In Loving Memory of

Buster
July 6, 1993 - November 28, 2005

Buster was a lab who had many complications. Slipped growth plate at 3 months old, knee ligament surgery at 5 years old, lyme's disease at 6 years old, Cushing's disease at 8 years old, diabetes at 9 years old. He lost his ability to get up or walk at 9 years old, TTouch brought him back to us. (TTouch is a type of therapy created by Linda Tellington Jones.)  He was nearly blind; he never regained sight in the one eye with a detached retina, but his other eye had a very bad cataract; which miraculously went away with loving care. For three more years he survived and flourished, without a wince through all his pain and frustration of falling, and struggle to walk. I, along with others, also struggled to manage him and take care of him, it was a horrendous job, but well worth it. We were given more time to go to the beach, the bay, on our walks, getting the mail, doggie bone treats galore, and many meals, which was his favorite thing to do....eat!

I have so many emotions, this is not my first dog to lose, but it is his special spirit which brings another sort of bereavement. These are my thoughts of my loving companion:

Often I ask myself...what is love? It is a shame to not realize your wholeness of love until you have lost someone that you loved more than you realized.

My dog died. Buster died. He is gone forever from my earthly sight. It is so final from my world as I know it. I loved him, more than I knew. I was so busy taking care of him that my pain, frustration and anger got in the way. We had a good life together and he taught me what love truly is.....

Forgiveness -- Acceptance -- Enduring pain and frustration while enjoying life's smells, sounds, touches -- Loving all creatures, strangers, so purely, nary a negative thought or word -- Take every day as a new beginning -- Unconditional, altruistic gift of a huge, joyful heart -- A great majestic spirit, which is only earthbound for such a minute period of time, to bless us.

As his caregiver, I release any guilt I may have to the sky. I did my best and he knows this... he loves me still. I can only hope and pray that I can, everyday, remember what he taught me; and use it.

I cherish your memories, you will never be forgotten. All my heart and soul,

Cindy "with hugs and kisses"
 

Grieve not,
Nor speak of me with tears
But laugh and talk of me
As if I were beside you . . .
I loved you so----
'Twas heaven here with you.

-----Isla Paschal Richardson