I am very sad to report that we lost a member of our family today. One of our Dachshunds, Riley, passed away this morning. We're not certain as to why he passed away, all we know is that he passed away in his sleep. He could not have gone in a more peaceful manner and we find a little bit of comfort in knowing that he was not ill, suffering or in pain. He simply laid on the couch to take a nap and never woke up.
I'd like to take some time to reminisce about a few of the fond memories we have of Riley...
Run Riley Run - We only had Riley for a few weeks and during a trip to the dog beach, he took off running when he looked around and didn't immediately see us. He ran toward our car and with the help of my sister, Ian was able to quickly find Riley.
Riley Slept Around - When we adopted Riley, we adopted him with the understanding that he had to sleep in bed with us. Back in our days of constant travel, we sometimes left the dogs with friends or family. Over the years, Riley slept in bed with our friends the Newports, the Pelusos, the Tancks, as well as Grandma Ruth, Pop and Uncle Donald. He really got around...
Senior Wiener - At the 2009 Doxapalooza, Riley took first place in the senior wiener races. He was running to his beloved mommy, and I think in his mind, couldn't get to me fast enough.
Bringing Home Baby Bella - Riley was totally unimpressed with having a newborn baby in the house and was simply happy to have us home from the hospital. He even laid in my lap when I nursed Bella... such a strange but loyal dog!
We are devastated to have lost an important member of our family. We love him very much and miss him dearly. Hopefully the tears subside and we can remember all the good times we had with Riley. Rest well, sweet Riley.
I'd also like to share a poem that was sent to us by a member of DARE and that always brought tears to my eyes. This poem has even more meaning now...
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....
-Author unknown
Love always,
Ian, Kim, Bella & Baby #2
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