Goodbye Shari 10-22-90 ~ 6-13-06

Rainbow Bridge

The Rainbow Bridge is the theme of a work of poetic prose written some time between 1980 and 1992, whose original creator is unknown. The theme is of an other-worldly place to which a pet goes upon its death, eventually to be reunited with its owner.
    • Gold Top Dog
    In the movie, "8 Below," Paul Walker goes back to his mentor/breeder/trainer. The old man tells the story of his father. Once, his father was in trouble and the dogs pulled non-stop and got him back to safety. Later, he returned the favor when he had to abandon them and then fought  trials and tribulations to rescue them. Noblesse Oblige. You have had to go through your toughest trial to help your dog. Just because you didn't have to fight your way back into Antarctica doesn't make your journey any easier. It takes true courage to do what most be done, no matter how it pains us.
     
    This may sound strange as a compliment, but you have the courage and nobility of your dog. Blessings to you and a big hug.
     
    Hey Shari, girl, run free and run fast.
     
    • Gold Top Dog
    My heart aches for you Tina, but all I keep thinking is what a huge presence Shari made when she crossed that bridge - absolutely beautiful girl that she was.  She's free of pain now and enjoying a the warm sun with all of our friends that have also gone there.  She'll always be with you [sm=angel.gif]
    • Gold Top Dog
    Oh, Tina, I'm so sorry! Shari had a wonderful welcome party at the bridge! Just think, she got to meet Foxy, and Muffin, and my Grace, and Rusty, and Stevie and all of our wonderful dogs who've gone before. I can just see them greeting her, and telling her that they're the i-dog crowd, waiting for all of us, there.

    I'm so sorry for your loss.  (((((((((((((((((((((((((((((hugs))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
    • Gold Top Dog
    All I can say is thank you for all the support.  I know all the idog doggies met her with butt sniffs and play bows.
     
    Thanks to idog I did have the vet sedate her before the final "pink stuff" coursed through her veins and I am grateful that I knew enough to request it. 
     
    You are all wonderful.
     
    Run free, my little baby girl!  Chase those squirrels!  [sm=angel.gif]
    • Gold Top Dog
    Let her know to approach Misty, my cat, with a bit of caution. Misty was spoiled rotten and thought she was the only pet in the world. She'll hiss and throw a paw but if you give her space, she'll be cool.
     
    • Gold Top Dog
    Run free, love.
    • Gold Top Dog
    I'm so sorry. She had a wonderful life with you. 
    • Gold Top Dog
    I just lost Foxy the end of February -- and altho he was never my "heart dog" he went thru SO much with me ... that should read **with** me. 
     
    Whether you have the vet help or whether you are simply sitting there "with" them when they pass, it's just plain not ever easy.  But "being there" is such a help.
     
    Helping them cross the Bridge is so hard ... but it is the greatest act of love you can give, and I'm convinced they *know* that.  Beyond any doubt.  Shari met the others (and so many of us have "best friends" who are there) and her the first thing she blurted out was "Wow ... my Mom loved me SO MUCH that ..."
     
    And so many the rest of us have lost sat there wisely nodding their heads in agreement -- and then I'd imagine quite a discussion ensues about the guardians they left behind ...
    • Gold Top Dog
    Shari, you sweet wonderful fabulous girl, run free baby!
     
    Tina, my thoughts and prayers are with you and know we are all here for you whenever you need us!
    • Gold Top Dog
    Tina,
    So sorry for your loss. I am sure she had a wonderful life with you. I am sure my Reese was waiting for her at the bridge and they will take a romp together.

    Hugs to you
    • Gold Top Dog
    And so many the rest of us have lost sat there wisely nodding their heads in agreement -- and then I'd imagine quite a discussion ensues about the guardians they left behind ...
    And when the discussion ends, a HUGE play session ensues.
     
    Tina, my heart goes out to you.  I can't say anything that hasn't already been said & a lot better than I can.  Just know that you're not alone in your grief.  We are all here with you, all our hearts are aching for you.
     
    Run free & painlessly, sweet Shari!  [sm=angel.gif]
    • Gold Top Dog
    I'm so sorry, I had to wait to post because I'm working and couldn't get emotional.  But, I AM, she was one of my favorites here.  God speed, friend. 
    • Gold Top Dog
    I am so sorry you had to say goodbye to Shari.  All the little ones
    at the bridge will have a wise big sister to look out for them.  
    Take comfort in the love and care you have provided Shari
    with for all these years. 
    Nic
    • Gold Top Dog
    Tina, you were in my thoughts all afternoon, and my heart sank when I checked the forum for a moment before leaving work today and saw this post.  Like Lori said, I couldn't type a response then because I wasn't alone in the office and I knew I'd be in tears typing.
     
    I realized again tonight what a long life Shari had - a wonderful tribute to the loving and devoted care you gave her.  She will surely brag about you up at the Bridge!  And like all the other dogs at the Bridge who were been truly showered with love all their lives, I think they serve as angels now, visiting the less forturnate pets that are still on earth, keeping them company, sharing the extra love they stored up while here with us.
     
    If Shari finds Tonka, I hope she will show him where she finds snow.  He didn't get to experience it much here in Oregon, but he was fascinated by it the winter we lived in Connecticut - I know he'd love to romp in it with her!
     
    I'll be thinking of you as you face your first morning without her - it's the sudden holes in the daily routine that are so hard to bear - each one is like a separate little loss (not taking the walk, not getting the food, etc.).  I think it's even harder for those of us who spent a lot of time caring for a dog whose needs were extensive in the final weeks/days.  The amount of empty time in my day was unbearable. 
     
    I wish you strength as you face this sad time.  Know that so many of us understand your pain and are here for you.
     
    Run free, Shari.  Watch over your Mom now - she loves and misses you.
    • Gold Top Dog
    I'm so sorry, Tina. Run free Shari.