This post is dedicated to Casey, the most beautiful, loyal, loving, gentle and amazing dog I have ever met. She lived for 15 1/2 years before we had to put her down. She was so healthy for so long, but slowly, over the past 1 1/2, the back half of her body gave out. As much as it greived us (and still does) to do so, we just knew that she was surviving for us, not for herself, and that it wasn't fair to her. We had to make the toughest decision I have probably made. She died peacefully, in the back of the TrailBlazer, this morning, in the arms of Ryan and myself. Some of you may not understand, but I am mourning for her. And Ryan is, too. Many tears have been shed today, and will probably continue to over the next few weeks. She was a part of our family, our "child" until Jared was born. And Jared loved her, too. He was fascinated with her and loved to chase her and touch her. Casey loved to run and play outside, so our plan is to sprinkle her ashes up at the cabin this summer. She is greatly missed. May we be so lucky as to have another dog, sometime in the future, even half as wonderful as she was. I love you, Casey.

A Dog's Prayer
Treat me kindly, my beloved master, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between the blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the things you would have me do.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ear.
When it is cold and wet, please take me inside... for I am now a domesticated animal, no longer used to bitter elements... and I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth... though had you no home, I would rather follow you through ice and snow than rest upon the softest pillow in the warmest home in all the land... for you are my god... and I am your devoted worshiper.
Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for although I should not reproach you were it dry, I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst. Feed me clean food, that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk by your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.
And, beloved master, should the Great Master see fit to deprive me of my health or sight, do not turn me away from you. Rather hold me gently in your arms as skilled hands grant me the merciful boon of eternal rest...and I will leave you knowing with the last breath I drew, my fate was ever safest in your hands.
--Beth Norman Harris

HEAVEN'S DOGGY-DOOR
My best friend closed his eyes last night, As his head was in my hand.The Doctors said he was in pain, And it was hard for him to stand.
The thoughts that scurried through my head, As I cradled him in my arms.Were of his younger, puppy years, And OH...his many charms.
Today, there was no gentle nudge With an intense "I love you gaze",Only a heart thats filled with tears Remembering our joy filled days.
But an Angel just appeared to me, And he said, "You should cry no more,GOD also loves our canine friends, HE's installed a 'doggy-door"!
jan cooper '95