Year 2011 Tributes

For pet names beginning with "D".

Daisy I miss you so much. You were such a good girl. I wish we could have had you longer. If love could have saved you, you would be here today. I kiss your picture every morning and night. You will never be forgotten and you will be in my heart forever. Hope to see you one day and spend eternity with you and the rest of our family. I LOVE YOU MOM

She was the BEST dog EVER!!!!!!! Whether she was killing mice, chasing the neighbor's Rott, fussing at me about my knitting or just snuggled with me in bed, she was literally my BEST friend. When we first got her, she literally fit in the palm of my hand with room to spare...but she grew so fast and almost grew into her ears...almost. She was diagnosed with an aggressive form of k-9 cancer just last month...I wish I'd had more time...that she'd had more time, but unfortunately it didn't work out that way. I know that her suffering and pain are over, that she's young and healthy again, but my heart hurts so much with her loss...I didn't realize it would hurt this much...

I miss you so much, Puppers...you truly were one of a kind.

Love,

Mommy

My Daisy,  
On the day we met I knew you would one day break my heart. July 17, 2001- our "gotcha day". You were so beautiful and so sweet. The first time you looked at me with those big brown eyes you had me wrapped around your tail and I promised you that you would never have another bad day. I hope I came through for you. I have enjoyed every moment we had together. Now I look over at your empty bed and empty bowls (still on the floor) and I know I will miss you forever. Goodnight Princess, Mommy loves you. I will see again.

Daisy was a wonderful dog. We will never forget her lovely soul. She took her job of protecting our family very seriously. She was always there wagging her tail when I got up at night. She had the patience of Job with her human brother William. We love you Daisy and we will see you in heaven!

Daisy-girl...
For Daddy and me, you were peaceful at the end. Your eyes held no sadness, fear or pain. Your love for us was that unselfish.

From my heart, this is for you my Daisy - and for your beautiful soul:

A cozy, quiet room. Afternoon sunlight filtering through finely slatted window shades. A room for memories... and good-byes.

Your paws lay soft within my hand...
Spirit glowing in your little body...
Breath warm upon my skin.

Your eyes never left us because you knew...
Aw Daze... You knew
We wanted, no, we needed you to stay

For as long as possible...
Until the moment your were taken away

From my arms.

It was you, Daisy-Girl, you who broke the spell...
Knowing we were ready - ready to let you go
As your magnificent soul flew away...

In our eyes..... Nevermore beheld.
In our hearts... Forevermore beloved.

Oh Little Weenie, promise you'll not forget...
Once in a while... to let

Us hear your chirp and chatter
In night's silence... in poolside wind chimes...
When we'll need to feel you close...

Once in a while.

More Than Just A Dog To Me
Written by Janie Mathis

My sweet, sweet girl
You've left me today
Though my eyes are red from crying
I couldn't let you stay

The cancer changed you quickly
From the girl you once had been
And would have claimed you fully
--But, God only knows when

Meanwhile, you were listless
You could barely raise your head
You'd given up on eating
You couldn't jump upon the bed

I'd made you home-cooked meals
Lifted the water bowl so you could drink
Fed you through a syringe
Researched supplements from A to Zinc

I did these things out of love
--My sweet, sweet "Daisy Day"--
And how I wish I would have found
A cure so you could stay

But when I saw in spite of all
The things that I had done,
The cancer was unrelenting
And that our battle would not be won

I decided to give you all of my love
And in that act, I set you free
Though it was hard, I did it because
You were more than just a dog to me…

To our Daisy Dog, (a.k.a. Schmoodle, Ms. Dog, Doodle, Sweets, Angel Dog, Princess Dog)

Your Daddy, your Baby and I will miss you so much. I only hope that you knew how much we loved you. I hope that you knew what a big part of our family you were. You came into our lives and brought so much energy and love into our home without you in it our home now feels empty. You made our family complete. Daddy missed you so much Sunday morning on your drive to the store to get the newspaper. I have been looking for you all over the house thinking you are still here.

You had the kindest soul. You loved unconditionally. You comforted me when I was sad. You were loyal and protected us. You were silly. You were funny. You were brave. You were beautiful inside and out.

You will never leave our hearts. Until we meet again Daisy Girl. We love you so much. Be at peace now.

Mommy, Daddy and Baby

....Who rescued who?

Daisy was the light of our lives. Our hearts are broken. Life will never be the same. She would have been 14 years old on Thursday. She died in my daughter's arms this morning.

Dakota was a fun loving beautiful golden retriever, he was one of the highest jumpers and loved playing fetch. We have had him for 15 long years, he was a huge part of our family and will be missed very much.  
We love you Dakota, safe trip to the rainbow bridge, we will see you soon good boy.  
Love  
The Enders family

Dante,

I knew from the very first time I saw you that you would be our baby. You've brought so much joy, happiness and love into our lives for the past 7 1/2 years. We loved swinging with you and snuggling on the sofa. You were a loveable little wienie dog. You were such a brave, good boy to have two back surgeries to stay with us and get better. We wanted you to get better and slowly you did. After your surgeries you walked again for about a year each time. You inspired us and made us want to see you thrive and be the doggie you once were. I had so much hope that you would grow old with us and live up to the meaning of your name, "lasting." Now I realize you will be "lasting" if only in our memories and our hearts. That's where you will live forever. I really hope you came across that Rainbow Bridge to a wonderful place where you can run and play without pain. I want to meet you there someday so we can swing together and you can tell me about your adventures. It hurts so badly to be without you here. I miss you already. Be free little buddy and know how much we love you. I know I will see you again someday.  
All our love,  
Momma, Daddy and Belle

Sweet Darcee now you're whole again. You're at the Bridge with your Mom, Grandma, and Auntie Ellie. It broke my heart when you back legs wouldn't work. You were so frightened. You didn't need to be. Our love for you didn't allow us to let you suffer. I was the first one to hold you in my hands. You were born in our home. So it was only right that I guided you on your journey to the Bridge.

You were always my golden girl, the sheltie with a golden coat flying through the yard, flying through the show ring and winning.

I know you couldn't hear only the blue boys barking and seeing was hard in the dark, but you carried on until you said, Mom it's time.

With a heavy heart we sent you to the Bridge. But I know you'll be waiting for us and we'll see you again. We love and miss you sweet little girl. Run free and know we won't forget your sweet face.

To my Little Buddy, Darlene: I love and I miss you forever. Love, John

Our wonderful little guy Dave came into our lives when he was only about 3 months old. I was in graduate school at The University of Memphis and had just met the man who would become my husband, Eric. Eric was serving as an officer in the US Navy and was stationed in Millington.
One sunny day, a graduate school classmate came in and told the story of having found a cute little black dog in the middle of a busy street in East Memphis (Walnut Grove Road). He was keeping the dog at his mom's house until the vet had room to house him for adoption. Until then, however, the puppy was free to a good home.
Eric and I had discussed getting a puppy, so I decided to meet my classmate at his mom's house to take a look at the puppy. He was in the backyard with two female schnauzers that were not at all happy with his romping around. He ran into the back door, took a wild look at me, and jumped from the floor into my arms. He was mine, and I immediately named him Dave after a name I had seen on the bowl of a dog in a movie.
In the last 16 years, Dave lived with us in his hometown of Memphis, Virginia Beach, VA; Lexington Park, Maryland; Pensacola, Fl; and his final home, Atlanta, GA. He saw us through three six-month deployments, our wedding, my husband's son's graduation from high school, deaths of loved ones, and most recently, the birth of our little girl.
He enjoyed an amazingly healthy life, suffering only a few minor illnesses and one major surgery (torn ACL). He enjoyed all kinds of adventures: flying aboard a plane, floating on a boat, long rides to grandma's house, and even an impromptu photo shoot that got his picture in the local free press newspaper.
He was a hero, too. One day, his odd behavior forced me to walk him before I got into the car to drive to the gym. During his off-leash play, I had a seizure that would have occurred while I was behind the wheel had he not insisted that I take him for a walk. He alerted a friend and me to a gas leak on her patio. He watched over both a relative and me whenever we had seizures.
I had been companion to many other dogs in my life, but Dave was special. He was MY dog, My family's dog. I got to name him, choose how to feed him, choose how he would live with me...it was a wonderful responsibility. I loved every moment of his life with me. He touched everyone he met. No matter how anti-dog some people were, Dave won their hearts.
It was hard to see him start to change because we knew what it meant, but we welcomed and enjoyed his senior status. After the return of a mast cell tumor, losing his appetite and many of his superior cognitive abilities, a brain tumor finally robbed him of the ability to use the limbs on his right side, things went down hill rather quickly. But, in Dave fashion, he was compassionate enough to help us let go slowly on our daughter's second birthday.
He was the same gentle, sweet, loving, handsome little guy I met that day at my classmate's mom's house. He came into my life full of love and joy and he left the same way.
To say that he is missed would be a huge understatement. However, I feel him all around me. I want that feeling to last always. His remains sit atop our hutch so that he can watch over us just as he always did. My love for him fills my heart and makes it glad for having had him here with me for 16 glorious years.
I love you, Booge.
Mommy (with Daddy, Ella, Eric S. and Granny)

Dax was the sweetest dog we could have ever dreamed of having. We love and miss him beyond words and only wish we could have had more time with our baby boy. We fell in love with him from the day we got him and he has always made us smile. We will miss seeing him looking out the front window as we drive home each day, eagerly waiting for us to come inside so he can greet us with his happy face and wagging tail. We will miss snuggling with him on the couch, and watching him go through his toy box at night and play with his favorite toys. He brought such joy to our lives that nobody else will ever be able to fill. He was such a special part of our family. The bond we shared with him was so strong and powerful and nothing will ever take that bond away. Although he was taken from us far too soon, we know that he is no longer suffering. He has found the peaceful sleep he needed. He will always live on in our hearts. We will always love you Dax. You were the most amazing boy and we were so lucky to have such an wonderful dog to share our lives with. Until we meet again, mama and daddy love you so much, you will always be our sweet baby boy.

Dayz was the most loving companion I could ever ask for. Like they say, you were my velcro doggie, always attached to my side. I found you at the Rancho Coastal Humane Center 4 years ago. It was love at 1st sight, remember? You were a beautiful, little 1 1/2 year old Jack Russell Terrier. I am a single male, both my parents have passed & have no children. I have only 1 sister who lives 6 hours away in Tucson, AZ. Dayz & I were inseperatable. You went everywhere with me, followed me from room to room & the second I sat down you were on my lap. Tuesday I took you to the Vet's office for a routine teeth cleaning. I dropped you off at 9AM & told you I loved you & will be back in a couple of hours. I'll never forget the last time I saw you, as you were looking at me over the receptionist' shoulder, as she cared you away. Your eyes asked "Where am I going without you Dad?" Two hours later I received a call from the Vet saying please come back as there is an emergency with Dayz. I was there in 15 minutes, but I was too late. You had already passed. I just lost it, crying & screaming at the Vet & his staff. Dayz was very healthy, we walked laps around the track an hour every morning at Dog Park & you loved to play all day long. You'd bring me one of your toys & I'd throw it, you'd bring it right back, over & over. Living is so very hard without you & I feel so quilty for your death by taking you to the Vet, for a stupid routine teeth cleaning. Dayz "I am so so sorry & will always love & remember you". Please forgive me for trusting someone else with your precious life. You will be missed more than you'll ever know. I will always love you. Please wait for me & greet me in Heaven, love always, your Dad

Deanie, my love. That's what I called you. You are my love, my friend, my constant companion. You loved me unconditionally. I know you forgave any mistakes I made because of your unconditional love for me. I hope you know I always did my best for you. I am so lost without you. There is an empty spot left in my heart that only you can fill. I can only hope that you have moved on to a better place and that we will be reunited one wonderful day. In my mind I think you are with my Mom and she is patting your little head the way she did when the two of you were here with me. You are sadly missed and fondly remembered. With all my heart, I love you!

DeeO.Gee - I miss you so, so much...you will alway's be my best friend. My heart says you should still be here, my mind tells me you are - In the nuzzle of your wet nose in the morning, the kisses each night...I felt you brush up against my leg in the yard, I know it was you, comforting me, letting me know you didn't leave me, your here in spirit. I know your loyalty, and devotion continues until we walk together again on the other side, my friend. Cinnie misses you terribly, she has lost her Big Girl, her mama. We both love you, and until we're together again, you just keep dancin', my girlie!

"Now cracks a noble heart. Goodnight Sweet Prince; And flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest."

It was love at first sight. Tethered to a small doghouse in the yard of the Black Hills Humane Society, we discovered what a spirited scrapper you were as you defended your abode from the larger dogs' infringements. No one would have guessed you were the runt of the litter, or that the whole left side of your tiny body was compromised, for you were fast as lightening! Yep, love at first sight. :D

You burst through the front door and instinctively knew that Ours, was your forever home. Dooley, your brother from another mother, welcomed you with open paws, chewy bones, and squeaky toys...gifts fit for a KING, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel to be exact.

For 15 years we were inseparable. Day trips through the hills...Big Horns...across South Dakota...Minnesota...Wisconsin. You were the 1/4 million mile pup! There wasn't a trail, park, nor lake in the Black Hills where you hadn't tread chasing deer, turkeys and your doggie brethren.

Everyone you met loved you and marveled at your agility, something most people never expected of a 3-legged little boy. Yep, our little spirited scrapper! But that wasn't the most amazing thing about you, Delaney. You loved us completely and taught us the true meaning of unconditional love. We returned this love a thousand-fold and it still most probably fell short in comparison to what you gave us.

Our hearts are broken at your passing, Delaney. Our only consolation is knowing you are waiting for us at Rainbow Bridge where we will all, once more, be a family. Until we meet again, Sweet Boy, know that you are loved forever more.

Bridget, Mom, and Dad

I love and miss you so much my boy. Not a day goes by that I don't think about your sweet little face.

Dexter Mommy and Corey loves you and misses you so much. I would give anything to have you here with me. Words can't describe the pain I'm feeling right now. I want you to know I will think of you everyday and remember the funny and silly things you used to do. I will remember your personality and your character.  
I never knew a cat could develop such qualities. It feels strange walking into my house and there's no one to greet me at the door. I remember how you used to follow me into the bathroom and while I was bathing you and I would play tag. I would put my hand just over the edge of the tub and you would crouch down, let your tail sway side to side as you wait for the opportunity to tag me with your paw and anticipate where my hand would show up next. I also remember our quiet momemts when you would hop on the couch beside me and curl up on my lap and take a nap. There are so many thing I remember about you Dexter.  
So many things that make you different from any other cat. We love you Dexter and I pray God takes you into his arms and nourish you into perfect health. I know you will watch over us as you always have. I want you to always be with me. I love you Dexter and you are truly missed.

Dexter came into my life and he left me suddenly. Dexter will be missed he is a beautiful great dane. I went on vacation and left with him with vet and his stomach twist and there was nothing they could do for him it happen so fast. Dexter and I went through dog training and he graduate he even made it thru Canine Good Citizen I was so proud of him and of myself. Dexter would look at me and I would look at him and smile he was a beautiful dog. I remember taking him to his first dog park he was so happy but he would look at me and smile and he always kept his eye on me to make sure I was safe. Dexter was my baby he still thou he was a lap dog. I life without him is awful my heart is breaking. Good Bye DEXTER MICHAEL BAILEY I WILL ALWAYS MISS YOU AND I WILL ALWAYS BE LOOKING FOR YOU...

Our sweet little man Di Vinci the Italian Greyhound lost his life to cancer today. He was up there in years but never gave up the fight and will be missed TERRIBLY by his mommies Cynthia and Julia, and his auntie Laurie too! Hoping his transition over the rainbow bridge will be an easy one so his little body will finally find peace and vitality again. We will love you forever and hope to see you again someday in heaven!

For my Belle - Thank you for your life of love and dedication. I will forever hold your memory and spirit in my heart. Your spice for life and you hugh heart of love with last for eternity and will always remain in my soul. We are soul mates and shared a bond that death can not separate. I will be looking for you in heaven; keep your eyes open for me. I love you Missy Belle. Daddy

Our Sweet Angel,

We love you so much that we had to let you go. You have changed our lives forever even in the brief, beautiful short time that you blessed us with your love and affection. You have taught me so much and for that I will always be thankful. We will meet with you again someday babygirl and I can't wait to kiss your beautiful little face. We had some fun times huh? Lots of laughs and tons of snuggles. There is no doubt in my mind that you were an Angel sent from Heaven.

Job 12:10 "For the soul of every living thing is in the hand of God"

Some say, it's only a 'dog'; I say she was my friend. DJ and I spent many many hours together. She was always loving, always there, and only asked to be with me.

She is an English Bulldog, so others may have thought she is ugly, to me DJ is beautiful..

How can one reduce to words, which are only strokes on a keypad, or puffs of air, the meaning and value of a close friend. Poets and authors have tried, but at this moment, those words seem hollow to me.

What I know is that this morning, the first morning in almost 11 years I will not have my beautiful friend there, to love and to receive love.

This morning, there is a hole in my heart. I suspect some day it will fill, but right now, I don't want it to.

I thanked God this morning for the time DJ and I had together. Now, with His Grace, I will move on, but because of her, I'll never be the same.

Good Bye my friend. Love Daddy

My little baby was the most wonderful dog on the Earth. Almost seven months ago, he comes to my life and made it so happy for this time until today, the saddest day of my life, the day I lost my Best Friend, my little Doddy. I don't know if there is a sky for dogs, but I really like to believe that he is at a wonderful place, just waiting for the day that we will meet again. Doddy, my little love, I just want you to know that I have loved you since the day you born, and that you made my life be so happy and wonderful, with your little smile and with your presence that made everyone always happy, and that I will always love you while my heart still beats, and that I just wanna to have you again with me, and that I will never forget you... and that I never has suffered so much as this day, when you die... I LOVE YOU MY LITTLE DODDY... WAIT FOR ME IN HEAVEN... I JUST KNOW THAT ONE DAY I WILL SEE YOUR LITTLE BELOVED FACE AGAIN....

My Dear Friend and Loyal Canine,  
You are missed so greatly, more than words could possibly express. I am so sorry that we weren't allowed to be together longer. There is an emptiness in the house now that you are gone and as much as Sammy tries to fill your shoes, it is an impossibility. You weren't really a canine I am sure, you were half human. How much you understood every word I said and how compassionate you were when I needed it most.We danced together, cried together, went through trials and the best of times, always together. Though you were so gentle and kind you kept us all comforted with your protective loyalty.Not only did you leave our family, but a piece of my heart has gone with you. Together always my beautiful,sweet baby...in heart and in soul.If there is another life for canines I know yours will be that of a prince. I pray we someday see eachother again, perhaps in Heaven my dear friend. We Love you Dodgy  
Your Family Forever,  
Mommy, Andrew, Grandma and Angelina

A BEAUTIFUL DOG INSIDE AND OUT STOLE THE HEART OF MANY SHE WILL BE MISSED WE LOVE YOU DOLLY REST IN PEACE LOVE YOU ALAWAYS  
DENISE RENISE AND OZZY

Domino, a black-and-white shorthair male cat, came into our lives in Port Orange, Fl., in January 2008 after his previous owner, my sister Marge, passed away from cancer in Kissimmee, Fl. Domino and his friend Simba, a yellow-haired cat, had lived with Marge for 14 years. They hid under a bed when it came time to empty her house, scared of the strangers invading their space. No one else in the family offered to take them in, so we loaded them in our truck and brought them to the Daytona area. Even though our previous cat and dog (Queenie and Champ) had passed away and we had vowed "no more pets," we couldn't bear the thought of the cats being taken to a pound.  
Despite the disruption, both indoor cats settled into their new home quickly, along with Spike, Marge's tempermental Chihauhua. Domino was the most sociable one, quickly finding favorite spots in the new home, mostly on my bed, chairs and bureau. Simba stayed mostly in hiding for the first couple of weeks, but gradually gained confidence with us. Soon, the two of them were back to being a close pair, often hugging each other in cat naps and grooming one another's faces. Although Domino, at about 10 pounds, was only half the size of Simba, he was always the dominant one - eating first in the morning, while Simba hung back, always the first one to meow, or climb up in my lap.  
Over the three years we had him, Domino made several trips to the vet, mostly for teeth problems. He had to get a couple of teeth removed and others had to be cleaned at regular intervals. Several months ago, the vet noticed the first signs of possible kidney disease, a slight weight loss, and warned us it could be slowed down, but not reversed. We tried different types of special cat food formulated for kidney disease, but Domino spurned most of them. About three months ago, we noticed he was becoming noticeably thinner. A trip to the vet revealed he had dropped from 9 pounds to 7. A blood test confirmed he had entered the stage of advanced kidney disease, and the vet warned us he might last only a few months. He instructed us to feed him whatever the cat would accept and to give him lots of water and to bring him back in 8 weeks. At first he held his own, but about 4 weeks ago started failing quickly. He started having trouble jumping on the bed, vomited more frequently and started urinating outside his litter box, sometimes right next to it, or sometime in a shower stall. His food consumption dropped to almost zero, and he showed no more interest in his crunchy cat treats, previously his first snack of the morning. At the next trip to the vet, the vet started injecting fluids under his skin, the standard treatment for end-stage renal disease. The first dose seemed to perk him up and got him eating again. The next dose 3 days later also helped, but less so. We set up a blanket on a tile floor in the main area of the house, along with water, food and a litter box, and he seemed content to just lie there. When he walked, it was with a stagger, and he would lie down very gingerly, as though he was sore. He stayed very quiet, no longer doing his routine wake-up meows, although once in a while he would let out with a single meow that was more like a wail. He stopped grooming himself, and Simba no longer would sit with him. Domino started hanging out in secluded spots - under a bed or in the corner of the living room, next to a couch. We switched him to baby food, and he started eating a little better. But after his last injection of fluids, there was no rally, and we could see strength flowing out of him. Finally we decided euthanasia was best. We petted him as the shot quickly and peacefully sent him to the Rainbow bridge on May 2. While we wait for his ashes, we pray to God that he is reunited with his mom, Marge, and thank God for letting us have this perky little companion for three years.

Joe Silva, Port Orange FL.

Domino you were the best cat a family could ever have. For 17 years you gave us laughter, love, and affection. You have been with us through thick and thin, always bringing a smile to our faces. You survived two toddlers playing with you, a puppy chasing you, and a 3000 mile move across the country.

Your amazing bond with Lauren will never be forgotten. You brought more to her life than you will ever know. She will deeply miss you. You hold a special place in her heart, and ours. We wish you peace in heaven our dear pet, and will love you always.

This is my sweet teeny,tiny precious princess baby angel. She brought so much joy to my life. Doodles was sweet and ornery and comforting and musical (She could sing). She is loved and missed. She's probably trying to boss the other pups at Rainbow Bridge as I write and enjoying herself immensely.

Duchess passed away of Lymphoma on March 14, 2011. She was at the point of having a tough time breathing. I was able to hold her through the procedure. She leaves her brother, Duke, Myself and my husband Parker. This is a wonderful site. Pat Tagsold tagsold@cass.net

My Duddly was the love of my life. I rescued him from a second chance program at a local shelter about a month after my 16 year old cat Charlie died. Both Charlie & Duddly were big tuxedo cat's. Duddly never really new if he was a cat, dog, or person. People who never liked cat's would tell me if they could have a cat like Duddly they would get one in a minute. He greeted everyone at the door, rolled over for a belly rub & made sure you gave him all your attention. Duddly was a big boy about 22 pounds, perfect for keeping me warm a night. Five years ago I became very ill & disabled. Many of my days are spent in bed & Duddly was always next to me. When I would come home from my chemo treatments he would want to lick me all over. I think it was his way of trying to heal me. Duddly loved his toe's rubbed & I rubbed them for hours each day. I never tought Duddly would go before me & I had arrangements made for him when I died. His illness came on quick & I only had a week to try to make him better. Seeing my baby in such pain was the hardest thing I have ever had to see. Duddly was the light of my life and many others. I know he is in a wonderful place & waiting for me to join him. Duddly you gave so much & asked for so little. I miss you more then you will ever know. Tell we meet again. I love you to the moon & back.

Duff Man,  
Words cannot express what I feel right now. Looking and listening for you. Don't know how I can go to bed tonight without my snuggler. Where shall I sleep? You were the most wonderful loyal, devoted, companion, and I only hope and pray I made the right decision today. Miss you more than you will ever know..

Duffy was the possibility of unconditional love. We adopted him on 5/5/00 and were told that we could only have Duffy (West Highland /Jack Russell Terrier) if we also took on Rascal (Chihuahua/Corgi). They had bonded in the shelter and could not be separated. Duffy was loyal and committed. He was always there to protect his brother from any threat from other dogs when on walks or at the dog park; but he always allowed his younger brother the role of Alpha Male at home. He didn't need to strut his stuff. He hated cats with a passion, and he would defend the homestead against rats, skunks, and the silver-haired ladies who lived across the back fence in Leisure World. He loved to eat. He would help Mom in the kitchen while she cooked, ready to lick up any spills or drops. At the dinner table, Duffy would always bring the "whine" with our meal. He would whine in a high pitch, begging for a tasty morsel for him and Rascal. Duffy liked to be rubbed on his belly, and scratched on the top of his head. The high-light of his day was breakfast or dinner, and he would hop up on his hindlegs waving his paws in what looked like a "Praire Dog" pose to beg for his meal. He would love to tear up rope toys, and would shred them to threads. Duffy is missed by all of his family, especially by Rascal. Rest in Peace, Duffy. You made us whole and complete, and you can NEVER be replaced in our hearts. We remember you every time we drop some food on the floor and you're not there to lick it up.

We love you,  
Jim, Vicki, Alison, Chris, Liz, Emma, Evelyn, and Rascal

Dugan Stash Kocsis was born May 8, 1994 and I first saw him and his two sisters on Sunday, June 19, 1994, at the Cleveland Animal Protective League. I had gone there to adopt two kittens but there were three in the cage. They were identified as three females from the same litter even though they had completely different markings. One was black and white and one was a calico and one was gray and brown. The black and white and the calico were right at the cage door with their paws through the bars trying to draw attention. The gray and brown kitten was at the back of the cage just sitting there very calmly. There was no way one could be left behind so all three came home with me. The black and white was named Daisy, the gray and brown named Emily and the calico was Trixie.

A little over a week later they had their first doctor visit. And Daisy was not a little girl. So I had to come up with a new name -- and one that started with a 'D'. Since it was summer, I had been doing some gardening and just bought plants at Dugan's Garden Center. And so Daisy became Dugan.

Going to the APL was a somewhat spur of the moment thing so I wasn't really prepared with kitten food, etc. When I got home from the store, all three kittens were huddled behind the refrigerator keeping warm and cozy. They grew and grew and played and played. And Dugan especially grew and grew until he weighed 19 pounds. Dugan was a big guy who would never have tolerated being called "Daisy".

We all moved to a new and bigger house -- one with three floors. The first few days were kind of scary but soon they all established their special areas. Of course, Dugan's special area was wherever he was. He was the king of our castle. A couple of years later, we adopted Bailey but Dugan was still king. Then a couple of years later Webster came into our lives.

Dugan had a hard time with Webster and stopped eating for a couple of days. He went to Dr. Carothers, and started eating again but there was concern that he had fatty liver syndrome. So he had to be checked every year to make sure things were okay with his liver.

Dugan was my very very special boy. He would sleep on our bed at night right next to me with his head on the pillow. And he would come over and start sucking on my ear lobe. He would turn my head with his paw on my cheek so he could get to the other ear. He never did that anywhere else except when we were in bed. Dugan loved to go outside and sit on the deck. He would wait at the door for his harness and leash and sit on the deck or under a bench. Sometimes he even took himself for a walk down the sidewalk. He would walk out on the left side and come back on the right side. Dugan knew he was not allowed on the grass and always stayed on the deck or the sidewalk -- even when he saw the bunnies in the yard. He was a very good boy.

Dugan was always the first one downstairs for breakfast every day. He was such a good eater. He loved all kinds of food -- turkey, chicken, ham, tuna and he even liked spaghetti sauce and meatballs. Of course, he did eat cat food also. The other stuff were just special treats. He was not a finicky eater my Dugan. And he loved to hide under the bed comforter. Sometimes I couldn't find him and didn't really notice the lump in the bed but there he was all warm under the comforter.  
Dugan had his own special personality. He loved feathers. He loved cat nip. And he would on occasion pick up my fuzzy pink slipper from the bedroom closet and carry it downstairs meowing all the way.

Dugan also liked to sleep on his back! And if he was next to you, he would push you with his feet.

In October 2008, Dugan had his semi-annual wellness checkup. His blood and urine tests came back all within normal ranges. But three weeks later I noticed that his sides were bulging and he was gaining weight. On October 27, x-rays showed that his abdomen was filled with fluid. On October 28, Dr. Carothers did an ultrasound and drained 2 liters/4 pounds of cloudy straw-colored fluid. He certainly felt better after that but the diagnosis was not good. He had carcinomatosis syndrome; widespread cancer throughout the body. And his prognosis was poor: 2 weeks to 2 months. The fluid started building back up and Dugan's appetite was getting poorer. He wanted to eat; he just couldn't eat very much at a time.

During the day, Dugan would sit on a soft pillow on the bench by the window looking out at the back yard. At night I would carry him upstairs to bed and even though he no longer sucked on my ears he stayed with me.

On Saturday, November 8, with his chin held in the palm of my hand and my arm around his body, Dugan was told how very much I loved him, and he quietly slipped away to the Rainbow Bridge. I don't know if he could ever imagine the impact he had on my life. I never knew how much until he was gone. Dugan was cremated with a feathered toy and a small catnip toy.

Fourteen and a half years ago, Dugan came home with me and very quickly became my beloved pet. And he'll come home again! He was sweet and loving and just a wonderful big guy. I will always love you Dugan and you will always be my baby boy.

Duke,

You were my baby boy, my constant companion, and my constant source of comfort. I will miss the sound of your squeaky toys, throwing the ball, and fighting over the bed.

Rest in peace, my little guy. Mommy loves you and misses you!

Dear Duke,
Although you came into our lives when you were 5 years old, as a stray country cat you were NOTHING but sweet, angelic and loving. The first day I had you, you made yourself at home and you were always comfortable no matter where you were. I'm glad I was able to give you a stable, loving home for the last years of your life.
I know you were sick for a while but your zest for life just kept you going. I don't think you wanted to leave us but your poor little body couldn't take the pain anymore. Losing you is very hard to your family you left behind.
The day you left, Ryan carried a picture of you around and said you were his best buddy....It breaks my heart to know we'll go a long time until we see you again. Your love was predictable and undying. Your faithfulness and persistence were your most positive assets.
I'm sorry I couldn't do anything for you to make you feel better so you could stay with us longer. Keep an eye on Ryan as he grows up into a teenager and young man. Say hi to Autumn for me up there at Rainbow bridge. Tell her I miss her and I'll see her one day again. AND I will see you, too, buddy!! My tears are still fresh for you and those will go away but my memories of you will stay forever! I LOVE YOU forever and ever! Take care of yourself baby boy:-) Kisses and hugs...Love, mommy, tony and Ryan. xoxoxo

Dearest Angel, our golden teddy bear, beautiful inside and out. You will be forever missed by all of us. There is a hole in our heart that can never be filled now that you have left us, our Duke of Curl. Nothing will ever be the same without you.

Dukie

Some people think I may have loved you too much. I don’t think so. You gave me so much joy and happiness. I remember well the day that we got you. We had just lost Narfy a few months before that day. I had had surgery a week or so beforehand. Your dad was interested in another kind of dog.

We saw you with your fat little tummy and deformed little rib. We fell in love with you that day and have loved you ever since. I know we gave you a good life but you gave back so much more. You were always there for me. I could have a terrible day but when I came home you always made my day better.

Right now I can barely stand it that you are gone. I know I made the right decision. You couldn’t get comfortable any more the last few days and it broke my heart. I couldn’t let you suffer. You trusted me to care for you.

I miss you so much! You were by my side for thirteen and a half years. I will be okay and I will be able to remember you with happiness some day but right now the grief is almost intolerable. You followed me everywhere. You were always with me. I couldn’t go to the bathroom or out the door without your happy presence. You knew when I was going to work and couldn’t go with me. You accepted it but weren’t happy about it.

I just want to hug you right now. I have no one to talk to. I talked to you all the time and you would appear to listen or cock your sweet little head back and forth trying to understand. I love you. You will always be in my heart.

Mom

I lost my dear pet Shadow, a black scottie dog
his body growing older as he laid still like a log

The cancer was too much for his body to bear
so he went to heaven without pain or care

But the pain in my heart grew and grew. I feared it would never stop
it got harder and harder with every tear drop.

I saw an add for a little dog. 7 years old was he
No one wanted a dog that old but I said pick me!

At first I was so scared. The pain was all still so new
I don't want to get close to my new dog
and watch it happen to you

but he stole my heart so very fast
I didn't care how much time had passed

all that mattered was he was with me now
and I am grateful for that little bow wow

We spent a year together
I only dreamed of it getting better

every day was better then the last
he helped me heal from my shadow that had passed

but out of no where he got sick.
I cared for him but he would not lick

to the vet we'd often go
but the cause we did not know

finally with an ultrasound
my whole world turned upside-down

you were dying in front of me
so fast I had to let you be

not even one more day for us
you were set, heaven or bust

Oh Dunkin how I miss you so
I still don't see why you had to go.

You helped me heal from my first puppy loss
but now I feel I cant bear the cost

losing you too was just to much
the house is all to hush hush

I know you are no longer in pain
you can run and leap and are not lame

Oh dunker puppy, I miss you so
I wish so badly you didn't have to go.

You taught me so much while you were here
and now I will heal knowing you are near

in my heart, a place you will always have
and knowing you has made me glad

You rescued me when I needed you
You did what you needed to do

Given the chance I would do it again
Just so I could call you my friend

Thank you for your snuggles and heart
remember friend, were never far apart



Dunkin, You were such a great friend. I love you so much and miss you more then I can bear. The smell of your fur (and breath :P), the silly way you barked and made your lower jaw tremble, they way you would rifle thru your toy box to find the EXACT toy you wanted and how you always knew when I needed some snuggles. Thank you for keeping me and calling me your friend. You will be forever missed.

To the tune of "Rubber Ducky" on Seaseme Street.

Dunker Puppy your the one
and I'm having so much fun
Dunker Puppy I'm awfully fond of you

Dunker Puppy your THE BEST
so much cuter then the rest
Dunker Puppy I'm awfully fond of you
Dunker Puppy I'm so in love with you!

Dupree Danticat came into our lives as an abandoned kitten sometime in 1994. He was supposed to be temporary until someone could find a home for him, so he had no name for a very long time, but as the years passed, he became a permanent fixture in our home and was finally named Dupree Danticat. He was a long haired black cat who we suspect was half Siamese because he was very vocal and had a very deep meow. He was always rather aloof and princely but seemed content to share his house with his family, so long as he was fed and could go in and out at his leisure. His favorite place to sit outside on a sunny day was underneath a towering arbor vitae tree in the front yard. In the house, his preferences varied depending on his mood. Sometimes it was the green chair in the living room, sometimes the back of the sofa, sometimes my mom's bed, sometimes various open windows on a summer day and more recently, the red recliner in the living room. The past few days it was the end of the sofa where I normally sit. He became more and more of a lap cat in his declining years and in the past few evenings, he's wanted to sit on my lap, something he never did before. Last night was Thanksgiving and we shared some small pieces of turkey with him, but his digestive organs were breaking down and although he wolfed them down hungrily, his body could no longer process food and he was literally starving to death. His health suffered a rather rapid decline in recent weeks, especially this past week, so the decision was made this morning to let him go to Cat Heaven, where he can romp in the woods, chase his favorite toys, eat his favorite foods and sit in his favorite sunny spots and be loved forever. He will be forever cherished, loved and remembered and his final resting place is his favorite spot in the yard where he liked to lie in the sun. I am glad his body came home where we will always know that he'll always be with us in spirit if not in body. Dupree, "bunny" (my pet name for him), I will love you forever and ever. I miss you so much, my beloved friend. Rest in eternal peace, free from pain and in your favorite spot in our yard. I love you!

Our wonderful little foofy princess has left us but she will be forever in our hearts. She was our wonderful, beautiful flower and always will be. Whether we called her Dutchie or Dutch or Foofy or Foofer Beans she was always our beautiful companion and fantastic friend. Mommy and Daddy, and Sheba and Honeybun will miss you terribly, but we know you are now happily running and playing with your sister Miss Mittens and our special little guy Aggie! You will always be with us! Love eternally, Mommy and Daddy. XXX OOO XXX OOO XXX!

Our beloved Dutchess, our little adopted Shih Tzu, lost her courageous battle with lymphoma two days ago and left a very large void in our lives. In the nearly six years that she was in our lives, she brought us boundless love and happiness. She was the kindest and gentlest little soul. She loved everyone and everyone loved her. She loved to go to the park and eat her special turkey treats. She will always be in our hearts and memory.  
God bless you, our little "girlie girl" and "princess"!  
All our love,  
Poppa, Momma and Pepper