"See you on the other side, old friend."
Raleigh, NC - November, 2003 (Click to embiggen)
When I saw the comment I knew it could only mean one thing. An old girlfriend-turned-friend left a brief comment on an earlier post saying she had some sad news. And I knew in that instant that Bailey was no more. She passed away at about 5:00 pm Saturday, surrounded by those she loved -- and who loved her in equal measure. Her health had been failing incrementally for some time, and Lisa had already decided the time had come to put her to rest. But first, she wanted her to have one last road trip to see her grandma and grandpa (whom she loved almost as much as her ma). While they were there, however, she began seizing and within 15 minutes she died in Lisa's arms.
Despite a chronic "princess complex", she was Lisa's baby and best friend. And in the brief time that I knew her, she became my friend as well. Because she never knew a stranger, and princess or not, she was a benevolent ruler. You couldn't help falling for her on first meeting (something she no doubt picked up from her mom).
No matter how often you've been through it, losing a dog -- especially one you've had for as long as this -- hurts. And it hurts in ways that people who have never had a dog (and a fair number who have) cannot fathom.
Whether you understand what I'm talking about or not, any comments that you'd like to pass along, you can leave them here and I'll make sure they get to Lisa and her family.
See you the other side Bailey Girl.
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15 comments:
I am so touched by this Mojo. As a dog lover and dog owner, I know what you are talking about. And I know how your friend Lisa is feeling, My first dog died 10 years ago, and I still miss him! Even if I have a new dog! Dogs have their personality as we have, and you don't stop missing a family member by getting a new!
They will always be with you.
Lovely tribute to a dear friend and family member, Mojo!
Best wishes.
Thank you so very much for remembering my girl. I am sad beyond imagining and my heart hurts more than I could believe possible...
Its hard to let a dear pet go; when they make the move leave themselves it is no easier ... Lisa, Bailey is 'over the rainbow bridge' where there are a lot of other beloved pets waiting to welcome her ... she knows she was loved and is missed
Lisa, I want to tell you I am sorry to hear of the loss of your dear one, Bailey.
As someone who prefers animals over people, and has been adopted by both cats and dogs, My heart goes out to you.
Bailey sounded like a wonderful friend and family member, and you can feel comforted by the fact she was with her people when she left you. Surrounded by love in life and death is the way to be.
Lisa, I'm so sorry for your loss.
I know exactly what you mean, Mojo. I've been in those shoes before. I am sorry to hear about Bailey. She was lucky to go while surrounded by those she loved.
Painful but if thoughts that Bailey is feeling better on the other side of rainbow bridge, the pain might be lessen. I've got 3 dogs so far, and I know how painful it feels in the beginning.
you've tuched my heart with your words. and what a beautiful picture. pups touch places no human can ever touch, with their wagging tails and the selfless love and loyalty they bestow on those sharing their lives...
may bailey's soul rest in peace..
heartfelt condolences to all bereaved
What a sweet, beautiful soul.
(Yours and gorgeous Bailey's.)
I'm so sorry for this loss. Lovely tribute.
I think you know what I'd send, and I hope you will. My heart goes out to her and to you, and always to the dog.. they give us everyhing they having in their too-short lives.
Hugging mine a few more times today...and wishing for peace for your friend.
JC
Losing such a beloved pet can be as heartbreaking as losing any loved human. My parents just lost their precious boy. They are so sad!
Duh, how rude of me! Bailey is beautiful! And she will be waiting on the other side to play with you all again. :)
Someone sent me this quote, and I think it is really awesome.
"Until one has loved an animal a part of one's soul remains unawakened." (Anatole France)
Thanks to all of you for your kind words.
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