Luvin' Labs

Sadly, Buddy was in extremely poor health and unable to stand or walk, and very agitated at the shelter. The difficult decision was made to let him go. We pray you are free from pain and happy on the other side sweet boy. Know that there were many who cared for you, and we will see you again someday. RIP sweet Buddy.

From time to time, people tell me, “lighten up, it’s just a dog,”
or, “that’s a lot of money for just a dog.”
They don’t understand the distance traveled, the time spent,
or the costs involved for “just a dog.”

Some of my proudest moments have come about with “just a dog.”
Many hours have passed and my only company was “just a dog,”
but I did not once feel slighted.

Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by
“just a dog,” and in those days of darkness,
the gentle touch of “just a dog”
gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you, too, think it’s “just a dog,”
then you will probably understand phases
like “just a friend,” “just a sunrise,” or “just a promise.”
“Just a dog” brings into my life the very essence of friendship,
trust, and pure unbridled joy. “Just a dog” brings out the
compassion and patience that makes me a better person.

Because of “just a dog” I will rise early, take long walks
and look longingly to the future. So for me and folks like
me, it’s not “just a dog” but an embodiment of all the hopes
and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past,
and the pure joy of the moment.

“Just a dog” brings out what’s good in me and diverts
my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it’s not
“just a dog” but the thing that gives me humanity and
keeps me from being “just a human.”

So the next time you hear the phrase “just a dog.”
just smile, because they “just don’t understand.”

Authored by Richard A. Biby

The Black Pearl … “To appreciate a diamond, the surface must be pierced to release the dazzling display of color that can come from it’s heart.  But to appreciate the pearl, the eye must simply gaze upon it’s surface to behold it’s soft color and peaceful beauty.”       Alain

We named Hero because of who he was. Despite the pain, hunger and misery he must of been in while wandering as a stray he was observed every day walking kiddos to the school bus stop and then waiting there to walk them home at the end of the day. Hero, despite two surgeries and so much love and support from all of us, passed away on October 5, 2011. Hero, you were a gentle loving soul who at only a year old had a horrible life. I hope in the end you left knowing how deeply you were loved and what a profound impression you left on many of our lives.

We have established Hero’s Fund, to raise funds and help in our ability to rescue black dogs in shelters. Black Dog Syndrome affects the lives of countless wonderful dogs in shelters throughout this country. Donated funds will be used to rescue and rehabilitate black Labrador Retrievers.

Click on the link below to contribute to Hero’s Fund.

Beautiful girl … you were in so much pain and we tried to help you … too late.  You were the sweetest girl, the best mama, the prettiest girl.  We miss you, we cared for you, we hoped to help you but your body gave out.  We are grateful that in the end you left without pain, in your sleep, finally resting after tortuous days of pain, suffering, infection.  I’ll hold you close Rosie girl, every time I hold your son, my boy Jericho.  Thank you for bringing him into the world, thank you for loving and caring for him and the countless other puppies you had.  Rest now sweet girl.  Know you were loved.  Play free of pain on the other side, and wait for us when we join you on the other side?  Blessed be Rosie.

Dear Leo,

You taught me the value of unconditional love and friendship. You were my first dog and you knew from the beginning that we would be best friends. I quickly discovered your favorite games, chew toys and big bear hugs that you loved when I came home. You also broke the rule that an old dog can’t learn new tricks. You were always learning new things everyday in your life. You never gave up on me. You showed me the threshold to a doorway that opened into a life of splendor, love and implicit trust. It seemed, at times, that it was you that cared for me; you were my guardian and guide. I loved our afternoon walks. You taught me to take a break everyday and just be in the ‘now’ with you. We cherished our time together. When your hemangiosarcoma diagnosis was certain we did not have much time left with you. On the first day we thought it was time to let you pass, you kept walking past the car to your favorite neighborhood park. You asked me to toss the ball and you sprung up and caught it as if you were three years old; and then you hung on, for months longer than anyone expected. You waited until the time was right. I miss you so much. I still hear you climb up the stairs and your groan every time you lay down. I still see your big brown eyes and your wrinkled forehead when you were curious about something or wanted to play. Leo, you were my best friend. The lessons you taught me about my own life are indescribable. I wish there was a way I could share your spirit with the entire universe and pass your lessons on to every living creature. I love you, sweet LeeLee. You will always be close in my heart. I know you are running and retrieving sticks from the river eternally now. Rest in Peace, dear Brother.

August 2001-May10, 2011.

Love,

Sena and Jason

PAXTON

Gone But Not Forgotten

There is a hole in our heart
Where Paxton used to be
No words of condolence
Or kind sympathies
Can quiet the storm
That we feel in our core
Knowing dear Paxton
Won’t be here anymore.But there’s comfort in knowing
Our beloved Kelty & Sadie wait
To greet our dear Paxton
Once he enters the gate
Where all of God’s creatures
Who’ve passed from the Earth
Are happy and healthy
A blessed rebirth.So We thank you sweet Paxton
For friendship so true
When others deserted
We could always count on you
We will carry your memory
Forever inside
And patiently wait
‘Til you’re back by our side.

In Loving Memory Of our dear old friend

PAXTON 

Although Brooklyn could no longer run and fetch, he still enjoyed a rousing game of fetch!

Brooklyn, we hope your running pain free on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. I know your mama loves you and misses you daily … you were such a special and brave boy. Love to you big boy … cjw

My name is Petey and I was found by a lady on her way to work wandering in the parking lot of a Los Lunas gas station Saturday morning.  She took me to the Valencia County Animal Shelter where I greeted the staff with my tail wagging.  I was a black lab, male, about 5 years old, very friendly and blind in my right eye.  I had a collar on, but no tag or microchip.

I was put to sleep today, because there was no space at the shelter. The rescue tried to get me, but there wasn’t time. I had a home and a family, and the good rescue folks sure hope someone loved me at sometime.

I don’t understand this thing called “space” or why I couldn’t of stayed around to find my forever family …but I hope any of you reading this will help. Help to find homes for homesless pets, help to give a good dog a chance at a loving home, help to care and to teach folks to care for those like me … we don’t have voices, we cannot speak. Will you speak for us?

Blessed be big boy, we wish we’d known you, we wish you’d known we cared … be happy, be free on the other side.

Rest now sweet baby. Be free on the other side. For you, the pain, terror and heartbreak are over. Know that you were loved by many who tried to help you.

This picture just breaks my heart. Too scared to even look at the shelter worker.

My name is DAKOTA and I am a female, choc Labrador Retriever. I have been available for adoption since Nov 06, 2011. The shelter thinks I am about 5 years old. I have been at the shelter since Nov 06, 2011. For more information, please call Albuquerque Animal Services – Westside at 505) 768-1975 and ask about animal id A1631061.

In wishing Hero happiness and freedom from pain on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. We hope he was met by many of our loved departed friends … Dawhoo, Cody, Winston, Taffy, Barron, Rosie, Daphne, Chip, Marley, Harley, Flash and Mandy. Hero, you are in the best company brave boy.

Many of you don’t know Hero’s story … he came to us the 24th of September … with help from Dion and Peter … and went to Good Shepherd on Monday for surgery on his testicles which were ripped open and infected. He did ok for about a week, but his weak body fought infection. He had a second surgery this week and kept failing. Special thanks to all of the Good Shepherd staff for showing Hero that people loved him and cared for him. Tasha … thank you for being with him until the end. Dion and Peter, thanks for working so hard to get him to us so fast.

We named Hero because of who he was. Despite the pain, hunger and misery he must of been in while wandering as a stray he was observed every day walking kiddos to the school bus stop and then waiting there to walk them home at the end of the day.

Hero, you were a gentle loving soul who at only a year old had a horrible life. I hope in the end you left knowing how deeply you were loved and what a profound impression you left on many of our lives.

We will be establishing Hero’s Fund, to raise funds and awareness for the many wonderful black dogs in shelters. Funds will be used to rescue and rehabilitate black Labrador Retrievers.

From your family at Luvin’ Labs … we love ya big guy.

Blessed be Hero.

When human beings die they write their testament to leave their home and all they have to those they love. I’d do such, if I could write, to a poor desperate, lonely stray. I’de give him my happy home, my bowl and my cozy bed…my soft pillow and my toys…the so loved lap, the tender stroking hand, the lovely voice…the place I had in someone’s heart, the love, that at last, helped me to find a peaceful end, held me firmly in a sheltering embrace. When I die, please don’t say “I will never have a furbaby again; the loss is too much to stand. Choose a lonely, unloved dog and give him MY place. THIS IS MY INHERITENCE! The love I leave behind is all I’m able to give. ~ Author Unknown

It came to me that every time I lose a dog, they take a piece of my heart with them. And every new dog who comes into my life gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough, all the components of my heart will be dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they are.
~ Unknown

Dear Jesse,

I had to wait some time before writing your memorial. Even now as I write, I can barely see the screen through my tear-stained eyes. You came home to us on April 2nd, 2000, following the death of our big, black, shaggy dog, Woody. I wasn’t ready for a new dog, but mommy put us in the car and drove us to the Animal Humane Shelter the Saturday after Woody’s death. I thought “there can never be another dog like Woody”. We went up and down the rows of kennels, viewing +the sad, the neurotic, and the older doomed dogs. We were almost done when a young dog with funny forward-perched ears caught my eye. We asked our escort if we could visit with you. He took us to an area where we could play with you. He said you were a stray, five months old and some kind of Lab/Shepherd mix. One couple walked by and said “he’s too rambunctious for us”. I knew you had potential. You were friendly, gnawing on my arm, and wagging your tail as fast as you could. Mommy made a trip to the office. She came back and said “you were on hold!”, “On hold?” the escort said. “I’ve never heard of such a thing”. So after a few trips to the office, you were ours. They neutered you, gave you your shots and I picked you up on Tuesday. You were rambunctious all right, chewing up everything in sight and knocking over our then two-year-old, Daniel. I still use the wooden-handled garden trowel that you chewed on way back when. As the years passed, you matured. We all grew older together. Daniel went from a toddler to a teenager. You became a sweet and gentle dog. You loved kids and visitors, yet you were always on guard as a faithful watchdog, defending our home. In the cold months, you could always be found at the foot of our bed at night, letting out a moan of pleasure whenever I rubbed you with my foot. You kept our feet warm when we tucked them under you. In the warmer months, you would stretch out on the floor under the ceiling fan. Every night I would ask mommy, “Where’s Jesse?” so I would know not to trip over you. Every morning, I cleaned out your eyes and rubbed your always itchy ears, telling me how itchy they were by the amount of pressure you put on my hand. There are countless things we loved about you, and yes, you filled the void left by Woody. Now, you have departed after over eleven years with us, the longest-lived dog we ever had. I know you should have lived longer, but no one can predict any living thing’s end. So, the circle of life continues. Although we will you grieve you for some time, we have saved a new life. Just as you came to us after Woody, Dusty has come after you. I believe it was your spirit that told me to look for a new dog. Now your spirit lives on in Dusty and he will fill the void in our hearts that you left behind. You can rest in peace knowing that a new dog has a wonderful home and will never know thirst, hunger, pain, heat, or cold, and will always be loved. Goodbye Jesse.

Love,
Mommy, Daddy, and Daniel

I couldn’t let you leave without saying goodbye, even if it’s just words on a website and tears in my eyes. Sweet girl, we watched you from the day the shelter posted you on their site. 10 years old, and an owner surrender, and still you danced in your picture. Sweet girl, they tried to help you there … but sometimes the changes, and fear, and life you lived before, is just too much and you break a little bit. Kind of like our heart breaks a little every day for those we lose, while saving those we can. Puppy … know there were a bunch of us who were trying to help you, who cared about you, who loved you…be free, be happy, be at rest … play sweet girl … know you mattered. Blessed be sweet Puppy.

Cody was 90 pounds of magnificent gentleman. We would kid about the fact that he never licked us, never rolled on his back for a belly rub and had no tolerance for other dogs who did not respect the space he believed, as an elder, was his.  This space was respected by dog and cat alike. (For the last couple years of his life he came to us for good solid ear rubs out of sight of the other dogs and did the “puppy dance” before his meals for as long as his crumbling legs would hold him.)  To some folks he may have seemed aloof, but he was a dog comfortable in his skin. He knew who he was and he liked it.

We’ve seen many dogs in our day but we have never seen a dog with as beautiful a “trot,” that pace between walking and running. Cody turned that speed into one of sheer splendor. He seemed to float forward.  It was a dirty trick of nature to give him cancer in his left back leg and took away from us forever that vision that could get your heart smiling.

The dog Gods blessed us with Cody for more than 12 years and I can’t remember the last time I marveled at his glide. As so often happens in life we never know the last time we are going to experience something and that something will have to live in our memory forever. Cody has taught us to experience those times real hard.

Cody’s pain ended July 16, 2011. Our pain began that same date.

Sweet Henry is an owner surrender at the Clovis Animal Shelter. We pulled you and tried  to help you but you were sooo sick. Henry you had a great few days getting loved on and knowing that folks weren’t all bad. We sure hope that you found your human who passed  away before you, and that you are playing pain free on the other side. We tried to help you big boy … we hope in the end that letting you go humanely, in your rescuer’s arms, helped you know that people can be good. Blessed be big boy.

Today was supposed to be YOGI’s new leash on LIFE.  I woke up this morning feeling the usual delight that comes with knowing you are picking up a dog off of death row. It was a week ago yesterday that a wonderful city volunteer told me about YOGI, wasting away at the Albq Wside shelter, & asked if there was anything I could do. I told him to send me some pics of him w/his ID # & that I would do my very best.  The search for a foster insued. In that search, I was introduced to a very kind man, Fred Ellis, of Second Shot Pointer Rescue in Arizona. He offered to take YOGI into his program.  A temp foster was secured for YOGI while we awaited transport to Fred. YOGI was scheduled to be released to NM DDB today, 6/20/11 after his neuter.  A sponsor stepped forward to offer a presciption food diet for YOGI, which i delivered to the shelter last week, meeting him for the first time. OMG…THOSE EYES! A couple of days later, I got a report from the volunteer that it just seems like YOGI was slowly starving to death, even though he was eating ALOT.  This got me to thinking AND to worrying about what medical condition YOGI might be suffering from. I decided then that when YOGI was released, he would go directly to my vet & then Fred & I, together, would make a decision on how to proceed. I was sceduled to pick YOGI up today at 5pm.  I got a call from the shelter vet today at 2pm…this is NEVER good :( YOGI’s pre surg uncovered a very dismal medical prognosis. The vet siad “I assume you do not want to take him?” Nothing was further form the truth…I wanted to pick him up EVEN MORE!! I told her I was on my way.  I picked him up & we headed to my clinic. After a long discussion of the results of his tests, more tests & careful consideration of NM DDB & SSPR financial resources available to treat the MANY things wrong with YOGI, (medical expenses would easily climb into the 1000′s & a poor prognosis was the reality), it was decided that we were going to have to let YOGI go :( This is NEVER an easy decision to make. This is NEVER something that ANY of us want to have to do. But, it’s what I call “THE GOOD OF THE WHOLE”. In rescue, there are choices that must be made to best put to use what resources are available to help AS MANY DOGS as possible. So….with the decision made & with tears in my eyes & an ache in my heart, I loaded YOGI back up into the van & we headed to Tingley Beach, with a stop at Mc Donalds on the way. YOGI swam, ran, chased birds, splashed around with the ducks & we ate hamburgers together. I can tell you with every ounce of my being, that YOGI was the most happy he had been in a VERY long time. THIS is how I will remember YOGI, & now he is free to swim with the ducks over the bridge. Not only was YOGI a very special dog…he brought a very special person into my life, & for THAT, I will be eternally GRATEFUL to him!! THANK YOU YOGI, RIP.

Yogi and Angela

Yogi swims

Colby, you were such a good sweet happy boy. You became sick, your foster mama tried to help you the best she could. The sicker you got, the sadder she became. She had to make the horrible decision to let you go, to save you from being sick, and more pain. Brave happy little soul that you were, you wagged your tail until the end. Thank you Colby for the short time in your foster home, for learning to trust, to love, to play. We wish you well sweet boy, play pain free and happy on the other side. Blessed be Colby.

Thank you to each of you for your thoughts, prayers, good wishes and donations to help sweet Barron.  Sandy and Jim’s boy renamed Hunter. We set Barron free this evening while he was lovingly held in his foster mom’s lap.  Since the surgery he has been having seizures and a lot of pain in his front leg joints.  His back legs were already very weak and painful from his overall physical shape, arthritis, pain from his hard life … we just don’t know.  We felt the greatest kindness was to stop his suffering, to set him free. Blessings to Sandy and Jim who lovingly cared for him in his last week … Please join us in wishing Barron peace, freedom from pain, and the knowledge that he passed being very loved.  Blessed be sweet Barron.

My name is Daphne.  The rescue that was coming for me named me that … it’s a pretty, springtime name that reminded them of my rescue sister Dahlia who just passed away.  I’m a good girl.  I’m trying to lie pretty in this picture.  I hope you think I’m pretty too and see what a good girl I was.  I had a foster mama waiting for me tonight, and a forever home waiting out there for me.  I never got a chance to meet my foster mom, or to play and love and care for my forever family.  Instead, this morning, because the shelter is too full (I don’t understand this, because there’s always lots of dogs in these places), they came to get me.  I was so excited because I thought maybe, maybe I was going somewhere … for a walk … to play with someone … to get some pets … to get to go HOME!  My tail was wagging and I was smiling my labby smile, but the man was very serious.  He took me back to a room, and they held me.  The way they were holding me, the smells in the room, the bags in the corners with my sleeping kennel mates … I started to shake, so they held me tighter.  My paw began to burn, my heart swelled, my heart stilled.  The room grew smaller and smaller, and my eyesite disappeared.  My body ceased to exist anymore, and I crossed over.  I’m hoping to be met by some of the luvin labs who’ve gone before me … maybe I’ll meet my namesake Dahlia.  But please … don’t forget me.  All I wanted was to love, all I wanted was to be loved. My name is Daphne. I’m a good girl.  Remember me?  Remember those like me, left behind, abandoned, lost, unloved, scared. Care for them?  Share my legacy? Save a lab?

Blessed be Daphne.  We never met you, but we loved you.  You mattered, you’ll be missed, we’ll save many in your name.

I saw you gently weeping as you looked through photographs
You paused for just a moment at one that made you laugh;
But as you turned more pages the tears began to flow
You whispered that you missed me but I want you to know;
I softly licked those stinging tears that down your cheeks did fall
I want to help you understand I haven’t left at all.

On those days that you are overcome with sorrow, pain and grief
I rest my head upon your leg to offer some relief.
When you take our walking path I’ve seen you turn around
Because I know you surely heard my paws upon the ground.

At night while you are sleeping I snuggle at your side
You stroke my fur as you touch that place where I used to lie.
You said it’s just your heart playing tricks upon your mind
But rest assured I’m really there, my spirit’s left behind.

I know your heart is hurting; it’s like an open sore
You think my life has ended and you won’t see me anymore.
But for those of us bound tight by love, death is not the curtain call;
It’s really the eternal beginning that waits for us all
So, dear Master as you live your life I patiently await
For us to be together when you pass through Heaven’s gate.

In Loving Memory

Sweet Daisy will forever be in our hearts.  The lovely girl had just found her forever home, and had a very special few months with her family who adored her before she was diagnosed with kidney failure. Daisy had suffered at the hands of neglectful owners at one point in her life. You are very missed sweet girl, and we are ever so grateful to of helped a little bit in bringing you to New Mexico and into your family who loved you. Blessed be sweet girl.

Sweet girl, we’d no way of knowing that spaying you would harm you.  We lost you today … our special curly topped girl … we are so sorry we couldn’t do more for you.  We are very grateful to your foster mama who gave you the chance to be happy and loved, and feel secure and well fed over the past few weeks.  I know in her heart that she will always carry a piece of you, as all of us will.  Dahlia, know that you were loved, and that many cared about you, and that we will work hard to save another one in your name.  Sleep well sweetheart.  Run and play and smile your beautiful smile on the other side.  Blessed be Dahlia.

Flash, we are glad you found your person with us, and that you were able to spend so much time with her before you left. You were ill for a very long time, but you never let on, you carried yourself with such grace and dignity. You left behind many important lessons for those of us still here … carrying yourself with grace despite whatever happened being one. Thank you for that, and for sharing what time we had with you. You are so missed, and so loved. Blessed be Flash, friend, teacher, partner … we will always carry you in our hearts.

Little One, we tried to save you, we were too late … you were  a perfect puppy, in a imperfect world, where things like work and phone calls and appointments get in the way … of saving a life.  Nothing else but saving you should of mattered. We are sorry little one.  We’ll work harder to help the next one.  Know that there were many who cared about you, and that very special you meant a lot to us.  Play well, be free, be happy on the other side.  Blessed be Little One …

Laddie, sweet Laddie, dubbed Harry by his foster family, is resting peacefully on the other side … pain free and hopefully running and playing and enjoying the freedom he didn’t while he was here in his aging body.  Laddie, tho your face and body bore scars and testaments to the ravages of a hard life, your soul and spirit were sweet and loving.  We are amazed at your compassion and capacity for love and kindness.  We wish you well big boy, and know your beautiful spirit is free.  Thank you for coming to us and showing us that although sometimes we only have moments together, the time spent can mean more than many experience in a lifetime. Blessings to your family who took you in and loved you. And to you Laddie, blessed be sweet boy.

Sweet Soulie,

If there really is a heaven beyond this beautiful life on earth then it has to include dogs .. and I hope we have a chance to see you on the other side.   Thank you for all of the fun times we shared together.  I know that we will eventually find another wonderful shelter dog to become part of our family,  but you, Soul Man,  will always hold a very special place close to our hearts.

Love, Debby,  Dale & Luna

You left us on November 28th,2010,not a day goes by that I dont think about how much we loved you and now how much you are missed. The day you died, I was so sad to let you go, my heart still breaks when I see your picture or think of the 8+ years you were our “1st child.” I still remeber seeing you on September 10th, 2002 at the Rio Rancho Animal control, and when we made eye contact I told your mother that this is the dog for me!!!! My boy you made such an impression on me, you taught me so much without saying a word, such grace, even when you were sick, you never complained or cried, you were so strong. Bubba I am forever grateful to you for always taking care of your four legged sister, Ginger and your two legged sister, Madyson and your brother Landon, and especially your mother, Cindy. When I worked graveyards, you were always the first to greet me on the front porch, knowing that your watch was not done until I was home, and boy could you snore after that. Bubba you are and will always be my best friend, I will always carry you in my heart, but its time to rest now my boy.  Mady, Landon, Ginger, me and Momma miss you so much, so be good my friend,

I Love you my boy,
Daddy

Blessed be pretty boy … you didn’t like people … I’m sure we let you down at some point.  We hope that you are happy and free on the other side …

Sleep well sweet boy, we are slow to learn that sometimes saving is actually setting you free. Winston traveled far to New Mexico.  The travel, transitions, change were all too much for this sweet boy.  He tried to speak to us in the only way he could … he became aggressive, lashing out at those who were trying to help him.  We saved Winston by setting him free.  Winston, we hope you are playing free of hurt on the other side. Know there were many who loved you.  Thank you for sharing your last moments with me.  Thank you for coming out here and allowing us to help you.  Thank you Winston for shaking my hand and lying in my lap, and for the quiet moments we shared.  Play with Dawhoo, and Rio and all those we’ve lost on the other side.  Sleep well Winston, you’re a good boy.  Blessed be Winston, you are always in our hearts.

Baby boy, you were sick, we let you go … I know deep in the night I’ll question that I made the right decision … but is it kinder to give you love, and let you suffer or to let you go while and have you suffer less.  Someday, little one, I promise I’ll find a way to help those in your situation have a better chance, someday, Bruce, we’ll find a way.  When we do, offer us your blessings from the other side of the rainbow bridge?  Sleep well sweet one, know there were lots of us who cared, and who tried to find a way to help you.  Blessed be Bruce.

Cry not for me because I am gone, miss me not anymore , don’t let my loss and leaving fill you with mourning.  Use the look you saw in my eyes, the softness you imagined my fur to be, the stillness now of my heart as I lie quietly asleep, the love you knew me to have…

Cry not for me anymore because I am gone, save another in my place … fill the bowl you would of shared with me, lie the blanket close to you, allow another to fill my spot, eat my food, have my pets.  Care for another in my place and when he passes

Cry not for him anymore, love another, we love, we are, we will always be.

Cry not anymore, save another.

Blessed be little ones … put to sleep on 11.9.10 … sometimes in the shelters there’s so much sickness that there’s no place for the pups to go to see if they are, or are not, sick.  Sleep well little ones … just so you know many folks cared about you.

Here we are in a situation that isn’t what we hoped for in life.  Can you imagine being in a cage wondering when the people will come to take us away to that room where we don’t ever return?  We are in cage #19 with animal ID #33938-9.  We are female Labrador mixes yellow and black.  Our way out of this awful situation is to get adopted by a nice loving person that will care for us like we deserve.  And for that person lots of love and licks from us in gratitude forever.  We will wait for your call……….hoping it comes in time to save us.  Please phone 575-769-7893 and inquire about animal ID 33938-9

Baby girl, you looked so much like my own Haylee … it was hard to make the decision to let you go, especially since we knew you made it through distemper.  You sat like such a good girl for your picture … thank you … it will forever immortalize you, and leave you always in our hearts.  Charity, I hope you are free, and happy, and able to be a fun loving puppy on the other side.  Blessed be little one.

Blessed be Sweetie … we tried but were too late  … our hope is that you are in your forever home … My name is Sweetie … I don’t know why I’m here but my family dropped me off and left me … I don’t have much time, at least that’s what folks are telling me, and the other dogs that are sad and waiting.  I’m a good girl, really I am … I’m still a bit of a puppy and I make puppy mistakes but I love, and I’d be a good girl for you … really.  Please won’t you come and take me home?  I promise to love and care for you as long as I can.  I promise to be your lovely new best friend.  My name is Sweetie … please don’t forget about me … please don’t let me run out of time.

Today I lost the truest most loyal, loving, family member and friend I have had over the past twelve and a half years…. Brandy you were there for me through thick and thin and you were the best dog ever… Rest in Peace my beautiful girl! What a gentle soul my Brandy was!  She is now chasing rabbits, swimming in lakes, fishing with my Grandpa, and receiving the everlasting petting on her head from God.

Taffy left us today.  She was very sick.  Taffy had the great fortune of being loved by her new family, and hopefully left behind a legacy of the caring and compassion that can be only be epitomized by what a loving and sweet girl she was.  Taffy, thank you for being so kind, gentle and gracious in this life.  We wish you a peace and freedom from your pain.  Blessed be little girl, you were loved by many.

all of these puppies will be put to sleep on 11.9.10 because they may have distemper in the shelter and these puppies may be sick … poor wee little ones … blessed be, we’re sorry we couldn’t save you …. we tried

Cage 26…….not a loving way to describe where we are.  Can anyone out there help us before our time is up?  We were abandoned in a field by a not so nice person and now have been found but are in transition, we hope, in Clovis at the Shelter.  They don’t keep dogs like us for long here before we are taken to that room of no return.  What we really need is some caring person to take interest in us QUICKLY!  Could you be that savior we have been hoping for?  Please phone Clovis Shetler at 575-769-7893 and ask about animal ID 337790 in Cage 26 before they take us to the room of no return.

Memorialize your pet with a customized pet urn.  Here’s our friend Alexandria’s site www.custompeturns.com

Blessed be little one, we hope you are happy and playing on the other side of the rainbow bridge.

“My name is Shalom, I am not perfect, I’m not a purebred.  I’m a black lab mix in a world of black lab mixes found wandering as a stray and taken by maybe good intentioned people to the Clovis Animal Shelter.  It’s not a bad place … they feed me and keep me safe and warm and I have water … they just run out of room. It’s a small shelter, in a smallish town with lots of people who forget that I can hear, and smell and feel.  I feel fear as the dogs walk back, one by one … where do they go?  I’m scared at night, all of these dogs barking and I’ve no place to go.  Someone loved me once.  They let me go, or I went … I can’t even remember anymore, I’ve been scared and hungry and alone for so long. So I’ll sleep, and wake up tomorrow … and be grateful for the food they give me.  And if I’m walked by someone down the aisle to the place where dogs go, at least I’ll be asleep and I can dream of that place and time … when someone loved me.”  For more information on Shalom please call soon.  Clovis Animal Shelter’s number is 575) 769-7893.  Please ask for information on cage #20. (that’s me!)

Chasity .. we failed you pretty girl.  You were a beautiful girl and we just didn’t have the means to bring you home to have the surgery you so desperately needed for your tumor on your tummy.  You were a good girl, we’re sorry your people left you at the shelter … we’re sorry we weren’t there to hold you when you left.  We’re sorry we failed you for something so silly as not enough money to pay for your medical bills.  Sleep well sweet girl.  Blessed be Chasity.

Bud we’re sorry we didn’t get you in time … Blessed be sweet boy.

Chip was abandoned by his family who said he was “too old” and they left their faithful companion at the city shelter.  Chip was taken in by Good Shepherd Animal Clinic and loved on by all the wonderful folks there.  This good ole boy, who always had a wag and a doggie grin for everyone, passed away this morning, August 30, 2010.  Chip was so fortunate to have Cindy and the Good Shepherd staff loving on him, caring for him, and being with him on his last days ….  Chip died of a broken heart, waiting for the people who abandoned him.  We wish you well big boy, with your velveteen ears and beautiful chocolate coat.  We hope you are playing free and happy on the other side, and that you know how many people cared for you here in your last weeks.  Thank you for being a part of our journey Chip, though your time here was short we understand you had to move on.  Blessed be big boy, your a good boy.

Boone is in the Clovis shelter and in immediate danger.  Let’s give this wonderful looking boy a chance at a forever home?  For more information on Boone please call 575/ 769-7893 and ask about the lab pup in cage number 16.

Marley lost his battle today with Neosporosis … he will be greatly missed by his family.  Marley, you traveled far to your forever home in New Mexico … we wish you well on your travels on the other side.  Thank you for your short time with us.  We hope you are chasing your beloved tennis balls and playing with all the other pups, free of pain and filled with joy.  Blessed be little one …

Harley, our forever immortalized lab/shep pup, who came to us all the way from Missouri and was placed in a loving home passed away this morning unexpectedly while in the arms of his big lab brother Max.  He was up and running and playing this morning, ate breakfast like normal, and then passed quietly away.  We are grateful to have met him, and that he shared his time with Francine, her daughter and big labby brother Max in their loving home.

Harley, we wish you well on your journey, run and play forever now little boy.  Thank you for sharing some time with us …. blessed be little one.

`An Indian legend says: ” When a human dies there is a bridge they must cross to enter into Heaven. At the head of the bridge waits every animal that human encountered during their lifetime. The animals, based on what they know of this person, decide which humans may cross the bridge…and which are turned away.”

A man and his lab were walking along a road. The man was enjoying the scenery, when it suddenly occurred to him that he was dead. He remembered dying, and that the lab walking beside him had been dead for years. He wondered where the road was leading them.

After a while, they came to a high, white stone wall along one side of the road. It looked like fine marble. At the top of a long hill, it was broken by a tall arch that glowed in the sunlight. When he was standing before it, he saw a magnificent gate in the arch that looked like mother-of-pearl, and the street that led to the gate looked like pure gold. He and the lab walked toward the gate, and as he got closer, he saw a man at a desk to one side.

When he was close enough, he called out, ‘Excuse me, where are we?’

‘This is Heaven, sir,’ the man answered.

‘Wow! Would you happen to have some water?’ the man asked.

‘Of course, sir. Come right in, and I’ll have some ice water brought right up.’

The man gestured, and the gate began to open.

‘Can my friend,’ gesturing toward his lab, ‘come in, too?’ the traveler asked.

‘I’m sorry, sir, but we don’t accept pets.’

The man thought a moment and then turned back toward the road and continued the way he had been going with his lab. After another long walk, and at the top of another long hill, he came to a dirt road leading through a farm gate that looked as if it had never been closed. There was no fence.  As he approached the gate, he saw a man inside, leaning against a tree and reading a book….

‘Excuse me!’ he called to the man. ‘Do you have any water?’

‘Yeah, sure, there’s a pump over there, come on in.’

‘How about my friend here?’ the traveler gestured to the lab.

‘There should be a bowl by the pump,’ said the man.

They went through the gate, and sure enough, there was an old-fashioned hand pump with a bowl beside it. The traveler filled the water bowl and took a long drink himself, then he gave some to the lab. When they were full, he and the lab walked back toward the man who was standing by the tree.

‘What do you call this place?’ the traveler asked.

‘This is Heaven,’ he answered.

‘Well, that’s confusing,’ the traveler said.

‘The man down the road said that was Heaven, too.’

‘Oh, you mean the place with the gold street and pearly gates? Nope. That’s hell.’

‘Doesn’t it make you mad for them to use your name like that?’

‘No, we’re just happy that they screen out the folks who would leave their best friends behind.’

Bomber, thank you for leading Alexa on her journey into rescue, we never met you big boy, but I know what an impact you have left as your legacy …

It’s not that we have too many dogs, they are just in the wrong place. Under My Wings located in Moriarty, NM has arranged for the transport of thousands of unwanted New Mexico dogs from an unsafe place to safe places in Colorado. This organization is a one, senior-citizen, run operation. Saving dogs one at at time is very beneficial, but by the thousands is extraordinary. She can use your help — of all kinds. Each trip to Denver requires a driver, volunteers to help overnight/load dogs and carries about a $200 cost. Any financial help (or maybe you can even sponsor a trip) would be appreciated. For information on how you can help, please call: 505-832-6834 or email undermywing@q.com.

Missy, we wish you peace on the other side, and happiness with your reunion with your mom and dad.

How about helping out another lab or labs in danger to honor the memory of your forever friend …

a gift from one beloved Lab to another………helping from beyond the Rainbow Bridge ….

Donate



Bridgette was found but a wonderful women named Mary of Rez Dog Rescue lying on the side of the road.  Mary drove back to help her, and flagged down a car to help her lift Bridgette into the car.  Bridgette was paralyzed on her hind end, and her stomach and chest were rubbed raw from mange and or trying to pull herself somewhere, anywhere …

Mary nursed Bridgette through the night and made the decision on Sunday to take her to the Albuquerque Emergency Clinic to have her evaluated and see what the possibility was of helping her recover.

Bridgette, who was incredibly sweet and loving, and ever so grateful for the food and water Mary gave her, had been shot.  The bullet chipped off a piece of her spine.  Her chances of recovery after a very costly surgery were very slim, so she made the very hard but right decision to let her go.

Bridgette we wish you peace a relief from your pain and suffering over the Rainbow Bridge.  We know in life many people failed you, we hope in your death you felt the love and caring from so many who were wishing you well.

Being a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker.

The dog’s owners, Ron, his wife Lisa, and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn’t do anything for Belker,

and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure.

They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker’s family surrounded him.

Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on.

Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The little boy seemed to accept Belker’s transition without any difficulty or confusion.

We sat together for a while after Belker’s Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.

Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ”I know why.”

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me.

I’d never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live.

He said,”People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life –

Like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?”

The Six-year-old continued,”Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay as long.”

Live simply.

Love generously.

Care deeply.

Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.

Take naps.

Stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you’re not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.

ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY

Lacey, you were a big beautiful young girl who passed too soon.  We are all so glad you were loved while you were here.  Sleep well sweet girl.

Dawhoo is the reason we do all we do for Labrador Retrievers.  Our big boy is buried right outside our bedroom window so he is always close to those who loved him so much.  Not a day goes by we don’t miss our big goofy boy.  Dawhoo, you are forever in our hearts.

Dawhoo, My big brown eyed loving puppy, we are forever holding you in our hearts. You are missed so much by each of us. Your four legged friends still look for you. Cocoa is at a loss without you to lay by, Fozzy misses his mentor and Jericho, who is so much like you, missed out on knowing you too well. The boys and I so miss your velveteen ears, joyful greetings every time we come home, your perpetual tail wagging and even your incessant barking. I miss your kisses goodnight sweet boy. Da, we wish you so well, and hope that you are playing without pain on the other side. Wait for us old friend, we’ll walk in the mountains and play together again soon…

Colleen

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…

Cody was a true gentleman of a dog. Playful (loved to steal socks and let you know he had) respectful, gentle and kind. He was also a singer…..howled to all of his “animal sound” toys and taught the other dogs to join in. He once had surgery and the vet told us he came out of the anesthesia singing………such a sweetheart.  Everyone lucky enough to meet Cody loved him and admired his soul. He touched each person’s heart with his indescribable specialness. He was our teacher and “coach”. Cody, you are free now. Bless your soul with peace and love from afar.

Sleep well good boy,
Libby and Wyck

I explained it to St. Peter,
I’d rather stay here
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 here, chewing on a celestial bone,
No matter how long you may be.
I’d miss you so much, if I went in alone,
It wouldn’t be heaven for me.

Unknown Poet

To all the ones we’ve lost and couldn’t save in time.

BELLA‘S STORY:

emails for us to Tom at LODESTAR Dog Ranch:

10/30/09
There is a black female lab in the Clovis shelter that is supposed to be euthanized this morning. She is a really sweet lab, but there is no place for her to go…She is a couple of years old and has had a couple of litters. She was dumped off in the country and someone brought her into the shelter. I have no place for her to go and she would be coming this Saturday, 10/31/09. I am looking for either a foster or a forever home….Can you help???

10/31/09 UPDATE
I know, I have to have a tougher heart, but reading this last night just devastated me. The girl Bella that I worked so hard to find a home for was put down yesterday morning. She had a home waiting for her, a mama who already cared about her, a vet appointment on Monday, a name. I’m just letting you know so maybe you can help the rest of us in wishing Bella a peaceful journey and joy on the other side.

IT WASN’T YOUR FAULT BELLA, IT WAS OURS.

FOLKS, WE AS A SOCIETY HAVE TO DO BETTER THAN THIS.

If love could keep you alive, you would live forever