Thursday, April 29, 2010

Tribute to my beloved Elmo


My love of my life, Elmo passed away in my arms this morning. He went peacefully, thanks to the Winslow Animal Clinic here in Bainbridge Island, WA. It was the hardest decision I've ever had to make....I did it for him, his quality of life was not good, he had a tumor on his front leg, and while it could have been removed, the recovery time for a dog his age would have been long, and painful. He also had a large lump on his lymph node. There are tests that could have been performed, but I don't think he would have wanted to spend his last time on earth having blood drawn, surgery after surgery on various parts of his body. I held his face in my hands and told him how much I love him, and that I will see him again at the Rainbow Bridge....for those of you who are not familiar with The Rainbow Bridge, here it is......
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.

There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.

There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....
I know in my heart that Elmo is waiting for me there...he is healthy and happy and probably chasing squirrels.
Rest in Peace my precious Elmo...and thanks for being my dog. I love you.

14 comments:

  1. In a perfect world, we would pass away, our dogs would follow 5 seconds later. Sadly, that is not to be and we are forced to go through this process many times in our lives. Deepest sympathies, rest easy your dog knew he was loved as his pain slipped away.

    Again, sorry for your loss.

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  2. I just stumbled upon your blog, I have to say I am so very sorry for your loss, I remember when I had to let my best friend (15 year old Boxer) go, one of the hardest days of my life. You did the right thing. Love your blog.

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  3. Oh sweetie, so sorry for your loss, I know what a good pup Elmo has been and I know you made the right decision. Hugs from Unalaska.

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  4. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. It is a hard choice to make but our furry friends do deserve their dignity. I love the rainbow Bridge poem and it is so true our pals are no longer hurting in pain, they are enjoying themselves and eagerly await our arrival at the bridge.

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  5. Hi Lauri.
    So sorry to hear about Elmo. You did the right thing. Great seeing you in Dutch last week.
    Veda

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  6. Thanks everyone! Elmo was the best dog! I will miss him everyday for the rest of my life. I still can't believe he is gone. When will the tears stop?

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  7. Lauri,
    Please accept my condolences for the loss of your loyal companion,Elmo.
    As painful and difficult as your decision was, it was the correct one. Elmo suffers no longer, not only having to endure pain himself,but your sharing his pain as well. Elmo is once again the healthy,vibrant, fun loving dog you so enjoyed and eloquently described, in a wonderful place known as Rainbow Bridge. Down the road, you and Elmo will indeed reunite. I hope these words of comfort ease your sorrow.
    Love,
    UF

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  8. ohhh Lauri, I just saw this, it made me get teared up. I'm so sorry for your loss.
    It was GREAt to see you last week.
    Mel

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  9. Lauri-
    This must be why I was thinking about you yesterday. I'm so sorry you have to part with Elmo for awhile...I can't imagine how hard that decision was..but take comfort in the fact that he is at peace.
    As you know the tears will slow and the smile will grow when you think of him.
    BIG HUGS, Cuz....Love you!!
    Marja

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  10. Hey, I just want you to know that the card I mailed you was bought before I read this blog and all I can say, is OMG! You'll know what I mean ~~ so sorry - hugs, Lori

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  11. Oh Lauri! You did the Right thing and all of us who knew Elmo grieve with you. The Rainbow Bridge is possible the most beautiful Poem ever written. A priest of mine used to say that though animals do not have "Souls" in the Catholic Tradition that those animals, who are such a part of our life that we can not imagine heaven without them, DO indeed join us. It is our love for them that brings them with us to heaven. You will see that wondeful friend again.

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  12. How heartbreaking. I'm so sorry. What a beautiful, cuddly boy.

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  13. Soo sweet York! I love yorks, beause i have a little york mini.


    cuteewish.blogspot.com

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