Dog sympathy card

[maryjo2]

My sister took in a 12 year old dog when her brother-in-law got deployed. Over the last 5 years not only have they grown to love this dog, I have totally flipped for this dog. The first thing she always did when I came over is cry because she wanted me to give her a treat which I always did. Yesterday they had to put her down because of her Seizures . I want to send them a card but don't know what to make or write, because I'm hurting as much as them. I'm hoping you wonderful ladies will have some ideas for me.
Thanks in advance, Mary Jo

[blueheron]

Anything you do will be appreciated, because it acknowledges the grief you/they are feeling. If you have a dog stamp, use it. If you don't, Lovely as a Tree is good (the big oak), or just about any floral stamp. I wouldn't use bright colors, though. Something subdued, in earth tones, or black and white.

You could say something like this on the inside:

She is gone
from our sight…
but not our memory,
gone from our hearing…
but never our hearts,
gone from our touch…
but her presence is felt,
and the love that she gave us
never departs.

I'm sorry for your loss, Mary Jo. Many of us know what that pain feels like. Allow yourself to grieve, and may happy memories replace your troubled times.

[kimber4m]

Quote:

Originally Posted by maryjo2

My sister took in a 12 year old dog when her brother-in-law got deployed. Over the last 5 years not only have they grown to love this dog, I have totally flipped for this dog. The first thing she always did when I came over is cry because she wanted me to give her a treat which I always did. Yesterday they had to put her down because of her Seizures . I want to send them a card but don't know what to make or write, because I'm hurting as much as them. I'm hoping you wonderful ladies will have some ideas for me.
Thanks in advance, Mary Jo

Anything you send her will make her feel better. I know that because about a month ago I had to put my sweet 11 year old white german shephard down. I was heartbroken. I cried and cried for days. And then I started to recieve cards from some of the best friends I have ever known that I met here on SCS. And it made me feel so happy that so many people cared about me and how much I loved my dog. She will appreciate any type of card that comes from your heart. My son still has the cards that people made for me sitting on his shelf next to a clay pawprint the vet made for him after Chance died and his collar. Those cards are so precious to both of us. (((Hugs))) I know exactly what you and your sister are going through. I still come home and expect to see his nose poking out of the fence waiting for me and I feel a lump in my throat everyday when it isn't. :(

[kimber4m]

Oh and one of my best friends here on SCS, JWheeler, posted this poem for me when I was feeling so down during the first week. It made me cry but it also lifted my spirits so much. I printed it out and read it often. It makes me so happy to think that this is where Chance is. Hope it helps you too.

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...

[maryjo2]

blueheron, thank you so much for your help. Your suggestions are great, and your support helps me so much. Sometimes I wonder if people care about animals but you made me realize that people like you really care no matter what. Thanks again Mary Jo

[maryjo2]

kimber4m I am so sorry about your German Shephard. If I would have known, I would have been there for you. The poem is lovley!!

[kimber4m]

Quote:

Originally Posted by maryjo2

kimber4m I am so sorry about your German Shephard. If I would have known, I would have been there for you. The poem is lovley!!

Awww,thanks!! I am sure your sister really will appreciate you just being there for her. It is just so sad that doggies can't live longer. Thier lives are always way to short. :(

[ashymko]

I'm so sorry for your and your family's loss. It's so hard losing a family member (our dogs are like our children) and I'm very sad for you. I don't know if you are interested or not, but here is the inside of a card that I made for a friend who had to put her dog down.

[debzi333]

Just had to reply to this thread... We have a beloved 14 year old border terrier - so I think I have an idea of what it might be to have to put your dog down - someday. My mom had to put her dog down due to illness about a year ago. The vet sent my mom that Rainbow Bridge Poem afterwards - and my mom so treasured it!!! In fact, my my dear dad and her dear hubby of 47 years passed of cancer this past April - I think that Rainbow Bridges Poem brought her as much comfort as any other words or verse - even for my dad. He was just 65, and I guess she dreams of meeting him to one day again, healed from the terrible illness of cancer.

Thanks for listening - and I would encourage you to send any sort of card with a card letting her know you care... Just a couple of years ago a close friend of mine lost her Yorkie very suddenly ( travelling on a plane ) and I even sent her flowers. It was so appreciated. Dogs are so dear to many of us.

[Quixotic]

I'm so sorry about your sister's dog. Dogs become such a huge part of our lives and families.

I've always liked this poem for lost loved ones:

Quote:

Do not stand at my grave and weep;

I am not there. I do not sleep.

I am a thousand winds that blow.

I am the diamond glints on snow.

I am the sunlight on ripened grain.

I am the gentle autumn's rain.

When you awaken in the morning's hush,

I am the swift uplifting rush

of quiet birds in circled flight.

I am the soft stars that shine at night.

Do not stand at my grave and cry;

I am not there, I did not die.

The rainbow bridge one is also truly lovely.

I don't remember where, but I once saw an image of a canine paw pressed up to a human hand, if you could find something like that, it might work.

I found another poem:

Quote:

Request from Rainbow Bridge by Consta Jenkins

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.

And there's always the sentiment - "Dogs leave pawprints on our hearts" - maybe do something with that.

A card would be a lovely thing to do, for both you and the recipients.

[Joeknee]

Mary Jo, I am so sorry for your and your sister's loss. I think we all know how our little furry babies touch our lives. I think about it often when I look into my doggies eyes. The Rainbow Bridge poem is a nice one to give.

I had received a message from a friend a couple of years ago when her doggie died. It was the most beautiful poem, but my computer crashed and I lost it. It was something about when her "best friend" died. It was so touching. Maybe someone can find it on the web.

My sympathy for your loss. I'm sure any card would work ~ it shows you care.

Hugs,
Joani

[Doo]

Maryjo, just wanted to send you some hugs. I know how awful it is when it comes time to make those tough decisions. I had to let my dog go many years ago but it's one of the most painful things we've ever had to do. Hugs to you.

[Kiko]

I'm so sorry to hear about losing your wonderful friend and companion. I've been there and it cuts right through your heart. {{{{misty-eyed hugs}}}}

[maryjo2]

You ladies are all so great. Thanks for all your help, I knew I could count on you!

[Karen Trueman]

So sorry to hear of your pal's passing across the bridge. Here is a link of a previous discussion on SCS regarding pet sympathy:

Forums at Splitcoaststampers

Karen

[Dotty]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Those of us with fur children, truly understand your pain. Know that we care and are here to lend our shoulders whenever you need them to lean on. Just remember that you now have a four-legged furry angel to watch over you and love you from above. {{{{HUGS}}}}

[jdmeeks]

I'm so sorry for your sister's (and your loss). Really, anything from the heart cannot be wrong. We lost our beloved 10 YO rottie in February this year and her 8 YO sister had serious, life-changing seizures just a few weeks ago. In both cases; we really just felt better to know others cared and grieved with us and appreciated the cards and thoughts those around us shared.

[maryjo2]

You girls are the best!! With your help I've started a card and will get it in the mail tomorrow. Thanks to you all :]

[godchick]

**************hugs**************

[Rush'd Lady]

Reading this thread makes my heart ache. We lost our 16 year old bishon, named Ami, two weeks ago of kidney failure. She actually was my son's dog and the vet recommended that she be put down, but our son opted for hospice care instead. She didn't last long after that, and we buried her under our son's climbing tree in our backyard. Here's a group hug!

[jcg]

We had to put out beloved cocker spaniel to sleep, when she was 12. Someone sent us the Rainbow Bridge poem, and even though it made us cry, it did make us feel better. I always send that clipping when I send a card to someone who has lost their pet.

[lcmdws]

Sorry to hear about your sweet doggie - I have been there with dogs and cats and it just about tears out my heart but I wouldn't love life if pets weren't in it. Animal lovers have big hearts and we share your pain and are there for you. Much sympathy,

[maryjo2]

Rush'd Lady we accutally have a Bishon ourselves. She is two years old and the light of our life! jcg I also love cockers, actually I haven't met a dog I don't like!! I feel for all of you. A pet is a gift from God, and it's sad when they are taken away from us. Bless you all, I love this site!!! Mary Jo

[slow learner]

Bless your heart. I had to put down my beloved cat and it broke my heart. My friend had to put down her dalmatian this year and I sent her a card with the following poem. I found it to be extra comforting because it is actually about making the choice to put down a dog.

Friend to Friend

You're giving me a special gift, so sorrowfully endowed.
And through these last few cherished days, your courage makes me proud.
But really, love is knowing when your best friend is in pain.
An understanding earthly act will only be in vain.
So looking deep into your eyes, beyond into your soul.
I see in you the magic that will once more make me whole.
The strength that you possess is why I look to you today.
To do this thing that must be done, for it's the only way.
That strength is why I've followed you, and chose you as my friend.
And why I've loved you all these years... My partner 'til the end.
Please understand just what this gift you're giving means to me,
It gives me back the strength I've lost and all my dignity.
You take a stand on my behalf, for that is what friends do.
And know that what you do is right, for I believe it too.
So one last time, I breathe your scent, and through your hand I feel,
The courage that's within you to now grant me this appeal.
Cut the leash that holds me here, Dear Friend, and let me run,
Once more a strong and steady dog, my pain and struggle done.
And don't despair my passing for I won't be far away,
Forever here, within your heart and memory I'll stay.
I'll be there watching over you, your ever faithful friend,
And in your memories I'll run...a young dog once again.

by Karen Clousto

[bluedogstamper]

I received this poem when my beloved Major had to be put down. I have passed it on many times.

WHEN TOMORROW STARTS WITHOUT ME

When tomorrow starts without me,
And I'm not there to see;
The sun will rise and find your eyes
All filled with tears for me.
I wish so much you wouldn't cry
The way you did today,

Remembering how I'd lay my head
In your lap that special way.
I know how much you loved me,
As much as I loved you,
And each time that you think of me,
I know you'll miss me too.

But when tomorrow starts without me.
Please try to understand,
That an angel came and called my name
And petted me with her hand.
She said my place was ready,
In Heaven far above,
And that I'd have to leave behind
All those I dearly loved.

But, as I turned to heel away,
A tear fell from my eye,
For all my life I never thought
That I would have to die.
I had so much to live for,
So many sits and downs to do,
It seemed almost impossible,
That I was leaving you.

I thought about our lives together,
I know you must be sad,
I thought of all the love we shared,
And all the fun we had.
Remember how I'd nudge your hand,
And poke you with my nose?
The frisbee I would gladly chase,
The bad guy, I'd "bark and hold".

If I could relive yesterday,
Just even for awhile,
I'd wag my tail and kiss you,
Just so I could see you smile.
But, then I fully realized,
That this could never be;
For emptiness and memories
Will take the place of me.

And when I thought of treats and toys,
I might miss come tomorrow,
I thought of you and when I did,
My dog-heart filled with sorrow.
But then I walked through Heaven's gate,
And felt so much at home;
As God looked down and smiled at me,
From His beautiful golden throne.

He said, "This is eternity,
And now we welcome you,
Today your life on earth is past,
But here it starts anew.
I promise no tomorrow,
But today will always last;
For you see, each day's the same day,
There's no longing for the past.

Now you have been so faithful,
So trusting, loyal and true;
Though there were times you did things,
You knew you shouldn't do.
But good dogs are forgiven,
And now at last you're free;
So won't you sit here by my side,
And wait right here with me?"

So when tomorrow starts without me,
Don't think we're far apart.
For every time you think of me,
I'm right there, in your heart.

[maryjo2]

You women are the best! That is why I love this site so much. Thanks again to all of you who have helped me.

[MOTORMOUTH]

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