This morning at 8:00 am, Dexter was put to rest.
After years of debilitating seizures, his brain and body had just had enough.Rest in peace, little guy.
We love you.
"He is my other eyes that can see above the clouds; my other ears that hear above the winds. He is the part of me that can reach out into the sea...
He has told me a thousand times over that I am his reason for being;
by the way he rests against my leg;
by the way he thumps his tail at my smallest smile; by the way he shows his hurt when I leave without taking him. (I think it makes him sick with worry when he is not along to care for me.) When I am wrong, he is delighted to forgive...
When I am angry, he clowns to make me smile. When I am happy, he is joy unbounded.
When I am a fool, he ignores it. When I succeed, he brags. Without him, I am only another man...
With him, I am all-powerful. He is loyalty itself. He has taught me the meaning of devotion. With him, I know a secret comfort and a private peace. He has brought me understanding where before I was ignorant. His head on my knee can heal my human hurts...
His presence by my side is protection against my fears of dark and unknown things.
He has promised to wait for me... whenever... wherever - in case I need him. And I expect I will - as I always have. He is my dog." - Gene Hill
Dexter "Tar" Arabian
January 8, 1999
March 2, 2012
103 comments:
I am so sorry. He was a beautiful dog. Was he a labradoodle. I just hate it when a pet is lost. Sending you (((((HUGS)))))
Dexter was a Tibetan Terrier. A wonderful breed.
Sorry for your loss.(((hugs)))
I am so sorry you had to let go of your beautiful friend. I wish you comfort to get trough these difficult days.
My heart hurts. Dexter was blessed that you were his person. Cherry Kay
You made me cry, what a sweet tribute to dear Dexter. I am so sorry he is no longer with you in body, but i know he will always be with you in spirit, Sending lots of hugs, Kathysue
Dear Delores, I am so very sorry that you lost your little guy. Reading about him and seeing his pictures made me very sad. Tears are rolling down my face. We have two wonderful dogs who go with us wherever we go. We have also lost some of our pets. It is heartbreaking whenever it happens. I know how you feel and I am sad with you. Gina
So sorry for your loss. I can see from your pictures what a beautiful friend he was.x
Delores, I am soooo sorry. I am hurting with y'all and will miss that sweet face on your blog.
So sorry, what a lovely post for us fellow dog lovers who know too well what you are going through. Rest this weekend as you miss your baby dog that had a wonderful long life.
Heart breakingly lovely. I grieve with you. Such a handsome and dashing boy. Blessings...
Oh my goodness! I am so sorry about Dexter..I have been reading your blog since you started and have always enjoyed his sweet pictures. It's so hard to lose our pets..they are almost like children! Hugs and thoughts to you Delores!
Miss Bloomer
I am so, so sorry Delores. He was a beautiful boy and I know your heart is breaking. You are in my thoughts.... hugs, joan
Our deepest sympathy goes to the Arabian household. He was such a doll baby....such a character. Shakira will miss her walking buddy. xo The Kelehers
Delores,
Pets enrich our lives in wonderful ways as you have photographed here on this precious post to Dexter's memory! My heart goes out to you at this sorrowful time...we lost our beloved Maurice in October. I miss her still! I adore the photo of Dexter sleeping on his back on the red tartan plaid throw...shows his personality! You are in my thoughts!
Fondly,
Pat
Dear Delores, I am so sorry to hear about Dexter. I know how much we love our dogs and how truly they are a member of our family. They give so much love and ask for so little. It is unfortunate we can have them in our lives for only a little while. As Dexter surely did for you, I am sure you made his life a joy.
Sending you love...Victoria
I am so incredibly sorry about Dexter. Losing a pet, a treasured member of your family is so difficult. What a wonderful poignant tribute to him...he looks like he lived one happy life and was clearly loved dearly. They truly make the best, most trusting, friends that give us such an enormous amount of unconditional love. Sending a hug your way.
I too know the loss and great pain you are feeling. I just want to say how sorry I am and I will keep you, and you dear Dexter in my prayers. ~ Nadia
I wish I had the words to bring you some comfort, but having gne through this pain twice and words just couldnt fill the empty place in me.
I am so very sorry for the loss of your beloved friend and companion.
Oh, Delores, tears are streaming down my face as i type. What a dear tribute to Dexter. Seeing his sweet face and cute expressions makes my heart melt. I know you will miss this sweet guy. I'm thinking of you and sending my love as you face this loss in your family.
~ Sarah
What a wonderful love letter to a faithful and wonderful friend/ pet. I shed a few tears while reading this as I am sure many others did.
Sending you prayers and a his for the loss of your beautiful dexter.
I am so sorry for your loss. I know how this feel ~ you have lost your best friend and companion. Google the "Rainbow Bridge" ~ it says it all. I am trying to leave this message through tears. I will pray your pain is lessened each and every day.
I am so sorry for your loss. What a lovely, sentimental tribute you created about him.
Prayers for you, your family and Dexter.
I am so sorry, Delores. My heart is with you & aches for you.
Dexter had the very best thing in life, love.
xo~Tracie
Oh, I am SO sorry, Delores; this is one of life's worst worst things to deal with, I hope you have lots of support today and in coming weeks. I cried my eyes out for months over my Napoleon, I am really happy to see you celebrate his doggie life here today. Hugs~
Oh My! I can hardly see my screen. What a handsome boy your Dextor was. I'm so sorry, you'll always miss your friend, but I believe that our pet make us better people. What a gift it is to be loved in such a pure and non-judgemental way as our dogs love us --- and we in turn give them our hearts. I know that your heart will always carry the imprint of his paw upon it. May God bless your memories of him.
So very sorry to hear about this. We suffered a similar loss last June. What wonderful memories we have though... Take care.
OH I am so sorry to read this...Dexter looks like he was a wonderful dog and I know he will be deeply missed. XOXO
I am so sorry. My heart just breaks for you.
-Shelley
So very sorry for your loss, I know the pain of losing a dog all to well, but I know that to be a dog in your loving home is a true gift.
Kat
So sorry. I feel your pain. He was a beauty.
Delores I am so sorry to hear about Dexter. You have so many beautiful pictures of him! It is so hard when we lose one of our pets, they are such a big part of our family!
Oh D. I am so very sorry for your loss. I can't seem to stop the tears, for I will miss him in your pictures and how his eyes seemed to shine...It's so darn hard when we lose our best friend! I hope you find solace in knowing he will be at peace now, with no more pains of illness...I am sending you a basket of hugs{{{{{Hugs}}}}! Luv you!
deep peace to him and to you Delores.
I'm so sorry for your loss. Dexter looks like he was an awesome dog and I know you'll miss him. I'm sure he loved you and the life he had with you and was soooo sorry to have to go.
I have 3 dogs of my own - and have never lost a dog, so I can only imagine the pain. It brings tears to my eyes thinking what you're going through and just how hard that must be.
Love & Hugs,
Jan
Such a sad day....I never like to hear someone has lost their best friend....he was a beautiful dog and I share in your loss....
So sorry Delores
Dogs truly are man's best friend.
*** Dearest Delores~
I just saw this, and there's absolutely NO WAY I can tell you how badly I feel for you & the rest of the family.
At "my age", I have been thru this many times, so I really D*O KNOW and FEEL your pain, my friend. I ALSO know there is, unfortunately, nothing any of us can say, do or give to you that will make the loss of your PRECIOUS DEXTER any less painful. To say that "it takes a long time to heel & accept the loss" is an understatement... one that I personally never say, as this is TOO big of a loss to trivialize...
I sincerely HOPE, and like to B*E*L*I*E*V*E, that your darling DEXTER, w/ that cute nickname of "TAR" (I'd love to hear THAT story some time!), has already been greeted/welcomed by my/our "kids" already "up there" for quite a while now...
Picture Dexter ALL HEALTHY, and in absolutely NO PAIN, Delores.. he's running n' romping & even occassionally barking with joy, like one of our dogs now does~ our Sam, Mac Arthur, BD and Mikey will WARMLY WELCOME HIM and show him "the ropes" (and where the closest fire hydrant is!). He'll ALWAYS love his "MOMMY", and undoubtedly knows he was ONE... BELOVED... PRECIOUS BEING!!!
I'll include your Dexter in my "pet prayers" tonight & for a while too, and YOU, Delores, will be at the top of my nightly "people prayers".
Our "Belle" and pup "Marnie" send loving licks & big warm, cuddly hugs to you, as do Jim and I.
XO,
Linda
bellesmom1234@comcast.net
So sad to see this. He was the same age as my oldest daughter. I hope it was a great 12 years...
I am so sorry for your loss, I always looked for him in your posts. He was so well loved, it was such a pleasure that you shared him with us... I hope your pain eases soon, he is free of his now and wishes only joy for you...
I am so sorry to hear about your loss. What a beautiful tribute to your ever faithful friend Dexter. About a year and a half ago, we lost our beloved Labrador Retriever just three days shy of her 15th birthday. Though we still miss her terribly (she was our first “child”), we are incredibly grateful for all the years of unconditional love and companionship she gave us. May all of your wonderful memories with Dexter comfort you at this difficult time.
So sorry to hear about your loss. It's so hard to loose a wonderful dog friend!
Our most sincere condolences on your loss Delores. Dexter will be missed
O My!! I am so very sorry for your terrible loss!
I went through ths almost 2 years ago and I still miss our sweet Savanna.
If you would like to read my post about Savanna and the Rainbow Bridge, please click on this link:
http://debbie-dabble.blogspot.com/2010/08/savannas-story.html
Again, I am so very sorry for your loss!
Hugs,
Debbie
That precious face and soul will be hard to live without.
...my heart hurts with your heart...
I am so sorry to hear about Dexter's passing. There are no words that will truly ease your pain and my heart goes out to you and your family. I hope you will read Rainbow Bridge. It helped when we lost our beloved Cassie. I am sending you a heartfelt hug.
Cheryl
So sorry about your loss. I know feel bad that my puppy got yelled at this morning for wanting to go out again in the rain. I am going to think twice about doing that again.
Delores, This is a lovely and touching tribute to Dexter. He obviously lived a wonderful life in the comfort and love of your home. Peace to you in this difficult time.
xo,
Anne
So very sorry. Dexter looks like such a great dog and I know you gave him a wonderful life. My 2 dogs are my surrogate children and losing them will feel like losing family members. I imagine you must feel the same way. Thinking of you & sending hugs..
-Shell
Ahhhhh - I wish I had known Dexter. What a sweetie. I know you will miss him but you did the right thing......loved him too much to let him suffer.
Oh, I am so-o-o sorry for your loss of Dexter. It brought tears to my eyes reading your post & seeing the pics of Dexter. What a sweet, beautiful dog he was. My heart goes out to you.
Leigh
I am so sorry for your loss. Our precious pets come into our lives and steal our hearts and then after too short a time break our hearts when they must leave us. My heart hurts for you. Rest in peace sweet Dexter.
I usually don't post ... but I have to say sorry that you lost your sweet pup. It so hard to lose a pet! My heartfelt sympathy for your loss.
I am so sorry for the loss.A doggie is one of God's greatest gifts to man.I will give mine a few extra treats today.Dex will be waiting for you in heaven!
Oh, my dear, I am so sorry for your loss. How heartbreaking it is when we lose a furry family member. I have walked that path of sorrow myself.
You had a difficult decision to make and you did what was best for Dexter, ending his suffering. God bless you.
You have my deepest and most heartfelt sympathy. I wish you consolation and comfort during this difficult time.
So very sorry, and will miss hearing about and seeing Dexter on your blog. They aren't just pets, they are family members. From another animal lover, my heart goes out to you.
Delores, I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you. Their love is so unconditional and I truly believe it is the truest love. Words can not express my heartfelt sympathy for you. I guess the only comfort is knowing that he is free of his suffering. I had tears running down my face as I read this. I am so very sorry and I thank you for sharing him with us. His love will always be with you.
Our family has had to put down two of our beloved family members in the last three years and I know how heart wrenching it is. I will never forget my 38 year old son's words when he called in tears to tell me. "Mom, his soul when through my heart".
I am so sorry about your loss. A wonderful dog is irreplaceable.
I am so, so sorry for your loss and loved all your portraits of Dexter. What a good life he had and what a good friend to you. Peace and blessings to you.
I'm sorry and SO sad for you! Cry all you want, whenever you want. Look at pictures of him whenever you can. So sad...
I am profoundly sorry for your loss Delores. It's obvious how loved and how much joy Dexter brought to you and the family. I agree with Jacki, they aren't just pets, they are family members. May you find comfort in the beautiful memories Dexter left behind.
Message From Valhalla
You were with me to the very end and even after I had "gone" you held me, and as my soul left my body and I looked down and saw you crying, I wanted so much to tell you that I understood. You did this for me.
I tried to tell you in my own way that it was time for me to leave, and I thank you for understanding. No other will take my place, but those I left behind will need your love and affection as I have had.
You still think of me, and there are times you try to hide your tear-filled eyes but please be happy and think not of sadness, but of how I made you happy and made you laugh at the funny and smart things I did.
There are no fences in Valhalla, for no one has the desire to "dig out".
There are no thunderstorms in Valhalla, therefore fear is never present.
There are no fights in Valhalla. Everyone is congenial.
There is no hunger. There is no thirst. There is much to explore. Many of us who are older take care of the little ones and guide them. It's fun watching them run with their ears flopping and their curly tails wagging.
We have four seasons in Valhalla, and most of us agree, winter is our favorite.
So you see, my loved one, I am very happy.
When it comes time for my friends to leave, I will meet them at the gates of Valhalla, and I will acquaint them with this beautiful and serene place, and I will take care of them for you.
Thank you for loving me, caring for me, and having the courage to let me go with dignity.
Jane S. Morris
My condolances to you and yours.
Dawn
I am so sorry for you. Tears flow from my eyes as I remember just a short time ago I lost my Caramel. Such a treasure they are and I feel your pain. Be well my friend.
~ ~Ahrisha~ ~
Rest in peace, sweet Dexter! My heart breaks for all of you. I love the tribute to him that you shared. And Dawn's 'Message from Valhalla' just about did me in. Dexter will always be with you, until you meet again. May God bless and keep you!
I am so sorry for your lost.Dexter was a beautiful dog.In time may you find comfort with all the good memories of you and him.
Oh, Delores --
I know what a hole this leaves in a home. It's been 4 yrs. since we had to say goodbye to our Springer, and I still expect to see her running to the door to greet us. You'll be richer for Dexter's love all the rest of your life.
Linda @ A Toile Tale
I am so sorry Delores. Such a handsome little guy. They leave such big holes in our hearts when they go but I believe they'll be waiting to greet us once again. Sincerest condolences from both my little Chloe and I.
Robin
What a beautiful post. I am saving it for the sentiments by Gene Hill. What a gift Tar was to your life. We will be facing this in a few years with our 11 year old chocolate lab. Cherish your memories. Ann
Oh I'm so very sorry. Your words touched and broke my heart.
I hate to hear about your little baby. He reminds me of our first dog. He was a Lasa though. I wish quick healing for you. I know it's tough.
Dear Delores,
I am so sorry for your loss. I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes looking at all the wonderful pictures you have of Dexter. I have 3 animal babies myself and have had to put two others to sleep in the past. It's so hard when their life ends, but the joy they bring to us will never be forgotten. Dexter is at peace and I'm sure you will see him again.
Blessings, Lorie
I am so sorry. We just said good bye to our 14 year old Lab on Tuesday. It's so hard. The tears just will not stop.
My heart goes out to you...it took such courage and love to know that it was time to let him move on. May your wonderful memories of Dexter comfort you. Big hug...
Jermaine
Delores, so sorry about Dexter. He was a beauty, you can see his soul in your photos, kind and gentle. I remember the day all too vividly when we put our Sam to sleep. I know your pain and feel your loss and pray that the emptiness in your home isn't overwhelming. xo marlis
I'm so sorry to hear of your loss sweetie!
What a beautiful pet, I know you will miss him terribly. What a good life you gave Dexter!
Hugs Rosemary...xoxo
I can feel your pain and my arms are wrapped around you as you and your family mourn. There is no better friend than our dogs. I have two sprawled out at my feet as I type, and one kept me up most of the night in fear of the thunder.......No one or nothing can ever replace the happiness and contentment they bring. However, when it is time to let go, one must do just that.........it hurts deep and you have to over it in your own time. Closure is when you are ready. Let go ONLY when it is right for you my love. I will light a candle for Dexter this evening. He is at peace this night.
OXOX
Cameo
Oh Delores, I am not sure how you made it through this post without crying and I expect you did (Tear)
I could hardly read the frist two line before I was taken with a sad feeling that happens when I read something so Hallmark like this read.
I am just heart broken for you, and know that he is so well taken care of now laying at the hem of our Lord.
Blowing kisses in a soft breeze your way.
Blessings
Dore
I am so sorry for your loss of a dear friend. I believe you will see Tar again.
I don't think anyone has posted this; but this is the thing that has comforted me; and helped me fill the holes in my heart; and my husband's heart. We adore our animals; and are bereft when we lose one. This has helped us.
" The Rainbow Bridge"
"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 are maimed are made whole again. They play all day with each other.
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 seen, and when you and your special friend meet, you take him or her into your arms and embrace. 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. "
I am weeping when I write this. I am so sorry I don't know who wrote it; but I can tell you that I believe it!!!
That was such a lucky, beloved dog. You were so lucky to have him for such a long life; he was so lucky to have you. Which just hurts so much. My heart goes out to you.
Delores,
I am so sorry for your loss. We had to put one of our sweet doggies down a few years ago...it's never easy but you are truly a humane dog owner when you put them out of their pain and when they are no longer comfortable. I wish a good memories of fun times with your sweet Dextar.
Karen at Garden, Home & Party
We share your pain and sorrow. Our pets are part of our families and speak to our hearts, when they are gone, there is a terrible silence.
Hugs. and hang in there.
Nancy
wildoakdesigns.blogspot.com
We lost our beloved Bo, a cocker mix several years ago and have yet to replace him because he was the BEST DOG EVER. They truly weave themselves into the fabric of our lives and hearts. So sorry for your loss of darling Dexter.
I send my love to you from Australia .... this is such a hard thing to do.
Vale Dexter.
So very, very sorry for your loss - I know you gave Dexter a wonderful life. Godspeed, Dexter...
What a lovely tribute to a beloved pet who obviously was a big part your life. Pets are truly one of life's greatest treasures and it isn't easy to let them go.
Oh my gosh, Delores, I have tears in my eyes. I loved seeing Dexter in your photos - I'm so sorry for your loss!
My heart breaks for you ... I am so sorry. It is the highest act of love for you to shoulder the suffering for your dear Dexter. Rest in peace, sweet Dexter.
So sorry to hear about Dexter. This always breaks my heart and brings me to tears when someone loses their beloved companion. May you find comfort in all the wonderful times you shared together.
I am so sorry for your loss. I enjoyed seeing him in your blog posts. He was a cute little guy.
Delores, I am so sorry for your loss and my heart goes out to you.
Hugs, Sherry
So sorry Delores. I had a dog that had seizures too and that was awful because our dog would be normal 99% of the time. My husband and I kept telling ourselves if she can deal with it, then so can we. We let it go on for years and had her heavily medicated, which did not really improve matters. Finally, she had eight seizures in one day and we had to put her to sleep. It was one of the hardest decisions we've ever made. I loved seeing pictures with your dog in them. He was so cute. Again, so sorry for your loss.
I am so sorry to read of Dexter's passing. I am really going to miss seeing him in your blog postings. My heart just aches for you and your family...the heartache of loosing a pet is so numbing. May you have many fond memories of Dexter and know that you gave him a wonderful life and showed him the greatest of love.
I am so sorry for your loss Delores...he is in a better place and no longer suffering!!! I loved seeing him in your posts...such a sweet face!! <3
I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved pet! We lost one in September and I am still missing him. It is so hard to say good bye but they are pain free and we will see them again some day.
Take time to remember the good times....you gave him a great deal of love and care. I am sure he knows how you feel.
Blessings My Friend,
I am so sorry for your loss. How hard it must be for you after being with your precious pup for so many years. Wishing you fond memories of the good life you shared with your friend.
Aww ..he was cute:) I myself have two cats and I cant imagine my life without them. Animals give love with no hidden catch. I wish you all the best.
And you have a great blog.
LOVE Maria at inredningsvis.se
(Sweden)
My heart goes out to you. I cannot even bear to think of the day that I may have to do the same. They are incredible creatures. We as humans could learn a lot from their loyalty alone.
- The Tablescaper
The above was a mistake. So sorry, I was trying to see if I could post a comment. Glad you were comforted by so many. It's so hard losing a beloved pet.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Our beautiful Brittany, Beau, lost his battle with cancer in January. I am still heartbroken but our new puppy, Bella, has helped soften the blow.
Sorry this has taken me so long to send but I still wanted you and your family to know that I feel so sad and sorry that Dexter has passed. I have lost my very special pal also and I am still sad. When they touch your heart, it lasts forever.
I am so very sad to learn about losing Dexter. I have loved him from afar and know how heartbroken you all must be. He was a beautiful and most noble dog. I have said a prayer for you and for Dexter.
I just recently found your wonderful blog and am enjoying your posts/style from another Northern Californian - I'm in Marin. I just saw the archived post about the loss of your beautiful "TT" Dexter. I also have black/white Tibetans, two of whom I've lost in the last year. Some days it feels like more than your heart can bear. Thank you for posting the poem by Gene Hill - I'd been looking for it, read it some time ago, and now has so much more meaning. Beau & BJ were pure loyalty and love, and now, "They are my other eyes that can see above the clouds; my other ears that hear above the winds. They are the part of me that can reach out into the sea..."
I hope time has softened your sadness - I'm still working on it.
Thank you again for your wonderful blog!
Post a Comment