I’ve just learned that my favorite reindeer, Garbo, is gone. Her mom emailed me last night, explaining that Garbo started having some issues on Saturday, and by Sunday, she couldn’t walk and was in a great deal of pain. Thinking (hoping) it was her legs, Garbo was taken to her vet — who immediately referred her to a canine neurologist. I heard today from Garbo’s extended family at Barking Hound Village, her home away from home, that the big beautiful girl had developed a bacterial infection in her spine, and, unfortunately, she would never be able to walk again. The heartwrenching decision was made, and today Garbo was set free.
I find it difficult to describe our relationships with our dogs. I’m not a clever wordsmith or poet, and at times like this, words escape me.
All I know is that Garbo was completely and deeply loved.
My heart’s breaking for you, Becky.
elizabeth - While we are always sad to see posts about passing, Great Danes are especially close to our hearts (We’ve had 3 over the years). Garbo looks so like our current Dane, Cajun, that my heart did a little jump. Hugs and a prayer sent to his humans, Liz
Tricia-Lynn Harter-Carter - An unbelievable loss so quickly. We only have our friends for such a short time. It’s definitley not long enough to enjoy all the wonderful things that they bring to a relationship and the life of their owner/best friend. Garbo had a wonderful family and life, we are all so lucky to have had the chance to meet him and see his wonderful personality through your photographs. {{{GARBO}}}
Daniel - 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…