My Tug

My baby Tug passed away this morning. He got ill yesterday and never recovered. I was holding him when he left us at 3 this morning. I don't know what it was. He had been on pain/inflammation pills for about 6 weeks or so, maybe it damaged his liver though the vet said a couple weeks ago at testing that it wasn't. Maybe the damage happened quickly. He would have been 8 years old soon. He was the most loving and lovable dog. We had gotten him at the Animal Shelter when he was 5 months old, already 40 pounds and had big feet so we knew he would be big and that's what we wanted. A gentle giant at 150 pounds of Lab/Malamute. He knew he was so loved by us and now he isn't suffering anymore. He's at Rainbow Bridge. He's going to to be laid to rest at the Madsen land next to Steve's dog Bruce.

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...