Not Another Loss

“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated... I hold that, the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man.” Mahatma Gandhi

 

The Last Battle

If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done,
For this -- the last battle -- can't be won.
You will be sad I understand,
But don't let grief then stay your hand,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship must stand the test.
We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn't want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.
Take me to where to my needs they'll tend,
Only, stay with me till the end
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree
It is a kindness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I have been saved.
Don't grieve that it must be you
Who has to decide this thing to do;
We've been so close -- we two -- these years,
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

-- Unknown

Dedicated to my "Bug"

(Above)

He was put to sleep June 4th 2012. This is his last picture. Go with the wind my friend, you will forever be my star! 

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 'til 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.

-Karen Clouston