A Rescue's Thank You
--dedicated to people in rescue


I wasn't a pup when I came to your home, I'd been dumped on the road, left to roam. I don't remember the people, just the pain. They left me to die in the cold and the rain. You were driving down the road, it was late at night when you saw the faintest glimmer of light. You took a chance and turned around, got out of the van and knelt to the ground.

My quivering body felt the gentlest of hands. I knew I need not make any demands. In your heart, and your home, there was always room for those who would face certain doom. You healed my body and you healed my heart. You gave me what I needed, a brand new start. When I cried at night, you were always there with soft words, a kiss, a hug to share.

When I misbehaved and would cower with guilt, you only showed love . . . up to the hilt. You loved and cared for me in sickness and health; our love for each other was more precious than wealth. Even when you were tired and had a bad day, you'd always come home to me and say, "I missed you my baby. I'm glad to be back." Then you'd give me kiss, a hug and a pat. We'd have a nice dinner then go out to play -- there was so much love I wanted to stay.

But my eyes, they faded and my heart grew weak. As my time grew closer you could not speak. You held me tight, tears flowed from your eyes, we both had to say our sad good byes. The release from pain we knew must end. No more time on this earth would we spend, running in the fields, playing ball. Sitting quietly together at the end of it all.

But our time together is not through because I'll be there waiting for you at the edge of the Rainbow Bridge. I'll stand until I once again see those gentle hands. I'll run to you with tail held high. We will never again have to say goodbye. My love at death, it does not end, because you are, indeed, dogs best friend.

Jeane Illsche
June 21, 1998
Permission to reprint given

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