Happy Tails
Rainbow Bridge
Useful Tips
Links

Home Page

 

SPCA de l'Ouest du Quebec

SPCA of Western Quebec

ahspca@storm.ca

 

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 vigour. 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)

 

 

In memory of Angel ...

 

WITH ANGELS THEY PLAY

They haven't really been taken away.
They have only gone with the Angels to play.
They have been given wings with which to fly.
All their troubles have passed them by.

Their life in heaven now must start.
But we'll hold their memory in our hearts.
Nothing about them will be forgotten.
But now they sleep on billowy clouds of cotton.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Myn ...

THE ROSE BEYOND THE WALL


A rose once grew where all could see
sheltered beside a garden wall
And as the days passed swiftly by,
it spread its branches, straight and tall.

One day, a beam of light shone through
a crevice that had opened wide
The rose bent gently toward its warmth
then passed beyond to the other side...

Now, you who deeply feel its loss,
be comforted the rose blooms there
Its beauty even greater now,

nurtured by God's own loving care.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Shauna ...

 

I just wanted to let you know that I made it home.
The journey wasn't an easy one, but it didn't take too long.

Everything is so pretty here, so white, so fresh and new
I wish that you could close your eyes and that you could see it too.

Please try not to be sad for me.
Try to understand God is taking care of me...
I'm in the shelter of His hands.

Here there is no sadness, no sorrow, and no pain.
Here there is no crying and I'll never hurt again.

Here it is so peaceful when all the angels sing.
I really have to go for now... I've just got to try my wings.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Sophie ...

 

When you are sad,
I will dry your tears.
When you are scared,
I will comfort your fears.
When you are worried,
I will give you hope.
When you are confused,
I will help you cope.
And when you are lost,
and can't see the light.
I will be your beacon
shinning ever so bright.
This is my oath.
I pledge to the end.
Why, you may ask?
Because you're my friend.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Pooki ...

POEM FOR CATS

 

And God asked the feline spirit
Are you ready to come home?
Oh, yes, quite so, replied the precious soul
And, as a cat, you know I am most able
To decide anything for myself.

Are you coming then? asked God.
Soon, replied the whiskered angel
But I must come slowly
For my human friends are troubled
For you see, they need me, quite certainly.

But don't they understand? asked God
That you'll never leave them?
That your souls are intertwined. For all eternity?
That nothing is created or destroyed?
It just is....forever and ever and ever.

Eventually they will understand,
Replied the glorious cat
For I will whisper into their hearts
That I am always with them
I just am....forever and ever and ever.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Gibson ...

WE HAVE A SECRET

 

We have a secret, you and I
that no one else shall know,
for who but I can see you lie
each night in fire glow?
And who but I can reach my hand
before we go to bed
and feel the living warmth of you
and touch your silken head?
And only I walk woodland paths
and see ahead of me,
your small form racing with the wind
so young again, and free.
And only I can see you swim
in every brook I pass
and when I call, no one but I
can see the bending grass.

Author Unknown

(A tribute to Gibson can be found here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tb6TbjiLu2o)

 

 

In memory of Theia ...

TRIBUTE TO A BEST FRIEND

 

 

Sunlight streams through window pane
unto a spot on the floor....
then I remember,
it's where you used to lie, but now you are no more.

Our feet walk down a hall of carpet,
and muted echoes sound....
then I remember,
It's where your paws would joyously abound.

A voice is heard along the road,
and up beyond the hill,
then I remember it can't be yours....
your golden voice is still.

 

But I'll take that vacant spot of floor
and empty muted hall
and lay them with the absent voice
and unused dish along the wall.

I'll wrap these treasured memorials
in a blanket of my love
and keep them for my best friend
until we meet above.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Candy ...

A BRIDGE CALLED LOVE

 

It takes us back to brighter years,
to happier sunlit days
and to precious moments
that will be with us always.

And these fond recollections
are treasured in the heart
to bring us always close to those
from whom we had to part.

There is a bridge of memories
from earth to Heaven above...
It keeps our dear ones near us
It's the bridge that we call love.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Tiny ...

WAITING AT THE GATE

 

 

I explained to Saint Peter
I'd rather wait here,
Just outside the Pearly Gate.
I won't be a nuisance, I won't even bark,
I'll be very patient and wait.

I'll be right here chewing
A celestial bone,
No matter how long you may be,
'Cos I'd miss you too much
If I went in alone...
It wouldn't be heaven for me.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Hope ...

I THOUGHT OF YOU WITH LOVE TODAY

 

I thought of you with love today
but that is nothing new.
I thought about you yesterday
and days before that too.

I think of you in silence,
I often speak your name.
All I have are memories
and your picture in a frame.

Your memory is my keepsake
with which I’ll never part.
God has you in His keeping,
I have you in my heart.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Murray ...

CREATION

 

When God had made the earth and sky,
the flowers and the trees,
He then made all the animals
the fish, the birds and bees.
And when at last He'd finished
not one was quite the same.
He said "I'll walk this world of mine
and give each one a name".
And so He travelled far and wide
and everywhere He went,
a little creature followed Him
until its strength was spent.
When all were named upon the earth
and in the sky and sea,
the little creature said "Dear Lord,
there's no name left for me".


Kindly the Father said to him,
"I've left you to the end.
I've turned my own name back to front
And called you DOG, my friend".

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Ollie ...

TREASURED FRIEND

 

 

I lost a treasured friend today
The little dog who used to lay
Her gentle head upon my knee
And shared her silent thoughts with me.

She’ll come no longer to my call
Retrieve no more her favourite ball
A voice far greater than my own
Has called her to his golden throne.

Although my eyes are filled with tears
I thank him for the happy years
He let her spend down here with me
And for her love and loyalty.
 


When it is time for me to go
And join her there, this much I know
I shall not fear the transient dark
For she will greet me with a bark.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Smokey ...

MY LITTLE CAT GHOST

 

The years I've worn you,
warm upon my shoulder
have led us here --
surprised to find us older.

And there was nothing left
to do today
but hold you close
and help you on your way.

Be still, my little cat,
be well, be free.
I know you're somewhere new
and loving me.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Badger ...

HAVE YOU A DOG IN HEAVEN, LORD?

 

Have You a dog in Heaven, Lord?
And do You pat its head?
Does he sit up and beg each night
before he goes to bed?

Does he look up with shining eyes
when he sees Your smiling face?
Does he wag his stubby little tail
when he wants to run a race?

Have You a dog in Heaven, Lord?
Is there room for just one more?
Cause my little dog died today;
he'll be waiting at Your door.

Please take him into Heaven, Lord.
And keep him there for me,
just feed him, pet him, love him, Lord,
that's all he'll ask of Thee.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Yukon ...

DON'T GRIEVE TOO LONG

 

Don't grieve too long for now I'm free
I've followed the path God set for me
I ran to Him when I heard His call
I swished my tail and left it all.

I could not stay another day
To bark, to love, to romp or play
Games left unplayed must stay that way
I found such peace, it made my day.

My parting has left you with a void
Please fill it with remembered joy
A friendship shared, your laugh, a kiss
Oh yes, these things I too shall miss.

Be not burdened with ties of sorrow
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow
My life's been full, you've given so much
Your time, your love and gentle touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief
Lift up your heart and share with me
God wanted me, He set me free.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Rocky ...

 

Son petit cœur n’en pouvait plus,
La maladie a eu le dessus.
Nous avons pleuré et l’avons longuement caressé
Avant de le faire euthanasier.

C’est à lui, à chaque jour, que nous pensons
Lorsque nous rentrons dans la maison.
Le lit et la chaise de bureau son vacants,
Il n’y a plus un poil sur le divan.

Il n’y a plus de traces de pas sur le siège de toilette,
Mais j’en ai vu dans la neige devant notre porte, juste en-dessous de la sonnette!
De toute évidence, un félin est venu lui rendre visite,
Mais finira bien par comprendre que son ami nous a quittés de façon subite.



Nos petits cœurs ont été déchirés,
Par son départ prématuré,
Mais force nous est de constater
Que notre chat est encore là!

Il s’est taillé une place pour toujours dans nos vies,
Et nous l’aimerons même s’il n’est pas exactement « ici ».
Je sens d’ailleurs qu’il sera fier de nous
Si nous adoptons bientôt un nouveau minou.

 

 

In memory of Zouzette ...

I'M STILL HERE

 

 

Friend, please don't mourn for me.
I'm still here, though you don't see.
I'm right by your side each night and day
and within your heart I long to stay.

My body is gone but I'm always near.
I'm everything you feel, see or hear.
My spirit is free, but I'll never depart
as long as you keep me alive in your heart.

I'll never wander out of your sight-
I'm the brightest star on a summer night.
I'll never be beyond your reach-
I'm the warm moist sand when you're at the beach.



I'm the colorful leaves when fall comes around
and the pure white snow that blankets the ground.
I'm the beautiful flowers of which you're so fond,
The clear cool water in a quiet pond.

I'm the first bright blossom you'll see in the spring,
The first warm raindrop that April will bring.
I'm the first ray of light when the sun starts to shine,
and you'll see that the face in the moon is mine.

When you start thinking there's no one to love you,
you can talk to me through the Lord above you.
I'll whisper my answer through the leaves on the trees,
and you'll feel my presence in the soft summer breeze.

I'm the hot salty tears that flow when you weep
and the beautiful dreams that come while you sleep.
I'm the smile you see on a baby's face.
Just look for me, friend, I'm everyplace!  

Author Unknown 

 

 

In memory of Ellie-May ...

WE HAVE A SECRET

 

We have a secret, you and I
that no one else shall know,
for who but I can see you lie
each night in fire glow?
And who but I can reach my hand
before we go to bed
and feel the living warmth of you
and touch your silken head?
And only I walk woodland paths
and see ahead of me,
your small form racing with the wind
so young again, and free.
And only I can see you swim
in every brook I pass
and when I call, no one but I
can see the bending grass.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Chica ...

A TOI QUE J’AIME ET TOI QUI M’AIMES

 

 

Quand je ne serai plus là, relâche-moi
J’ai tellement de choses à faire et à voir
Ne pleure pas en pensant à moi
Sois reconnaissance pour les belles années
Je t’ai donné mon amour
Tu peux seulement deviner
Le bonheur que tu m’as donné

Je te remercie de l’amour que tu m’as démontré
Mais, maintenant, il est temps de voyager seul.
Pour un court moment, tu peux avoir de la peine.
La confiance t’apportera réconfort et consolation.
Nous serons séparés pour quelques temps.
Laisse les souvenirs apaiser ta douleur,
Je ne suis pas loin, et la vie continue.


Si tu as besoins de moi, appelle-moi et je viendrai,
Même si tu ne peux me voir ou me toucher, je serai là,
Et si tu écoutes ton cœur, tu éprouveras clairement
La douceur de l’amour que je t’apporterai.
Et quand il sera temps pour toi de partir,
Je serai là pour t’accueillir.

 

 

In memory of Basil ...

CATS ARE WONDERFUL FRIENDS

 

 

Gentle eyes that see so much,
Paws that have the quiet touch.
Purrs to signal "all is well"
And show more love than words could tell.
Graceful movements touched with pride,
A calming presence by our side.
A friendship that takes time to grow,
Small wonder why we love them so.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Mindi ...

HER JOURNEY'S JUST BEGUN

 

Don't think of her as gone away,
Her journey's just begun.
Life holds so many facets,
This earth is only one.
Just think of her as resting
From the sorrows and the tears,
In a place of warmth and comfort
Where there are no days or years.
Think how she must be wishing
That we could know today,
How nothing but our sadness
Can really pass away.
And think of her as living
In the hearts of those she touched,
For nothing loved is ever lost
And she was loved so much.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Hugo ...

JUST MY DOG

 

 

He’s just my dog.
He is my other eyes that can see above the clouds;
My other ears that hear above the winds.
He is the part of me that can reach out into the seas.
He has told me a thousand times over that I am his reason for being.
By the way he rests against my leg.
By the way he thumps his tail at my smallest smile.
By the way he shows his hurt when I leave without taking him.
When I am wrong, he is delighted to forgive.
When I am angry, he clowns to make me smile.
When I am happy, he is joy abound.
When I am a fool, he ignores it.
When I succeed, he brags.


Without him, I am only another person.
With him, I am all powerful.
He has promised to wait for me ... whenever ...
In case I need him; and I expect I will---
As I always have.
He is my dog.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Reily ...

 


 

 

 

Courageous Reily

March 2002 - November 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Justice ...

THE PURRY GATES

 

It seems that I've reached Heaven,
or its doorstep at any rate,
and been winding round St. Peter's ankles
by the Pearly Gates.
I've plucked the angels' harp strings
and made a merry sound,
But it's plucking at my heartstrings
that you are not around.

So I think I'll sit and wait here,
just outside the door,
And as the souls come floating in,
I'll tap them with my paw.
And when you seek admittance,
they'll rename this place -
It will become Purradise,
and these the Purry Gates!

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Casey & Duffy ...

 

Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God laid for me.
I took His hand when I heard Him call;
I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way;
I found that place at the close of day.


If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;
Ah yes, these things, I too will miss.

 



Be not burdened with times of sorrow
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much;
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.

Perhaps my time seems all too brief;
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now, He set me free.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Simba ...

SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL REMAINS

 

 

 

The tide recedes but leaves behind
bright seashells on the sand.
The sun goes down but gentle
warmth still lingers on the land.
The music stops and yet it echoes
on in sweet refrains.
For every joy that passes,
something beautiful remains.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Pogo ...

 

 

If it should be that I grow frail and weak,
And pain prevail my peaceful sleep,
Then you must do what must be done
When this last battle can't be won.

You will be sad, I understand.
Selfishness might stay your hand,
But on this day, more than the rest
Your love and friendship take the test.

We've had so many happy years,
That what's to come can hold no fear.
You'd not want me to suffer. So,
When the time comes please let me go.



Take me where my needs they'll tend,
Only -- Stay with me until the end.
Hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.

I know, in time, you too will see
It is a kindness that you do for me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffering I've been saved.

Do not grieve it should be you,
Who must decide this thing to do.
We've been so close, we two, these years...
Don't let your heart hold any tears.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Mitch ...

 

À contempler tes beaux grands yeux jaunes pleins de douceur et d’éternité, qui oserait prétendre qu’un animal n’a pas d’âme, mon beau petit félin. Cette photo prise en cette chaude soirée de septembre 2012, alors qu’assis devant moi, tu me regardais les yeux remplis d’affection et de confiance. Comment aurais-je pu savoir à ce moment-là qu’à peine six mois plus tard, la mort viendrait sans prévenir t’arracher à moi de manière aussi injuste, toi à la personnalité si contrastante et qui aimais tant la vie…

Qu’est-ce que je t’ai aimé, Mitch… Bien plus que la vaste majorité de ceux de ma race. C’est que les animaux, eux, aiment et se laissent aimer de manière inconditionnelle. Ton départ soudain figure parmi les grandes douleurs de ma vie, mon «beau gros». Tu es mort dans mes bras, suivant l’injection. Le choc et la douleur qui ont suivi furent très violents. Souvent, je suis allé m’asseoir au bord de la rivière pour pleurer en regardant le soleil se coucher et me demandant si tu ne te trouvais pas quelque part dans cette lumière. De toi, il ne me reste plus que ce petit sac de cendres que parfois je pose contre mon cœur quand tu me manques trop, afin que tu le sentes battre, moi qui ai mis fin aux battements du tien.

En ce moment, tu te trouves dans un espace auquel je n’ai pas encore tout à fait accès, et je ne puis que t’aimer dans mon cœur, qui est un lieu sûr où je t’aime et te protège encore et toujours. C’est là tout ce que je peux t’offrir pour l’heure, mon noiraud. Mais je garde espoir qu’un jour je te retrouverai afin de t’aimer encore davantage.

Bénis sois-tu, mon petit félin, pour tout ce que tu m’auras donné au cours de ces huit années et des poussières. Ta petite vie de chat n’aura pas été vaine.

Je t’aime Mitch,

Pierre-Jérôme

 

 

In memory of Pookie ...

 


You went first and we remain to walk the road alone,
We live in mem'ry's garden, dear, with happy days we've known.

We've known so much of happiness we've had our cup of joy,
And memory is one gift of God that death cannot destroy.

Someday down that lonely road you'll hear me call your name,
Beyond the sunset we will be together once again.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Zak ...

 

Zak was a purebred Border Collie. He was born 26 August 2007 from a purebred family of Collies. We adopted Zak on November 2007 from the shelter in Aylmer, Quebec.

Zak checked on all his remaining siblings and then came to see Gilles and Marc. He was the only one who came to see them. He chose Marc. He already had a name and we kept it.

Zak came home with Gilles and Marc on a cold November day. Already, his brother Buddy was home with Alain. They seemed happy when they were reunited. They shared the same doggy bed and slept closely together while puppies.

They grew up and brought us a lot of laughs and affection. Found out that an empty pill bottle is the perfect rattle and best game. Then, a squeaky ball gets Zak very excited and starts a play time. He would squeak and squeak that ball until our ears were sore. Whereever he was, he would arrive quickly upon hearing a squeaky ball. Buddy was last to get his turn. Border Collies are runners, so they love to play catch the ball for a very long time. Zak would run through puddles and roll in dirt. He loved to dig up a nice cool hole in summer when it was very hot outside. He dug up a big hole once in my flower bed. He also dug up a nice hole under the front porch where he loved to sleep and watch the front yard. He also had one under the back porch. Zak loved carpets. Somehow, he would rub his nose into it until the carpet was all bunched up. I knew it was Zazoo. Ah, yes, we also called him Zazoo. I don’t know how we came up with this nickname but he responded to that name as well as Zak.

Zak liked to go to the garage with us. He would lie down under the trucks or sprawl on the cool cement floor. Found out he was very irritated with the garage vacuum. One day, Gilles heard a very strange howl and wondered what it was. When he turned off the vacuum, that noise stopped. He found out it was Zak howling when the vacuum was working. I tested it and for sure, Zak started howling. It was funny because those dogs are very quiet. They only bark when a visitor comes to the door or when someone comes in the house. They tell us someone is here. Zak was our guard dog. He would patrol our property daily and did his pee rounds watering the bushes. He knew his property and didn’t run away. Buddy barked also at visitors but he goes away to hide. But Zak would stay around and did his bodyguard patrol or growl at strangers.
Both dogs like going for car rides and are quiet, just laying down on the back seat. Zak would sit up when the car stopped or when he saw that we were arriving in the driveway. Somehow, he didn’t want to jump into the car. We always had to lift him into the back seat. He was able to jump when he wanted but he didn’t want. Buddy doesn’t need any help; he just jumps in.

Zak loved chewing bones. I occasionally bought him bones at the grocery store. He loved it and would also steal Buddy’s bone. He loved carrots, peanut butter, bacon and grapes. It was funny what he did with a grape. He was using it as a little ball and ran after it for a while and then eat it. Zak was an easy going dog. He liked to play ball and would not always bring it back because he was so used to get it stolen by Buddy who brought it back that he would catch it and then drop it for Buddy to bring it back. Zak had a thick fur coat and loved the outside. He was never cold even in winter. He loved rolling in the snow. I think he was washing his fur in the snow. Zak had a favorite spot in the house to sleep and a basket. He often slept on the carpet by the front door where the floor vent was or in his basket under the window. He also liked to sleep or rest on the top of the stairs. Up there, he could watch what was going on in the kitchen or in the living room. It was also his night sleeping spot.

One day, Buddy came home very agitated and without Zak. Alain went out to see where Zak was. He found him laying down and in spasms. He was having seizures. Buddy had gone home to get help for Zak. Both dogs are always together; never far apart. We always gave the same attention to each dogs, same food and same caring.

Zak started to feel sick on Friday, September 21. During the night he started to vomit and by the morning, he really wasn’t looking well. On Saturday afternoon, we took him to see the vet who told us he was running a fever. He gave him an injection to stop vomiting and for fever. On Monday morning, Sept 23, he was worse and not moving much. The vet gave him some IV fluids, injections and took his blood work. Within a few hours, the vet knew what Zak had. His blood work was only 8% for his red blood cells. He was dying. He has “Immune medicated hemolytic anemia". His own immune system attacks his red blood cells and destroys them. He got an emergency blood transfusion and put on Prednizone and antibiotics. He came home at end of day very weak but was alive. He almost died that day.

With the medication and his blood transfusion, he seemed to hold on and even get better one day.
It was short lived, as good as he was looking well one day, he was back to barely moving the next. We took him again to see the vet hoping he could do some miracle or stop this disease but there was nothing more he could do. Zak came back home for the weekend and progressively got weaker and then stopped eating. On Monday, October 7, at 10:30 am, he took one last breath and died in front of Marc who was on the phone with the vet. Nothing could be done to save him at this point.

Zak has left us but he has not left our heart. We miss him tremendously. He was the clown dog with his tongue sticking out of his mouth and dripping on my floor. He was the big fluffy dog who could be hugged on the sofa. He was gentle and lovable. Marc, Alain and I buried him in the back yard by Marc’s trailer. He was put to rest in his basket with a squeaky ball. He was just 6 years old.

We loved him very much and he was happy with us. Buddy will miss him.

 

 

In memory of Shasta ...

 

Almost five years ago, you came into my life unexpectedly, an impulse from the heart. I went to the SPCA that day because it was busting at the seams with a surge in homeless dogs. I thought perhaps I might bring home a “tougher to adopt” older dog. After meeting a few of the older dogs, the SPCA folks said they thought they had the right dog for me: a 3-year old Akbash… Huh? Three was too young. And what the heck was an Akbash? When they brought you out, I bonded with you in an instant.  

You came to me physically and emotionally broken. Your large brown eyes were sad and lifeless. You cowered, and flinched at human touch. You were emaciated, with patches of fur, broken teeth, arthritis in your legs despite your young age and with a torn ACL. How does a dog tear their ACL while living 24/7 in a wire cage for 3 years? You were terrified of loud noises, the sound of a shovel or a rake, the sight of a garden hose. You were constantly ready to bolt. You did not trust a single human. And certainly not me. 

With time and love, that all changed. 

I will never forget the very first time I heard your deep and powerful bark, breaking seven weeks of total silence since your arrival. Nor will I forget watching you stop along our daily walking path, and raise your head to the sun, just to let the sunshine’s warmth caress your face. The first time I watched you wag your tail months later brought me such joy. With time, you became the calm, gentle, beautiful and graceful girl you were meant to be. 

You introduced me to the bittersweet world of dog rescue. You taught me about faith, trust, never giving up hope, and resilience.  

You came into this world as nothing more than a nameless breeding number. You left this world, my big girl Shasta, lying peacefully on your favourite bed by the window with your head in my arms. The last words you heard were “I love you my Big Girl”. 

You gave me so much more than I gave you.  

You will always be in my heart… RIP my Big Girl. 

 

 

In memory of Tender ...

 

Tender was the most loving of dog souls. She connected with humans on a very special level. Smart as a whip. Loved to eat snow and cuddle with us. Loved so hard and well. Kind beyond words. We adopted her from your shelter about 7 yrs ago. We walked dogs for a year before choosing her. I chose her when I looked into her eyes...and saw that she was the only dog calm and not jumping and barking. She touched me, she was there with her 6 puppies, and her SPCA name was Lexie. I was told that a wise woman brought her in from the Maniwaki reserve, and had named her Tender after her sweet disposition. Sweet she was. She left a big hole in my heart when I had to put her down due to aggressive lung cancer. She was only 8 years old. She was taken from us too early, and will always remain in our hearts.

 

 

In memory of Alice ...

 


 

 

What we have once enjoyed
we can never lose;
All that we love deeply,
becomes a part of us.

Helen Keller

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Dooney ...

 

 

 

We may not be together
In the way we used to be.
We are still connected by a
Cord no eye can see.
So whenever you need to find me
We're never far apart.
If you look beyond the horizon
And listen with your heart.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Drake ...

 

 

 

 

A good dog never dies, he always stays,
he walks besides you on crisp autumn days
when frost is on the fields and winter's drawing near,
his head within our hand in his old way.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Gypsy ...

 

 

Threescore and ten are given to man;
But ours is a much briefer span.
So, though I give you all my heart,
The time will come when we must part.
But all around you, you will see,
Creatures that speak to you of me;
A tired horse, a hunted thing,
A sparrow with a broken wing...
Pity and help (I know you will)
And somehow, I will be with you still;
And I shall know, although I’m gone,
The love I gave to you lingers on.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of India ...

 

Don't cry for me now I have died, for I'm still here I'm by your side.
My body's gone but my soul is here, please don't shed another tear.
I am still here I'm all around, only my body lies in the ground.
I am the snowflake that kisses your nose,
I am the frost that nips your toes.
I am the sun bringing you light,
I am the star shining so bright.
I am the rain refreshing the earth,
I am the laughter, I am the mirth.
I am the bird up in the sky,
I am the cloud that's drifting by.
I am the thoughts inside your head,
While I'm still there, I can't be dead.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Juliette ...

 

 

Do not mourn my passing for if you could only see,
By slipping all my earthly bonds, I'm young again and free.
By day I run the Heavenly fields, my body healthy and strong,
At night I sleep at Angels' Feet, lulled by Celestial Song.
So do not mourn my passing, just close your eyes - you'll see,
I'm once again that frisky pup, just as you remember me.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Katie ...

 

 

 

There is sorrow enough in the natural way
From men and women to fill our day;
But when we are certain of sorrow in store
Why do we always arrange for more?
Brothers and sisters I bid you beware
Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.

Rudyard Kipling

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Lady ...

 

 

 

 

 

If I had a flower for every time I thought of you, I could walk in my garden forever.

Alfred Lord Tennyson

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Mollie ...

 

She was the most loving dog I had ever had - my shadow and protector - always with me no matter where I went in the house and at the cottage. She loved running through the fields, playing catch, going for car rides and looking out the window, and always knew when we were getting ready to drive to the cottage.  She always accompanied me on long kayak rides on the lake watching the loons, ducks, and herons. She sat with me for hours on the dock watching the wildlife but never went in the water.

Mollie was a very special dog - with a big bark and large personality.  I dearly miss that bark and personality.  She will always be my "puppy".

 

 

In memory of Mrs. Brisby ...

 

 

 

 

 

Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened. 

Anatole France

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Polo ...

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.

Dr. Seuss

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Taffy ...

 

  Seven years ago we came in for a small dog...behind the desk on a leash tethered to a wall was this beautiful, beautiful girl...we walked a puppy...liked another that another couple was just adopting but kept coming back to this beautiful princess shaved and frightened behind the desk.

  We asked what her issue was...and were informed...just the day before she had come from the horrid puppy mill that has since been closed. That she was in the kill pen and a group of staff from your office grabbed her and three other dogs the day before. She would need a special home with people who knew about dog issues. WE knew..from past work with the humane society in Belleville and the adoption of our seizure ridden dog from being beaten so
often...we knew...Instantly it was a yes we could adopt her.

  Her papers said she was a purebred Briard named Topsy Turvey...oi...a lady who for the life of us right now we can't remember her name...explained she named her Taffy. Much more suited..for her colouring. We kept it...adding Princess Taffy...or as it became Taff, Taff Taff, Taffel. Tonight we had to put my beautiful princess down...who had never seen the outside of a cage or inside of a house till she came home with us..she was full of lymphoma and could no longer walk or eat.

  Though my heart aches right now..we want to thank you for our blessed 7 years with her..I'm sure one day you will see us again.

 

 

In memory of Victor ...

 

 

 

 

The golden moments in the stream of life rush past us and we see nothing but sand; the angels come to visit us, and we only know them when they are gone.

George Eliot

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Maggie ...

A BRIDGE CALLED LOVE

 

It takes us back to brighter years,
to happier sunlit days
and to precious moments
that will be with us always.

And these fond recollections
are treasured in the heart
to bring us always close to those
from whom we had to part.

There is a bridge of memories
from earth to Heaven above...
It keeps our dear ones near us
It's the bridge that we call love.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Pistache ...

POEM FOR CATS

 

And God asked the feline spirit
Are you ready to come home?
Oh, yes, quite so, replied the precious soul
And, as a cat, you know I am most able
To decide anything for myself.

Are you coming then? asked God.
Soon, replied the whiskered angel
But I must come slowly
For my human friends are troubled
For you see, they need me, quite certainly.

But don't they understand? asked God
That you'll never leave them?
That your souls are intertwined. For all eternity?
That nothing is created or destroyed?
It just is....forever and ever and ever.

Eventually they will understand,
Replied the glorious cat
For I will whisper into their hearts
That I am always with them
I just am....forever and ever and ever.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Snowy ...

CATS ARE WONDERFUL FRIENDS

 

 

 

Gentle eyes that see so much,
Paws that have the quiet touch.
Purrs to signal "all is well"
And show more love than words could tell.
Graceful movements touched with pride,
A calming presence by our side.
A friendship that takes time to grow,
Small wonder why we love them so.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Loca ...

WE HAVE A SECRET

 

We have a secret, you and I
that no one else shall know,
for who but I can see you lie
each night in fire glow?
And who but I can reach my hand
before we go to bed
and feel the living warmth of you
and touch your silken head?
And only I walk woodland paths
and see ahead of me,
your small form racing with the wind
so young again, and free.
And only I can see you swim
in every brook I pass
and when I call, no one but I
can see the bending grass.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Max ...

I THOUGHT OF YOU WITH LOVE TODAY

 

I thought of you with love today
but that is nothing new.
I thought about you yesterday
and days before that too.

I think of you in silence,
I often speak your name.
All I have are memories
and your picture in a frame.

Your memory is my keepsake
with which I’ll never part.
God has you in His keeping,
I have you in my heart.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Milou ...

 

When you are sad,
I will dry your tears.
When you are scared,
I will comfort your fears.
When you are worried,
I will give you hope.
When you are confused,
I will help you cope.
And when you are lost,
and can't see the light.
I will be your beacon
shinning ever so bright.
This is my oath.
I pledge to the end.
Why, you may ask?
Because you're my friend.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Ollie ...

DON'T GRIEVE TOO LONG

 

Don't grieve too long for now I'm free
I've followed the path God set for me
I ran to Him when I heard His call
I swished my tail and left it all.

I could not stay another day
To bark, to love, to romp or play
Games left unplayed must stay that way
I found such peace, it made my day.

My parting has left you with a void
Please fill it with remembered joy
A friendship shared, your laugh, a kiss
Oh yes, these things I too shall miss.

Be not burdened with ties of sorrow
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow
My life's been full, you've given so much
Your time, your love and gentle touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief
Lift up your heart and share with me
God wanted me, He set me free.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Joey ...

TRIBUTE TO A BEST FRIEND

 

Sunlight streams through window pane
unto a spot on the floor....
then I remember,
it's where you used to lie, but now you are no more.

Our feet walk down a hall of carpet,
and muted echoes sound....
then I remember,
It's where your paws would joyously abound.

A voice is heard along the road,
and up beyond the hill,
then I remember it can't be yours....
your golden voice is still.

But I'll take that vacant spot of floor
and empty muted hall
and lay them with the absent voice
and unused dish along the wall.

I'll wrap these treasured memorials
in a blanket of my love
and keep them for my best friend
until we meet above.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Gibson ...

IF I COULD

 

If I could catch a rainbow
I would do it just for you
And share with you its beauty
On the days you're feeling blue.

If I could build a mountain
You could call your very own
A place to find serenity
A place to be alone.

If I could take your troubles
I would toss them in the sea
But all these things I'm finding
Are impossible for me.

I cannot build a mountain
Or catch a rainbow fair
But let me be what I know best:
A friend that's always there.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Cooper ...

 

 

 

 

How it is that animals understand things I do not know, but it is certain that they do understand. Perhaps there is a language which is not made of words and everything in the world understands it. Perhaps there is a soul hidden in everything and it can always speak, without even making a sound, to another soul.

 Frances Hodgson Burnett

 

 

 

 

In memory of Jena ...

 

 

 

 

Grief never ends, but it changes. It's a passage, not a place to stay.
Grief is not a sign of weakness or a lack of faith. It is the price of love.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Max ...

AFTERGLOW

 

 

 

 

I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one.
I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.
I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways,
Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun;
Of happy memories that I leave when life is done.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Toby ...

HIS JOURNEY'S JUST BEGUN

 

Don’t think of him as gone away
his journey’s just begun,
life holds so many facets
this earth is only one.

Just think of him as resting
from the sorrows and the tears
in a place of warmth and comfort
where there are no days and years.

Think how he must be wishing
that we could know today
how nothing but our sadness
can really pass away.

And think of him as living
in the hearts of those he touched…
for nothing loved is ever lost
and he was loved so much.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Bandit ...

IF I SHOULD GO TOMORROW

 

 

If I should go tomorrow
It would never be goodbye,
For I have left my heart with you,
So don’t you ever cry.
The love that’s deep within me,
Shall reach you from the stars,
You’ll feel it from the heavens,
And it will heal the scars.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Kobi ...

WHEN WE'RE NOT TOGETHER

 

 

If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together…
there is something you must always remember.
You are braver than you believe,
stronger than you seem,
and smarter than you think.
But the most important thing is,
even if we’re apart…
I’ll always be with you.

A. A. Milne

 

 

 

 

In memory of Ramses ...

MY LITTLE CAT GHOST

 

The years I've worn you,
warm upon my shoulder
have led us here --
surprised to find us older.

And there was nothing left
to do today
but hold you close
and help you on your way.

Be still, my little cat,
be well, be free.
I know you're somewhere new
and loving me.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Bailey ...

YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE

 

When you walk through the storm
Hold your head up high,
And don’t be afraid of the dark.
At the end of the storm
Is a golden sky
And the sweet silver song of a lark.
Walk on through the wind,
Walk on through the rain,
Though your dreams be tossed and blown.
Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart
And you’ll never walk alone.
You’ll never walk alone.

Oscar Hammerstein

 

 

 

 

In memory of Mickey ...

WHAT WE HAVE ONCE ENJOYED

 

 

 

 

What we have once enjoyed
we can never lose;
All that we love deeply,
becomes a part of us.

Helen Keller

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Shylo ...

 

When you are sad,
I will dry your tears.
When you are scared,
I will comfort your fears.
When you are worried,
I will give you hope.
When you are confused,
I will help you cope.
And when you are lost,
and can't see the light.
I will be your beacon
shinning ever so bright.
This is my oath.
I pledge to the end.
Why, you may ask?
Because you're my friend.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Buddy ...

 

 

 

 

There are no goodbyes for us.  Wherever you are, you will always be in our hearts.

 Mahatma Gandhi

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Lady ...

 

 

 

 

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched.  They must be felt with the heart. 

Helen Keller

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Maggie Mae ...

 

 

 

 

 

Those we have held in our arms for a little while, we hold in our hearts forever.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Tex ... April 20, 2016

 

 

 

I wrote your name in the sand,
But the waves washed it away.
I wrote your name in the sky,
But the wind blew it away.
So I wrote your name in my heart,
And that’s where it will stay, always.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

(A tribute to Tex can be found here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJ3bbg1gmPY)

 

 

In memory of Aethiya ...

 

 

 

 

 

Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.

Roger Caras

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Hobie ...

 

 

 

 

 

We never really own a dog as much as he owns us.

Gene Hill

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Smartie ...

 

 

 

 

 

Dogs’ lives are too short.  Their only fault, really.

Agnes Sligh Turnbull

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Beezley ...

 

In August 2001, upon our return from vacation, we drove to the Pet Smart store on Merivale Road in Ottawa, to pick up a bag of dog food for Triton, our 10 year-old Malamute/German Shepherd dog.

We were greeted at the door to the store by a very nice lady, who was holding a small Bernese puppy in her arms. She said: 'Fifty cents a hug'. We were a little surprised, but when she explained that she was from the SPCA in Gatineau and the puppy was up for adoption, we were immediately captured! We held and petted the puppy, and watched her interact with other people as well as with her canine companions in the enclosure in the store, and fell completely in love with her.

After a very short discussion with my husband, and son, we applied to adopt 'Sophie' and were accepted on the spot. She came home with us that morning, with the promise that we would take her back to the SPCA in Gatineau the next week for her final inoculation.

Renamed Beezley, she grew into a lovely Australian Shepherd sized dog, who weighed in at 55 pounds when she was fully grown. Beezley loved everyone - human, canine or cat, and everyone who met her fell in love with her too. She was just about the fastest thing on 4 legs, and a friend of ours referred to her as a cross between a Border Collie and a jet engine. She was the happiest, most laid back dog that I have ever met - but we don't believe that she was Bernese due to the level of energy she had. On her daily walks, Beezley always walked twice as far as anyone else who accompanied her as she was up and down into the ditches, and exploring every inch of her environment with great enthusiasm. Walks always started off with Beezley holding the leash in her mouth and pulling her walking companion all the way down the driveway, backwards.

Beezley outlived her old companion, Triton, who disciplined her and taught her the ropes, and then spent 12 years chumming around with his successor, Penny (the puppy in the attached picture), who also passed away earlier this year.

We lost Beezley to old age at the end of February and she is sorely missed in our household. She loved everyone and was truly loved by all of us.

Thanks so much to the SPCA for our special friend. You do so much for the animals in need of care and forever homes and you are such compassionate people.

 

 

 

 

In memory of Taylor ...

 

 

 

Those we love remain with us
For love itself lives on,
And cherished memories never fade
Because a loved one's gone.
Those we love can never be
More than a thought apart,
For as long as there is memory,
They'll live on in our hearts.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Jasper ...

 

Not a day goes by that I don't think about my handsome Jasper!
You are everywhere!
Especially sitting by the lake you loved so much to swim in, and what a strong swimmer you were! Even near the end, when you could barely walk or get in the boat due to pain, you swam so well!
You were my captain on the pedalo!
Whenever out of sight we would always be looking for each other!
I adopted you at 8 weeks from a refuge, you were so smart and trained very quickly!
We had fun over the years with walks, seeing doggies and playing ball, you were very strong and quite the athlete!
You were there for me during 8 major surgeries, always at my side to comfort me!
Your last 8 months with cancer and a torn ACL ligament in your knee was so hard for both of us! You with the pain and decreased mobility and me not being able to make my best friend feel better!
I will always love my "BooBoo Bear, Jasper" and long for the day that we will be together again over "Rainbow Bridge"
Your best friend!

 

 

In memory of Venus ...

POEM FOR CATS

 

And God asked the feline spirit
Are you ready to come home?
Oh, yes, quite so, replied the precious soul
And, as a cat, you know I am most able
To decide anything for myself.

Are you coming then? asked God.
Soon, replied the whiskered angel
But I must come slowly
For my human friends are troubled
For you see, they need me, quite certainly.

But don't they understand? asked God
That you'll never leave them?
That your souls are intertwined. For all eternity?
That nothing is created or destroyed?
It just is....forever and ever and ever.

Eventually they will understand,
Replied the glorious cat
For I will whisper into their hearts
That I am always with them
I just am....forever and ever and ever.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Greta ...

WITH ANGELS THEY PLAY

 

 

 

They haven't really been taken away.
They have only gone with the Angels to play.
They have been given wings with which to fly.
All their troubles have passed them by.

Their life in heaven now must start.
But we'll hold their memory in our hearts.
Nothing about them will be forgotten.
But now they sleep on billowy clouds of cotton.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Genny ...

 

When you are sad,
I will dry your tears.
When you are scared,
I will comfort your fears.
When you are worried,
I will give you hope.
When you are confused,
I will help you cope.
And when you are lost,
and can't see the light.
I will be your beacon
shinning ever so bright.
This is my oath.
I pledge to the end.
Why, you may ask?
Because you're my friend.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Ginger ...

A BRIDGE CALLED LOVE

 

It takes us back to brighter years,
to happier sunlit days
and to precious moments
that will be with us always.

And these fond recollections
are treasured in the heart
to bring us always close to those
from whom we had to part.

There is a bridge of memories
from earth to Heaven above...
It keeps our dear ones near us
It's the bridge that we call love.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Sidney ...

 

 

 

 

Do not mourn my passing for if you could only see,
By slipping all my earthly bonds, I'm young again and free.
By day I run the Heavenly fields, my body healthy and strong,
At night I sleep at Angels' Feet, lulled by Celestial Song.
So do not mourn my passing, just close your eyes - you'll see,
I'm once again that frisky pup, just as you remember me.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Bastian ...

 

 

 

 

 

There are no goodbyes for us.  Wherever you are, you will always be in our hearts.

 Mahatma Gandhi

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Fergie ...

MY LITTLE CAT GHOST

 

The years I've worn you,
warm upon my shoulder
have led us here --
surprised to find us older.

And there was nothing left
to do today
but hold you close
and help you on your way.

Be still, my little cat,
be well, be free.
I know you're somewhere new
and loving me.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Maggie ...

 

 

 

 

What we have once enjoyed
we can never lose;
All that we love deeply,
becomes a part of us.

Helen Keller

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Maggie ...

HER JOURNEY'S JUST BEGUN

 

Don't think of her as gone away,
Her journey's just begun.
Life holds so many facets,
This earth is only one.
Just think of her as resting
From the sorrows and the tears,
In a place of warmth and comfort
Where there are no days or years.
Think how she must be wishing
That we could know today,
How nothing but our sadness
Can really pass away.
And think of her as living
In the hearts of those she touched,
For nothing loved is ever lost
And she was loved so much.

Author Unknown

 

 

In memory of Amber ...

 

 

 

 

There is sorrow enough in the natural way
From men and women to fill our day;
But when we are certain of sorrow in store
Why do we always arrange for more?
Brothers and sisters I bid you beware
Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.

Rudyard Kipling

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Ollie ...

 

 

 

 

If I had a flower for every time I thought of you, I could walk in my garden forever.

Alfred Lord Tennyson

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Quincy ...

I THOUGHT OF YOU WITH LOVE TODAY

 

I thought of you with love today
but that is nothing new.
I thought about you yesterday
and days before that too.

I think of you in silence,
I often speak your name.
All I have are memories
and your picture in a frame.

Your memory is my keepsake
with which I’ll never part.
God has you in His keeping,
I have you in my heart.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Roxy ...

THE ROSE BEYOND THE WALL

 

A rose once grew where all could see
sheltered beside a garden wall
And as the days passed swiftly by,
it spread its branches, straight and tall.

One day, a beam of light shone through
a crevice that had opened wide
The rose bent gently toward its warmth
then passed beyond to the other side...

Now, you who deeply feel its loss,
be comforted the rose blooms there
Its beauty even greater now,
nurtured by God's own loving care.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Bailey ...

 

 

 

The golden moments in the stream of life rush past us and we see nothing but sand; the angels come to visit us, and we only know them when they are gone.

George Eliot

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Baze ...

SOMETHING BEAUTIFUL REMAINS

 

 

 

The tide recedes but leaves behind
bright seashells on the sand.
The sun goes down but gentle
warmth still lingers on the land.
The music stops and yet it echoes
on in sweet refrains.
For every joy that passes,
something beautiful remains.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Enzo & Ted ...

 

 

 

 

A good dog never dies, he always stays,
he walks besides you on crisp autumn days
when frost is on the fields and winter's drawing near,
his head within our hand in his old way.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Kylie ...

TRIBUTE TO A BEST FRIEND

 

Sunlight streams through window pane
unto a spot on the floor....
then I remember,
it's where you used to lie, but now you are no more.

Our feet walk down a hall of carpet,
and muted echoes sound....
then I remember,
It's where your paws would joyously abound.

A voice is heard along the road,
and up beyond the hill,
then I remember it can't be yours....
your golden voice is still.

But I'll take that vacant spot of floor
and empty muted hall
and lay them with the absent voice
and unused dish along the wall.

I'll wrap these treasured memorials
in a blanket of my love
and keep them for my best friend
until we meet above.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Clancy ...

I'M STILL HERE

 

Friend, please don't mourn for me.
I'm still here, though you don't see.
I'm right by your side each night and day
and within your heart I long to stay.

My body is gone but I'm always near.
I'm everything you feel, see or hear.
My spirit is free, but I'll never depart
as long as you keep me alive in your heart.

I'll never wander out of your sight-
I'm the brightest star on a summer night.
I'll never be beyond your reach-
I'm the warm moist sand when you're at the beach.

I'm the colorful leaves when fall comes around
and the pure white snow that blankets the ground.
I'm the beautiful flowers of which you're so fond,
The clear cool water in a quiet pond.

I'm the first bright blossom you'll see in the spring,
The first warm raindrop that April will bring.
I'm the first ray of light when the sun starts to shine,
and you'll see that the face in the moon is mine.

When you start thinking there's no one to love you,
you can talk to me through the Lord above you.
I'll whisper my answer through the leaves on the trees,
and you'll feel my presence in the soft summer breeze.

I'm the hot salty tears that flow when you weep
and the beautiful dreams that come while you sleep.
I'm the smile you see on a baby's face.
Just look for me, friend, I'm everyplace!  

Author Unknown 

 

 

 

In memory of Uma ...

WHEN WE'RE NOT TOGETHER

 

 

 

If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together…
there is something you must always remember.
You are braver than you believe,
stronger than you seem,
and smarter than you think.
But the most important thing is,
even if we’re apart…
I’ll always be with you.

A. A. Milne

 

 

 

 

In memory of Buddy ...

IF I SHOULD GO TOMORROW

 

 

 

If I should go tomorrow
It would never be goodbye,
For I have left my heart with you,
So don’t you ever cry.
The love that’s deep within me,
Shall reach you from the stars,
You’ll feel it from the heavens,
And it will heal the scars.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Marshall ...

JUST MY DOG

 

He’s just my dog.
He is my other eyes that can see above the clouds;
My other ears that hear above the winds.
He is the part of me that can reach out into the seas.
He has told me a thousand times over that I am his reason for being.
By the way he rests against my leg.
By the way he thumps his tail at my smallest smile.
By the way he shows his hurt when I leave without taking him.
When I am wrong, he is delighted to forgive.
When I am angry, he clowns to make me smile.
When I am happy, he is joy abound.
When I am a fool, he ignores it.
When I succeed, he brags.
Without him, I am only another person.
With him, I am all powerful.
He has promised to wait for me ... whenever ...
In case I need him; and I expect I will---
As I always have.
He is my dog.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Taco ...

DON'T GRIEVE TOO LONG

 

Don't grieve too long for now I'm free
I've followed the path God set for me
I ran to Him when I heard His call
I swished my tail and left it all.

I could not stay another day
To bark, to love, to romp or play
Games left unplayed must stay that way
I found such peace, it made my day.

My parting has left you with a void
Please fill it with remembered joy
A friendship shared, your laugh, a kiss
Oh yes, these things I too shall miss.

Be not burdened with ties of sorrow
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow
My life's been full, you've given so much
Your time, your love and gentle touch.

Perhaps my time seemed all too brief
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief
Lift up your heart and share with me
God wanted me, He set me free.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Lexie ...

WE HAVE A SECRET

 

We have a secret, you and I
that no one else shall know,
for who but I can see you lie
each night in fire glow?
And who but I can reach my hand
before we go to bed
and feel the living warmth of you
and touch your silken head?
And only I walk woodland paths
and see ahead of me,
your small form racing with the wind
so young again, and free.
And only I can see you swim
in every brook I pass
and when I call, no one but I
can see the bending grass.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Zoe & Odie ...

YOU'LL NEVER WALK ALONE

 

When you walk through the storm
Hold your head up high,
And don’t be afraid of the dark.
At the end of the storm
Is a golden sky
And the sweet silver song of a lark.
Walk on through the wind,
Walk on through the rain,
Though your dreams be tossed and blown.
Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart
And you’ll never walk alone.
You’ll never walk alone.

Oscar Hammerstein

 

 

 

In memory of Miss Steinway ...

CATS ARE WONDERFUL FRIENDS

 

 

 

Gentle eyes that see so much,
Paws that have the quiet touch.
Purrs to signal "all is well"
And show more love than words could tell.
Graceful movements touched with pride,
A calming presence by our side.
A friendship that takes time to grow,
Small wonder why we love them so.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Sidney ...

IF I COULD

 

If I could catch a rainbow
I would do it just for you
And share with you its beauty
On the days you're feeling blue.

If I could build a mountain
You could call your very own
A place to find serenity
A place to be alone.

If I could take your troubles
I would toss them in the sea
But all these things I'm finding
Are impossible for me.

I cannot build a mountain
Or catch a rainbow fair
But let me be what I know best:
A friend that's always there.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Jacky ...

 

À l'instant même où nous t'avons vu au refuge il y a 15 ans nous avons tout de suite tomber amoureux de toi. Tu as été et tu restera mon meilleur ami pour la vie. Ta présence à mes côtés va me manquer mais je sais que tu mérites le repos. Va jouer avec minoune et Kevin. Je sais qu'un jour j'irai vous voir et on se donnera le plus gros des calins. Je vais faire de mon mieux pour rester courageuse. Je t'aime plus que tout Jacky. Xoxo De Annie, Monique, Patrick et Véro 

 

 

 

In memory of Jessie ...

 

 

 

 

 

Grief never ends, but it changes. It's a passage, not a place to stay.
Grief is not a sign of weakness or a lack of faith. It is the price of love.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Maya ...

WITH ANGELS THEY PLAY

 

 

 

They haven't really been taken away.
They have only gone with the Angels to play.
They have been given wings with which to fly.
All their troubles have passed them by.

Their life in heaven now must start.
But we'll hold their memory in our hearts.
Nothing about them will be forgotten.
But now they sleep on billowy clouds of cotton.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Teddy ...

 

 

 

We may not be together
In the way we used to be.
We are still connected by a
Cord no eye can see.
So whenever you need to find me
We're never far apart.
If you look beyond the horizon
And listen with your heart.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Leo ...

 

 

 

 

 

Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.

Dr. Seuss

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Oreo ...

AFTERGLOW

 

I’d like the memory of me to be a happy one.
I’d like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done.
I’d like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways,
Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve, to dry before the sun;
Of happy memories that I leave when life is done.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Timmy ...

 

 

Threescore and ten are given to man;
But ours is a much briefer span.
So, though I give you all my heart,
The time will come when we must part.
But all around you, you will see,
Creatures that speak to you of me;
A tired horse, a hunted thing,
A sparrow with a broken wing...
Pity and help (I know you will)
And somehow, I will be with you still;
And I shall know, although I’m gone,
The love I gave to you lingers on.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Lily ...

 

 

 

 

How it is that animals understand things I do not know, but it is certain that they do understand. Perhaps there is a language which is not made of words and everything in the world understands it. Perhaps there is a soul hidden in everything and it can always speak, without even making a sound, to another soul.

 Frances Hodgson Burnett

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Scooby ...

 

 

 

 

I wrote your name in the sand,
But the waves washed it away.
I wrote your name in the sky,
But the wind blew it away.
So I wrote your name in my heart,
And that’s where it will stay, always.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Bocky ...

 

 

 

 

 

Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened. 

Anatole France

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Chewie ...

 

When you are sad,
I will dry your tears.
When you are scared,
I will comfort your fears.
When you are worried,
I will give you hope.
When you are confused,
I will help you cope.
And when you are lost,
and can't see the light.
I will be your beacon
shinning ever so bright.
This is my oath.
I pledge to the end.
Why, you may ask?
Because you're my friend.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Marshall ...

 

 

 

 

What we have once enjoyed
we can never lose;
All that we love deeply,
becomes a part of us.

Helen Keller

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Joya ...

 

Joya was a spectacular dog: loving, intelligent, and full of life. A great family dog, who loved people (more than dogs), and just hanging out.

Joya came into our lives in April 2007. My parents had died earlier that year, and I was desolate. My three kids and I visited the SPCA of Western Quebec “just to have a look”. Joya was introduced to us, we went for a walk and then to the living-room area to get to know her. She went to each of us in turn, snuggling up to us and smiling, and wriggling from shoulders to tail. That was that; she came home with us. She’s been a core family member ever since --- through our various trials of teenager-hood, school and work, the loss of our husband and father, as well as the many good times of walks in the woods, summers by the pool, her many people friends and new family members whom she welcomed and who enjoyed her over the years, and simply her gentle presence nearby.

She lived for nearly 14 years, and slowed down gradually over the past year or so. We were lucky to have her for as long as we did, and loved her dearly. We are forever grateful for the gift of Joya, “the perfect dog”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Bustle ...

 

 

 

A better friend we could have never imagined, your kisses will be missed.  Even at the end of your life you always had time for kisses.  Thank you for the many years, the walks, the drives, the happy times.  Because of you, we can love again and open our home to another dog who needs us.  We wait for the day we meet again and welcome our dear friend with open arms.

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Finley ...

 

 

 

 

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen nor touched, but are felt with the heart.

Helen Keller

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Sydney ...

 

 

 

 

Seashells remind us that every passing life leaves something beautiful behind.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Willow ...

 

 

 

 

If I could reach up and hold a star for every time you’ve made me smile, the entire evening sky would be in the palm of my hand.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Piper ...

 

 

 

 

Unable are the loved to die, for love is immortality.

Emily Dickinson

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Josie & Maple ...

 

Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God laid for me.
I took His hand when I heard Him call;
I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way;
I found that place at the close of day.

If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;
Ah yes, these things, I too will miss.

 

 

 

Be not burdened with times of sorrow
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much;
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.

Perhaps my time seems all too brief;
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now, He set me free.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Sam ...

 

 

 

 

If there ever comes a day when we can't be together, keep me in your heart.  I'll stay there forever.

A.A. Milne

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Stryder ...

 

 

 

 

 

The song is ended but the melody lingers on.

Irving Berlin

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Homer ...

 

 

 

 

 

Those we love don't go away, they walk beside us every day.  Unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, still missed and very dear.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Charlie ...

 

 

 

 

 

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Meshka ...

 

 

 

 

 

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, love leaves a memory no one can steal.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Lakai ...

 

 

 

 

Like a bird singing in the rain, let grateful memories survive in time of sorrow.

Robert Louis Stevenson

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Gracie ...

 

 

 

 

How very softly you tiptoed into our world, almost silently, only a moment you stayed.  But what an imprint your footsteps have left upon our hearts.

Dorothy Ferguson

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Willy ...

 

 

 

 

 

Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole.

Roger Caras

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Pie ...

 

 

 

 

The golden moments in the stream of life rush past us and we see nothing but sand; the angels come to visit us, and we only know them when they are gone.

George Eliot

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Blondie ...

 

 

 

 

Don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened.

Dr. Seuss

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Savannah ...

 

 

 

 

The pain passes, but the beauty remains.

Renoir

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Domino ...

 

 

 

 

Just living is not enough, said the butterfly, one must have sunshine, freedom and a little flower.

Hans Christian Andersen

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Blaze ...

 

 

 

 

The comfort of having a friend may be taken away, but not that of having had one.

Seneca

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Benji ...

 

 

 

 

Perhaps they are not stars, but rather openings in heaven where the love of our lost ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Biscuit ...

 

 

 

Gentle eyes that see so much,
Paws that have the quiet touch.
Purrs to signal "all is well"
And show more love than words could tell.
Graceful movements touched with pride,
A calming presence by our side.
A friendship that takes time to grow,
Small wonder why we love them so.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Maya ...

 

 

 

 

 

 

It is not length of life, but depth of life.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Makita ...

 

 

 

 

Those we hold closest to our hearts never truly leave us.  They live on in the kindness they have shared and they love they brought into our lives.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Chance ...

 

 

 

The tide recedes but leaves behind
bright seashells on the sand.
The sun goes down but gentle
warmth still lingers on the land.
The music stops and yet it echoes
on in sweet refrains.
For every joy that passes,
something beautiful remains.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Boris ...

 

 

 

 

There are no goodbyes for us.  Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart.

 Mahatma Gandhi

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Lance ...

 

 

 

 

 

A life with love will have some thorns, but a life without love will have no roses.

Dr. Seuss

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Jake ...

 

You went first and we remain to walk the road alone,
We live in mem'ry's garden, dear, with happy days we've known.

We've known so much of happiness we've had our cup of joy,
And memory is one gift of God that death cannot destroy.

Someday down that lonely road you'll hear me call your name,
Beyond the sunset we will be together once again.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Buster ...

 

 

 

We may not be together
In the way we used to be.
We are still connected by a
Cord no eye can see.
So whenever you need to find me
We're never far apart.
If you look beyond the horizon
And listen with your heart.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Kaya ...

 

 

 

There is sorrow enough in the natural way
From men and women to fill our day;
But when we are certain of sorrow in store
Why do we always arrange for more?
Brothers and sisters I bid you beware
Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.

Rudyard Kipling

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Marvin ...

 

The years I've worn you,
warm upon my shoulder
have led us here --
surprised to find us older.

And there was nothing left
to do today
but hold you close
and help you on your way.

Be still, my little cat,
be well, be free.
I know you're somewhere new
and loving me.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Molly ...

 

 

 

 

Grief never ends, but it changes. It's a passage, not a place to stay.
Grief is not a sign of weakness or a lack of faith. It is the price of love.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Diego ...

 

 

 

 

 

Those we have held in our arms for a little while, we hold in our hearts forever.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Ollie ...

 

 

 

I wrote your name in the sand,
But the waves washed it away.
I wrote your name in the sky,
But the wind blew it away.
So I wrote your name in my heart,
And that’s where it will stay, always.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Chanell ...

 

 

 

 

They haven't really been taken away.
They have only gone with the Angels to play.
They have been given wings with which to fly.
All their troubles have passed them by.

Their life in heaven now must start.
But we'll hold their memory in our hearts.
Nothing about them will be forgotten.
But now they sleep on billowy clouds of cotton.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Suki ...

 

 

 

The tide recedes but leaves behind
bright seashells on the sand.
The sun goes down but gentle
warmth still lingers on the land.
The music stops and yet it echoes
on in sweet refrains.
For every joy that passes,
something beautiful remains.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Wishbone ...

 

 

 

 

I hold it true, whate'er befall;

I feel it, when I sorrow most;

'Tis better to have loved and lost

Than never to have loved at all.

Alfred Lord Tennyson

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Aaron ...

 

 

 

If I should go tomorrow

It would never be goodbye,

For I have left my heart with you,

So don't you ever cry.

The love that's deep within me,

Shall reach you from the stars,

You'll feel it from the heavens,

And it will heal the scars.

 

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Stuart ...

 

 

 

In times of darkness, love sees…

In times of silence, love hears...

In times of doubt, love hopes…

In times of sorrow, love heals...

And in all times, love remembers.

May time soften the pain

Until all that remains 

Is the warmth of the memories.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Maggie ...

 

Don't cry for me now I have died, for I'm still here I'm by your side.
My body's gone but my soul is here, please don't shed another tear.
I am still here I'm all around, only my body lies in the ground.
I am the snowflake that kisses your nose,
I am the frost that nips your toes.
I am the sun bringing you light,
I am the star shining so bright.
I am the rain refreshing the earth,
I am the laughter, I am the mirth.
I am the bird up in the sky,
I am the cloud that's drifting by.
I am the thoughts inside your head,
While I'm still there, I can't be dead.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Mountain ...

 

 

 

 

No winter without a spring
And beyond the dark horizon
Our hearts will once more sing ….
For those who leave us for a while
Have only gone away
Out of a restless, care worn world
Into a brighter day

Helen Steiner Rice

 

 

 

 

In memory of Missy ...

 

Don't think of her as gone away,
Her journey's just begun.
Life holds so many facets,
This earth is only one.
Just think of her as resting
From the sorrows and the tears,
In a place of warmth and comfort
Where there are no days or years.
Think how she must be wishing
That we could know today,
How nothing but our sadness
Can really pass away.
And think of her as living
In the hearts of those she touched,
For nothing loved is ever lost
And she was loved so much.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Lulu ...

 

I give you this one thought to keep.
I am with you still. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on the snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.

When you awaken in the morning’s hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush
of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not think of me as gone.
I am with you still in each new dawn.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Keely ...

 

 

I lost a treasured friend today
The little dog who used to lay
Her gentle head upon my knee
And shared her silent thoughts with me.

She’ll come no longer to my call
Retrieve no more her favourite ball
A voice far greater than my own
Has called her to his golden throne.

Although my eyes are filled with tears
I thank him for the happy years
He let her spend down here with me
And for her love and loyalty.
 
When it is time for me to go
And join her there, this much I know
I shall not fear the transient dark
For she will greet me with a bark.

 

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Bibo ...

 

I’d like the memory of me
to be a happy one.
I’d like to leave an after glow
of smiles when life is done.
I’d like to leave an echo
whispering softly down the ways,
Of happy times and laughing times
and bright and sunny days.
I’d like the tears of those who grieve,
to dry before the sun
of happy memories
that I leave when life is done

 

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Trassa ...

 

 

Those we love remain with us
For love itself lives on,
And cherished memories never fade
Because a loved one's gone.
Those we love can never be
More than a thought apart,
For as long as there is memory,
They'll live on in our hearts.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Koko ...

 

A rose once grew where all could see
sheltered beside a garden wall
And as the days passed swiftly by,
it spread its branches, straight and tall.

One day, a beam of light shone through
a crevice that had opened wide
The rose bent gently toward its warmth
then passed beyond to the other side...

Now, you who deeply feel its loss,
be comforted the rose blooms there
Its beauty even greater now,
nurtured by God's own loving care.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Gypsy ...

 

We have a secret, you and I
that no one else shall know,
for who but I can see you lie
each night in fire glow?
And who but I can reach my hand
before we go to bed
and feel the living warmth of you
and touch your silken head?
And only I walk woodland paths
and see ahead of me,
your small form racing with the wind
so young again, and free.
And only I can see you swim
in every brook I pass
and when I call, no one but I
can see the bending grass.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Jordi ...

 

It takes us back to brighter years,
to happier sunlit days
and to precious moments
that will be with us always.

And these fond recollections
are treasured in the heart
to bring us always close to those
from whom we had to part.

There is a bridge of memories
from earth to Heaven above...
It keeps our dear ones near us
It's the bridge that we call love.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Panda ...

 

 

 

 

What we have once enjoyed
we can never lose;
All that we love deeply,
becomes a part of us.

Helen Keller

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Abbey ...

 

Threescore and ten are given to man;
But ours is a much briefer span.
So, though I give you all my heart,
The time will come when we must part.
But all around you, you will see,
Creatures that speak to you of me;
A tired horse, a hunted thing,
A sparrow with a broken wing...
Pity and help (I know you will)
And somehow, I will be with you still;
And I shall know, although I’m gone,
The love I gave to you lingers on.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

In memory of Buster ...

 

 

 

Do not mourn my passing for if you could only see,
By slipping all my earthly bonds, I'm young again and free.
By day I run the Heavenly fields, my body healthy and strong,
At night I sleep at Angels' Feet, lulled by Celestial Song.
So do not mourn my passing, just close your eyes - you'll see,
I'm once again that frisky pup, just as you remember me.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Charlie ...

 

 

 

 

If I had a flower for every time I thought of you, I could walk in my garden forever.

Alfred Lord Tennyson

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Buddy ...

 

If I could catch a rainbow
I would do it just for you
And share with you its beauty
On the days you're feeling blue.

If I could build a mountain
You could call your very own
A place to find serenity
A place to be alone.

If I could take your troubles
I would toss them in the sea
But all these things I'm finding
Are impossible for me.

I cannot build a mountain
Or catch a rainbow fair
But let me be what I know best:
A friend that's always there.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

In memory of Lady & Pucca ...

 

Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free
I'm following the path God laid for me.
I took His hand when I heard Him call;
I turned my back and left it all.

I could not stay another day,
To laugh, to love, to work or play.
Tasks left undone must stay that way;
I found that place at the close of day.


If my parting has left a void,
Then fill it with remembered joy.
A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss;
Ah yes, these things, I too will miss.

 

 

Be not burdened with times of sorrow
I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow.
My life's been full, I savored much;
Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch.

Perhaps my time seems all too brief;
Don't lengthen it now with undue grief.
Lift up your heart and share with me,
God wanted me now, He set me free.

Author Unknown

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Willy ...

 

 

 

Pour nous tu n'étais pas juste un chien, tu faisais partie de notre famille, comme un membre à part entière. Je crois qu'avec nous, tu as eu une belle vie, tu n'as jamais manqué d'amour, et cela me console un peu. Je t'aime mon nounou, ta patte est gravée à tout jamais dans nos cœurs. Voici un photo de mon chien  Willy Décédé,  le 29 décembre 2020

 

 

 

 

 

 

In memory of Lily-Pop ...

 

 

The tide recedes but leaves behind
bright seashells on the sand.
The sun goes down but gentle
warmth still lingers on the land.
The music stops and yet it echoes
on in sweet refrains.
For every joy that passes,
something beautiful remains.

Author Unknown