A Tribute to My Furry Friends Im pretty sure I cant sleep tonight because there are no snuggling little puffs of breath nudging my nose, or that warm little body keeping my toes toasty. I miss my girl so much, but she was getting sicker and sicker by the day, and as much as I wished she could live forever, I couldnt stand the way she was so scared at every little movement. She lost track of me on several occasions when I would go into the office and she thought I was in the bathroom. She would heave this great big sigh, and begin shaking all over because I scared her. It broke my heart that she was that scared. She was 19 years old, and she had been with our family since she was 9 months old. I didnt want to make the decision to let her go, but I had to do it. And I think she knew we were saying goodbye. She stood on those nimble four legs all the way to the animal shelter, never once sitting down in that 35 minute drive. When I pulled on her leash to lead her in, she hesitated, but only for a moment. I bent down and kissed her forehead, and she came out of the car immediately. We walked slowly towards the door, stopping for a little pee-pee break outside when she smelled the other dogs. She stayed right with me, which was her way, and never barked or rushed the other dogs while I filled out paperwork. Then we sat down for several minutes with me brushing her ears with my fingers and cuddling her as much as possible. She looked up at me knowingly, as if to say she knew what I had to do, and forgiving me for having to do it. And in my heart, I know she was aware that she didnt have too much time left. When she had little accidents on the carpet, she hung her head so low in shame it almost touched her knees. I tried so hard to tell her it was okay, but she was ashamed, and I dont think she let herself get over it. That last day, we both knew she had done all she could for me and I had to let her go. I still reach down to pet her while I sit on the couch, and I put my feet in her spot on the bed, only to suddenly and painfully realize shes not there anymore. I say some prayers every day asking God to watch over Spirit and Sheba, both my furry babies, and to please reassure me that they understand what I had to do to give them a dignified end and relieve their pain. We lost Spirit five years ago and Sheba took over his duties in assisting me on a daily basis, sharing more love than anyone could ever imagine. Good night, my sweet furry friends. You served me well, brought me fits of joy and laughter, and loved me unconditionally. Your Mama loved you both with all of her heart. Please rest in peace and keep my love surrounding you always. Linda Robertson c. March 11, 2003