Goodbye to a Best Friend

August 25, 2008

Please forgive me this one post out to say goodbye to a dear friend.

You have probably seen the photos of my golden retriever Rocky. His 7th birthday was coming up soon. On Saturday he passed away.

Basically he was healthy and fine until Saturday around noon. He began getting sick and we called the vet around 2 PM to schedule an emergency visit. By 3 PM he was gone.

The vet thinks it may have been gastric dilation volvulus (also called bloat), but we’re not 100% positive.

There are other prepared posts, but I wanted to write a quick note to the dear friend I lost this weekend. While some may not understand the love for a dog, he was a dear friend to me and part of my family. I love him dearly.

One of the first non-professional pictures I tested in my business was Rocky and me. And he consistently beat my professional picture of me in a suit.

Terry and Rocky

Every morning he waited for me to get up. Normally I get up between 6 and 7 AM. He is quiet and waits patiently until he hears me start moving or speaking. Then in a flash he was beside my bed with eyes filled with enthusiasm and a tail moving a mile a minute.

When I went upstairs to the office he followed right along with me. Often you’d find him laying front of a window in my office or curled up under my desk.

At least two of my daily breaks were to take him out in the yard for a game of frisbee or catch.

He loved to go, so we often took him on errands with us. He even had his own cover on the backseat of the car.

You could even say he was my only full-time employee.

Many times my wife and I watch a movie before bed. Often you’d find me sitting on the floor with my huge golden laid out across my lap cuddling.

From the morning when I get up to the time I go to bed, he was with me.

Every weekend I would take about an hour to brush him (which he loved). We’d play frisbee. Then I’d take him over to a nearby park for a hike and swim.

From the moment we got him (at 8 weeks old) he was already trained to sit when he wanted something: attention, a treat, dinner, etc. He was house trained within a week (although if he rang the bell to go out, and you didn’t let him out, an accident was coming in seconds). I’ve had many dogs in my life, but none have ever been as dear or as obedient as my Rocky.

He was the sunshine around the house. Like the photo above, there was always an excited expression on his face with his tongue hanging out to the side.

No matter what you were doing, he was there following along wagging his tail. We’ve even had to remove any breakables from the coffee table and other low tables. The tail wagged so much so it cleared everything onto the floor if he turned around.

Even though he was a very large golden, my wife called him her little Peanut.

Goodbye dear friend. I love you. I miss you. You are in my heart forever.

I have one other dog (a mixed breed), and he is going on 14 now. We lost two dogs in the last year now (our newfoundland died last year). We will get another golden soon, but it doesn’t take away the grief you feel from missing your friend.

The new dog won’t be a replacement. He will be a new friend. As every pet stays in your heart.

Here are few photos of Rocky enjoying himself in the snow from last Christmas:

Rocky in the snow 1

Rocky in the Snow 2

Rocky in the Snow 3

Rocky in the Snow 4

Rocky in the Snow 5

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Comments

71 Responses to “Goodbye to a Best Friend”

  1. Pat Doyle on August 25th, 2008 9:01 am

    Terry, I’m so sorry for your loss. I love dogs and have a dog, so I understand how attached you get to your pets. Rocky sounds like a great dog, and I am sorry he died so young. Thanks for sharing this with us.

  2. Gregory Nemer on August 25th, 2008 11:43 am

    Hi Terry,
    I understand completely what you are going through. We just lost our dog “Oro” this past week. As I told you before, he was diagnosed with cancer. He was also a Golden Retriever and a good friend.
    I couldn’t describe any better than you have the feelings that one has.

    I pray for God to comfort you and the rest of your family in this time of loss.

    P.s. I really believe that the type of dog a person has reflects his personality. Golden Retrievers are the top of the line in personality, loyalty, and over-all integrity.
    That’s an accurate description of you.

  3. Yetti Chiu on August 25th, 2008 12:01 pm

    Hi Terry,

    Sorry to hear about your loss!
    Take care!

    Yetti

  4. Rick Butts on August 25th, 2008 12:31 pm

    Oh Terry - I am so sad for your loss.

    I grew up on a farm in Illinois and at the time I thought of dogs as nice pets but only a little above livestock - another animal.

    Since my daughter left her “min-pin” puppy with me 7 years ago - I”ve discovered what a great comfort and joy a dog can be.

    My “Little Dog” is my constant companion, has a travel bed in the passenger seat of my truck, and my whole routine day is built around our routines together.

    I see people looking at us, me a 6′ 1″ big guy with a 15lb dog - but I have to laugh - at my own self - but I get a lot more out of that dog as a friend than most people!

    Your note just shocked and hurt me so bad - the suddennes.

    You seem like one of the most balanced, together, men of faith, I know. So I know you are handing this with grace and strength.

    But, by your description I know that this is a deeply painful loss - and I share your hurt and loss.

    My prayers are for you in the hours and days ahead as you get though this.

    I recommend a great book called “Remembering Sprite’ my talk show host “Mark Levin” - as a really good read now.

    Your friend,
    Rick Butts

  5. JB on August 25th, 2008 1:07 pm

    I’ve had 2 Golden’s (”Buck” & “Chief”) - I know what you’re going through !

  6. Henry Gold on August 25th, 2008 1:08 pm

    Hi Terry,

    I am sorry for your loss.

    Henry,

  7. Dave Hamilton on August 25th, 2008 1:10 pm

    Very sorry about this, Terry. Rocky seems like a one in a million friend.
    Our condolences to the Deans…

    the Hamiltons

  8. Mikita on August 25th, 2008 1:11 pm

    It is said many times that as humans we would rather rescue a stray dog as opposed to a homeless person. It’s amazingly true especially for us dog owners.

    Thanks for sharing. Thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.

  9. Michael on August 25th, 2008 1:11 pm

    I’m so sorry for your loss of your best friend. It is good that you had each other in your lives. I know he will aways be in your heart. I enjoyed hearing about his life with you.

    Michael

  10. Anne Holmes on August 25th, 2008 1:14 pm

    Hi Terry,

    You have been an online friend for years, though we have never physically laid eyes on each other. It has been 4 years now since our 12 year old black Lab left us but I feel your pain.

    Lucky was my constant companion, just as Rocky was yours. She kept me company in the office, rode in the car when I made deposits at the bank, and made sure I got outside to get a bit of exercise every day.

    Thanks for sharing your story about Rocky, and I am truly sorry for your loss. I am glad you will get another dog, but as you say, none will take the place of Rocky in your heart!

    Bless you!

    Anne

  11. Steve Smith on August 25th, 2008 1:15 pm

    Terry
    I can fully understand the love for a dog. I had to put my 13 year old lab down a couple years ago. My wife and I now have a doxie that is the king of the house.
    Can’t imagine not having him around.

    Sorry for your loss.

    Steve

  12. Joshua Aaron Stanley on August 25th, 2008 1:15 pm

    What a beautiful dog! I’m a dog-lover too, and Golden Retrievers are one of my favorite breeds. It’s a shame he died so young.

  13. Tina Williams on August 25th, 2008 1:17 pm

    Terry-

    Very to here about your loss. We lost a golden after 12 years and a second after 2 weeks! Our new golden girl is 6 months now and she is as much as part of the family as any of us. I can definitely feel your pain!

    Best wishes to you and your family!
    Tina

  14. Gerda on August 25th, 2008 1:20 pm

    Dear Terry, so sorry to hear that you’ve lost your dog. It hurts a lot to lose a pet. I own a british blue cat. She is 14 now and i may not think that one day she will leave me for good.
    Thank you for sharing this!
    Best wishes. Take care.
    Gerda

  15. Jim DeArmond on August 25th, 2008 1:21 pm

    I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. Anyone that’s owned and loved a dog knows they are family. And, the loss is no easier. Thinking of you and your family….

  16. Kel RV on August 25th, 2008 1:22 pm

    Terry,

    Extremely sorry for your loss. We lost all 3 of ours (after 16 years!) over just a 2 year period… It was devastating to say the least.

    Deepest Sympathies,

    Kel and Candice V.

  17. Judith on August 25th, 2008 1:22 pm

    Hey Terry,

    Whether one has a dog or not, to loose a friend who loves you unconditionally, who is always happy to see you, and with whom you spend almost all the wake hours is a great loss. Thank you for sharing, and please accept my sympathy.

    Judith

  18. Marijo Jilek on August 25th, 2008 1:23 pm

    Hi Terry…

    I’ve been a long-time member … but have not posted till now…and your ‘dog’ did it to me)))
    I have dogs and cats…don’t know what I’d do without them, they keep me company through long nights of internet marketing learning curves…and listen to me when I have to talk about it all.

    Your ‘Golden’ is beautiful! There is a GR down the block that when I take a walk, stressed out, I walk over to his house, Benny, and he just gives me UNCONDITIONAL love…something very special about that dog. (I think we were together in a past life…but I won’t go too far into that or they’ll send someone to put me away…but it’s true)))))

    All I know is…I’ve had lots of animal companions throughout my life, and I love them all as much as anyone or anything else. A piece of me goes with them when they pass…but…that piece always comes back in another form of ‘critter’ that comes into my life afterwards. And sometimes when looking into that new critters eyes…I see all the others living in this one…and I believe that!

    You never really lose them…Know That!

    There’s a site for when a person’s companion passes, and someone sent me a link to it along time ago…and I love what it says there…It’s a poem called The Rainbow Bridge… and it goes like this…

    “”"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…

    Hugs…Marijo

  19. Adebola on August 25th, 2008 1:23 pm

    So sorry to read this Terry.

    I have never been a dog lover but from your post I can see Rocky is worth much more than a dog.

    Take heart my man.

    Cheers

  20. Ingrid on August 25th, 2008 1:25 pm

    Hi Terry, So sorry for your loss. I had 2 dogs that were brothers. They were German Shepard and Lab mixed, they were like carbon copys of one another one a black version and one a sandy brown. I had them for 13 years and had a similar emergency with one of them called a torsion twist. Luckily we caught it in time. Seems common for larger dogs. When the first brother passed away, Chocolate, it was not even 6 months later when King joined him. I still keep their photos up. The unconditional love of a dog is something that lives with you forever. Yes, there will be other dogs, but my boys were special. Thanks for letting me share and my condolences to your family.

  21. Ken Bower on August 25th, 2008 1:30 pm

    Hi Terry,

    The pets we adopt become cherished members of our family. I understand, from my own experience, the pain of losing such a beautiful dog. I am very sorry for your loss with Rocky. Take care.

    Ken

  22. Tammy on August 25th, 2008 1:39 pm

    So sorry to hear of your loss. My dog was hit by a car so I know how shocking a sudden loss of your companion and member of the family can be. Take heart in knowing that until the very end and beyond Rocky knew how much you loved him and love is infinite. Thank you for celebrating his life with us.

  23. Kate on August 25th, 2008 1:43 pm

    Terry I am so very sorry at the loss of your friend Rocky. I am a great animal lover and I appreciate how pets are truly members of the family. Take heart and remember all the wonderful happy times you have had with him.
    Best wishes
    Kate

  24. Joanne Roibu on August 25th, 2008 1:53 pm

    Dear Terry,

    I am sorry for your loss of Rocky. I know how hard the loss of a family member is - I, for one, considered my pet a member of my family and really know how hard it is. They continue to live in our hearts.

    Take Care, Joanne

  25. Keith Goodrum on August 25th, 2008 1:55 pm

    Terry,

    I sorry for your loss. It can be so painful at first when they pass. I guess that’s why we call them man’s best friend.

    I remember when we lost our 8 y/o lab mix Sparky. It was sad & quite around the house for awhile. Even though my Wife & I still miss him - we still talk about the boundless enthusiasm, joy & fun he had.

    Sounds like Rocky brought the same into your life. My thoughts & prayers are with you & your family

    Warmest regards,

    Keith Goodrum

  26. Deborah Porterfield on August 25th, 2008 1:59 pm

    Terry,
    I am so very sorry for your loss. I understand completely what you
    are going through. I hope your memories of him will give you some
    comfort during this time and beyond. Dogs are truly wonderful and the
    unconditional love they give is one of the greatest joys of life. I will be praying for your family.

    Deborah

  27. Julius on August 25th, 2008 2:10 pm

    Hi Terry,

    I’m sorry for your loss because I know how close we become to the pets who adopt us. I know that the new pet will raise you right;-)

    Take care
    Julius

  28. Ryan Healy on August 25th, 2008 2:12 pm

    Really sorry for your loss, Terry. I’ve only had one dog who now lives with my in-laws. I’ve never experienced that kind of loss; I’m sure it’s hard. I can tell you really loved your dog. My heart goes out to you.

    Ryan

  29. Ala on August 25th, 2008 2:18 pm

    Hello Terry, and thanks for sharing this with us. Although I’m not a pet lover since I have allergies, I’m really quite sorry that you lost a close companion. I do really understand that how people can attached to pets. Take it one day at a time, and things will be better over time. Hang in there! Ala

  30. Frank on August 25th, 2008 2:25 pm

    Hi Terry,
    I just wanted to say how sorry I am to hear this story. Rocky was a great looking boy and I’ll bet you find him again in the twinkle of new puppy’s eyes. It took my wife and I 3 years to get over “The Bum” when he died but we found him again. Now it’s 14 1/2 years later and he’s getting tired again. No matter the heartbreak they are always worth it!
    Frank & Gerry

  31. Cheryl on August 25th, 2008 2:25 pm

    Terry, I, too, am very sorry to hear of your loss. I know so well how precious are animals are. A long time ago I lost an 8 month old dog to Parvo (after he had his shots). Same thing, he was fine and suddenly he got very sick, we brought him to the vet and 3 hours later we had lost him.

    Now I am blessed with an 18 year old cat who will absolutely break my heart when she leaves.

    Thank you for sharing your story about Rocky. I know he’ll forever be in your heart.

    Cheryl

  32. Jim on August 25th, 2008 2:28 pm

    My family sends their Deepest sympathies. May God bring healing to your hearts and remind you of even more memories of all the Joy you shared with Rocky.
    He was a gorgeous dog.

    In the morning I go “Play” with 7 rescue dogs, 2 are Goldens. I will be praying for you and your wife (now) and in the morning when I see them.

    God Bless,
    Jim

  33. Winnie Anderson on August 25th, 2008 2:29 pm

    Terry-
    I’m so very sorry for the loss of your dear friend. I had dogs growing up and their loss was always hard. A year ago I lost my best friend– a black cat named Lucky. She was loving and friendly and wonderful too. I’m still not quite over her loss.

    When the mahogany box arrived with her ashes it included a poem called “Rainbow Bridge”. I’m pasting it here for you:

    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….

  34. Iyabo Asani on August 25th, 2008 2:31 pm

    Terry, I am so sorry for your loss. I feel your feelings in your post. I recently lost my cat and so I can understand how you feel.

    I pray the comfort of the Lord all around you and your family.

    Iyabo Asani
    http://www.AuthenticChangeAgent.com

  35. John David Bradshaw on August 25th, 2008 2:36 pm

    Sorry about the loss of your golden retriever. I am an animal lover, too, and currently have two black labs.

    We lost a young lab a few years ago (he was my 8 year old son’s new pet) and he and I both cried as I held my son grieving over the death of his puppy.

    I wish you well as you continue your journey.

    Be blessed,

    John David Bradshaw

  36. john on August 25th, 2008 2:39 pm

    Terry, I have a 5yr. old Chocolate Lab named Moose. He is my pride & joy. A dog is ,to me ,the most loyal animal that you can have as a pet. Dogs don’t care if you are tall, short; fat, skinny; good looking, or not, what color you are, where you are from, or what religion yoy are.Some are adaptable to handicaps, i.e. blindness, wheele chairs etc. All they ask for in return is your care, and your love, and they are your best friend for life. I know how difficult it is to lose such a companion and loving creature. May the years you were blessed with Rocky in your life make his passing a little easier to accept.

  37. Terry on August 25th, 2008 2:57 pm

    Wow…thank you all for the response.

    Julie and I truly appreciate it. I was a little afraid people would be upset with the post since this is a business blog. But Rocky is a part of my Internet Lifestyle so it seemed fitting.

    By the way, Julie has read through all the comments so far and will continue reading any others that are posted along with me. She thanks you for them as well.

    Terry

  38. Dave Rongey on August 25th, 2008 3:23 pm

    Very sorry to heard about Rocky. We have a Beagle named Droopy and he is so good - he just loves to chew everything! Once a dog, always a dog.

    Thanks for sharing your loss with us Terry.

    Take Care.

  39. Donna on August 25th, 2008 3:51 pm

    Dear Terry,

    I cried as a read your heart. I am sorry about your loss. Yes, we do get attached to our pets that God intrust us with, they become part of the family. I will say a prayer for you and your wife and know that Jesus your Lord is with you to help ease the pain and He will comfort you in this season of your life.

    Blessings,
    Donna Smith

  40. shirley on August 25th, 2008 4:05 pm

    Terry, I’m sorry to hear of your loss. Rocky was a beautiful dog. I have a dog of my own that I love so very much. She is an answer to prayer. I pray God’s comfort and peace surround you and your family.

    God bless you,
    Shirley

  41. Juan Carlos Garcia on August 25th, 2008 5:05 pm

    Dear Terry,

    I am so sorry for that. We had two Golden retrievers, and know how is the feeling when are lost. My two sons love Goldens.

    Terry and Julie, I don’t think that anyone can be disappointed for this post. I understand that it was a part of your life.

    God bless you,

    Juan Carlos

  42. Tamara Jones on August 25th, 2008 5:09 pm

    So sorry to hear of your loss, Terry. We have two dogs, a Collie Mix and black Lab. They are 13 and 11 years of age. My husband, son and I just love these two and understand how much these four legged guys become a part of the family.

    Rocky was a handsome dog and clearly a dear friend and family member. Along with some of your other readers I pray God’s comfort and peace for you all. Although a new dog will not replace Rocky may he be one that in his own way brings you years of joy and companionship! Look forward to seeing pictures of the new pup!

    Tamara Jones

  43. Marie Doyle on August 25th, 2008 5:13 pm

    I am so sorry for your loss. I am a dog lover and had golden retreiver for 14 years. They are such great dogs, it was a very bad time for me when he passed, so I understand your pain.

    This will pass, but you will never forget.

    God Bless

  44. dritan on August 25th, 2008 5:14 pm

    i am more concerned about the christian brothers suffering in china then for your dog. surely i do not find pleasure in taking off your pleasure which is your dog but may the LORD make us more concerned about those persecuted children who are motherless or fatherless in china or every place where there is great persecution for the chrisitians rather then the loss of a dog. this is my mind and i do not change it for a million dollars. may the LORD give u grace for every good work done for his glory. amen

  45. peter murphy on August 25th, 2008 5:17 pm

    What a great dog. Sounds like you were very fortunate to have Rocky looking after you.

    When I was getting started online my Akita would come and get me to go out for walks and away from the screen for a while. There is nothing quite like having a great dog with you when you work from home.

    I´m sorry Rocky has moved on.

  46. Semmy on August 25th, 2008 5:33 pm

    Oh Terry, I am so very sorry for your loss. I know your feel, My heart goes out to you.

    warmly

    Semmy

  47. Gary on August 25th, 2008 6:14 pm

    Sorry to hear this. Very fine looking Golden Retriever.

    have you ever heard of Find-A-Grave? For FREE, you can add loved ones (humans or special friends). You might to create a little memorial for him.

    Find-A-Grave -
    http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=abr&

    Are pets allowed? - YES!
    http://www.findagrave.com/cgi-bin/fg.cgi?page=listFaqs#33

    long time reader,
    gwnmw

  48. Sandy on August 25th, 2008 7:06 pm

    Terry, I know what you’re going through. I’m so sorry for your lost.

    July 2002, we lost our 10 year old Great Dane the same way. Feeling great Saturday morning, sick by 2:00PM. Doctor said it was cancer, not bloat. We’ve since lost a 11 year old German Shepard and a 13 year old German Shepard. They all grew up togeather. You are so right, they can never be replaced. We have another Dane and Shepard, but we still miss our babies.

  49. John Tan on August 25th, 2008 7:41 pm

    Hi Terry,

    Sorry to hear the news that your dog passed away. I know how you feel now, losing a pet that so close to your heart.

    I prayed the Holy Spirit will comfort your heart and give you strength during this time.

    John Tan

  50. Tim Gary on August 25th, 2008 7:47 pm

    Hi Terry,

    Until 2 years ago when my life was changed when an insanely cute Silver Tip Persian cat moved into my place (along with my future wife), I’d never known the true joys of having a 4 legged companion. I also thought I was a dog person, but this feline won me over. Now I know what any pet can do to change your life, and bring that much more peace and love into it.

    Our kitty is 12 years old, and still full of energy. Every day I spend “tummy time” and play “strappy” (favorite toy is a plastic strap from a box of printer paper) with him, and relish the time we have left together. Your loss is a vivid reminder to enjoy every moment of time we have with our loved ones, 2 legged ones, 4 legged ones, and any others that bring joy.

    I truly feel for you and Julie, and hope that your next addition brings you much happiness.

    -Tim

  51. David on August 25th, 2008 8:14 pm

    Terry,

    Sorry to hear about your loss, Buddy. I still miss my cockapoo that I grew up with, and she’s been gone for 20 years.

    They really do get to be a part of the family and like trusted friends.

    Blessings to you,

    David

  52. phyllis on August 25th, 2008 8:40 pm

    Hello Terry, I’m so sorry to learn of your loss. Dogs are a wonderful gift from God, & I believe they are the purest beings we will know while on this earth. Rocky certainly was blessed to have such a wonderful life with you. I pray God will comfort your heart. Thank you for sharing your grief with us. Phyllis

  53. Yvette on August 25th, 2008 8:48 pm

    Terry,
    Sorry about your loss. I too am an animal lover, especially dogs.
    Be blessed

  54. David Reynolds on August 25th, 2008 10:18 pm

    There’s something about a dog that is special.
    I’ve heard it said that you own a dog, you feed a cat.
    A dog becomes a member of your family, a cat just comes
    around when its hungry or wants attention. A dog just
    seems to be there for you, whenever you need him.

    Im sorry Terry about your loss. Its never easy to say
    goodbye to a friend, especially when its sudden and
    unexpected.

    A dog never talks back to you, or argues just to argue.
    However, I have heard of them taking more than their
    share of the covers.

    They always seem to be ready to go somewhere with
    you making the trip fun, and never complain about the
    same old grub put in front of them to eat day after day.

    I miss my dog too, since there are Lions and Lambs in
    Heaven, Im sure there will be dogs, and Im sure we
    each will have one that makes us smile.

    Thanks for the pictures Terry.

    David

  55. Ken Mason on August 25th, 2008 10:47 pm

    Terry:

    I am sorry to read of the sudden passing of your beloved Rocky. Rocky was a close friend and family member to you and his lose is hard to bear. As a devout animal lover (not a peta member) I have great respect and love for all animals, but especially dogs. Just remember that Rocky’s soul and love continues to surround you during this time of grief. I will say a prayer for you and your wife and a very special one for Rocky.

    Ken in Georgia

  56. Tom Brownsword on August 25th, 2008 11:29 pm

    Terry,

    As a fellow Golden Retriever owner whose “dog” (she’s much more than that!) exhibits much of the same behavior and attributes as your Rocky (thankfully she’s a bit on the small side for a Goldie and doesn’t always think she’s a lap dog!), I can begin to understand everything you wrote — but can’t imagine what it’s like to lose a friend that suddenly. Thanks for sharing this story, and I’ll most certainly be taking Dzaki (pronounced “Jackie”) out for a couple of extra walks in the days to come (her favorite toy is a tennis ball but does know how to deal with a frisbee).

    Take care,
    Tom

  57. Sherm Cohen on August 26th, 2008 3:26 am

    That’s tough stuff, Terry. I’m glad you shared it with us. Nothing to do but feel the pain and let it run its course through you. I get sad for my old Pug dog every once in a while and I just have to be glad I spent the time with her that I did.

    Take Care…
    sherm

  58. Neil McPherson on August 26th, 2008 3:59 am

    Yes, a stunning response. Though not a dog lover by any means (live in Europe and you will understand!!) I empathise with people suffering such a loss.

    I recall saying to my Dad, after I Iost a house, my business and ready-access to my kids, after a failure in the 1980s, “Dad, if someone could bottle all this pain I feel, they could light a city with the power of it.!”

    You have seen that illustrated here and may that give new strength to the convictions with which you teach: “There is nothing like being real out there on the web. It may seem to have teeth that drip poison at times, but the soft- underbelly of the net is real people.”

    Lots of them are your clients mate!

  59. JanPaul on August 26th, 2008 6:49 am

    Feel sorry for you. Well, at least he went quick. No long suffering.

    Dogs are magical. They are in tune with reality that we cannot understand.

    Take good care,

    JanPaul

  60. Tal Fighel on August 26th, 2008 7:07 am

    Hi Terry,

    I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I know some poeple think that when a family pet passes away, there isn’t much pain invloved but I am sure that it is. You get attached to a pet just like you get a attached to a family member.

    When I was living outside Canada a few years back, I used to live in a kibbutz, and there was a dog there that always followed me around. I became so attached to him that I still think of him to this day. And that was about 12 years ago. He was like my best friend.

    My thoughts and love are with you and Julie. Stay strong at these difficult times.

    Love,

    Tal

  61. jim on August 26th, 2008 9:58 am

    Terry, I know you will never really find the comfort you need at this time, in words. But, I do want to say how sorry I am for the loss of your best buddy, Rocky. Only time helps us move past the numbness and emptiness. The most important thing is that you keep the memories of Rocky alive through your thoughts and conversations, and be able to laugh at all the crazy things he did. This will become the legacy of your friendship.

    Condolences, my friend.

  62. Welly Mulia on August 26th, 2008 1:02 pm

    Hi Terry,

    I’m sorry for your loss, especially since you and your family are very attached to him. May Rocky rest well.

    Warm Regards,
    Welly Mulia.

  63. Jack Keifer on August 27th, 2008 7:23 am

    So sorry to hear about your loss Terry. It seems that you were honored with a true friend who colored your life with many wonderful memories. I think it’s pretty obvious that you were equally the sunshine of Rocky’s life as well. I think wherever he is right now, this special bond will always live on.

    My heartfelt condolences to you,

    -Jack

  64. Graham in U.K. on August 27th, 2008 11:29 am

    Hi Terry
    Brought tears to my eyes.
    We lost our German Shepherd dog last week (Tuesday)
    Emma was 11 years old and was big - but very gentle.
    We’ve still got her mother - Tsara, who’s 12/5.
    We’ve had shepherds for about 40 years now.
    They become so much a part of your life
    (like children really) and it really hurts when you lose them.
    You’ve got the memories, ………. remember the good times.
    Take care
    regards
    Graham in U.K.

  65. Ray on August 27th, 2008 2:56 pm

    Terry,

    My heart goes out to you over the loss of Rocky. Having had a dog who was my constant companion and beloved friend, I know how you feel. It really is a blessing to have such a tight bond with your pet. Remember that. Thanks for sharing this with us. By the way, that’s a really great picture of you and Rocky.

    Take care,
    Ray

  66. Carole Massey-Reyner on August 27th, 2008 9:27 pm

    What a terrible shame, Terry.

    We have had three Yellow Labs and have seen two of them go. Our third one is about 7 years old now. His name is Remy (Remington).

    Every pet owner knows how painful it is to lose a beloved pet.

    Carole

  67. Georgann McCrosson on August 27th, 2008 10:54 pm

    Dogs are friends like no other. Each one we have the privilege of sharing our lives with is precious, bringing their own special teachings to us as the gift it is.

  68. Fraser Neilson on August 29th, 2008 9:15 am

    Hi Terry

    That’s one of the most heartfelt and moving tributes i’ve ever read. It is obvious that Rocky meant so much to you and i am sorry about your loss.

    All the best

    Fraser Neilson

  69. Deron Dohanich on August 30th, 2008 8:58 pm

    Terry,
    Very sorry about your pal Rocky. He’ll always be in your heart.

    My sincere condolences.

    -Deron

  70. Michael Hartman on September 21st, 2008 4:55 pm

    Terry and family,
    Sorry to hear about the passing of Rocky.
    My heart goes out to you. Pets are always very special and I know what
    you are going through.

    My condolences and best wishes to you and your family.

    Mike

  71. Amy on September 25th, 2008 2:25 pm

    My condolences. My heart also goes out to you. They’re really part of the family. I lost my cat, 22 years old, in July. It can still make me cry and his photo is up all over the house.

    We had toyed with the idea, before he died, of having him as our company’s logo or giving the business a name that reminded us of him. The business has nothing to do with animals. As much as we would’ve like to do it, it just didn’t make any sense. We’re still figuring out a way to incorporate him, his likeness into our site, some of our ad campaigns maybe. It’s a family business and he still is part of the family.

    We will sell fashion accessories and the last thing my cat wanted to do was wear clothes. He always had opinions about what we were wearing though. Again, thank you for sharing and we hope you can keep him in your heart.

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