...boy did you have me fooled! You lasted in my home another 3 years to make it to a ripe old age of 16 years....I always called you my Timex, took a lickin and kept on tickin:) You survived bloat, abscess surgery, cancer......I thought you might outlive me. I have to say you were one of the most handsome huskies I have ever met with that wooly coat of yours! You lived and breathed for your momma....oh and for telling off all the foster puppies and keeping thier little butts in line. I remember fondly the first day I brought you home, old and crickity and you spotted a green squeeky ball...and gave me a heart-attack when you play-bowed it! I should have known then that you had a few years left:)You loved to get on mommy's bed (I had to lift you up and down of course)...you would do that happy head rub on the bed...and then when I put you down...trot all around the house SOOO happy! I will really miss that happy head rub. At the end Coda, the sunshine left your eyes, I no longer saw that happy head rub, you couldn't get yourself up and more and the puppies were starting to boss you around. I felt sad for you...like you were losing your status and being degraded...and you were too great of a king for that. You would look at me with such a sad look in your eye, barely able to catch a breath anymore, unable to hold it until I could get you outside and I knew it was time to help you to the Bridge....even though it was the hardest thing I had to do...stop the Timex. It is very hard to watch the life leave your beloved dog's eyes, but Coda.....I know that you were not happy with the life you had here anymore, you needed to run free and breath easy and if that meant sacrificing my own sorrow to help you do that, then that's what it meant. I miss you and love you to death....until we meet again...my one and only special boy, Godspeed Codabodabear.... we had a good run.

Beautiful sweet Larissa, we are sorry that your life had to come to such a tragic end the way that it did. You were a TOTT alumni and always will be......we are sorry that you were so true to those husky ways and did not care about jumping that fence or that car in the street. Your story will be told many times over to warn others of huskies and their ways, your death will not be in vain and you will not be forgotten. Wear you silver harness with pride......it will look so beautiful with your snow white coat and sparkling blue eyes. Godpeed sweet girl.

Just three days after saying good-bye to our husky, Logan, we had to say good-bye to Denali. She was diagnosed with a liver tumor in April 2006 so we knew this day would come; we just didn’t think it’d be like this.

She had diarrhea for nearly a week and seemed depressed, not unusual considering we had to put our other dog to sleep. But her diarrhea didn't get better and an x-ray showed that her tumor had grown to 3x its size. If she was slowly bleeding internally, she’d go downhill fast. If she wasn’t bleeding internally,given the size of the tumor and how it was affecting her, she still didn’t have very long. We decided we didn’t want her to be any more uncomfortable than she already was by delaying the inevitable.

She deserves to be remembered. And she would have demanded it :).

Denali was a typical husky puppy – she dug trenches, ate expensive sunglasses, was incredibly active, ate shoes (but only one of a pair) and demanded constant love and attention.

I always joked that Denali, who became a pet therapy dog for St. Hubert’s in 1999, thought all the people she visited were there for her, not the other way around. It didn’t matter; she still loved being adored and she lifted people’s spirits. She was also a great dog for rambunctious students; it took a lot to phase her.

And Denali, who turned 11 years old just before Thanksgiving, still got into trouble (she ate most of my pizza the night Logan died).

Denali was VERY independent, VERY smart and sometimes tough to live with. But she was a great hiking companion, a wonderful pet therapy dog (even if it was all about her) and she loved my husband and I. She was our first born (and only baby for 2 years before Logan came along). She was the princess (and was treated as such).

In some ways, Logan was the favorite - He was so sweet, laid back and cuddly like a teddy bear. But in others, Denali was the star. She was beautiful, graceful, and loved to give kisses.

We will truly miss them both.

Two days before Thanksgiving, Logan was stumbling a little. By Thanksgiving Day, he could barely walk or move on his own. An MRI showed nodules in his brain but we weren't sure whether it was cancer, a bacteria or a fungal infection. He didn't respond to initial treatment and it looked like terminal cancer was the likeliest candidate. Because his condition became so poor by Nov. 28 (he could barely move), we decided that it was time to let him go.

We, of course, do not want to remember him by his last days. We'd prefer to remember happier and funnier moments:
-the day in February 1998, when we brought him home from the shelter and had to roll the windows down because he stunk like pee and who knows what else. He'd just been neutered so we couldn't bathe him; 5 or so cans of the rinse-free soap helped make him tolerable.
-Logan running in the baseball field in Bridgewater with Denali and sometimes with my brother's dogs. He'd galumph after them and still seemed pretty fast for a dog who seemed to prefer the couch.
-Cuddling with him at night (I think I cuddled more with him than with my husband).
-Hearing him howl when we first got home as if to say, "Hey, where's my food?! Where have you been?"
-Taking him swimming or on hikes.
-How he'd sit in the car like a furry person.
-How he LOVED food and would do anything for it.
-Seeing him cuddle with Portia, our cat, and most recently, with our baby.
-Having him follow me everywhere and always come with me into our baby's room when I put her to bed.
-How he'd play bow to Denali and then run like hell when she chased him. He'd often scramble under the coffee table to get away.
-How he'd bury his whole face in the snow and "steal" clumps of snow (had to be untouched) while on a walk.
-The way he tilted his head when you talked to him.

He was a shelter dog who was tied to a tree by his last owners but for most of his life, he was spoiled by us. And we were spoiled by the love he gave to us.

He was our child, our companion, our Fat Boy (even after he lost weight), our Logi-Bear.

Logan we love you. Our house is so quiet without you.

Dakota was our first Siberian Husky, our sweet painted face Husky with a striking “lightning bolt” on the top of her head.. She had one brown and one blue eye. We rescued her from an abusive situation with a 7 year old boy, who hit her with a hockey stick. We brought her home, and the next day, had a stockade fence installed. When the fence was finished, we let her loose in the yard; she ran, ran and ran. I built her a dog house and she would love to run fast into it, we would be so surprised that she didn’t hit her head on the back of it!. Having a nice big yard, I decided to build a picnic table for us to entertain my kids but she took it over and proudly sat on top for hours. She dug one specific whole right under the largest tree in the yard and would curl up for hours in the shade, until her very own pool came then she would gingerly walk in it and drink from it. That is how she met Zacky- who we rescued from the New Haven Shelter just 2 days before being put down. He bounded into the yard saw her in the pool and promptly stomped his way in with her. Dakota, being a pedigree brat or Queen, just looked at him with disdain but never barked or yelped. One look from Dakota and you knew what she was thinking.

She loved bonies and would guard them for hours only then yelping at Zacky or Sailor if they came near them! At 4 PM every day for the past 2 years she would come out of the bedroom – her safe haven and “ nose “ or WOO you for her bonies... Her appetizer before dinner. Dinner was a calm experience with Dakota, unlike Zacky who pranced between people she laid under the table always knowing she would get people food eventually. She was refine and had manners

Dakota was with us when we moved to St. Maarten. Once the huskies did escape and off she went – always in the lead- We heard that she ran into one of the villas down the road whose door was open – got a drink of water and continued on. We know because the French lady whose house they decided to visit told us the one with the 2 eyes came in and then dashed off. Luckily a kind couple corralled them and called us and we got them back, however, in that climate it was quite a bit away from home.

Each dog and of course, each husky has its own personality. Dakota was a loner pretty much and at times aloof, but her gentle eyes and that gorgeous face could do you in.
Each night, I would lay down with her and do :”moonies”, say goodnight and give her a kiss. “ Moonies”, and she knew the word, was to rub the white area above her eyes. It calmed her and she loved it.

We knew since July she was failing and we believe the loss of Zacky- even if they didn’t interact so much in the last years made her grieve in her own way. Her legs and backend gave out in the end and she went peacefully on November 22, just 4 months after our nutty and loveable Zacky. Our original two huskies can never be replaced in our hearts and we are so grateful they came to us- we had 10 wonderful years. There will be other Siberians but Dakota and Zacky will always be cherished in our hearts.

Junebug, your work here is completed. Many canines have been and will continue to be saved because your influence on our lives changed us forever. We love you Junie. Your gorgeous presence will be enormously missed on Aileen Street and beyond, but you are now carefree, playing with sisters Hera and Pupsworth, as well as Sassy, Waggs, Dakota, Cisco, Tess, Kafall, Blue and many new friends. You are no longer in pain or discomfort and restored to your original beauty. We admire your stamina, love and grace in the face of an awful, consuming disease the course of which we could not change.

Your presence was so much bigger than life I always expected you to live forever, not just ten years. But Juno you will live in our hearts forever. Thank you for gracing our lives with your company and teaching us the lessons we needed to know. There will never be another one like you. Rest in peace our precious Red Girl, Junie Tune-tunes.

You have been a very big part of our family for the past 8 years and we very much miss you already.

Everyday we think about you. We miss you every much.12 years was not long enough time to spend with you. We had some good and crazy time with you. We will never ever forget the good and the bad times we had with you. You are now with Trinity on the othe side of the Rainbow Bridge.The family will always remember you for all that you meant to us. You will always in our thoughts for ever.

Tonya was truly a part of our family. A sweet and loving soul... Her kindness and beautiful personality will be missed as will the comfort and happiness she brought to us. Goodnight Girl, I Love You...

I can hardly sit here and write anything without tears. Too soon you were gone. We were not prepared for this. I don't have any words to say how I feel. Other than I had to let you go. It was my promise. I get to know you do live on in your kids & grandkids. I only wish there had been more time. Even 13 years wasn't enough time. For your sweet & gentle soul.

It was on the 27th day of July, in the year 2006 that Zacky went gently into the night across Rainbow Bridge. Almost 9 years to the day he literally “jumped” into our lives with gusto, but also with much gentleness. With his passing, he left a very large void in our hearts that can never be filled. There will never be an equal to Zacky, there may be others, but not a Zacky. He was a good guy, and I know that he is north of Rainbow Bridge, and when I make it there, I know he will be waiting for me at the gate, wagging his tail, waiting for his “bonies”.

He would carry his dish filled with food and place it where he wanted it and it had to rest on his left paw. He used to claw me when he wanted something, I would yell, but today I wish he was here to do it again, believe me, I would not yell.

Zacky was like many Huskies, stubborn, turn his back to you, “forget” his name at times, and in his younger days, love to run free. But unlike other Huskies, he would “dance” his left paw would go up and down till he was satisfied he was sitting straight and beautiful. Dinner was another highlight at our house. He would “dance and prance” between us and always nudge my wife or a female guest at the most inappropriate place and always on the left side. He loved “people” food Always gentle and never grabbing from our hands, until he learned to eat from a fork.

Yes, Zacky is gone, he now wears the Silver Harness, but he will never be forgotten, replaced, and no other will ever take the place of Zacky .

Why do the ones we love the most leave us so soon.

Sadly missed by his “”Mommy and Daddy”, Sailor, Dakota and Grandpa.

Sabre was my best friend. He was part of our lives for 13 years and 1 week. He made me laugh and was always a comfort to me. I miss him every day and still look for him when I come home from work. I know he isn't in pain any more, but that doesn't make me miss him any less! He was the best pet I have ever had. There will never be another Sabre. I am so thankful for the time he was with us. I still miss him but know he is in a better place and I will see him again some day. Thank you for letting me express myself and share his picture! -- Konnie.

Our hearts are heavier with your passing. But the night sky is brighter with your light. Run free beautiful Eve. Rest well, gentle soul.

In honor of our dear little girl Frankie that went to sleep for good a few weeks ago we ask you pray for all the homeless and unwanted and neglected huskies in the world.

Frankie you were our baby all through the 10 years we were blessed to have you in our life and we will miss you terribly. Thank you for all the wonderful memories.. we love you.

It has been a few year since Willie has crossed and I miss her every day. I would just like to have others know that she was here and loved.

Ayla potata as Rita calls you.

M-I-S-S-Y A-Y-L-A, Missy Ayla !!!!

From the moment you jumped out of your foster mom Rita’s car it was at though you jumped into our hearts. It was like you were meant to be in my life, in my family’s life. It was stated your life was not always a bed of roses, but I hope the months we spent together, you know how much you were loved. You asked for nothing more in return for your love other than our love and an occasional bisky. You were and always will be loved. You did indeed find your forever home that day within my heart, nan & paps’s hearts and almost everyone who met you.

Ayla was my buddy and my companion. From the first day she decided, this chick is okay and I’m going to own her now and live in a one dog house we did as much as we could together. We went to the Finger Lakes in NY twice last year. Once with the “girls” including her Bernese mtn dog friend, Teddy Bear and once with nan and pap. She loved to wade in the lake even though her mom couldn’t stand how cold it was. We sat next to a campfire roasting marshmallows and camping out. Visits to other lakes, to nan & pap’s for weekends and holidays and the visits to see grandma in the nursing home. The staff just fell in love with you as well as most of the residents. There was a line to see Ayla at every visit. And you, you just soaked the love in and rolled over for belly pets. Grandma didn’t remember the 2 legged visitors, but she always remembered Ayla was there to see her.

At times she served as a very fluffy pillow for my tears. Ayla, I told you this as I wished with my entire heart I could do something to save you, to bring you home with me, but you saved me. More than words can say or express you saved me. You were the one constant love and companion during the time of Aunt Laura’s illness. She loved you too girl. I remember when you first met her, I told you to be careful around Aunt Laura cause she was so frail and you looked and cocked your head as telling me “I know mom, it’s okay”. We went in and you went right to her and sat next to her wheelchair so calmly so she could reach you. Even on that day when you went to the rainbow bridge, your fluffy pillow caught my tears. Now as it thunders outside and the blue lightning cracks in the sky, there is no fluffy pillow to catch the tears as I think of how you would be right beside me during the storm.

And speaking of rain. Nan played dress up with you while mommy was away the one time and couldn’t take you along. Remember, I came home to find out it had down poured and to keep you dry she decked you out in a rain bonnet? And how Aunt Kathy and Homer the beagle came to meet you after the adoption and she commented on how much you and Homer looked alike as she picked up his ears? Oooh, no, that Beagle boy was not a dignified Husky.

I think about how rough your life started out, then how this group of individuals saved you and took you in, the shaved pictures of you and how caring Rita was with you and how she was there to support both of us afterwards to the end. I thank the Lord for everyone who got you to me, I thank Him for every second we were able to spend together. It was just too short, but I would not trade it for anything in the world. Not even after the heart ache of losing you so suddenly.

Pumpkin pie will never be the same as the thought of how you scarfed that one intended for Aunt Denise right off the counter while I was still in training.

You were my first, my girl, my fuzzy butt blue eyed brown eyed girl. There may be others, but you are and always will be my Missy Ayla. My girl. Take care my lovey, chase those s-q-u-i-double r-e-l-es to your heart’s content until we see each other again and belly rubs and face caresses will abound, my husky faced girl. --Michele

Our dearest beloved Wrex, our son’s red and white Siberian Husky with the most beautiful blue eyes! You ran away several times to Mark, our beloved son, and finally the family that had you gave you to Mark when you were a year old. Just a baby! And we all loved you so much. You were the love of our lives. Even though you were 14 years old, you looked so young and healthy. Mark took such good care of you and we (your grandparents) were so lucky to help a little too. The on Saturday 10-22-05, you didn’t feel good and Mark was out of town, so grandpa Don and I rushed you to emergency. And 3 veterinarians after that and in just one week and a half, you were gone! Your spleen was enlarged and they said from the ultrasound you had cancer. Then on 11-03-05, 4:03 a.m. on Thursday, you passed at home with all of us with you and Mark, your dad, petting you, and then you were gone, our dearest friend, the love of our life. It is so sad. We miss you so much. Life will never be the same without you dear Wrex. When we looked into your beautiful eyes, we always saw your beautiful soul. God bless you sweetheart. We were all so lucky to have you in our lives. You were so special. We are so lucky for Grandpa and I (grandma Sharon) came to live and work with our wonderful son, Mark and you our wonderful Wrex for the last year and 9 months! We hope to see you at Rainbow Bridge and be together forever. You loved to run and to walk. You loved going to work with Mark every day. And you loved going to all the motorcycle races and shows with Mark. You loved our family trip to Canada for 6 weeks last year! You loved to play and you loved your biscuits. You touched our hearts and we will never be the same. And our hearts ache for you, Wrex. But we are grateful you are not suffering honey. We remember you walking, and leaning out the window of the car and barking and howling: ah oh ohing with your beautiful voice. You loved riding in the car. In fact, Wrex, Mark told us when you were 3 years old, you leaned out of the car so far, you fell out on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, you did a summersault and landed and you were shaking, but Mark was so happy you were still alive! And we remember when you and Mark came to visit us in Tucson, you and Mark and Grandpa Don loved riding in the gulf cart, and Wrex you loved running on the golf course at night! You were so full of life and so inquisitive. You always were so adorable and loving but very proud and independent. We surely miss you Sweetheart. WE LOVE YOU WREX FOREVER! You’re always in our prayers and you never will be forgotten Angel! Love, kisses, and hugs forever honey. Daddy Mark, Grandpa Don, and Grandma Sharon.

For ten years of your life you were locked in a outside kennel and then locked inside a small crate inside.. day in and day out. I finally decided these people didnt deserve you so I took you in when you broke your crate and lacerated your tongue and ears. The vet found many things (minor) wrong with you.. we got all your meds and I took you on a shopping spree at petco.. god did you love that. I loved you so much and you loved me.. so glad to finally be loved. I know you didnt like to vet but I had to take you to get your ears cleaned... it was then we found you had more inner problems then we knew. You couldnt walk, and barely could open your eyes. But when you heard my voice.. you managed. Even to give me a kiss. But then you laid back down. I knew it was your time. If you remember we already spent 1000$ on you.. and as sad as it makes me I couldnt afford anymore. Plus I feel you were happy to be with me for the week you were. So the vet carried you in, and I l! aid you on that nice soft table. And told you everything that would happen. I stil feel you gave me permission. The last thing you did was lift you head and nuzzle it into my chest, when I held you tightly in my arms and put my face on yours, you gently relaxed. I told you goodbye, you looked at me then closed your eyes. I kissed you one last time and then held you tightly. Telling to bet to go ahead.. and whispering to you " I love you so much , and Im sorry" Soaking your fur in tears. You didnt want me to be sad, I could tell. But I couldnt help it. I fell in love with you within 2 weeks and didnt plan on losing you so soon. With your final breath, I held you close and stayed with you until you were cold. Even then I didnt want to let go. But I had to. So with one final kiss, I left. I even paid extra for you to be cremated, so I can have you in my bedroom. You never were a digger so a hole wouldnt do. I figure a nice urn and you'll always be with me.. watching over me.

Tasha, I had to lay you to rest... but I couldnt afford to pay the thousands it was going to cost... already spending 1500$ in total... and then more for more tests. Plus you didnt want any more tests.. I knew you knew it was time. Your last few days you were with me. And we had fun. Im so sorry you couldnt have stayed longer. You'll always be with me though, in my heart and in my memory. You were MY first dog, and no other dog will take your place. I love you Tasha and again Im so sorry I had to do it. I went home and cried in bed all day.

I love you so much. And already miss you. We were going to go to the park afterwards... but instead I had to put you down. The guilt is horrible. But I do love you so much, and will always miss you.

Dear Daffy, I didnt get to have you while you were a baby, but I have had the best years of my life. That year, 5 days before chritmas, you wernt feeling yourself. You had dignosed a tumor in your leg on the inside. You were also dignosed with chemotherapy. That made you die 4 days later. I was 12 when you died. But the good thing is that you are in a better place. You lived for 6 years when you were only supposed to live 3. You were a lucky rat and now you live forever in gods hands. God Bless you Daffy. I will MISS YOU. I LOVE YOU. Sincerely, Courtney Valentine.

My precious boy graced my life for one shining moment that lasted 12 years, 2 months and a day. I adopted Bully at 18 months old from a shelter. He was my constant companion, my parnter, my best friend. He survived lymphoma 4+ years and heart disease 2+ years and is known as The Magic Bullet. The Magic Bullet Fund helps dogs survive cancer, it is Bullet's legacy.

For all that she had been through (her original owners..where her tail was broken and whom neglected her 'dry eye' condition), she was "full of heart". While she was a smaller Siberian, she was always brave enough to stand her ground and 'speak' her mind..even to the 'big' Banshey (originally Griz a female the size of a big male). With her dark eyes and white face 'mask', framed in silver, she had a noble look..similar to a Snowy and/or Barn Owl. Add to that the cutest 'flame tail', not curled but straight and tapered like a flame. When she first came to me, her coat was stiff and course. With high quality food and carrots as treats, it became soft and fluffy.

With winter now upon us, I would like to share her love of 'nosing' into snow piles..seeming to seek scents and/or critters. With such an extremely thick coat, winter was definitely her favorite season. After a fresh snowfall she looked like a pewter fluff-ball in a sea of white.

Her calm demeanor allowed everyone to immediately want to cuddle her (as opposed to the other four 'excited and 'in your face' Sibes). This was especially good when all five were invited to a local Elementary school. They not only where a live example of "sled dogs" (the class was following the Iditarod), but also a perfect example how those that look different could still get along (the teacher thanked us for the 'side lesson').
LadyGray was a special Siber-pup. Always sleeping curled by the bed and headboard..just below my pillow. She never had an 'accident' in the house or the townhouse and was a great ride companion..calmly sitting or laying until reaching the destination.

It is my belief that her soul is free to play any Siberian games that fill her spiritual heart with happiness.

Again.. Thank YOU, Scott, and ToTTs for allowing my life to be enriched by sharing time with LadyGray!!! Those that ever knew her will always carry a warm thought of her, in their hearts :-)

Kyrye, Destyny, Banshey, AzureFyre, and I wish to send our best wishes to all "ToTTers" and Siberians.

Though others try to fill the space your leaving me has made. I can't over come the memory in my mind it's a bridge I'll never cross until the end of time. I say one thing each day.

I thank god for your sweet smile although your not around.

By my best friend never be forgotten.

-Jennifer

We only had Spaz for 1 year and 48 days. We rescued him from a local shelter. He was the color of cinnamon and had the most beautiful soul I have ever seen. Being a Husky he was a wonderful companion and protector for our children. Who also miss him tramendously.My 4 year old daughter talks about him daily. We had been told by the shelter that they had recieved a call about a malnurished dog tied to the bumper of a truck. I immediately adopted him. When I entered our home he jumped over the coffee table and landed in my husbands lap. This is how he got his name. 8 months later he started to become very ill. With constant boughts of vomiting and bloody diahrrea. After several tests by our vet it was determined that he had cancer. We did every treatment availible but nothing helped. His disease was just too far progresseed. The shelter had no record on him due to his abandonment. After months of treatments we could no longer let him suffer the pain of his illness. We had him put to sleep. With his last breath, he mustered the strength to look up and give me one of his famous lovies(kisses. A a tail wave. I believe he wanted to be done hurting. I have yet to adopt another dog, for I miss my "Spazzie" so much that it hurts too much to see another dog. I hope that the short time he spent with us, he loved us as much as we loved him. Always in our hearts, thoughts, and prayers. If reincarnation exists I hope he would choose us for we all miss him sooo much. He was loved and is still loved! A dog is not just a dog, but a friend, sibling, 4 legged child,confidont,and even a canine soul mate. Be good to your pups. They deserve every ounce of love you can give them. Even if it is for a short time.

Your sudden passing has left me sad and alone. I loved you every single day and will miss you dearly. You were my Gentle Ben and the best husky ever! I love you and miss you forever.

Tiff I did not know you as a puppy I got to know you whne you where a big girl and I fell In love with you. I will miss the walks we would take and your bark and the way you where with a thunder strom. I know you are in a better place Joe miss you so much he had you when he was 9 years old. We Love you And miss you Tiffy Girl. Love Always You dad And mary.

How can I ever begin to describe the love I had for my little Tiva. She was the best friend I could ever have, and she stayed right next to me loyally untill the final minutes. I cannot wait to see her again someday, and will always feel blessed that she was part of my life, and I was part of hers. She came to me in the form of a present my high school senior year, and although we had another husky Tally who is still with us, she was always the baby because she never really got that big at all, and always looked like a little baby dog. When my brother and I moved out of my parents house into our own places, she came with me. And she was always the most loving soul Ive ever known. She could do no wrong in my eyes, even though she did her share of mischief. About 2 years ago, a doctor found a mammary lump and said she needed it removed. Well as we found out over the next couple years she needed alot more as it was cancer that was spreading inside her body. Im sorry ! Tiva that we couldnt get rid of it, and I know on that last day no matter how much I said I wasnt going to do it, you let me know it was time. In fact, as we were at the vet, you started to go on your own, and I never got my last kiss. I will see you again someday sweetie.

When you came into our lives the second time, you were very sick. We spent six months taking the best care of you that we possibly could. You finally decided that it was time to go. Letting that happen was the hardest and saddest thing I have every had to do. Godspeed our wonderful friend, until we meet again. We love you and miss you more than you can imagine!

Love,
Mom, Dad, Casey and Jenna

My beloved Sindari crossed the Rainbow Bridge on August 7, 2005. Sindari was The Greatest of Great Pyrenees and the big love of my life for almost 13 years. He was my protector my guardian, he was The King. I miss him so much my heart is broken into a million pieces. Until we meet over the Rainbow Bridge my love wait for me and greet me with Nikita and Casey. I love you with all my heart Sindari, my Hugga Head.

Sadly missed by his brothers Yasha, Yuri & Lokai and sister Quinn.

Love your Mommy Bev

Rana came to us on January 18, 2003 from TOTTSHR. She was a beautiful 7 year old red and white with one blue eye and one parti brown and blue eye. Rana was in foster care with Bev Shane one of the volunteers from TOTTSHR who took such good care of her before she was adopted and loved her so much. From the first day she entered our home she went straight to the den which became her room. She was such a good dog and knew that she was loved from the minute she came into our lives. Bev told me about her background which made me want to give Rana everything she never had. Bev said she was so happy that Rana came to us and that Rana finally got her forever home. Rana never left her room except to go for walks with me every morning down Patriots Path. Then when we returned she would go straight back into her room. She was so happy in there. She just enjoyed being peaceful and quiet. Her favorite pastime was lying on her fur rug and never wanting to go outside except for potty. She had her food brought to her and always had her water bowl in there.

It took almost 2 years before she would leave her room and come into the kitchen. In the past month she started to come into the kitchen when we were having lunch or dinner and then she came in while I would cook dinner and I called her my new sous chef - she was always bhind me looking for handouts and then little by little came into the kitchen and started to lay down under the table which was a first. I used to call her to come in the yard and run with me but she was content just to stay in her room. Sometimes she would suprise me and come in the yard, walk around then go into the fish pond to cool off - but would never go into the pool - just enjoyed the pond. She went for her daily walk to Patriots Path which was just around the corner from where we lived. We met so many dogs for her to get to know. In the beginning she was so afraid but little by little she enjoyed the dogs and more so their owners. Then when we finished our walk she could not wait to go back home! . We had her for almost two and one half years before she came down with an auto-immune disease which finally took her away from us. She was diagnosed in March 2005 and died in June. The vet tried everyway to save her but this disease just ravaged her body inside and out. She died peacefully with my brother and me kneeling down next to her kissing her and hugging her and telling her how much we loved her and that she could let go now and that God was going to take care of her forever. She was my heart and soul. She was my companion to whom I could talk too and she would just listen. I still can't believe that she has left me. I know one day we will be together when I cross over the Rainbow Bridge she will be waiting for me.

Godspeed my beloved Rana and wear your silver harness with pride.

With all our love forever, Mommy, Ralph and Grandma

When I was a young boy I always wanted a dog. My mother and sister were deathly afraid of animals, however, so that never happened. I always had that attachment to dogs though, an attachment that I never lost. People used to ask me questions about dogs even before I ever had one of my own. I developed a theory of my own that all dogs needed to know why they existed. They needed a job.

I was told several years ago by someone I know well and respect and who has been in dogs her whole life, that she believes every dog has something to teach you, you just have to find out what that something is. This has always stayed with me and I always am looking to learn from a dog, especially one of my own.

As I drove home tonight, something got through my thick scull. Maybe my theory of finding the job for each dog really is interlinked with the belief that each dog can teach you something. Maybe their job is being a teacher.

Over the last month or so, Harley has been acting a little stranger than usual. Normally he would be one of the first dogs upstairs and in his crate at night when it was time to come in. Over the last month though he would wait on the deck and when I would go out to see where he would be I could see he wanted to play. I would take a couple of minutes and wrestle with him on the deck. Then I would say ok Harley let's go in and I would give him a cookie and he would run up the steps. The last few days I couldn't get him to go in his kennel in the morning. He would just sit there on our deck steps. Then I would show him a lead and he would duck right into it, tail wagging, I would walk him to the kennel and he would sit there and I would take it off him. Today I told him to sit and shake and he responded as happily as could be.

When we would go to dog shows or sledding or to rescue events or even to friends houses it was never right to bring Harley. Harley definitely had some bad food issues and did not like to be grabbed and for this reason it was not worth the risk to bring him anywhere. I always thought to myself that there has to be a job or a reason for this dog to be alive. Sometimes the reason is staring you in the face and you don't see it. With all his faults, I believe Harley could have been a great obedience dog. But I guess today I realized that Harley was an outstanding teacher. He taught me as much as anyone about this breed and a lot about myself. We were told by many people in the breed that Harley should be put down but I would never listen. If I had I would have missed so much.

Harley and I though had gotten to be good friends. I was probably his only friend and the only one he really trusted. I really got to understand him and I really learned to love him. I would tell him to sit on the steps and I would say to him, " Who's the baddest mother f!@#*&$er?" He would always tap me with his paw and say "woow".

When I went to bring the dogs in this evening I found Harley had passed during the day. He appeared to have died in his sleep. I will miss you Harley! Thanks for the lessons!

My dog Nikita was a husky. We had her for 10 years.This poor dog went through so much.In about April she had started acting funny she quit eating and wouldn't move. So my Mom had called the vet we take her to all the time and we had the feeling he was gonna say shes geting old and to put her down. Well we found this awesome vet in Mullica Hill and it turned out she had diabetes. They kept her over night next day we went back she was fine. Tears came to out eyes over night she was 100% better. We had taken her to the vet last may and the Dr. thought she had a tumor in her eye. They had to remove it.Luckily it was Second to the diabetes. Then a few months went by and she turned blind. She got better. Then this last time we took her to the vet she had Osteosarcoma (Bone Cancer). There was only one option to amputate her leg, but it was too risky because she was blind and had one eye....Sadily on January 22, 05 we had to put her to sleep. Nakita will always be in our hea! rts forever.

We lived in Pamona California. I was only a baby, And wolfgang would pretect me like when I was in my swing he wouldn't let my mom take me out of my swing.

But one day we were moving and we asked our next door naighbor if he could watch wolfgang intill we get back. Well our next door naighbor said ok, When we came back for him, it turns out our old naighbor set him to free of the chain and we never saw him again and the reason why Im writing one is because he is about 16 years old. I would think he past away by now.But if not he is a male, Black and white, blue eyes very beautiful old looking though if you find him please call (360)-794-1069 thanks. I would have a pic but the last litte pic i had in my locket somehow fell out. I hope he is ok. wolfgang I love you were ever you are.

We Miss You Nikki! Scruffy had her puppies on 2-35-05 and even though they were four males, we named the fist born Nikki.

As a foster home for this rescue, we see the worst stories of the worst.Yogi's was one of misfortune, he came into rescue as a young man after being abused and neglected and was adopted out and then returned after several years for no fault of his own. We had a hard time here understanding how after several years anyone could return such a sweet boy at the tender young age of 5 years. We didn't understand it because he was the perfect dog. So I was his TOTT foster home and although he only spent a few weeks here before being adopted again, he taught us so much. Yogi was subject to one of my dogs who didn't particularly like other adult dogs, and took it all in stride. He never started a fight or raised a lip and always stayed right where I needed him to when keeping the two of them seperated. He was the perfect dog.

The day he got adopted I will never forget, it was like it happened yesterday. He met this family with small children and just melted for them, he was asleep and comfortable on thier kitchen floor within the first few minutes of meeting them. He just seemed to "fit." The family lived on a very busy roadway and had no yard...and while I stood out front with other rescue members we were all frightened by this road...it made us nervous in some strange way. So, we drilled this family about siberian safety, doorway safety, we even had them put signs on the doors while we were there to remind the small kids to be careful when opening the doorways. The words we spoke to this family still echo in my head, "if he gets out on this road he WILL DIE."

We wanted Yogi to be safe, he deserved it because he was the perfect dog. I don't know about fellow foster homes, but I always feel a deep sad feeling when I leave a foster dog in thier new home, like they may feel I abandoned them as in many cases they have been abandoned before by previous owners...it is the hardest thing for me about being a foster home. So as with all other adoptions, I felt this guilt in my heart when we left him, even though he looked very at ease and peacefully comfy. Then the call came the very next day after the adoption.....the family called me and said Yogi had gotten out of the back door and gotten hit by a car on the road right in front of the house and he had died. One whole day after being adopted...how could this have happened?

That was one of the worst phone calls I have ever had to take in my life...it just didn't seem real or fair. And my first thought was that he had ran to look for us, his foster family that had left him there the day before...my own guilt krept in quickly. He did not deserve this as he was the perfect dog.

Yogi has since served as a learning story to so many of our adopters to the stories and examples of typical siberian ways, his legacy lives on in the story that we tell all future adopters of just what could happen if they are not super careful everyday. And there is probably not one siberian owner out there that can say they have never had one of thier dogs escape...it is what siberians do....by the grace of God that they were not also hurt or killed. I struggled with why Yogi had to die...what was the reason? The best I have been able to come up with is he died to leave a legacy that would help us educate future adopters with his story for years to come. And as one fellow rescuer and friend said to me who was also having trouble understanding this tragedy..."maybe he died because his time here on earth was done as he truly was the perfect dog."

Gone but never forgotten my dear Yogi Bear....I can't believe it has been almost a year already....

My dog Nakita, was very sick, she quit eating, didn't move it hurt us to see her like that, she had diabetes, and had to get insulin day and night, it was horrible. I miss her so much, This last time we took her to the vet she had Osteosarcoma(bone cancer) He gave her 3-6 months I remember it so clearly I came home from our school dance and we had to put her down, I hated it , I remember that night she cried all night I cried with her it I slept with her and held her all night, the next morning we made a box to put her she is up in heaven with all the other huskies.I cried the whole way to the vet and I watched he drift away , I gave her one last hug and a kiss, I miss her so much. Rest in Peace baby girl I Mommy , Daddy, and Alicia love you so very much.

Kaya was the mother of my dog Rocc and very special to us all.She was always sweet to us when we approached her.I have stayed in contact with Kaya and her family for 8 years...Just a few days ago someone decided they didnt like her and poisoned her.She will be greatly missed and forevr loved...We miss you Kaya

I miss Dusty. I knew her 8 years she was a good friend to me. I know she misses me too. She was a Golden Retriever 15 when she died at the animal hospital with brain cancer.

Daddy says Zen was the “sweetest Husky boy that ever lived.” We thought we could never love another dog that much again after our first husky, Sebastian, died but wiithin days of meeting Zen, maybe even hours, he taught us how to love again. Zen loved everyone but he especially loved children. Once when we had three young girls visiting, he went to his toy basket and one by one choose a toy to give to each of them.
He was so gentle. If we had to do something his disliked (like clear his ears or trim the hair between the pads of his feet), his usual way to try to get us to stop was to kiss our hands. Zen taught us that life is an adventure and each day brings new surprises and after living outside for ten years, everything inside was a new experience for him.
After four years in our home, he still explored parts of the house that he rarely saw. If a closet door or the laundry room was left open, he would go in a check everything out and then come running out with a look on his face as if to say, “I was not in there!” Zen adored going for rides, sticking his head in snowbanks, making a lot of noise if another dog walked into the vet’s waiting room, running upstairs as soon as he heard the word “bedtime”, and taking naps with dad every morning when Mom went to work. Zen still would jump from sofa to sofa, play with his babies every night, enjoy long walks and ask for another as soon as we returned. We will miss you every day. We love you more than words can express. Each day with you was a gift that we cherished.

Benjamin Michael Carlin was my first puppy. My mom never let me have one until this summer I went and got him myself and instantly everyone fell in love with him so of course i was allowed to keep him. He had all the energy and love a puppy could hold in his brownish black puppy body. Whenever you were bored all you had to do was whistle and he would be there to entertain you and love you all you wanted without rest. He never snapped at anyone, never barked at a stranger and loved everyone like they were his family. Taken from us at only 10 months of age, I feel as if we were all robbed of knowing and having the pleasure of having such a wonderful dog in our lives. He wasn't just a dog.... he was a member of the family.

Cola...
Our arms ache to hold you again. I wish we were there with you, my dear friend. Time goes on slowly, since you been gone. We can't understand what went wrong. Our are broken, we miss you so. We wish that you didn't have to go. I guess God had other plans for you. He wanted to look in to your eyes of blue. Now we know your up above. And to you Cola we send our love. You were Mommy's pride and joy. Cola you were daddy's boy. So at the end, we'll meet again. So it's goodbye for now our dear friend.

With a very sad heart, I regret to inform everybody of the passing of our beloved family member, "Charlie". After only nine years of life he had a peaceful death during a
mid-morning nap on a glorious spring-like day in his southern California backyard. The companionship both at home and numberious trips and adventures will be his legacy.

Charlie had more trail miles then all of us combined both on road, snow and trail, mostly
acompanied, occassionally solo. He climbed many Sierra Nevada mountian peaks, braved many cold water lakes, and gave many wild ceatures, small and large, a run for their money. Charlie hearded and watched over our human pack on many hikes and in our daily lives.

The Spirit for the outdoors was so very strong in Charlie's heart, he lived everyday like it was the last and at times I felt so guilty for being too tired and lazy to take him out for
walk. As a family member he kept our hearts warm with a playful nature, as a companion he followed us from room to room always comforting with his Loving presence.

Charlie will be missed so much by his family and friends, he was my best friend.

The day I lost you a part of me died with you. A part that I can never replace. My life will never be the same without you in it. Your beauty and grace under the most dire of circumstances never faultered. You were friend and companion, lover of children and best friend. Your family and I miss you greatly and tears still flow freely when I think of the loss that has occured. I cherish the memories you have left us and you will live in our hearts until we can come to join you. Your family misses you more than words can express.You are forever my Sky Girl.

Daddy and Family

Niota, when you were born it was the most breath taking site for me because it was my first time seeing puppies born, and you were the first born. Little did I know how so attached I was going to get as you grew.You watched TV with me you slept with me and you were only a month old!! Yes you were a spoiled one, with those big blue eyes and that devilish look I knew you were going to be my little baby. Then the worst thing that could happen did, a stray puppie with parvo got into our yard, even with your vaccinations you were just not strong enough to ward off the infection. You were only 2 months old and I did everything I could and so did the vets but the infection was just too harsh for your little body. To this day I still cry for you, to come lay beside me and comfort me, I know you know my body is getting worse and I stay in bed now more than I want to. Your mom, dad and brothers and sisters miss you too, I love on them and talk to them about you all the time and I know they understand where you are..at Rainbow Bridge, where you have met your other brother Natoma. Natoma, sweetheart I wish I had seen those mean little boys hurt you. But it all happened so quickly and I am so sorry I didnt see what had happened. You were just a little baby and even though they caused you to leave me and made me cry I hope you can forgive them because they were not raised around love,kindness and attention so they didnt understand that what they did to you was wrong, they thought it was funny. But I didnt and I lost you and it hurt me tremandously. I hope some day you can forgive me too because I couldnt protect you from evil . I love you my little one and I know you are playing and are with Niota and my mom all your new friends you have made and you are happy and trusting once again...at Rainbow Bridge. I will see you all again soon I promise & I love you so much.

You came to us, fearful, uncertain
Your Life was in the balance.
You were beautiful and you won our hearts.
We took you in, with love and awe at your sweetness
We only wanted to help ease the pain. To Heal....

Baby, we didn't know how broken you were,
beyond anything time or this world could mend.
We had to let you go, Our hearts broken as well.

With eyes like rivers rushing to the sea, we
released you with pain and love to that
Sacred Abyss of All Love in Whom all hurt
sorrow and fear find healing eternal.

In Love's tender embrace, all is made well now.
You are free. You are joy. You are Peace,
At long last, You hear clearly now the real
Master's Voice and eager with boundless bliss
you hasten to meet that call, bounding and free.

Run, Baby! Run Wild! Run Free! We'll join you
there on the field at the other side of the bridge
and Dance together, the Dance of Life with
Love Himself. Forever, Baby. Forever.
We Love you; We always will...
aaaaaaahoooooOOOOOOOO!

My dear sweet Pebbles, born on Jan. 5th, and died only a little more than 3 weeks later on Jan. 31st. She was the light in my eyes for those few short weeks. We have her mom and dad, Sweetie and Bam-Bam, and I had been hoping for a kitten for a while. When teeny little premature Pebbles was born, she was everything to me. I also work in a husky rescue, in Tennessee, and not even my beloved dogs could mess with my kitten. Pebbles was born on my bed, and I discovered her and her mom under the covers first. When I screamed with excitement, my boyfriend Steve thought something had happened and come running. He found me crying with a tiny little wet kitten in the palm of my hand. Pebbles was my baby from there on. Pebbles opened her eyes and the first thing she ever saw in this world was me. The night after she opened her eyes, she crawled up the side of her baby basket, up into my bed with me, and slept on the top of my head in my hair instead of with her mom. She was my angel. The day she died, I went to her basket as usual and spoke to her like i did every morning, and she did not respond. I picked her up, and she was cold to the touch, so I rushed with her in my hand in her blanket to her vet. She died shortly after arriving in my hands, after I told her for the last time I loved her. I miss my baby so much. Sweetie and Bam-Bam had four more kittens a few months later, and now Pebbles' little brother Storm has helped to fill the space she left behind, but noone can take her place. Storm looks so much like my little Pebbles, and has a lot of her qualities, and adores me the same way she did. I think Storm coming along and being the runt and small like she was is Pebbles' way of sending me back a part of her. I see her in her little brother. Now he is my pride and joy, but she still has her own little spot where she was buried in my side yard, with flowers all around her. Storm and I visit her and put flowers in her kitty cat vase all the time. I will see my Pebbles again at the kitty side of the Rainbow Bridge. Until then I will always think of her.
-Amanda Howard in Tennessee

Pebblypoo- noone will ever take your place. Mommy and Daddy miss you baby, and I wish your little brothers and sisters could have seen you. You'd have been a great big sister. I love you babydoll, we all do. Your mommy Sweetie, daddy Bam-Bam, dog brother Prince, dog sister MiMi, and your human parents.
Love for always, Your human mommy, Amanda

When I first saw you, I knew that I wanted you. But I didn't know if I could take care of you and I wanted to give you the very best. Of course you were too busy checking out all the other dogs in your pen that you didn't notice me come up. But that's ok. You were always a social butterfly even from the very beginning.

I adopted you at 7 months and you were always a perfect little boy. Your antics always made me laugh and I could never punish you when you at my homework, my shoes, or my clothes. I didn't matter. After a while you stopped and the only thing you went for were my papers. My professors used to look at me and laugh but I always brought the evidence with me and I learned to always safe a copy.

You had just turned 2 and you were almost calming down. A puppy still, but more relaxed and mellow. Then again, for a husky, you were an angel. I know thatyou didn't mean to cross the street. I'm sorry I wasn't fast enough to stop you. I'm sorry we weren't able to bring you to the vet fast enough.

I miss you. I still miss you. And you will always be my first husky. Don't forget me Thun and I look forward to seeing you again when the time comes. I love you, Thun...always

In memory of Cognac. To help other huskies find the kind of loving home that he had.

The hole you left in my life is so much bigger than any you dug in the yard. You were my friend and I miss you.

Nicky was a Minture Schuazer. He was 18 yrs old when he died. I woke up one morning and I went out of the room I slept in at my granparents house. Nicky usally is there waiting for me, i went over into his bed and he would't move. I got my grandma and she felt for a heart beat but there was none. I was 5 yrs old when Nicky died. I all ways went to her house and played with him, I grew up with Nicky. He loved to take bathes and play with his ball. If he had his ball in his mouth and you said "Nicky drop it" he wouldn't. But if yopu said "Nicky want a bath" he would drop it in a heart beat and run to the door. But if he didn't pass on I would have never met her new dog Sadie, aslo a Minture Schauzer. But we still miss Nicky very much.

Yukon Jak dubbed "Grizz" fought a brave fight with cancer and inspired a book in his name called "Grizz's Story" and inspired us to donate all of the proceeds to companion animal cancer research and treatment. His story is one of great courage and the will to live. We followed every avenue trying to beat his cancer while still preserving his quality of life and he bravely withstood every challenge. We were with him every step and in the face of such adversity, he was always there wagging his tail and yodeling "I love you" to us and the people desperately trying to save him. He is and always will be our little 3 legged hero. We will always be proud of you Grizz and we will always cherish your life and your love. You taught us the true meaning of unconditional love. We kept our promise to you when it became too much. Remember sweetheart, you and God had the final victory, not the cancer. Wait for us at Rainbow Bridge. God Bless you and keep you safe. Say HI to Mom for us. She will watch over you until we can be together again. With all our love. Mommy, Daddy and Sarge

Elsa was our earth angel-cat, adopted 20 years ago from Forgotten Felines, a stray rescue group. Sunny pursonality, always a loving lap cat with a warm purr to cheer you up...as beautiful inside as outside. Will be dearly missed.

My dearest Alexei was a true husky. She dug up my gardens, caught birds in mid flight, climbed fences and darted out doors. She had the boundless energy of a pup her whole life. And a loyality that will never be forgotten. She was our first baby. She had us all to herself for four years. Then as our children were born, she joyfully welcomed them into our pack. She was wonderful and tolerant and gentle with each of our three childern. We shared nine joyful years with her. She will be so missed.

We miss our beloved Tundra. She would have been 15 years old this June. No one misses her more than me.

A best friend, smart and playful. She acted like a pup last night, jumpimg and happy. She died in her sleep of natural causes. Pure bred Siberian husky, Grey and White. We have one of her pups Nikko, who knows she's gone.

We Love You Tundra! Nick names Tun, Nuggets, Nuggs, Nugeela's and answered to all. Bye Tun.

No one could have a better friend - We love and miss you.

My Best Buddy Konyak,
You were a handsome malamute,your eyes and markings were so beautiful. You had no life your first year. Someone beat you, starved you and left you to die. Thanks to a wonderful shelter worker, she nursed to back to health. When you came to me I was more scared than you. You did everything you could to torture me. You smashed through the window, chewed the bottom of the crate and destroyed the carpeting, but I promised you were home. You became the most wonderful dog. I gave you the security you needed and you gave me all your love. In the 4 years you had with me I know you were happy. When I was told you were in liver failure the last week we spent together was so hard for me. I know you left me to go to a better place and in my heart I know you had 4 great years, but I miss you so much and I am so sorry that we could not do anything to make you better. At least your last week you had all the chicken and treats you wanted. Mom will see you at the rainbow bridge someday, until then know I love you and miss you.

My lovely Nino boy. When I first met you in the shelter, I was so upset at the site of that eye of yours! I came back the next day and pulled you to be my foster dog.I had no idea that day of how much you would teach me.We got the eye situated, you had glaucoma and had lost function, but that did not stop you by far!We all laughed as you would take turns around the corner a little too close and bump into the wall, but once again that didn't stop you!You were such a beautiful and serene boy, little did anyone in Tails of the Tundra know, but you were to be my foster failure.You sang such beautiful songs to us when we would tell you "no bite"...what I would do to be able to hear those songs once again.

We had you for a little more than two months when the lump appeared. I had a sinking feeling when I saw it, but tried to stay optimistic. It turns out you had a very aggressive type of cancer that could not be cured, you finally met something that would stop you.We made you comfortable and when the day that I dreaded more than any other so far came, we knew and so did you foster sisters.We all stayed around you and lay with you all day. You ate everything that a dog shouldn't and enjoyed it all!

We had to take you for your last and final ride here on earth and I swear it was the longest 15 minute ride in my life.You passed very peacefully in my arms as I told you how sorry I was through my tears that we couldn't have helped you.You were only about 3 years old and I only had you for exactly 3 months of that time, but it was my pleasure and my honor to love you for those 3 months.

I can't believe it is almost a year since you left us, your picture is still on my fridge and I kiss it often. I know I will see you at the Rainbow Bridge my love, until then please run and have fun with my Shadow who passed before you and get ready to sing me those wonderful songs again!

Lost but never forgotten Nino, you are always in my mind.

For our beloved "Yukon". You was our first, our baby boy. Your the one that got us started in our love for the Siberian Husky. We love & miss you and there has not been a day thats gone by that we haven't thought about you. We know your better off where you are now with no more pain from the arthritis and diabetes that took you from us. Thank you for the years of joy you gave us, you might be gone from this earth but you will live forever in our hearts.

Our beloved Rocky Bear Bear crossed over on 1/18/03 two days after his 3rd birthday of a grand mal seizure on route to the emergency hospital. Rocky was a friend of a TOTT member that has Yasha and Yuri who are Rocky's brothers. We miss our baby boy and will never ever forget him. There is another star in the sky tonight Rocky and it has your name on it. Your star will shine bright in our hearts and minds forever. We love you Baby Bear.

Love your Mommy and Daddy Rita and Chuck Fritsch and Amanda

Dear Caesar,
We didn't have you for an entirely long time. We adopted you from the shelter at the age of 12 and you died at the age of 15. I knew I wouldn't have you as long as I would've liked but the time even if it was short was a time most precious to my heart. I will never forget you and your spirit and zest for living touched our hearts. Your spirit and will to live in the end was amazing. One thing is for sure you didn't want to go, but your spirit wanted to outlive you body. I still remember holding you like a cuddlie white teddy bear. I finally got your pic scanned so I can show everyone what a beautiful breathtaking boy you were. You are never forgotten in my heart and there isn't a day goes by that I don't think of you.

I know I will definitely see your angelic face on rainbow bridge. I know you have met your previous owner up there cause he had cancer and left you but they loved you too. I hope in the midst of chasing all the kitties up there that you will think of me and I hope someday I get to reunite with you to treasure those sweet husky kisses that I miss so dearly here. To see your beautiful blue eyes to hold your beautiful face and to kiss your fluffy cheeks. To see you pounce around bowing like you used to do. Sweetie the day you died I know that you gave me a sign in the sky. There was a cloud that resembled you running letting me know you were able to move again. I apologize for not being able to do more for you in the end except for giving you all the love that I can. I felt so helpless and hopeless that I couldn't end it.

Caesar AKA Newt I love you dearly and we miss you soo much it hurts. We will never ever forget you!

Hugs to my baby

You Are Not Alone
By Bobbi Talisman

In times of trouble spirits come together, far and near,
To offer comfort, hope, and love to someone very dear
Whose long-time friend is ailing, injured… somehow not quite right; To draw a brighter morning from a bleak and lonely night.

The spirits’ names are many--family member, colleague, friend-- And each does something special to achieve their common end: To make a time of worry somewhat easier to bear; To share a heavy burden; to say, “I’m always there.”

So let the spirits’ growing power miracles command;
Let the healing energy pour forth from your hand
Into the loving, furry friend whose life you hold so dear--
And know the caring spirits wish you none but joyful tears.

But if your friend is called to leave the cradle of your arms, To take a place in heaven, evermore secure from harm, The spirits’ work continues, helping you to mend your heart. And not until the healing’s done shall you and spirits part

You were my pillow, you were my blanket, you were my shoulder to cry on and my friend to share happiness with. The Collie made you sweet and the Husky made you ornery. But I loved you from the first day at the pound to the last day in the hospital. Your ashes are with me always and your hand painted portrait will remain on my wall with your collar on top. Take care of your little husky brother "Lucky", and your big Rottweiler brother "Sharky" and your little sister "Ono" who were waiting for you at Rainbow Bridge. Your little sister Goldie (Golden Retriever) and little brother Bandit (Husky) still miss you and love you, as I will always.

I love you so much and i can't get over you. I want you back more than you know. I miss you so much it hurts. I have alwasy wante dthe very best for you and would settle for no less and im so sorry I had to put you down but i couldnt watch u suffer anymore. But it doesnt change the fact that I loved you and i will miss you so much, no dog can replace you. You were my puff and you always will be if your heaven please stay with rocco and grandpa till I see you again I know they will take care of you. I cant wait to see you again puff. I love you. Visit Shalimar's tribute.

Ashley was a wonderful husky who filled our hearts with love for 14 years.

Our chocolate lab, Coco, died of a seizure. We really miss her!

Dakota was a sweet dog. He is missed badly by me and my son, even my birds miss singing to him. At least you are not in pain anymore. We love you Dakota. I hope my mom is with you. I will see you some day my friend.

For My Beautiful Girl

The first day I saw you
Young, innocent and free
You waddled to the front
And said, “pick me, pick me, pick ME!”

I smiled and picked you up
I had no way of knowing
That as you licked my face
It was leadership you were showing!

You’d look at me and squat to see
If I was faster than you
But your four feet were way to quick
So, the newspapers always stayed new!

Teething was a trying time
As your Auntie will attest
But I’d go through it all again
If only you weren’t at rest.

Wandering was your favorite thing
No gate or wall seemed high enough
If ours was too tall, you’d find a way
To use the neighbor’s beside us.

You were patient with all of our moves
And all your new “pack mates”
You adjusted fine as long others knew
Of your stubborn Alpha traits.

You loved each toy you had
But sharing just wasn’t for you
If each of you had a bone
You’d always end up with two!

Ah, yes, our times could be trying
But love we shared, there’s no denying

I’d do it all again my girl
To see you stand proud and true
If only I could hear you sing
“A woo-woo-woo, woo-woo!”

Scrappy we miss you everyday... your kiss in the morning and just your presence in the home. May you rest in peace till we see you again. We love you. Sue, Allen, Scott and Kathryn

I miss you so much buddy. I'm so sorry this happened to you so tragically and unecessarily. There is not a day that goes by that I dont think of you and miss you dearly. You are always in my heart. (My dog Gino a chihahua was killed walking in our backyard by a hazlet, nj women illegally breeding huskys).

A tribute and memorial to a much missed tabby and white male domestic pet cat. As he was born and lived in Cheshire, he was a real Cheshire Cat! Sam was probably the most spoiled and indulged cat that ever lived. He was a greatly loved member of our family for nearly 20 years. Visit his site which is dedicated to preserving his memory by telling anyone who's interested in him.

I love and miss you my beautiful and beloved sasha. I rescued you from that cage you were in using you for just a breeding dog, and the day you rode in the back of the truck with me I could tell that you were so happy and thankful to be free. you and my beautiful male husky wolf got together and had me 7 beautiful babies, 6 boys and 1 girl, i'm sorry that I could not have rescued you sooner and maybe had got you to the vet and possible had got to that cancer and maybe saved your life or gave you longer to be with us. I didn't know a whole lot about dogs or what kind of sickness they get. i'm glad sasha that I gave you at least 1year of happiness and freedom, and you gave me such joy and pleasure and happiness, you also gave me all these babies, I could not keep all of them but I kept your only daughter who attached herself to me and my husband from the get go. I could not keep all of your babies, I cried when I had to let them go to good homes I hope, but your daughter is so special and precious she's a lot like you and I named her Nikita she doesn't have your color but she has your eyes. when we came home from our trip and had to pick you up and put you in the car we knew you wouldn't be coming back, you licked my hand all the way down the road like you were telling me it was all right, then when we got you inside and he gave us three options, I didn't know what to do, I was crying so hard we finally decided to let you go and to be put to sleep, my only regret was not staying with you until you went off to sleep, my last look at you was leaving the room and trying to tell you goodbye and in a way I think you were telling me it was ok to leave you, you were always so happy to see us and greet us and loved to be petted,we know you enjoyed your time with us I just hated to let you go so soon, to this day you are still in our hearts and mind we love you and miss you sooo much our beloved sasha, we hope to see you again soon rick-debbie, and wolf and nikita braswell.

Misha, "Leader of the Pack"
Nov 1993 - June 2003

Misha, our first of the “Fantastic Four”. With his laid back modified Alpha image he saw no need to rule. He had the demeanor of a teddy bear, but easily walked with a Presence, Authority and Poise. He challenged the show ring, but had higher self-motivated images in his sights. He was a when the mood struck weight puller, but a true leader of the team. He was an innovator, an anticipator, and best of all, my favorite and my Buddie.

Odin never won the best of anything at a dog show, he never pulled anyone from a burning building nor did he ever free anyone from the freezing clutches of an avalanche or the rubble of a collapsed building. Odin was just a normal, everyday dog. He took up space, ate a lot and he left more hair on the furniture and carpeting that we ever imagined he could possess on his entire body, but Odin was our dog and he took very good care of us---he made sure that we got up bright and early for our morning coffee (and co-incidentally his food) and no matter what the weather, he made sure that we got outdoors and exercised a bit. He would even warn us occasionally if someone were lurking outside (usually the neighbor walking her dog but his intentions were good.) He led a long life for such a big dog, and we were incredibly fortunate to be able to share that life with him. He added more to our lives than we can even begin to express in words. We miss him terribly.

Oh my big boy. How I miss you.

I find it so hard to sleep at night buddy, now that you're not here. We were together from the time you left your birth mom's side. In the early days she would even come visit you occasionally, remember?

We had such fun, you and I. We did everything together. You slept on my bed right up till last year, when your arthritis made it hard for you to jump on the bed. We used to camp in Algonquin together, sometimes just you and me. You saw me through some really tough times in my life, the worst being the death of my infant son. Oh buddy, I hate that you're not still being with me. I hate hearing noises at night and you're not there to reassure me. I really thought we'd be together always.

Your last year with me was unhappy for you I know. You were old, and sore, and along came a baby. I know you felt displaced, but I still loved you as much as ever. I was so busy with the baby and I know some days you didn't understand why it couldn't be just you and me again. Even still, you were so gentle with her.

I saw the pain in your eyes on Jan 16 and we both knew it was your time. We saw it coming for awhile, but I kept denying it and putting it off. I didn't want you to go. But nothing worked for you anymore. You could barely stand. It broke my heart. I stayed with you the whole time you faded off to sleep.

I am so sure you really did come to me in my sleep a couple of days after and tell me it was ok, and let me ruffle your fur and kiss you one last time. It felt so so real. I knew it would be over when I opened my eyes. I tried so hard not to open them and wake because you told me you couldn't stay once I woke up. How I miss you my friend. It was you and me for about a decade and a half. And now it's me and missy K. She misses you so much too boy. I know you didn't think she liked you because she kept pulling at you. But she really did. She looks at your pictures all the time. She knows you were her boy too.

You was, is, and always will be my boy. I love you.

Heidi was a beautiful and fun-loving dog. Our family had a rough time with her during her life. When we had to transfer to another area, and had to rent a house, our landlord wouldn't allow us to have pets. We were miserable without her, but my dad convinced our landlord to let us have her! My grandparents went to the Humane Society and got her back for us until we were able to come and get her. From then until she passed away, she lived happily with us. She brought us joy and happiness, even in her old age when she considerably slowed down. We will always love Heidi and still miss her so very much.

My beloved Husky passed away last november, I knew him scince the day i cam home from the hospital, he was 13 years old and suffering from spreading cancer, he was my baby and i loved him to pices! I miss him soooo much,
~hugs and kisses to my baby yukon
~Alexa

She came to us three years ago and soon became the center of our lives. Now we are lost without her, but her spirit will always survive.

To Natasha,

Beauty without vanity
Strength without insolence
Courage without ferocity
And all the virtues of Man
Without his vices

She was our friend
Our partner
Our love.
We were her life
Her love
Her leaders.
She was ours
Faithful and true
To the last beat of her heart.
We owe it to her to be worthy of such devotion.

Dear Mercury,
When you first arrived in foster care, you were a very sweet boy. None of us knew about your past but we were looking forward to your future. When you went to the vet, we think it reminded you of something from your past. It really changed you. We tried, with every ounce of strength we all had, to make your life better. We are so sorry you dear boy, that we failed to do so. We look forward to seeing you when we get to the Rainbow Bridge.

I picked him up as a 10-11 week old puppy on the off ramp at I-83 and Middletown Rd. It was Jerry and my 15th anniversary. We've never gotten a better present. He was the dog that everyone would love to have - obedient, lovable and smart. He never needed a leash - even on the crowded OC boardwalk - all you needed to say was "stay with us" and he'd stay by our side no matter how badly he wanted to socialize. Losing him was the biggest trauma in our life to this point. We'll never forget him.

Kato, our Siberian Husky passed away yesterday, February 4, 2003, of natural causes. We’re not sure how old he was – 5? 6? 7? 8? Natalie and I had him for three years. We remain grateful to the Siberian Husky rescue people, Scott and Paige Blum and Pat, for taking care of Kato and eventually introducing him to us.

Kato was very recently diagnosed with cancer in the form of tumors in and around his heart. Unfortunately it was not treatable. He also had extremely low thyroid levels (this, at least, was treatable). His symptoms included weakness in his back legs. At the beginning of January he was unable to walk for several days and spent a week in the emergency care section of a local veterinary hospital, The Animal Emergency and Critical Care Service in Langhorne. At that point the diagnosis was tentative and we held out hope that it was wrong, but on January 28 a second ultrasound confirmed that Kato’s heart was affected. The variety of symptoms that he demonstrated had several vet specialists scratching their heads. I can’t help but think this pleased Kato, who liked to keep a certain air of mystery about him.

Kato was walking again when he came home from the hospital and right up until yesterday – minus a one-day return to the hospital on the 27th - he kept an almost normal schedule of walks in the park, walks in the ‘hood, playing with us in the yard and chewing on my arm. He did get tired more easily and liked to stay on his bed and comforter most of the time. The thyroid medication seemed to help him. Natalie and I moved downstairs to be with him at night (anyone who knows Kato, knows he doesn’t do stairs) and he appreciated the company. We also decided to go ahead and spoil our boy by feeding him hamburger, chicken, salmon and the occasional hot dog for variety. He even started talking to us again, especially in the morning when it was time to order up a post-walk breakfast.

At Scott’s suggestion, we tried adding a flax-seed oil and cottage cheese mixture to Kato’s diet. It’s an alternative medicine cancer-fighting remedy. I wish it had more time to work, but even though I can’t report success Kato seemed to like it, at least sometimes.

Natalie and I feel very lucky to have known Kato and to have had the pleasure of his company for the last three years. He taught us to appreciate Huskies in general and Kato in particular.

Our revels now are ended. These our actors,
As I foretold you, were all spirits, and
Are melted into air, into thin air:
And, like the baseless fabric of this vision,
The cloud-capp’d towers, the gorgeous palaces,
The solemn temples, the great globe itself,
Yea, all which it inherit, shall dissolve,
And, like this insubstantial pageant faded,
Leave not a rack behind. We are such stuff
As dreams are made on; and our little life
Is rounded with a sleep.
-The Tempest

September 11th is a day that will always be remembered. It marks a day of tragedy. A day in which we all stood and watched as we were left powerless to stop the horrible events of the day. One year later, the Tails of the Tundra family felt the effects of another tragedy. Up until that day, we did what we could to help you sweet Rendezvous. Your foster families held you deep in their hearts and tried to love away the years of torment which you had endured. Please forgive us for being only human and not having enough to give you to heal your wounded past. One day we will meet you again at the Rainbow Bridge. We'll all see you soon sweet girl, and we love you.

Teaka's family writes to their beloved friend who crossed over the bridge on October 6th, 2002: Teaka ... to the best friend that I ever had. I miss you so much.

My dearest Bear, you came to us on your last day. They had scheduled your final shot for that afternoon. I'm so glad I found you and you found me. During the last year and a half, you brought such joy into all our lives. You leaving has left such a hole in our hearts. I miss the way you would gather up all your toys in your mouth - the ball, the hedgehog, the rope, and the christmas squeaker, and run up to me and woowoo at me 'till I played with you. If you were outside, you would bounce up and down when you heard my car and bark 'till I came and got you, then run a million miles an hour around the house. I wish we could have had one more walk, one more time at the beach, where you knew I was trying to trick you into the water. Even when your sister, Jada, lept in, you knew it was cold and only waided to your ankles. She misses you. She saw you after you left. She looks for you every time we go to your place. I think of you a lot my friend and I know you're running free like you loved to do the few times you got out. The day you passed I had a dream, before I knew you were gone, and we were playing in this immense golden field of wheat with the ball, the frisbee, and no leash. It was so peaceful. And I know now you had come to me to say goodbye. You left in your sleep on a ray of sunshine. I love you and miss you so much. You will be forever remembered and eternally missed.

We adopted Bandit from the humane society. He came to us from an abusive home, yet he trusted us anyhow. The first few nights he was home, he had to sleep on the bed between us. Eventually, he moved to our feet. Then the floor next to our heads was OK. After a while, just being in the same room was OK. The final night he was with us, it was I who went to lay by him. Within his first few weeks with us, he started having severe epileptic seizures. I was so scared, but he just needed medication. Once the dosage was set, he never had another one again. He had no idea how to play or what playing even was. I think we ended up scaring him at first! But eventually, squeakers became his favorite toy. He would prance around with his squeaker gingerly held in his mouth (he had it for over 4 years and never punctured it), and would pounce on it like a cat. He was always able to make me smile, even on really bad days. He did everything he could to please us. We were able to tell when he was naughty though because he would hide in his crate, and when he did come out, his tail and head would be down. But no matter how many times he shredded the garbage, ate food left on the counters (he even got to the donuts I had hidden INSIDE the oven once), or occasionally pooped in the house, I couldn't stay mad at him. He was too cute and would try everything possible to get back into our good graces. He became my best friend, the one who loved me through it all unconditionally. I HATE coming home and finding that he is no longer there to greet me at the door. He was such a momma's boy and everyone knew it, especially me. When I moved from room to room, he was right there with me. He slept on the floor next to me every night and even made sure to sit right next to me every Sunday while I received my weekly shot for M.S. I know we did the right thing because he was sick and no longer himself, but he still gave it his all. He now has crossed the Rainbow Bridge and reunited with his partner in crime, Juneau, so I know he will not be alone. He was my handsome boy and I will never be able to replace him. He was the best dog I could ever ask for and I miss him so much!!!!!!
Thank you, Bandit, for being my best friend for almost 10 years. YOU ARE MISSED, BANDIT (3-10-91 to 9-20-02)

To my dearest Roxy (Roxanne) and Ramsey,

You both started your journey like no other should have. Roxy, you were
weaned and sold at 5 weeks of age, not ready to leave your mother and siblings but better off away from the hardships you would have endured at home. Ramsey, you were brought to my clinic with bite wounds to your head that dented your skull and severe dehydration. You came home to your foster daddy and I so that we could get you back to health. You suffered from seizures and high fevers through your 2 weeks with us and passed on 8-20-02. You gave us so much joy and lost sleep in those 2 wonderful weeks. We showed you the love you needed and so much appreciated. You gave us back that love with your small gentle kisses. Your passing was a godsend. There will be no more seizures and no more fevers to cause you to suffer. You were not meant to stay here long, but to receive all the love you could in your short time.

Roxy,

You came to us 2 days after your brother's passing, not being allowed in your mother's new home. Daddy and I saw you as a way to help us heal and to finish what could not be done with your brother Ramsey. You had so much more "moxy" than your brother which got you into more than you could handle. You would tackle your foster brothers and sisters (Olsen, Noah, Stasia and Matty) and they would play dead allowing you to pull on their ears and tails. Olsen would come walking into the living room with you attached to his neck and gently walk over to daddy and I asking us to please remove you. Stasia would lay with you at night and clean your ears even when you were still eager to get up and go. Noah your cat brother misses your constant tackles and wrestling. He has been wandering the house all day looking for you. Your foster dog siblings are not themselves and still very gentle in their
movements in the house waiting for you to jump out at them. Your "moxy" ended you in the emergency hospital with an accidental bite wound in the chest. We all thought that it would heal with a pressure wrap and medication. What we weren't expecting was the next visit to the emergency hospital to find out why your lung was continuing to fill with fluid. You went to surgery after spending an hour walking and eventually sleeping around my neck. They were optimistic as to you coming home that evening after having chest tubes placed. I was at home awaiting the call to come and get you, the call wasn't what we expected. Daddy and I rushed to the hospital and learned of the hole that had formed from the bruising and fluid buildup. You had arrested twice and had come back. We were there the last time you came back with my lips in your floppy ear telling you I wasn't done with you yet and there were a few spots left on our carpet where you had yet to pee. You looked into my eyes and I knew that you had been waiting for Ramsey to come and guide you. He had finally arrived, you understood that he was much smaller than you and it took him awhile to get there. I also know that you too had to say good-bye since we never said those words to you not expecting what had happened. I know that he came and took you back with him. I want you to know that daddy and I miss you more than words can explain. You left this world not knowing that you were going to be adopted by your daddy and that we had plans for you baby. I know that you're safe and that your brother needed you.

We love you and will never forget what you gave to us
Daddy and Mommy
Olsen, Stasia, Matty and NONOBADKITTYNOAH

Sasha was tragically taken from us 26 July 2002 at 8:20 a.m. She had enjoyed a wonderful morning playing with me, my husband and Echo, her male Husky companion. My husband and I were taking the trash out when Sasha and Echo spotted a dog being walked across the street. They broke down the gate and made a mad dash across the street to play. Echo made it across, but Sasha did not. We rushed her to the vet, but there was nothing we could do. You can not imagine how lonely our home is without her. She was only 7 months old and already a big part of our family. Everyone from our immediate family to everyone that had met her loved her. I miss her playful howl and curious nature. We are looking for another Husky puppy to help us overcome our grief. Echo is very lonely. His once playful nature has been replaced with sighs and depression. He never wants to leave my side, even when I go to work. She will always remain in our hearts forever. Outside our kitchen window we planted a pear tree in tribute - that way we don't see the place where she died, but the place where she lives.

This is my little Casey, he was the best behaved dog I ever had. I lost my beloved Casey to liver cancer in July 1999. I love and miss you so much Casey. Hope you and your Siberian Husky brother Nikita are happy and that you know you were both loved so much. Your Mommy Bev

Our baby "Timmy", you were the best, funniest, most loving friend we could ever ask for, we miss you so much and will always love you, every day we see your beautiful face peeking from your favorite corner, and we remember all the wonderful years that you gave us. You will forever be our baby "Timmy", We love you, Mommy ,Daddy, Jano, Mike, Roro and "brother" Sebastian.

Dear Marley, I can't explain enough how special you were to me and how much I miss you. I hope you understand how much I love you and miss you. You were the most special dog and you made a lasting impression on everyone who ever saw you. Your stunning face and gentle fun loving personality--you were one in a million. Your death hit me so suddenly, I was not prepared, you ran around like a puppy up until the last 2 days of your life. I was planning a canoe trip for us on Wednesday and you were gone before Saturday. I had no idea you were sick. I yelled at you to get up because I thought you were being lazy, and like the perfect friend you are you got up--even though it took everything you had. It was then that I realized I was losing you. The tears come daily for me, I still find myself putting up the kid's chicken nuggets so you don't steal them. I hope you realize that I didn't want you to eat those things because they hurt your stomach. Marley, you were my best friend and I am happy and thankful that I was able to spend the last 12 years with you. If I know you, you are having lots of fun---playing with other dogs, swimming across the hudson river after ducks, running in the snow, getting your belly rubbed, going canoeing and jumping in the river when you see a deer, eating people food, all the things you loved in life. I pray that I will see you again, so we can swim together again, run together again, just be together again. I love you boy. I will never forget you. Love Daddy

Kiska you insisted to get out no matter what I did you jumped out your last time my last words to you was I love you be good! I miss you.
Bear I'm sorry I didn't rehome you better It was nice there why did you leave???

Tobie was brought to us by our cousins german shepard. She was not producing milk correctly and we caught it to late. All of the pups but 2 passed on. We took Tobie and his brother Rowdy in and began to bottle feed them. It was a new experience for us all! The pups became our new babies and we were extremly attached. When they were about 1 month and a half old we rescued a puppy from the local shelter. A few days later we found out that pup had the Parvo Virus. We new very little about the virus. Well after we took the pup back and explained the problem they said she was to far along to save so they put her down. Well, not to long after Tobie started to show signs of Parvo. His immune system was not strong enough to survive it yet. He passed away a few days later at 2 months old. I was extremely concerned about Rowdy and rushed him in to be hospitalized. He was there for a week and we got him back. He is now almost 2 yrs old. We count everyday with him a blessing and believe that Tobie is with us in spirit everyday too. Tobie was my first puppy that I had and he has opened my eyes to a whole new world. I know have a healthy yr old dog that I raised from a pup and thank Tobie for showing me how great dogs can be! Tobie is missed so very much by us all!

Samantha (Sammy) died because her kidneys didn't work right. She was almost 12 1/2 years old. I miss her.

She brought so much joy to our family. We all know she's no longer in pain but the selfish part of us wishes she was still here! Her best friend Daisy is mourning the loss too! Daisy is a three year old cheasapeake bay retriever and had grown up with Sasha. I know the heartache we all feel with lessen with time but WOW does it hurt!!! Sasha you will be greatly missed and always loved!!! You were one of a kind ~ a true gem!!!

Tiger was the greatest dog any family would be proud to have. He was beautiful intelligent and very loving. He had been through so many rough times when he was younger. Tiger always showed us that we were important to him and he always made me feel like I had a best friend even when I didn't have any friends. I could talk to my dog about anything and he would just sit there and listen. If I would go outside and I was crying I would sit on the porch and he would come up to me and nuzzle my arm and would rest his head in my lap till i felt better. After being around him and talking about what was going on and petting him I always felt better. I am really gonna miss him because he was my best friend and my heart is really hurting right now. We love you Tiger. -Momma, Daddy, Shannon, Dana, Walter

Nikita was the love of my life for 14 yrs. He was so good, never jumped, dug or escaped. I miss him so much. He was one in a million so I know how lucky I was to have him in my life. My Little Nikita to know him was to love him.

Linus, or Big Boy, as we called him, was found as a stray on the side of the road.  He had clearly been someone's pet, as he weighed 104 pounds when we found him.  He was also neutered and heartworm negative.  Despite weeks of advertising, no one ever claimed him, so he joined our family of 9 other rescued dogs. Sadly, Big passed away on January 12, 2002, after developing an intestinal obstruction.  We guess that he was 5 or 6 years old.  After only four months as a part of our family, he had already stolen our hearts. We will miss him dearly.

Meghan was an English Springer Spaniel. She was my first dog. I had never known how a dog could mean just as much as a child until Meghan. She was beautiful. I always kept her groomed and brushed. She was the perfect lady. She always behaved perfectly, and anyone who saw her loved her. I know now on that day, six months before she crossed the bridge, when she fell through the ice on our lake trying to chase ducks that she was hurt more than she let on. She was never right again. I wish I would have known that June 24, 1997 would be the last day I would have with you. I would have paid special attention to you. I would have stayed with you instead of going to the amusement park. I miss you, Meggie, and I will always love you.

Norton, words cannot describe our family's love for you. You are our "Wonder Dog" Best friend. Protector. Confidante. Comedian. Social Chairman. You did it all. You are the "once in a lifetime" friend that we all hope to have someday. We know that you have been very sad since Trixie Lou left us. We just were not prepared to say good bye to you so soon after. It's as if you willed yourself to be with Trixie Lou. Littermates forever. We picture the two of you playing, talking, wrestling, and then curling up together to rest. We miss the morning songs that you and Trixie Lou harmonized on so beautifully. Our house is silent, and so very empty without our first babies. Norton and Trixie Lou, thank you forever 12 years of love and companionship. You made our family and our lives complete. We will love you forever!

Timber died September 11, 2001. I didn't find out until two days after her death. Timber was a great escape artist. She loved to run. She died doing what she loves; running. She was hit by a car while running around in the city. I'm sure Timber's last day was a joyful one for her, because she ran many, many miles from where her home was. I can picture her now running and thinking, "Yeah! Yeah! Yeah", She absolutely loved to run as far and as fast as she could. Timber also loved to be with me, she loved to sleep at the foot of the bed, and she loved to have her tummy tickled. I loved Timber with all of my heart. I will always miss her. Please cherish every day that you have with your loved ones, because you never know when one day God will take your loved ones home. My other two dogs are still with me. I continue to love them, and I still continue to love Timber. Timber was only 13 months old. She was born August 4, 2000 and she crossed over the beautiful Rainbow Bridge on September 11, 2001. I will remember Timber and her love for the rest of my life.

Uri ... You crossed to the Bridge quietly, with no suffering. We keep telling ourselves that this was the best thing could do for you, but somehow that doesn't end the pain. All we can say is that we are sorry. Sorry that we couldn't do more for you. Sorry that your original owners set you up for this day before we ever met you. I hope you understood while you were here with us that we really loved and cared for you, and how terribly sad we are for how it had to end. We couldn't help you here, but maybe, if the Rainbow Bridge stories are true, we will be able to help you then. If we see you there, you will have your "forever home" -With love from your family and friends in Tails of the Tundra

For our beloved "Lou Girl" Thank you for 12 glorious years of unconditional love. We loved and respected you equally and hope that you understood and felt that. We will think of you often and know that we will see you again someday. Like the words to your favorite song, "It's A Beautiful Morning" you always made it so. We love you.

Trapper was born on April 19th, 2001. Dear Sweet Trapper, we wish that we could have had the chance to get to know you better. We wish you well on your journey over Rainbow Bridge. One day we will meet again and that day will never come soon enough. Your brothers will also one day join you at the bridge and together you can romp and play once again. Thank you for giving us the chance to know you, even if it was only for a short time. -With love from your family and friends in Tails of the Tundra

She was born with siblings under a house in Chester, PA. A man working for the electric company coaxed each puppy out one at a time. We adopted a beautiful female with blue eyes, a black mask, and typical husky black and white markings. She was a birthday present for our son. She shared her life with us for 12 wonderful years. She loved all people, but was a typical hunter - a better mouser than the cat. She was also an escape artist, but always came home. Whenever any of our two-legged family hugged, she was right in the middle on her hind legs with her paws wrapped around our waists. She hated raised voices, and would bark until the offender lowered his or her voice. She would howl in cadence with police sirens, and talk "husky talk" when I came home from work and asked her about her day. We had an older Shepherd mix when we first got her, who loved to play Frisbee. When the Shepherd became too old to chase it, Vana would catch it and bring it to the Shepherd, who would then bring it back. When the Shepherd died, Vana would catch Frisbee's and play try to catch me. She never again gave it up willingly to anyone.

I miss my Crummy--my dear, darling, loving dog that I rescued from the Humane Society. Crummy got cancer at age 18 and had to be escorted to the Rainbow Bridge.

Rosco was such a nice dog. Once you got to know Rosco, he would go anywhere with you, he would always be at your side!! We Love U, Rosco Man -The Osbornes

Bibs was a rescue found at an apartment complex in 1990. She was a stumpy manx and liked having her tail tweaked and being brushed. She liked sitting in the window and sneaking out the door and running around the house with me chasing her! She was very fond of turkey and ham on holidays. She left for the bridge today and I can't wait till she comes back to her garden spot for a visit. A pretty cat with a stern face! She was the queen and she kept her crown throughout her life! Farewell, my sweet Bibby!

Tasha (Natasha) was born on November 2, 1989. Tasha was a very special spirit, the light of my soul. She was a red and white Siberian Husky with blue eyes. She passed to the Rainbow Bridge on January 29, 2001 at 5:02 p.m. (EST) after an unexplained month-long illness. Saying goodbye to her was one of the hardest things I've ever done. My only comfort is that her spirit and mine will be reunited one day at the Rainbow Bridge. Please visit Tasha's website to learn more about her.

Rosko surprisingly came into our lives over 8 years ago. He was without a doubt the most loyal friend that a nyone could have ever asked for. His smiley face, those big unique blue eyes, the remarkable gentleness and eagerness to please and love everyone will always be remembered. Wherever Rosko went he had a powerful effect on people. He loved everyone he met and those that met him found him to be an extra ordinary animal. Rosko broke all the "rules" of being a Siberian Husky. He didn't have to be leashed, he just wanted to be by his loving family and socialize with us and our friends. We all talked to him and had conversations with him and I believe he knew exactly what we were saying. Unlike Sibes, Rosko did not like to be cold, wet or dirty. When walking with him, he would purposely walk around a puddle of water so he wouldn't get wet or muddy. He never dug holes in our yard or destroyed anything. Rosko was our lives. He was a wonderful, perfectly healthy companion. Then in late August 2000, he developed a cough. 2 Vets and 2 ultrasounds later, he was diagnosed with multiple tumors in his chest cavity. We knew we were going to lose our loyal and faithful buddy. Through the knowledge, care, love and devotion of Dr. Julie Snyder and her wonderful staff at Vetcetera (Schuylkill County, Rosko was given an extra 4 weeks of good quality life with his loving family. On November 7, 2000, our best buddy was taken to Dr. Julie to help him cross over to Rainbow Bridge. There is not a day that goes by that I don't cry for the loss of Rosko, I miss him with all of my heart. And every day I also thank Rosko for sending us Rascal (go to success stories). Rosko knew we needed Rascal and she desperately needed us. We feel very strongly that Rosko sent us in each others direction. My dear l oving Rosko, we love and miss you so very much. You will live in our thoughts and hearts forever. You were a little angel on loan to us from God, sent to teach us unconditional love and when your job here on earth was completed, (you did a first class job) because we do now know the meaning of "unconditional love", you were called back to Rainbow Bridge. Changing a few words of an anonymous author: "Some animals come into our lives and quickly go... Some stay for a while and leave footprints on our hearts... and we are never the same again. We love you Rosko.

Pee Wee was my heart for almost l7 years. My tears are endless, my soul is barren. I feel that I have crossed Rainbow Bridge with him. His memory will remain with me forever. Although I have two other wonderful dogs and seven cats who are trying their darnedest to fill the void, Pee Wee's death has taken a woeful toll on me. I keep his ashes visible at all times, yet the emptiness is devastating. Only other pet lovers could understand.

Jake was very much loved by the neighbors in our neighborhood and their children. He loved to play with them so much! But just because he was a pitbull, somebody thought he shouldn't be alive and beat him, shot him twice in the head, and then drowned him in front of my two little boys. He was playing in a pond with my two boys when a man approached with his two dogs. The man's dogs attacked my Jake; he didn't attack first. The man killed him just for being a pit bull. Punish the deed, not the breed.

You blessed us the day you entered our lives on March 15,1996. We cherished each day with you and promised you your fourth home would be your last and your best. You were very brave through all your illnesses and operations. We miss your curious face, your run-around act, the sound of you sleeping, the jingling of your collar as you came running when you heard someone in the kitchen, your talking, and your kisses. Most of all we miss your gentle spirit, we love you and await the time when we will be with you again.

'Nikki' was the most gentle creature I had ever met - and probably also the most devious. For nearly 13 years she touched our hearts with her games and antics. She never ceased to amaze us with her abilities and never stopped loving us, even with all our human faults. She taught us the meaning of unconditional love and never-ending forgiveness. It was the hardest thing we ever had to do baby, helping you to cross over. We know that you are no longer in pain. You have taught us so much and we promise to try and remember those lessons as we struggle along here without you. We can't wait to be with you again puppykins, to scratch your nose, and see what deviousness you are up to now with all your new friends. Gone from us until we cross the bridge to be reunited. We will never forget you. Visit Nikki's website.

They crossed the bridge 6/96, 10/96, 10/99 and 4/00. I wish to place these names here because they were rescue dogs that never found a forever home before their time here up. Tanya's owner gave over because she was terminally ill and could no longer care for her. Toby was left a vet's because his owners didn't want him any more. Zema was found a stray. They were old dogs, who deserved more than to be abandoned in their last few years. They all lived with me until they passed. I hope Tanya found her owner again. Toby was a good boy and I'm sure he and Zema are taking care of our 3 little babies (crossed April 2000), who never got a chance to run with their brothers

Too much fear in this 5 y/o's life. Too smart for his own good. Abused early in life, he had a total of 5 homes. We received him when his prior owner could no longer keep him. We loved/cared for him for only 1.5years before we had to let him go. We miss you my friend.

Prancer was a sweet and gentle girl. A Lab-Spinger Spaniel Mix, who was loved by everyone who met her. Prancer lived to be 18 years old and she enriched our lives every day. She had mastered the art of begging and loved her tummy scratched. She knew how to love everyone of us and we can only hope we gave her enough love back. Prancer, we will look for you when come to the Rainbow Bridge so we can all cross the bridge together as a happy family reunited. We look forward to seeing you prance and play again like the puppy you have always been. We love you and miss you very much.

You strayed into our lives when you were a young, energetic two-year-old. Because of your one pale blue eye, we named you Opal. Although we didn't realize it at the time, your new name fit you perfectly—you certainly were a gem. You taught us about dogs and their huge hearts and unconditional love, their energy, their sense of humor, their devotion. Until you came along, our family had never had the pleasure of sharing our lives with a dog, or caring for one. In fact, we didn't know where to start. You helped us learn all we needed to know in your own special, patient way. You taught us what to feed a dog: when we fed you that red waxy stuff that looked like the finest ground beef, you responded by adding a red tinge to our carpets. We never fed you the cheap stuff again! You taught us about respect: when we left you in the garage that first day to go to work, unsure of how you would pass the day alone, you ate a car wash sponge to let us know you would feel much more dignified in the house where the rest of the family lives. You taught us how to laugh: when your human brother got sick with mononucleosis and his snoring got too loud for you to continue your afternoon nap, you calmly got up and stuck your tongue down his throat to stop the snoring—and off we went to the vet because I didn't know if dogs could catch mononucleosis! And, most importantly, you taught us about love: you never met a child, person, or animal you didn't like. Your body started to tire when you were 14, but you greeted each day as enthusiastically as ever, despite your discomfort. Every day I'd ask you, "Is this the day? How will I know when you're too tired to go on?" And every day the shine in your eyes told me that life was still giving you pleasure. One day, the shine left your eyes and you pleaded with me to help you say goodbye to this world. That day was one of the worst days of my life, but I take small comfort in knowing you are at peace and pain free. I can only hope that I gave you half as much love and joy as you gave us. I miss you.

I don't know how to recover from the loss I feel for you, Niki. You were, and always will be, "My Girl" and even though it's been one year almost to the day since I lost you, I still can't stop the daily tears. You were my best friend and my true companion. I know you would have stayed to help me through the divorce if you could have, but maybe God needed you more than I did. I am trying to hang on to those thoughts, but it has been the worst year of my life without you and I can't seem to get past it eve n though I know you would want me to go on. You would be proud of me in one way... I am not afraid of being alone as much as I was after Charlie left us last Christmas. I also don't fear death as I used to... I know now that it means I can see you again. And I will see you again. You will know me I will be the one on the rainbow bridge with all your stuffed animals, your sumtin yummie, your favorite leash that makes the clicking sound that gets you excited and our special whistle that makes you come running... listen for me. I am so sorry I didn't wake up that night... I know now you were trying to tell me. . The next time we are together I will never leave your side... I promise. I love you Dooby Doo. You are My Girl always. Kisses. -Mommy