In memorium to a good friend of fifteen years.

We lost our Rudy - a miniature schnauzer - today after a long, slow decline the last two weeks of which were spent at the vet with IVs running to try to restore his electrolytes to balance. To no avail. The vet said he thinks it was kidney cancer, but at least he wasn't in pain, just not well.

At my age it's a bit of a shock to find out my tear ducts still function. I promised myself I wouldn't do this, but my cheeks are wet anyway. It makes you wonder why we do this to ourselves. We certainly know the day we bring a pet home that this day will come. Sooner or later. But still we forget the pain of the loss and jump right into the joy of a new found love with a creature that has more love to share than most of humanity can claim. And eventually the day does come that we have to say goodbye so we do it silently because the lump in the throat won't let the words past.

We remember those special times when his personality first showed itself. Like the time fourteen years ago when my wife brought me home from the hospital after heart bypass surgery. As soon as she got me to bed to recuperate, Rudy joined me, lay pressed against my hip all the while I recovered. That's when he earned the nickname 'Nurse' Rudy. But he was really named after Rudy Valley because he just loved to sing. Anyone singing on the radio, TV, CD, it didn't matter. He sang along.

Rudy, you were one of God's special creatures, put here to make life bearable for we imperfect humans. You will remain in our hearts while we breath, and we will honor you by adopting another of your cousins and naming him for you.

We ask for the prayers of those who read this so that you may have an easy trip across the Rainbow Bridge.

:hug: to you and your family. What a wonderful little guy Rudy must have been. I hope your good memories help ease the sadness soon.

R.I.P. Rudy.

RIP Rudy. Good dog.

:hug: It is so difficult to lose a love and a friend. Rest in peace dear Rudy. :grouphug:

Sounds like Rudy was blessed to live in your home. Animal lovers are the best people in the world.
:hug:

Rudy was a schnauzer of many talents and delights and I'm sure you will always miss him. RIP to your dear friend, and congratulations on your impending adoption. Good boy, Rudy! :hug:

Thank you for that wonderful story about "Nurse" Rudy :hug:

I lost my little Lhasa two weeks ago today and I know how hard it is. We do it to ourselves because the joy and companionship is so special that, as hard as it is right now, I wouldn't trade the time for anything. It's just damn hard right now, I know. But I send a hug your way and hope Rudy's cousin brings you as much happiness as Rudy did. He sounds like he was a special boy.

:hug:

Safe passage to Rudy.

You have shared a very special Rudy with us, and we understand the grief and tears you are having.

Prayers and hugs to help you through this difficult time. I do believe that you will see Rudy across the Rainbow Bridge someday.



:grouphug:

I lost my Roody, a miniature poodle, in late January to kidney failure. He was 15/16 also and it was time.
Tears will leave no stain.
Time will heal the pain.
For every life that fades
Something beautiful remains.

Rudy was truly a special part of your family. Having lost 3 of my own within 6 months, I share your grief. Hold on to those wonderful memories of Rudy. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. RIP Rudy.

You've got my old eyes leaking here at my desk

In fact, I have my doubts if those who are not animal lovers are fully human. They seem to lack that feeling of connection with all life that those here experience. It's their loss. I'll not pity them.

I just want to add on edit that this forum is a haven from the storm of political infighting and debate that the rest of the board has become. Here is only the true feelings of the participants. No rancor. No "I'll see your insult and raise you a personal affront." Just support.

In the past I've read this forum but not participated a lot. Here is like a dip in a cool refreshing pond. Expect to see me here more often.

You have been warned. (small attempt at humor)

About animal lovers and about the Pet Forum. I'm so sorry for your loss of Rudy and know he'll be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge. R.I.P., sweet Rudy.

:hug: RIP Rudy :cry:

I'm so sorry. He'll be fine where he's gone. You take care of yourself now.

Peace.

It is so hard to lose a beloved friend, and, Rudy has my prayer that he had an easy trip "across the Rainbow Bridge".

I suspect, though, that Rudy made it just fine, and he is already watching over you.

RIP, dear Rudy.

:hug:
Rest in peace, sweet Rudy!