Saying goodbye to an old friend....

Yesterday, Dave's dog Kayla was put to sleep. Kayla's health was getting worse, but it still isn't something you can prep for. She was such a good dog- this is hitting him so very hard. Most all of you know how much Kayla meant to him.

Even though he hasn't lived with his parents for many years, Kayla has always been "Dave's girl". She got excited at the sound of his name, and seeing him made her ever so happy. They had a special bond.

Most of you know of my fear of dogs. The first dog that helped me tackle this fear was Kayla. The first time I met her I ran away in tears -I wish I could say I was kidding!! She was so big and scary and hyper. But over the years I grew to be less scared. She was the first dog I ever really touched, first dog I ever let lick me (Ew!), and first "animal/pet" I ever ever even bonded with. It's my first experience with loss of a pet, since I'd never had one. And even though she wasn't "mine", I had a special bond with her. If it wasn't for her, we would have never gotten Rylee. And I'm so grateful for that.

I'm really sad. I have never imagined losing a pet to hurt like this. Dave was sick last night and just so sad. Please keep him in your thoughts, I know this is so tough on him. Here are just a few photos I have of Kayla to share. My favorite is the one of her and Ry all curled up.

A friend shared this poem about losing a pet, and I wanted to post it here.

"Rainbow Bridge"

Just 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....