The Goodbyes

Anne - So So Sorry !

We don't know each other - I only post occasionally - but I must tell you that I always read your posts when I come to the board because of your vast knowlege and experience. So many times I have read and re-read your posts (and others) to help me in my quest to keep my Cody as healthy and happy as possible. And I sincerely thank you and everyone else who shares on this board. When I came upon your posts from yesterday, SHOCK was my first reaction ! If love and caring could have kept Andy with you, he would have outlived ALL of us!
My sincere sympathy on your devastating loss - I know there is nothing anyone can say or do to help your heart heal at this point. But please know that anyone who reads the posts on this board knows how well Andy was taken care of and loved beyond measure. I'm sure Andy knew this, too. Please take care and let us know how you are doing!

Barbara & Cody

I'm sitting here crying at work as I read all of these posts for Andy. Anne, you loved Andy like no other. You took care of him and did all that you could for him. It was time to let him go & not let him suffer and you did so with love and Andy knew that. There will never be another Andy, and even though your heart is breaking now it is big enough to love another dog someday. I know the pain you are feeling and it feels very physical, as well as emotional. You wonder how you can go on and how to get through the day. Somehow you just do, one step at a time. I wish there was something I could say or do for you to take away the pain, but I know there's not. I lit a candle for Andy. He will long be remembered. Sending you big hugs so you know you're not alone.

Marilyn

Anne, I'm so sorried to hear the sad news about Andy. My thoughts are with you and know that my Pepper will be there for him.

bambi

I am so heart sick for you- They take such a big piece of our heart when they leave. My beloved Willie will be there to meet him. Please know that you are being thought of- Many prayers- Wendy (Samantha's mom- I'm sorry I was so shocked I did not change user names)

Oh Anne, I am so so sorry to read this, I feel bad as I didn't even see your previous post - I didn't know he had been poorly. I am crying with you this evening, it's dreadful. Love Sharon x

Big hugs Sharon, Zeno and Bobby (non diabetic) (& my angel Charlie)

Anne.....Jeri ( Sissy's mom) just emailed me, as I don't check the board everyday.
I am in total shock. I don't know what to say, I am so incredibly sad for you. I honestly couldn't believe it when I read it.
Please know you are in my thoughts today! I know you are grieving so badly, and my heart breaks for you. I too, slept with Bud's blanket for many months. It was the only thing I had left that felt close to him, and had his smell. Hug it tightly. To have him doing so well, and then suddenly leave you is heartbreaking. I am so, so, sorry Anne.
You did everything you could....somethings just "happen", and we don't understand.
Blessings, and prayers,
Judy, Angel Bud and Harley.

Anne
i have not been here much lately but i received an email about Andy. i am so so very sorry to read this Anne. i know how deeply u loved Andy. for all the years i was on with Babette before she passed. you were always here helping others and taking care of Andys every need. u truly are a great furmom. and i know u did all u could for him all these years and u truly can be proud of the things u did for Andy. i truly know how hard it is too lose a loved one like Andy. Losing Babette was one of the hardest things i ever had in my life. but i also knew i had done the best i could and i had taken care of her and given here a good home. as u did with Andy.
u will have many fond memories of u and Andy and they will be with u forever. God Bless and Keep You Anne, and know u are in my prayers. this is what i posted for Babette.

Memories are Golden

They say memories are golden.
Well, maybe that is true.
I never wanted memories
I only wanted you.

A million times I needed you,
A million times I cried.
If love alone could have saved you,
You never would have died.

In life I loved you dearly,
In death I love you still.
In my heart you hold a place
No one could ever fill.

If tears could build a stairway,
And heartache make a lane.
I'd walk the path to heaven,
And bring you home again.

Our family chain is broken,
And nothing seems the same.
But as God calls us one by one,
The chain will link again.

Skip, Marty, Angel Babette, Baby Abby

Oh dear Anne, I am so so sorry.

I always felt how deep your love was for Andy.

You are in my thoughts.

Foxy and Sandy, Pomeranian, ~10 yrs. old, 10.5 pds, dx 4/08, Science Diet WD and RD combined, 1.5 unit Novolin N in AM and PM. Pancreatitis 12/07
Ithaca, NY

My heart is aching for you Anne - I'm in tears - this is my 3rd attempt on posting.
On a positive note, Andy is free of pain. No more allergies, no more diabetes - he's running free with the others knowing he too was loved by many.
You did all you could for Andy and i thank you. Not many pet owners would go above and beyond for their fur babies - you did.
Hugs to you and yours sweetheart and again, i'm sorry for your loss.

Bubba 10, Lady 12, Daisy 9, Sweety 7 RIP

Anne,

I haven't been on this board for a very long time, but I offer up my deepest heartfelt sympathies to you. Losing a beloved pet is beyond difficult but I clung on to all my happy memories, all my pics of my beloved pet. I couldn't have asked for a better dog and she was loved.

Your memories with Andy will be your treasures and will always be yours.

Many blessings to you

Anne...I am just so terribly sad reading this RIP little guy

"It is not true that life is one damn thing after another...it's the same damn thing over and over" Edna St Vincent Millay

Judy, mom to Winnie, Reuben,, Hardy , Jr Jones and Leroy Scoochie ATB

Anne,

Jerri emailed me also to let me know of Andy's passing. I am so sorry. My heart is truly breaking for you right now. I know the pain you are experiencing now is unbearable and only time will ease that pain. It has been six months since my Lucky has passed and not a day goes by that I do not miss him, but the pain has eased and I now remember all the joy he had brought me. It is a comfort to know that Andy will now be in a better place hopefully running around with the many furbabies who have passed before him. I know Lucky is just going to love having him for a buddy.

Take care, I will keep you in my prayers and thoughts. Peggy Gardner

avatar Anne, we're crushed to hear this news. So very sad for you. Andy was so fortunate to have you and you him. Our thoughts are with you. Christine

Anne, Jerri sent me a message to let me know about Andy, and I have no words. I am so, so sorry that this has happened...and so suddenly...you had no time to prepare yourself. My heart goes out to you, and know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Love, Teresa

Anne, it's beautiful! I love seeing all the expressions on his face!! Andy was a lucky little guy to have so much love in his life!!!!!!!

avatar Anne, I am so very sorry about Andy. He had the very best mommy and no one could have done more to help him live a good life. I know he was very special. Always MaryAnn

Anne, I am so sorry....You are in my thoughts and prayers! Sending you hugs and thoughts of comfort. I know just where you are right now....when you feel like you can't even breathe. It does get easier. I felt such a sense of relief when I got Tyler's ashes back and he was home again. Of course, I still miss him every single day, but the pain is easier to bear and the tears come less often. It will get better!! HUGS to you and your family.....Kristin

Anne, Your video tribute to your precious Andy was soooooo beautiful. The tears welled up from the beginning but the at photo of him laying on your stomach just caused me to totally lose it.
I feel so for you as I know too well that heartwrenching pain than come when losing our special pooch. I think till one has gone thru it, one can never really know.
The special love and bond you and Andy shared will become even more comforting as time goes by..... when time has helped you thru this initial shock and terrible pain. You know how intense your love for Andy is.... I hope you find comfort in knowing that Andy knew that too and gave it back. Remember that saying I repeat often.... "The circle of love can never be broken"

I am so very sorry, Anne. The pain I felt reading your post was like a knife. I like to think of Andy and Louie playing together up in that bright sunshiny meadow, but I know that doesn't help the pain in your heart. {{{hugs}}}

avatar Anne,

Your tribute was beautiful. Your pictures are treasures for sure. I know how close Ali is to my heart so I can only imagine the loss you must feel.
You testing Andy for food allergies recently gave me the push to finally test Ali. Thank you for that.
Thinking of you and lifting you up,
Patty

Anne -- the photos are beautiful and capture his funny little spirit so perfectly. I love the one where he is sticking his tongue out ever-so-slightly... and of course the sweater! His happiness and sense of being beloved come though in every picture. What a handsome boy!

avatar Oh Anne, what a beautiful tribute to Andy!! It is priceless, and will be something you can view to hold Andy so very close in your heart. He was a beauty. But, you are an incredible momma, and he was blessed to have found you!

Thank you for sharing this. You did the very best thing for Andy. You did this for Andy. Just don't forget that.

Still praying for you.

Anne, I don't even know what to say. It was such a shock. I am so sorry for your loss. Andy is at peace and I pray for peace for you. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Godspeed little Andy. Kay

Glenda12 Oh Anne, I just saw your post on face book and couldn't believe what I saw. Had to come here and check.....

I'm so very sorry my friend. I haven't been on here for a while and I was thinking about sending you a message the other day. Oh I wish I was there to give you a great big hug and take away your pain.

I will email you. God Speed little Andy, forever in your mommy's heart. Wear your wings proudly, you're more than earned them.

((HUGS))

Jac It's a beautiful tribute, Anne. My goodness, what a major-league cutie! And it's true that the love he felt was reflected in his face. And especially his eyes. Such gorgeous eyes.

The last line, "I am a better person because of you" is so true. I'll bet everyone here feels that way.

There was a fellow on this board... um.... I think around 2 years ago. He came to the board in a panic. His diabetic dog had been well-regulated for years but, suddenly, everything ran amok and the dog passed away. I remember the last time he posted, he wrote something like, "I don't know where I end and my dog begins. We were that close."

I'm so glad you have other animals at home. Give each one lots of hugs. It may not appear that they miss Andy but they know that things are different and you're unhappy. Kisses, hugs and reassurances all around. Having my other animals made me feel closer to Jenny. As a young friend once said to me, "Dogs just know stuff." It's true. They do know stuff.

Mswhipple

Oh, that is such a beautiful tribute, Anne! I know your pain. Andy was just a great looking little guy, and like Jac said, his eyes were so expressive! Reminded me A LOT of my Aini's eyes. He was lucky to have you for a Mom, and you gave him a great life. Try to take some comfort from knowing that. The lifespan of dogs has always seemed unfairly short to me, but dogs are gifts from Heaven, and sometimes they just have to get back there. They are perfect creatures, in spite of their earthly ills.
Mary Ann, Angel Aini, and Willie

avatar Anne, my heart goes out to you. You and Andy had a wonderful gift, love that knows no boundaries. The tribute you did for him is beautiful.

Hugs and Blessings, Carla

Anne, since each of has to 'cope' in our own way, this might not be helpful, but when Missy passed I wrote her a letter. I put onto paper directly to her all my thoughts and emotions... from the time I first saw her to and past her last day. It went on for days and yes tears but those tears were coming anyway and these were 'healing".

I also felt I had to do something "positive' in Missy's honor. I approached Missy's vet and set up a "Missy Memorial Account". it was to be used for those in dire need... when getting a test/treatment coudn't be done due to financial burden on the owner/family.

Anne,

So sorry to hear about Andy, no one could have done more for him than you did.

Godspeed little Andy.

Breanne and Kramer

Buffyblue02

So sorry about Andy. It is totally devastating to loose a pup who is truly a member of the family. There are many pups at the bridge ready to run free of illness and pain and that includes my Candy that passed suddenly like this several years ago. Prayers from our house to yours.

Anna Marie N Buffy

am at a loss for words. Godspeed Little Andy. You have to be one of the most adored and loved pets that ever was. You are in my thoughts and prayers Anne. Your tribute was beautiful. I am looking at not Puck now but Toby, my long haired dachshound. He too was a puppy mill puppy and like you I could not walk away from him. You are a true inspiration in caring for our little ones. I learned much from you. You and I came on the board at about the same time. I will always remember that photo of him in his little blue sweater.. I think I make you a ball with it. I am putting something else in the mail today. It is not intended to make you sad, but perhaps in a few weeks you can look at it and only remember the good times.

Jacque,That was Steve that wrote about his beloved Ella. I am going to try and find that post. I have kept in touch with him sporadically and each time he has written to me I am awed at the way he is able to convey the way he felt about his beloved Ella.

Elaine

Anne, I just heard about Andy and I am so sorry. He was by far the cutest little weiner dog I've ever seen! And you took such amazing care of him. He couldn't have asked for a better Mom.

Anne

that is such a beautiful tribute too Andy. ty so much for sharing with us. right now Andy is in heaven playing with My Angel Babette. free of pain and happy with God. Please take care and know u have a friend here if u ever need one. God Bless and Keep You Anne!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Skip, Marty, Angel Babette, Baby Abby

Oh Anne - I am crying buckets - that tribute was simply beautiful. Big gentle hugs to you sweetheart. Sharon

Budsmama: Oh my....I just feel your pain so much, Anne. I wish there was something each of us could do to make it easier for you right now. I remember sitting at the computer the morning after Bud died ( I am tearing up now) and just screaming "I JUST WANT MY DOG BACK!!" I couldn't sleep, eat....I was a wreck for the 1st few days. Actually, probably a couple of weeks. And then.....that sharp pain subsided, and I went through another phase of what if's.....did I do this, should I have done that, what if I put him down too soon, since he was doing better later on in the day. I had visions of him passing in my arms, it was gut-wrenching. So, after I got through that phase, I slowly was able to smile a bit and able to look at his pictures. It has taken me many months of healing, but now I have peace, and yes, I miss him.....but I have peace and joy in remembering him.
You are just in the early stages of your journey without Andy, and it's so incredibly hard. In many ways, your loss is deeper and more of a shock as you had NO TIME to prepare for his departure. That is what hurts the most. I wish you peace, and please take comfort in knowing, which I know you do, that many have gone before you and made through to the other side of grief. But, it takes time.
Continuing to think of you, Anne!
Judy, Angel Bud and Harley.

Anne I just read about little Andy..words cannot express my sorrow...Our little angels both left this earth....my heart is broken

Anne,

I am so deeply sorry for your loss of Andy. We all loved him also. I never thought he would leave us so soon, really thought he was doing much better. Thinking about u and your family, my heart and prayers go out to u. With love Jennifer

Anne, I had to post again, after reading what was wrong with Andy I can't stop crying. Wish I could be there to comfort u my friend. What a very hard decision u had to make. I'm sure he was in so so much pain. Now he can rest and be pain free.

Jennifer XOXO

Jac

Anne, you mentioned wanting to work on a tribute to Andy. That's how I felt about Jenny, too. Just by staying on this board, helping others, is one of the best things you can do. You have spent so much time researching and thinking and trying to figure out how to uncomplicate a complicated dog - you'll always be a great source of information and inspiration for others on the board.

Us "oldies" may feel a little silly, hanging around after our diabetic dogs have passed on, but there's almost always something we can help with, even if we're too rusty on the technical aspects to be of much help. So don't go away, okay? We need you!

The other thing I wanted to mention is that taking up the cause against puppy mills would probably be one closest to your heart and Terry's idea about starting a fund through a local clinic is a great idea, too. There are so many things you can do to keep Andy's spirit alive and help other dogs at the same time.

I know a woman who started a cancer fund (called "Smiling Blues") on behalf of her dog, Blues, who died of cancer many years ago. The fund is administered by a local veterinary college in conjunction with other cancer fundraising projects. Whenever someone wants to donate specificially to Smiling Blues, they're donating to a much larger cause in Blues's name. The woman who started it keeps it all going through various activities including walk-a-thons and whatnot. It's a huge ongoing project but she's been doing it for many years and is totally dedicated. But she doesn't have a full-time job! Maybe choose something on a smaller scale to start.

Whatever you do, Andy will be pleased, I'm sure!

Anne, I logged into the board today to do a copy and paste about Vetsulin® and saw several threads about dogs dying. My vision has been bad all day and is still fuzzy tonight. (I gave up waiting for it to 'get better'.) I hope to post to others soon.

I am so sorry to hear about Andy's death. I know how much he meant to you. You gave him such a good life.

I always try to 'think of the "good" in our dog's life. And I think that the dog's owners who frequent this board are very special people and their dogs are so fortunate to have such caring, loving owners ,,,, Diabetic or not -- they have lived good lives - they were so loved.

I was unable to read the whole thread and mainly read what you posted... I wanted to know how you were doing. I did watch your video tribute to Andy. It was wonderful. (Of course I am sitting here withe tears running down my cheeks.

Take care of yourself,

Helen

MAKING THAT FINAL DECISION TO SAY GOOD-BYE

You're giving me a special gift,
So sorrowfully endowed,
And through these last few cherished days,
Your courage makes me proud.
But really, love is knowing
When your best friend is in pain,
And understanding earthly acts
Will only be in vain.
So looking deep into your eyes,
Beyond, into your soul,
I see in you the magic, that will
Once more make me whole.
The strength that you possess,
Is why I look to you today,
To do this thing that must be done,
For it's the only way.
That strength is why I've followed you,
And chose you as my friend,
And why I've loved you all these years...
My partner till the end.
Please, understand just what this gift
You're giving, means to me,
It gives me back the strength I've lost,
And all my dignity.
You take a stand on my behalf,
For that is what friends do.
And know that what you do is right,
For I believe it too.
So one last time, I breathe your scent,
And through your hand I feel,
The courage that's within you,
To now grant me this appeal.
Cut the leash that holds me here,
Dear friend, and let me run,
Once more a strong and steady dog,
My pain and struggle done.
And don't despair my passing,
For I won't be far away,
Forever here, within your heart,
And memory I'll stay.
I'll be there watching over you,
Your ever faithful friend,
And in your memories I'll run,
... a young dog once again.

Bless your dear heart, my friend. Andy lives on in all of our hearts.

Anne

What can I say other than I was so sorry and shocked to hear about Andy. Jerri sent me an email to tell me. Makes me realise I should come back on the board more. I feel guilty that I could not send my condolences nearer the time, when you really needed support and comforting words from people who love their dogs as much as you do and understand your grief. You certainly have a lot of people out there who care. I have always admired the dedication you showed to Andy...never giving up in your quest to help him as much as was humanly possible.
Wishing you strength in the hard days ahead. Nobody could have cared more for their dog more than you did for Andy.

DEar Anne,

I can't believe what I have just read....I just want you to know that I am thinking of you! You, of all the people on this board were the most helpful to me when Simon had his seizure and I attribute most of what i know to you!! I loved reading all your posts and reading how much you cared..not only for Andy , but for everyone on this board ... You are one incredible human being and one incredible fur mama. I don't think anyone was more dedicated to that beautiful Andy than you were..!! I am so sorry to hear this news and I wish I could reach out and hug you. ....I just wanted to know that I am thinking of you..love..Susee
P.S> Your tribute to Andy is beautiful!!!!! Just Beautiful!

Budsmama: Hi Anne...I just wanted you to know I was thinking of you this afternoon!
Blessings, and gentle hugs...
Judy, Angel Bud and Harley.

Anne - I'm sorry that I just now read the news. You were so helpful to me and my Frodo. Please accept my heartfelt condolences. This is truly one of the hardest things we humans endure.

Ron

Mitzismom

Anne please accept my condolences on Andy's passing, know that he really had a great life and that you and your husand were the best parents a dog could have. He is now running free from all pain and discomfort. Mitzismom

Words can't even express my condolences to you and your family Anne. The tears are free flowing after your tribute video. My computer has been down for a while, so i am using my sisters and i wanted to come and check on how Andy was doing after his ER visit and I was devastated to see this post. Chewy is getting closer and closer to the bridge and only now, amidst the frustration and sadness as her 'bad days' become more frequent, am I appreciating this extra time with her, knowing what is to come. Andy was as lucky to have you as you were to have him. Never have I seen such dedication and determination as you had for Andy. I truly believe that there was no more that you could have done. I hope you can take solace in that.

Run free as you cross the bridge in perfection and health, little Andy. I know i feel comforted to know what good company awaits Chewy when her time comes to cross the bridge.
many hugs to you. xx

Shyla & Chewy

Anne:

I am so sorry about Andy. My heart goes out to your family. I am crying as I write this. So many memories and wonderful times for you and Andy.
Please let me know if I can do anything.

Ann

Budsmama: Anne...One of the hardest ( among many) things for me was the sound of just one bark upon arriving home...it was so sad. Just Harley's one big girl bark, and not the precious, annoying repetitive terrier yapping of my little boy in tandem with Harley's greeting. Sigh.
I feel so bad for you Anne....Please know everyday you are in my thoughts. One day at a time. It's good to see you posting again though! (:
Blessings,
Judy, Angel Bud and Harley.

The following posts are from http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/diabetespet/