IN MEMORY
The hardest part of being a breeder of this great breed is the heartache. As a breeder you see more of the awe full pain, disease, a vet that states "I didn't check the birth canal" during a c-section, on and on. I understand why many years ago my mentor told me this is a heartbreak breed. I am proud to say these were my "kids" and tears still come when I think of or look at their pictures. They were some of my best friends, and will be forever in my heart. rest in peace. I'll see you at the Rainbow Bridge.
I am sad to say that Arctic Unbound Thundrn Godzilla passed due to heatstroke just days ago. Gozy was loved by his owner James Whayne and his two children. Godzilla was a true gentle giant and I know he is running with his mom, Bertha and dad, George at the Rainbow Bridge. He touched so many lives and will be missed. June2004-May2011
(Note-these pictures do not necessarily represent the age of the dogs, just photos I liked)
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"George"
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"BooBoo"
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"Magge"
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"Shakka"
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Silverbelle"
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"Bertha"
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"Sammy"
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"Auroara"
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"Chewy"
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"Payton"
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“… for if the dog be well remembered,
If sometimes she sleeps through your dreams actual as in life,
Eyes kindling, laughing, begging,
It matters not where that dog sleeps.
On a hill where the wind is unrebuked and the trees are roaring,
Or beside a stream she knew in puppy hood,
Or somewhere in the flatness of a pastureland
Where most exhilarating cattle graze.
It is one to a dog, and all one to you,
And nothing is gained and nothing lost-
If memory lives.
But there is one best place to bury a dog.
If you bury her in this spot,
She will come to you when you call-
Come to you over the grim, dim frontiers of death,
And down the well remembered path
And to your side again.
And though you may call
A dozen dogs to heel,
They shall not growl at her
Nor resent her coming, for she belongs there.
People may scoff at you,
Who see no lightest blade of grass bent by her footfall,
Who hear no whimper,
People who never really had a dog.
Smile at them, for you shall know
Something that is hidden from them.
The one best place to bury a good dog
Is in the heart of her master…”
Author unknown
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I had a dog, and was lucky enough a Saint Bernard. Big little fur ball.
So scared you were from the flight here. My shadow. A
new best friend.
A buddy that taught me about endless love and faith. How can one look into those deep brown eyes and not believe you're the most important person in the world.
So trusting and believing all that I speak. A head on my lap just waiting for a gentle touch. Which I gladly give. And I pour out all the days' trails and triumphs. Then a gentle lick on the hand tells me all is fine and good.
Poop and puddles on the floor. Drool. Chew marks on the furniture, favorite shoe missing the heal. Socks stretched out to the length of your arm. Leaning. A tree freshly planted being proudly carried around the yard. Holes. And where did the dirt disappear to? I know you were protecting me from those dangerous stuffed animals when you tore them apart. Learning hair is my new accessory. Life's adjustments. Sad eyes saying sorry. I say No big deal.
What a strong athlete you were. And so brave. You learned if it's scary, it is ok to hide your head in my arm. I was so proud of you.
We both go thru the seasons together. How fast they past. Quiet walks together. No words needed. So many people not understanding the bond we share. They must not be dog lovers. An occasional look up at me with the same wonderment as the day you first looked into my eyes. My first grey hairs. And I look down and ask when did your muzzle get so grey? Walks get a little slower. That's ok. Slower pace is better.
Squirrels and birds rushing all around, we'll just sit and watch. No worry.
I know you would jump up and give chase if asked. We both realize the talk is getting near. Me first.
You stood by me and gave me faith. You loved me and I you. I am grateful for every moment we shared. Your strength made me stronger. You taught me to stop and smell the roses because you did literally. My friend you inspired me to be the person you thought I was. I won't forget you. Dear friend we
will be together again soon. It's ok. You gave my heart everything it needed
but mostly, you made my heart smile. You look up at me and I believe you
said .ditto and gently lower your head.
Run fast dear friend, I know you wait for me. These tears are for all the joy you brought selfishly in my life. You are missed, not forgotten, always in my heart.
Paul Wood
