LASKA'S STORY

 

 

This is a story about Laska nicknamed Laska Fruit bat or Princess Looby Loo. She really is my precious angel and I dread the day when life will have to go on without her. You see Laska is an extra special little girl who unfortunately was diagnosed with severe Hip Dysplasia at an early age.

 

This has certainly opened my eyes with regards to this crippling disease, If you have ever been through this you will know what I mean, it is not much fun crying yourself to sleep because she is hurting and there is little you can do. Loving her so much it hurts and wishing you could carry the pain for her, but knowing that you are unable to. I would not wish this on my worst enemy.

 

Laska was just 4 months old when I bought her, I loved her from the moment I set eyes on her. I was so excited bringing her home and could not wait to see what Shadow and Storm thought of our new family member. As expected everybody loved her, but strangely Laska never settled. I thought I was loosing my touch at first as she was extremely difficult to train and rather aggressive, unusual for someone so young. Even short walks around the block were difficult as Laska would lunge at anything that moved.

 

As well as this she had a peculiar puppy gait (I just put this down to puppy wobble). But friends and family were starting to comment on this. To cut a rather long story short and after many trips to vets, orthopaedic specialists, the Newmarket Small Animal Centre, numerous x-rays and finally a MRA scan (altogether costing several thousand pounds) it was confirmed that Laska Fruit Bat did indeed have Hip Dysplasia.

 

I was told at Newmarket that it was doubtful she would still be walking by the time she was three. She is now just over Eleven years old. Life to a certain degree very much revolves around Laska. She needs regular consistent walks, Rimadyl twice daily, Chondroitin/Glucosamine and several other vitamins which I believe has helped her over the years. Her aggression if anything has worsened, but obviously she is never put in a situation where she could cause harm. I have concluded Laska is like a child with tooth ache, and due to this it tends to make her grumpy.

 

I am unable to brush Laska from the waist downwards as she will not allow this, instead I shave her with hair clippers. I explain to her though, that only really special young ladies are shaved. That makes her the most special girl in the world as we have not come across another hair cut as hers, I don't care if she looks ridiculous. I love her more because of this. I call her my little Lowchen Lady, as the dog breed Lowchen has a lion hair cut like hers.

 

The moral of this story is to explain why HIP SCORING and breeding from animals with below the BREED AVERAGE is so important. I know that there is no guarantee that parents with low hip scores will only produce puppies with low hip scores. But there is certainly a higher possibility of this happening. Laska's grandmother had a score of 60 and her father was not scored. I had no idea at the time what this meant, and of the possible implications as these where not explained to me by the breeder. These scores may or may not have been the contributing factor behind her Dysplasia, but if I had been advised of the possible consequences I could have made my own choice.

 

People trust that as a breeder you are breeding from healthy disease free dogs, and trying your up most to produce healthy disease free puppies.

 

ALL breeders have a responsibility as the average pet home knows very little about hip scoring (I certainly didn't), and obviously trusts that the breeder is responsible enough to breed from healthy Hip Dysplasia free stock.

 

I have no regrets with Laska, I feel honoured to be part of her life and every day is a blessing. I know that when God realises that he cannot manage without her I will have to say goodbye to my princess, I know life must go on (although I am not sure how).

 

xxxxxxxxxxxxxx

 

 

 

 

 

 

Here is a list of poems that may give you some comfort, whether you have just lost a friend, remembering one long gone, or about to make a painful decision. I hope they give you peace.

 

Remember, Heaven would not Heaven be, unless my babies are there to welcome me!

 

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...

 

God's Garden Must Be Beautiful

 

God saw you getting tired,

When a cure was not to be.

So He wrapped His arms around you,

And whispered, "Come to Me".

 

You didn't deserve what you went through,

So He gave you rest.

God's garden must be beautiful,

He only picks the best.

 

And when I saw you sleeping,

So peaceful and free from pain,

I could not wish you back

To suffer that again.

 

Author Unknown

 

MAY I GO

by Susan A. Jackson

 

May I go now?

Do you think the time is right?

May I say goodbye to pain filled days and endless lonely nights?

 

I've lived my life and done my best,

an example tried to be.

So can I take that step beyond

and set my spirit free?

 

I didn't want to go at first,

I fought with all my might.

But something seems to draw me now

to a warm and loving light.

 

I want to go. I really do.

It's difficult to stay.

But I will try as best I can

to live just one more day.

 

To give you time to care for me

and share your love and fears.

I know you're sad and afraid,

because I see your tears.

 

I'll not be far, I promise that,

and hope you'll always know

that my spirit will be close to you

wherever you may go.

 

Thank you so for loving me.

You know I love you, too.

That's why it's hard to say goodbye

and end this life with you.

 

So hold me now just one more time

and let me hear you say,

because you care so much for me,

you'll let me go today.

 

Dedicated to everyone who has ever had to put down a beloved dog.

 

Author: Susan A. Jackson

 

I STOOD BESIDE YOUR BED LAST NIGHT

 

I stood by your bed last night, I came to have a peep.

I could see that you were crying, You found it hard to sleep.

 

I whined to you softly as you brushed away a tear,

"It's me, I haven't left you, I'm well, I'm fine, I'm here."

 

I was close to you at breakfast, I watched you pour the tea,

You were thinking of the many times, your hands reached down to me.

 

I was with you at the shops today, Your arms were getting sore.

I longed to take your parcels, I wish I could do more.

 

I was with you at my grave today, You tend it with such care.

I want to reassure you, that I'm not lying there.

 

I walked with you towards the house, as you fumbled for your key.

I gently put my paw on you, I smiled and said "It's me."

You looked so very tired, and sank into a chair.

I tried so hard to let you know, that I was standing there.

 

It's possible for me, to be so near you everyday.

To say to you with certainty, "I never went away."

You sat there very quietly, then smiled, I think you knew ...

in the stillness of that evening, I was very close to you.

 

The day is over... I smile and watch you yawning

and say "Goodnight, God bless, I'll see you in the morning."

And when the time is right for you to cross the brief divide,

I'll rush across to greet you and we'll stand, side by side.

 

I have so many things to show you, there is so much for you to see.

Be patient, live your journey out ... then come home to be with me.

 

Author Unknown

 

IT WOULDN'T BE HEAVEN

 

I got to the gate of heaven today, after we said goodbye.

I began to miss you terribly, because I heard you cry.

 

Suddenly there was an angel,and she asked me to enter Heaven's gate.

I asked her if I could stay outside for someone who would be late.

I wouldn't make much noise you see, I wouldn't bark or howl.

I'll only wait here patiently and play with my tennis ball.

 

The angel said I could stay right here and wait for you to come.

Because Heaven just wouldn't be Heaven if I went in alone.

So I'll wait right here,you take your time, but keep me in your heart.

Because Heaven just wouldn't be Heaven without you to warm my heart.

 

Author Unknown

 

God Bless Our Pets

 

They say memories are golden,

well, maybe that is true.

I never wanted memories, I only wanted you.

 

A million times I needed you,

a million times I cried.

If love alone could have saved you,

you never would have died.

 

In life I loved you dearly,

in death I love you still.

In my heart you hold a place

no one could ever fill.

 

If tears could build a stairway

and heartache make a lane,

I'd walk the path to heaven

and bring you back again.

 

Our family chain is broken,

and nothing seems the same.

But as God calls us one by one,

the chain will link again.

 

Author Unknown

 

THE LAST BATTLE OR IF IT SHOULD BE

 

If it should be that I grow frail and weak,

And pain should keep me from my sleep,

Then will you do what must be done,

For this -- the last battle -- can't be won.

 

You will be sad I understand,

But don't let grief then stay your hand,

For on this day, more than the rest,

Your love and friendship must stand the test.

 

We have had so many happy years,

You wouldn't want me to suffer so.

When the time comes, please, let me go.

Take me to where my needs they'll tend,

 

Only, stay with me till the end,

And hold me firm and speak to me,

Until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time you will agree,

It is a kindness you do to me.

 

Although my tail its last has waved,

From pain and suffering I have been saved.

Don't grieve that it must be you,

Who has to decide this thing to do;

 

We've been so close -- we two -- these years,

Don't let your heart hold any tears.

 

Author Unknown

 

Goodbye

by John Quealy

 

With heavy hearts; and a tear in our eyes,

after all these years; we must say goodbye.

Please understand; we've done all we could,

if there was anything we could do; you know we would.

 

I'm sitting right here; gently rub your ears,

while I talk to you softly; trying to hold back the tears.

The memories you gave us; we'll never forget,

especially the ones; of the day we all met.

 

One last hug; and one last kiss,

you have no idea;how much you'll be missed.

To look into your eyes; this one last time,

you tell me it's ok; you know it's your time.

 

Close your eyes now; and go to sleep,

we'll pray to the Lord; you're soul he'll keep.

Go in peace now; our good friend,

we'll stay right here with you; until the end.

 

Dream of that special day and time,

when we'll meet at the Bridge; and all will be fine.

We'll run and play; side by side,

with a soft warm feeling; deep down inside.

 

Your memory will live on; in each one of us,

you'll always be number 1; to all of us.

Have a safe journey; through the night,

I promise when you awake; you'll be in God's light.

 

So with heavy hearts; and tears in our eyes,

just for now my friend; We Say Goodbye.

 

Master, It's Time

 

Master, dear Master, the old dog said,

My road has come to an end.

No more can I ramble by your side

Your loved and trusted friend.

 

My eyes, once filled with joy of life,

Are dimmed with age and pain.

The walks we shared by field and stream

Must wait for another day.

 

You cared for me with all your heart,

And I gave you my all.

But now, beloved master,

Another Master calls.

 

I know you hate to let me go,

But my love is yours to keep.

The time has come, my dearest friend,

When I need to go to sleep.

 

Your kindness made my life a joy

And you love me, this I know.

Show me your love one final time

And gently let me go.

 

Master, my beloved friend,

As we say our last good-bye,

Know that I will be waiting

For you on the other side.

 

Then we will ramble the woods again,

Walk the fields when the leaves start to fall.

I'll be sitting right here by the golden gates

Waiting for your call.

 

Author: Jean Dokken

 

WITH ANGELS THEY PLAY

 

They haven't really been taken away.

They have only gone with the Angels to play.

They have been given wings with which to fly.

All their troubles have passed them by.

 

Their life in heaven now must start.

But we'll hold their memory in our hearts.

Nothing about them will be forgotten.

But now they sleep on billowy clouds of cotton.

 

Author Unknown

 

Remember Our Love

 

I was chosen today,

I'm learning to fly,

The world took me away,

but please don't you cry.

 

And I chose you today

to try and be strong

so please don't you cry

and don't say that I'm gone.

 

When you're feeling alone,

just remember our love.

I'm up near the stars,

looking down from above.

 

Remember our love,

In a moment you'll see,

that I'm still here beside you

when you're thinking of me.

 

Author Unknown

 

When I Am Gone

 

When I am gone...release me, let me go

I have so many things to see and do.

You mustn't tie yourself to me with tears

Be thankful for our beautiful years.

 

I gave to you my love. You can only guess

How much you gave to me in happiness.

I thank you for the love each of you have shown

But now it's time that I traveled on alone.

 

So grieve a while for me if grieve you must

Then let your grief be confronted in trust

It's only for a short time that we must part

So cherish the moments locked within your heart.

 

I won't be far away for life does go on

So if you need me, call and I will come.

Though you can't see me or touch me, I'll be near

And if you listen with your heart, you'll hear

All my love around you, soft and clear.

 

And then when you must come this way alone,

I'll be waiting to greet you with a smile,

and say "Welcome home".

 

Author Unknown

 

We Remember Them

 

In the rising of the sun and in its going down,

We remember them;

 

In the blowing of the wind and in the chill of winter,

We remember them;

 

In the opening of the buds and in the warmth of summer,

We remember them;

 

In the rustling of leaves and the beauty of autumn,

We remember them;

 

In the beginning of the year, and when it ends,

We remember them;

 

When we are weary and in need of strength,

we remember them;

 

When we are lost and sick at heart,

We remember them;

 

When we have joys we yearn to share,

We remember them;

 

So long as we live, they too shall live,

for they are now a part of us as

 

WE REMEMBER THEM

 

Author Unknown

 

With Sympathy

 

They will not go quietly,

the pets who've shared our lives.

In subtle ways they let us know

their spirit still survives.

 

Old habits still can make us

think we hear them at the door

Or step back when we drop

a tasty morsel on the floor.

 

Our feet still go around the place

the food dish used to be,

And,sometimes,coming home at night,

we miss them terribly.

 

And although time may bring new friends

and a new food dish to fill,

That one place in our hearts

belongs to them...

and always will.

 

Author Unknown

 

REQUEST FROM THE RAINBOW BRIDGE

 

Weep not for me though I am gone,

Into that gentle night.

Grieve if you will, but not for long,

Upon my soul's sweet flight.

 

I am at peace, my soul's at rest,

There is no need for tears.

For with your love I was so blessed

For all those many years.

 

There is no pain, I suffer not,

The fear now all is gone.

Put now these things out of your thoughts,

In your memory I live on.

 

Remember not my fight for breath,

Remember not the strife,

Please do not dwell upon my death,

But celebrate my life.

 

Author Constance Jenkins

 

IN OUR HEARTS

 

We thought of you with love today.

But that is nothing new.

We thought about you yesterday.

And days before that too.

 

We think of you in silence.

We often speak your name.

Now all we have is memories.

And your picture in a frame.

 

Your memory is our keepsake.

With which we'll never part.

God has you in his keeping.

We have you in our heart.

 

LIVING LOVE

 

If you ever love an animal, there are three days in your life you will always remember …

 

The first is a day, blessed with happiness, when you bring home your young new friend.

You may have spent weeks deciding on a breed. You may have asked numerous opinions of many vets, or done long research in finding a breeder.

Or, perhaps in a fleeting moment, you may have just chosen that silly looking mutt in a shelter - simply because something in its eyes reached your heart.

But when you bring that chosen pet home, and watch it explore, and claim its special place in your hall or front room - and when you feel it brush against you for the first time - it instills a feeling of pure love you will carry with you through the many years to come.

 

The second day will occur eight or nine or ten years later.

It will be a day like any other. Routine and unexceptional.

But, for a surprising instant, you will look at your longtime friend

and see age where you once saw youth.

You will see slow deliberate steps where you once saw energy.

And you will see sleep where you once saw activity.

So you will begin to adjust your friend's diet - and you may add a pill or two to her food.

And you may feel a growing fear deep within yourself, which bodes of a coming emptiness.

And you will feel this uneasy feeling, on and off, until the third day finally arrives.

 

And on this day - if your friend and God have not decided for you,

then you will be faced with making a decision of your own - on behalf of your lifelong friend, and with the guidance of your own deepest Spirit.

But, whichever way your friend eventually leaves you - you will feel as alone as a single star in the night.

 

If you are wise, you will let the tears flow as freely and as often as they must.

And if you are typical, you will find that not many in your circle of family or friends will be able to understand your grief, or comfort you.

 

But if you are true to the love of the pet you cherished through the many joy-filled years, you may find that a soul - a bit smaller in size than your own - seems to walk with you, at times, during the lonely days to come.

 

And at moments when you least expect anything out of the ordinary to happen, you may feel something brush against your leg - very, very lightly.

And looking down at the place where your dear, perhaps dearest, friend used to lay - you will remember those three significant days.

The memory will most likely be painful, and leave an ache in your heart.

As time passes, the ache will come and go as if it has a life of its own.

You will both reject it and embrace it, and it may confuse you.

If you reject it, it will depress you.

If you embrace it, it will deepen you.

Either way, it will still be an ache.

 

But there will be, I assure you, a fourth day when - along with the memory of your pet -

and piercing through the heaviness in your heart -

there will come a realization that belongs only to you.

It will be as unique and strong as our relationship with each animal we have loved, and lost.

This realization takes the form of a Living Love - like the heavenly scent of a rose that remains after the petals have wilted, this Love will remain and grow - and be there for us to remember.

It is a love we have earned.

It is the legacy our pets leave us when they go.

And it is a gift we may keep with us as long as we live.

It is a Love which is ours lone.

And until we ourselves leave, perhaps to join our Beloved Pets - it is a Love we will always possess.

 

Author: Martin Scot Kosins