Friday, May 17, 2013

Saying Goodbye

It's never easy. No matter how many times we experience the loss of a beloved companion, it still hurts like hell. We know the day will eventually come, we try to steel ourselves, we think we're prepared...but when the time arrives, it just tears us apart.

As it did this past week with our sweet, sweet Aussie girl, Cadie. Also known as Cadie-Bear. Or sometimes just Bear-Bear...


Isn't she beautiful? The happiest, most blissful dog I've ever known, and I've known many. The world was Cadie's best friend, and she couldn't conceive of even the smallest unhappiness. On the rare occasions we raised our voices to her (usually for sneaking cat food) she would just wiggle her backside off, wagging her stubby little tail, and giving us that big Aussie smile, as if to say "Yeah, I know, but aren't I cute? Don't you just LOVE me?!"


And we did. So very much.

We adopted her at age 4 and she was with us for 9 wonderful years. It was a blessing that the passage of time between the first symptoms of illness, through two vet visits, one ultrasound and her gently assisted passing, was a total of only five days. So we take comfort in believing her suffering was minimal, and that we did the right thing in helping her cross the Bridge.

Her crazy little brother Cosmo is still with us. A bit confused, and overprotective as always, but we'll get through this together...


And whether dogs or cats, we know we'll walk this path again and again. Because despite the pain and loss, we can't imagine life without these companions. Because we know the love they give us, and the love they inspire, makes the eventual loss more bearable.

♥ Carolee
(Photos 2 and 3 by Jennifer MacNeill)


9 comments:

Lori Ann Corelis said...

Oh Carolee ad John . . .
I'm so very sorry.
Thinking of you.

Lori Ann

Deb said...

Carolee, John and Cosmo, I know that words are so inadequate at a time like this but know that you are all kept close in my heart as you deal with the loss of your dear, sweet Cadie. Our fur kids are with us for such a short period of time but in their brief, blessed voyage with us here on this earth they give us so much love and unconditional devotion. I truly believe that we will be reunited again with our beloved pets, on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. Cadie is waiting there for you, free of pain and cares. My very deepest condolences to you all, Deb

Ms. said...

a beautiful tribute.

Gail H. Ragsdale said...

I am so sorry. {{{HUGS}}}

sandi s said...

I'm so sorry about the passing of your sweet little dog.

Anonymous said...

Carolee and John I am so sorry that you have lost one of your fur babies. I know how hard it is to lose one. I feel your loss. Mona

Corinne said...

again- I am so sorry for your loss of Cadie- and how wonderful you were to her and she to you...she will be waiting at the bridge, with all of our family of fur- for us and beyond- to play once again in the sunshine and paint! xxoo

Erin Dunn said...

I'm so sorry for your loss of Cadie Bear.

Christopher A. Klingler said...

Sorry for your loss Carolee!

Chris