Our beloved Rottweiler, Sheeba passed away this morning. She was a brave soul who fought her illness with dignity and grace right until the end. Many of you read my posts early on in her illness, and gave me wonderful advice. Sheeba's fighting spirit, our love for her and the advice I got here, kept her going for an extra 7 months. She was 11 years and 5 months old. Unfortunately, the bone cancer caught up with her last night. She became weaker and weaker, could not rest, and worse of all cried all night. My husband and I both stayed up with her, talking to her, giving her sips of water and rubbing her. So many people told us we would "know" when it was time to have her put to sleep, and we both new today was it. She had bounced back from so many downs during her illness, but had never experienced anything like this. We were by her side until the last moment, and she went quickly and peacefully. All I wanted to do was the right thing for that dog. She was our best friend. I am not sad for her, because I know she has moved to a better place and she has a lot of people who love her and will take care of her until we can be together again. I am sad for myself, because I loved her more than I thought possible and will miss her terribly.
I stood by your bed last night, I came to have a peep. I could see that you were crying, You found it hard to sleep.
I whined to you softly as you brushed away a tear, "It's me, I haven't left you, I'm well, I'm fine, I'm here."
I was close to you at breakfast, I watched you pour the tea, You were thinking of the many times, your hands reached down to me.
I was with you at the shops today, Your arms were getting sore.
I longed to take your parcels, I wish I could do more.
I was with you at my grave today, You tend it with such care.
I want to reassure you, that I'm not lying there.
I walked with you towards the house, as you fumbled for your key.
I gently put my paw on you, I smiled and said "it's me."
You looked so very tired, and sank into a chair.
I tried so hard to let you know, that I was standing there.
It's possible for me to be so near you everyday.
To say to you with certainty, "I never went away."
You sat there very quietly, then smiled, I think you knew, in the stillness of that evening, I was very close to you.
The day is over... I smile and watch you yawning and say "good-night, God bless, I'll see you in the morning."
And when the time is right for you to cross the brief divide,
I'll rush across to greet you and we'll stand, side by side.
I have so many things to show you, there is so much for you to see.
Be patient, live your journey out ... then come home to be with me.
Author unknown.
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies who has been especially close to someone here on earth, 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 and water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals who have 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 miss someone very special to them who had to be left behind.
The animals 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 begins to quiver. 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 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 together, you and your special pet cross the Rainbow Bridge.
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I would like to offer my deepest condolences on the loss of your beloved friend and family member. I once had a Rottie, as well. Pets are very dear to us - they offer us unconditional love as close to God's own as can be, here on Earth. They don't mind if we're fat, ugly, loud, stupid, silly, blind, deaf, sick, or injured. They know that we are who we are and they love us, regardless.
May you find peace and comfort at this very difficult time.
I've been following your heartfelt "situation/story" and I just wanted you to know I am sad over everything you're going through right now. My thoughts and prayers go out to you, and I am sorry for the loss of your precious Sheeba.
I cry with you and your family on your loss of your dearest Sheeba.
Our furry family members have such a way to soothe our souls and keep us company even in perfect quieteness; their spirit of protection and complete faithfulness are just some of the qualities that make them so valuable to our lives.
May Sheeba's spirit dwell within your lives, and may fun, loving memories of play and frolicking fill your hearts.