Tuley Mars

There is a hole in our home. There is a hole in out hearts.
On Monday evening we had to let go of our sweet Old English Sheepdog.

Tuley had not been feeling well for the past couple of weeks. A trip to the vet last week resulted in a diagnosis of dehydration. By Monday afternoon he was not able to get around and his condition was worsening. A rush trip to the emergency vet and blood work showed that Tuley was suffering from chronic kidney failure. Due to Tuley’s poor health and advanced condition, there was only one decision that could be made. The look or desperation in Tuley’s eyes as described by Erin was all that needed to be said.

Several years ago I was faced with a similar decision with my 16 year old German Sheppard - Kaiser. My vet at the time said something that I will always remember. He said that you must do what is best for, and be the voice of your beloved pet. Never mind how hard the decision will be for you or for your family. To allow a pet to suffer one minute longer that what is absolutely necessary is one minute too long.

I found this poem/verse when Kaiser left me. It fits here.

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...

Good bye dear Tuley Mars. You will be forever in our hearts. Thank you for teaching us to be a little more patient, a little more tolerant, and to love more unconditionally.

We miss you Chubs.