I know that my some of my ancestors had pets, especially dogs, but Chuck was of course special! He recognized me as being the 'alpha' dog in the family, at least that is my interpretation of his behaviours over the last eight plus years. I was the one in the family who could scratch behind his ears just the right way and rub his tummy best. But he was Ellen's constant companion, a protector who ensured that no one came to the door or even strolled past the house without knowing that a ferocious guard was keeping watch over the lady of the house.
Chuck had a mischievous side as well. Despite Facebook's rule that one had to be over 13 years of age to have an account, Chuck broke new canine ground in setting up a Facebook page, despite only being a couple of years old at the time. Chuck sent 'friend' requests to his 'brothers and sisters' who all originally accused me of being behind the Chuck on Facebook prank. Eventually it was found out that Chuck was secretly using my computer for his social media exploits and we caught him "red pawed" at the keyboard. It was through Facebook that Chuck asked our daughter, Jenna, if her female dog 'Ivey' was seeing anyone - proof that he knew the power of the net!
While I was in the hospital last fall, what was later diagnosed as a cancer appeared on his upper lip. The tumour was treated with steroids, with some initial good results at first, but of late his condition worsened. Today, on the advice of our veterinarian, Chuck passed away peacefully and quietly, finally suffering no more.
Rest in peace, little pal. And, thanks.
The Rainbow Bridge:
ReplyDeleteJust 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....
Author unknown...
I am so sorry to hear that Chuck is no longer with you but glad that you gave him years of a good life with people who loved him.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the kind thoughts and words. The house is a little emptier now and we are having to adjust to not having Chuck around us.
ReplyDeleteIan, I am very sorry for your loss.
ReplyDeleteHi Ian and Ellen
ReplyDeleteI was so sorry to hear about Chuck. Dogs are such loyal friends and I really do feel for you. I started the following poem when Charlie my daughter's dog lost his fight with cancer and finished it when my sister's springer spaniel Columbo passed on aged 14 just a few weeks ago.
Four-Legged Angels
A little dog sniffs round the beautiful gates;
They swing open and he waddles through.
He follows with trust a bright shining light,
And soon learns what he has to do,
To become a four-legged angel -
Animals do go to Heaven it's true.
Broken hearted we cry for lost creatures,
Who've brought us such comfort and love,
But these pets have only crossed over,
And their spirits live on, high above.
There are four-legged angels in Heaven,
From hamsters, rabbits, ferrets and rats,
Every single one who has touched us,
To dogs, horses, donkeys and cats.
When we hear soft flurries around us,
An angel pet is shaking its wings
To remind us they pop by to see us,
And knowing that makes our souls sing.
God would never miss out our companions,
And draws them all to his side;
He knows Heaven needs four-legged angels,
To send love to the world far and wide.