Monday, April 20, 2009

RIP Sierra

I held my puppy today in my arms when she went to sleep for the final time. She was 8. Thank you to my daughter Katy for making me see that I needed to hold her as she passed, I will never forget and I will be ever so grateful she took the time to make me understand how important it was, for both of us. Thank You to my daughter Kari for going with me and being there for me, I needed it, I knew it was difficult for her but I needed it. Thank you to my daughter Rachel for helping me make the decision to bring Sierra home 8 years ago. Thank you to Valley Vet Clinic in Simi Valley, Dr Novy, for giving her every possible chance, above and beyond, Dr. Kramer in particular for being there with me when it was as hard for him as it was for me, and Dr Kriensky for caring enough to pass on the situation to those who could and did do everything in their power to allow her a chance to heal.

Thanks to Helly for the digital kit that she did not create for this purpose but was perfect for me to create a tribute to Sierra. Designs by Helly - Splendor Falls

5 comments:

SandyPie said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. We lost our Polly a few years ago and it still hurts. It's hard because some people just don't get it that it's just as hard when you lose an animal as if it were a person. My thoughts are with you.

Vicki said...

Oh Julie - I am so sorry. My heart really does go out to you - I am sending big hugs your way xxx
I have always thought this piece by Paul Daum was very beautiful and I hope you will too.

There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colors. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge, there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass.

When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place. There is always food and water, and warm spring weather. The old and frail animals are young again. Those who have been maimed are made whole again. They play all day with each other.

But there is only one thing missing. They are not with their special person who loved them on Earth. So each day they run and play until the day comes when one suddenly stops playing and looks up. The nose twitches! The ears are up! The eyes are staring! And this one suddenly runs from the group!

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. Your face is kissed again and again and again, and you look once more into the eyes of your trusting pet.

Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together, never again to be separated.



From "The Rainbow Bridge," by Paul C. Daum

just lisa said...

Julie - I am so sorry - my heart just breaks for you! Beautiful journaling - I can see how much she will be missed.

Shirley said...

Such a sad day Julie and my heart aches for you. What a beautiful tribute layout you did for Sierra! You were lucky to have your family and vets care so much for you and your sweet puppy.

Lorry said...

Julie, I stumbled upon your blog today and feel your pain. I just put my dear "Duchess" to rest on the 2nd of April this year. I too was right there with her gazing into my eyes and know that she is in a much better state in Puppy Heaven right now.

My dear Vet sent me a PawPrint on a heart for me to remember her with with this beautiful poem.

I'm not there with you today
But know that I haven't gone astray.
I am the wind blowing through your hair and the warmth you feel in the air.
When that smile creeps on your face Remember that I am in a good place.
And when you'r feeling sad and down, recall memories of me running around.
You don't need to look low and high, just search way deep inside, and know that we'll never be apart, for I have left my paw prints on your heart.

May this bring you comfort.
I love the tribute you created for Sierra.