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Main Forums => Living With HIV => Topic started by: leatherman on May 28, 2010, 01:39:24 pm

Title: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on May 28, 2010, 01:39:24 pm
Once a week, my ASO, Catawba Care Coalition (http://www.catawbacare.org/), opens up a pantry to pass out paper, cleaning and personal hygiene products to it's clients. As a volunteer for my clinic, I work in the pantry a few hours every month, bagging up and passing out these products to the clients who stop in to request them.

So I stopped by my ASO to get the keys, on my way to open the pantry, and got shanghaied by several case workers. Not only did they want to hear all about my adventures down at the ADAP funding cut protest rally  (http://forums.poz.com/index.php?topic=31714.msg403772) in Columbia, SC on Tues; but it seems I was somewhat of a celebrity for appearing in Poz magazine.
(http://reigningpages.com/leatherman/2010/may/ccc/dogz01.jpg)
My tale of me and my boyz (Joxer, Zeus and Aries- who got cropped out of the picture) is included in an article entitled "Pawsitivity (http://www.poz.com/articles/Pawsitivity_HIV_JUNE2010_2466_18378.shtml)", filled with heartwarming stories of pozzies and their pets - and how our pets have helped keep us alive, happy, and healthier.

God knows it was only because I had a pack of 7 cocker spaniels to care for that I recovered after having PCP, and dealt with the grief of losing my first partner. If I had not had to get out of bed at least once a day to feed the dogs, I probably would have never ventured in the kitchen and gotten any food for myself and would have surely died. Though the first pack has gone now, I continued to keep spaniels from this line. Helping me get through the loss of my second partner and the move from OH back down to SC, are my three boys (the great-great grandsons of my first spaniel), the remaining ones from the second pack after my last little girl passed away just months before my partner died.

I want to says thanks to POZ for letting me have the chance to publically pawsitively praise my dogz once again for all their love and companionship that has been such a huge factor in getting me through the bad times and for keeping me alive.
(http://reigningpages.com/leatherman/2009/october/yard/mikie_and_boyzb.jpg)
(leatherman with Joxer, Zeus and Aries)
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Inchlingblue on May 28, 2010, 02:20:21 pm
How great that you shared your story on Poz. I have a dog and I also rescue dogs and volunteer at the local shelter. If it were not for my dog I'd be totally lost emotionally. I love it that Poz did the piece on animals and how animals can be such a positive influence on our lives.

A friend of mine recently rescued a cocker spaniel from the shelter (they do their best but it's horrible there). There are also many dogs and cats of all breeds who need homes on on petfinder.com
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Boze on May 28, 2010, 03:39:27 pm
Nice dogs!
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: mecch on May 28, 2010, 04:04:52 pm
Nice dogs and nice man! 

I really really want a dog but I work long hours and I think it would be cruel.

And happy that you are not incognito, versus me, but I just can't go there yet.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on May 28, 2010, 04:15:42 pm
I have a dog and I also rescue dogs and volunteer at the local shelter.
My Mom does did poodle and chihuahua rescues, so when the boyz and me moved into here, it upped the ante to 7 dogs in the house. :o Luckily her dogs are all small and stay on their side of the house, and my cockers have their own yard and doggie door on my side of the house. But oh, you should hear the ruckus when any of the human leave or arrive. Ahwooooooo! Everybody howls and sings! :D

I bred the spaniels for nearly 20 yrs. and always had owners lined up. I donate $10 every two months to the local shelter of wherever I live; but I don't ever go visit. That's so sad and I want to save every one of them; but I can hardly handle me and my own. You are to be commended for the work you do for the poor animals without homes.

Nice dogs!
thanks!
love me, love my dogs! :-*

And happy that you are not incognito
I was hoping :-[ to get on the news reports the other day at the ADAP funding cut protest; but no such luck. The closest they ever came in one picture was a shot towards the podium over the shoulder of the guy with dreds sitting next to me for a while. :D I guess my little rat-tail was just too 80s. ROFLMAO

However I'm hoping the local newspaper for the city (pop 35,000) gets back to me soon, since the local ASO director was trying to set up an interview about the rally. I'm working on my celebrity status :D  Not like this woman just up the road - Union County woman sues over use of her photos in HIV ads (http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2010/05/28/1464507/union-county-woman-sues-over-use.html)
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: mecch on May 28, 2010, 04:18:48 pm
I think that lady has a good case.  Expecting to be in a printed magazine for a certain audience is not the same as being forever plastered all over the Internet.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on May 28, 2010, 04:27:56 pm
Expecting to be in a printed magazine for a certain audience is not the same as being forever plastered all over the Internet.
yep but once you sign that open-ended agreement, just like we've been talking about being exposed on the internet, I think all bets are off (legally). I guess what we're learning, as the digital age progresses, is that everyone is exposed unless you stay in your home AND off the net. With cameras every where (much less stepping in front of one for money as this lady did) and blogs, your face or info could end up pretty much anywhere.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: mecch on May 28, 2010, 04:48:56 pm
I think you could have a contract for use in print that forbids internet use by the company paying you for the image.  Of course another person could plaster you all over, but that would not be the same. 

For example, if a Hollywood star does and embarrassing but lucrative commercial for Japan, the company is forbidden to use that material in a different format in a different country.  We might be able to sleuth it up on the Internet however, of course.

I don't think this women expected such wide exposure, but it would come down to her contract wether the company is within its rights or not.

Back to the other topic.  Isn't there any kind of dog that would be happy with 8 hour stretches inside? I asked around here and they all told me - really impossible, not nice at all to any dog.

Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Inchlingblue on May 28, 2010, 05:41:58 pm

Back to the other topic.  Isn't there any kind of dog that would be happy with 8 hour stretches inside? I asked around here and they all told me - really impossible, not nice at all to any dog.

In general it's not a good idea but it depends. What a lot of people do in bigger cities, for example, is hire a dog walker who can come in the middle of the day and walk the dog.

There are also lots of doggie day care centers becoming more popular where people can leave their dogs interacting all day with other dogs while they are at work. They even have cameras set up so people can log in and check up on their dogs in real time.

Dogs are pack animals so spending 8+ hours alone is not good for most dogs. In that kind of situation it's sometimes better to get two dogs who can keep each other company.

Dogs like routine so if you had two dogs who could keep each other company all day that could work, as long as they knew you were coming home at a specific time, they can get used to they're routine and be fine. Of course, you'd have to make sure to take them out for good walks or runs before and after work. If you have a house with a yard, it's possible to put in a dog door so that they can go outside if necessary.

Some dogs need more exercise than others. Another option is to adopt a couple of senior dogs, who can be very loving and are way past the puppy phase so they don't need as much activity.

Is the situation with animals (especially dogs and cats) as bad in Europe as it is in the US? What I mean is, it's much better to adopt a dog from a rescue organization or a local shelter as opposed to buying a dog online or going through a breeder. Yes, there are some responsible breeders out there but there are many irresponsible ones who claim to be responsible and are just adding to the overpopulation and suffering of animals. And as far as pet shops go, fuggedaboutit, those poor dogs are all from puppy mills, very sad.

If you do get a dog it's important to get them spayed or neutered. Not only does this prevent unwanted pregnancies but it really tends to calm the animal down overall.
 
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: mecch on May 28, 2010, 06:40:17 pm
I wouldnt be away every day for 8 hours.
I was given the same advice you just gave me. But so many thanks for suggestions of work arounds - like a dog walker and 2 dogs.

Here in Switzerland you are practically required to get two cats, now, instead of one. Not sure of dogs.  But yeah, there is sense that its important to adopt.  But also people are snobs, so many people have money, so pure breds are highly popular.  Maybe adobt a purebred!
I spend my weekends with magnificent purebreds on a farm. Incredible dogs.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Inchlingblue on May 28, 2010, 07:02:16 pm
 Maybe adobt a purebred!
 

Here there are many breed-specific rescue groups and on www.petfinder.com you can search by breed so it's not difficult top adopt a pure breed. Even local shelters get pure breed dogs.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on May 28, 2010, 07:31:48 pm
it's much better to adopt a dog from a rescue organization or a local shelter as opposed to buying a dog online or going through a breeder. Yes, there are some responsible breeders out there but there are many irresponsible ones who claim to be responsible and are just adding to the overpopulation and suffering of animals.
excellent advice. unless you just have to have a specific purebred - and why if you're not going to show or breed them - there are plenty of dogs already needing a home without having to determine how responsible a breeder is that you might potentially buy from.

two dogs or any older dog is also good advice for pets that might be left alone a long time. Personally I think too many people worry about being away during the day. By that I mean, look at how many employeed people own dogs. Think of all those dogs doing just fine alone for their owners full-time hours (plus travel hours too) away from home. A puppy just has to be trained (crate, confined to one room, a doggie door) to learn the pattern of your life and to fit in.

They even have cameras set up so people can log in and check up on their dogs in real time.
if you're having separation anxiety, you can use a webcam set up on your home computer to keep tabs on your pet.

(http://reigningpages.com/puppies/cam/cam116.jpg)(http://reigningpages.com/puppies/cam/cam204.jpg)(http://reigningpages.com/puppies/cam/cam205.jpg)
(http://reigningpages.com/puppies/cam/cam502.jpg)(http://reigningpages.com/puppies/cam/cam506.jpg)(http://reigningpages.com/puppies/cam/cam501.jpg)
these webcam pictures are from after I first got Aries and Zeus and brought them home to live with Joxer and Gabby. I put the puppies into the crate while I was off at work during the day and used to sit at my desk for hours watching them.

oh I should also mention that my dogz even have their own website!
"Tails of the Pack" at http://reigningpages.com/puppies
(http://reigningpages.com/puppies/pets/pack/pack27.jpg)
It's "Puppy Love"
(http://reigningpages.com/puppies/pets/pack/pack44.jpg)
The Second Pack - Joxer, Aries, Zeus, Gabrielle
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: peteb on May 28, 2010, 07:46:47 pm
nice looking dogs thanks for sharing your story
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on May 28, 2010, 08:15:10 pm
Thanks Pete! ;)

by the way, hello there! ;D
Sad to know why you're here; but glad you found us. Hope you're hanging in there okay. ;) The first few couple months are pretty hard, especially when you find out by being sick in a hospital and having to immediately go onto meds. Not only do you have the sickness to get over; but side effects and adjustment to the meds to get through. Hopefully you're starting to feel better now that you're numbers are getting better.  ;) best wishes to you!
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: tednlou2 on May 28, 2010, 11:28:16 pm
Were you the center-fold   ;)

Seriously, how much is a subscription to POZ?
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: darkerpozz on May 29, 2010, 01:19:45 am
Poz is free in Vallejo and offered at clinics and at HIV therapy meeting places.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: darkerpozz on May 29, 2010, 01:21:06 am
nice dogs I am getting at least one in June and I am so excited...I have everyhting but the dog.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on May 29, 2010, 10:23:10 am
Were you the center-fold   ;)
I was hoping ;), but being a smaller sized mag, they said the nude photo I sent in wouldn't fit. :D ROFL
So they had to go with the smaller pix of me and the dogs
(but they still even cropped that one and left out one of the dogs. ::) )

I am getting at least one in June and I am so excited
Dogs are the best. ;D

Though not a cat-person I used to have one of those too. (My first partner and I owned a pet store for about 5 yrs and so we had a menagerie of pets over the years) Well, she was more Randy's cat; but when he passed away, Sheagra became mine. He couldn't leave me $$$ to inherit; but could leave an animal that I'm slightly allergic too. LOL

For a while too, I thought she might make it into the Guinness's Book of world records. (the oldest cat on record is 26 yrs old) She not only outlived Randy, but all 7 dogs from the first pack. Having been as sick as I had been a couple of times, I thought she'd outlive me too. It seemed like she was going to outlive us all. However, just shy of turning 20, she quickly and quietly passed away one weekend, leaving me with just the 4 cockers of the second pack.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Jeff G on May 29, 2010, 10:40:40 am
My English bulldog Zita saved my life . If not for her I would not have made it through a tough time about 8 years ago .

She doesn't know she is spoiled , I think she has had it so good all her life she feels entitled . She has steps to get into my sleigh bed and a bed on my bed . She has another bed on the floor in the bedroom and another in the living room .

Yesterday I went to home depot and bought wood and turned legs and made her a platform bed for our outside screen room  . She has a pet door to get out there and has her own fan hooked to a motion detector out there for warm days .

I love my bulldog !!!    
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on May 29, 2010, 11:15:06 am
She has a pet door to get out there and has her own fan hooked to a motion detector out there for warm days .  
that's awesome!

I just read that to the boyz, and now, as if having a 20-ft covered deck for them to use to keep their precious paws dry in the rain weren't enough, they say I have to install one of these motion-detector fan systems for them too. ::)  :D
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Jeff G on May 29, 2010, 11:23:17 am
that's awesome!

I just read that to the boyz, and now, as if having a 20-ft covered deck for them to use to keep their precious paws dry in the rain weren't enough, they say I have to install one of these motion-detector fan systems for them too. ::)  :D


The fan is low tech bud ... just a motion detector with a female adapter screwed in to plug a fan into . 15 bucks and my dog is coool  ;)
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on January 24, 2013, 08:48:06 pm
I know this is a very old thread; but I have sad news about one of my dogs.

(http://reigningpages.com/leatherman/2009/october/yard/mikie_and_boyzb.jpg)
(this is me, Joxer, Zeus and Aries right after we moved back to SC in 10/2009)

Last night Joxer had a serious stroke. I spent the night lying on the floor with Joxer helping him to feel calmed and loved, and can thankfully say that he did not suffer with any pain. This morning I took him to the vet and must sadly say that Joxer has passed on.

Of the 11 cockers of this same family line that I have since Randy got Appollonia for me back in 1984, I had Joxie with me the longest as he was 15 yrs old. He outlived his great-Grandmother (Apple) who was 14 when she passed away.

Now the large family I used to have (at one time it was Randy and I with 7 spaniels and at another time it was Jim and I with 4 spaniels and 6 cats) is down to me, Aries and Zeus (who, as litter mates, are both 13 and have health issues).

RIP Joxer :-*
http://reigningpages.com/puppies/joxer.htm
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Jeff G on January 24, 2013, 09:14:41 pm
Mike , Im sorry for your loss . Its not enough to say Im sorry you lost a pet , its like loosing family isn't it . I know you love all them with all your heart , and my heart goes out to you tonight .
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: WillyWump on January 24, 2013, 09:40:27 pm
My condolences.

-Will
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Cojo on January 24, 2013, 09:57:04 pm
Condolences Mike, they really are man's best friend.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: thunter34 on January 24, 2013, 10:01:18 pm
I'm very sorry, Mike.  That is so rough.   :'(
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Rev. Moon on January 24, 2013, 10:07:43 pm
My condolences, Mike   :-\
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: BT65 on January 25, 2013, 05:39:59 am
Sorry for your loss, Mike.  It's so soul wrenching to lose a pet.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: wolfter on January 25, 2013, 08:29:47 am
It's a heavy burden on the heart.  So sorry buddy.  Many of us completely understand your pain and emphasize.

I also recognize how our pets play a role in remembering more pleasant times with loved ones. 

I'm sure you loved and cuddled with your other children last night.  They are probably grieving also.

Take care and luvs.

Wolfie
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Ann on January 25, 2013, 09:18:45 am
Sorry for your loss, Mike. It's so hard to lose a furbaby. They're often more like family than our human families. You have my sincere condolences. ((((((Mike))))))
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: bmancanfly on January 25, 2013, 10:26:52 am
Sorry about your loss.  It's terrible to lose a member of the family.   :(
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: buginme2 on January 25, 2013, 12:15:04 pm
Sorry about your loss.  Take care of yoursef.  I'm writing this as my dog is trying to navigate a bone and the cat is looking down on him.  Pets add so much to our lives.  Take care.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: pozniceguy on January 25, 2013, 01:13:22 pm
sorry  about your loss  very hard to lose  a loved one..

Nick
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Jmarksto on January 25, 2013, 07:58:22 pm
Leatherman: 

I hope your warm memories help carry you through the difficult time. 

My condolences,
JM
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on January 25, 2013, 08:39:52 pm
Thank you so much everyone for your support.
I haven't cried this hard in a long time and forgot how much sadness death brings and how much grief hurts. :-X

I'm sure you loved and cuddled with your other children last night.  They are probably grieving also.
When any one of my kids have passed away (and there have been quite a few now as all 7 in the first pack have been gone a while and now 2 of the 4 in the second pack are gone), I've always brought them home to bury them. Just before the interment, I have allowed the surviving dogs to see and smell the body. Now maybe I am anthropomorphizing a bit too much, but I swear I've always been able to tell from their demeanor and the look in their eyes, that the remaining dogs understand and miss their departed family member. (Aries did a double take looking at me with the saddest eyes ever while Zeus flopped down cradling his head between his paws)

I remember back when Triumph (the last of the first pack) passed away and I only had two dogs (Gabby and the recently departed Joxie) for a short while. I was amazed at how quiet a house could be with only 2 dogs. Since for about 7 years, I had dealt with not only losing Randy, but also with having teh aids and having SEVEN dogs; yes, having only two dogs seemed very odd and just too quiet in the house. And that's why I got two litter mates at the same time and ended up having pack #2.

I found myself looking up to the new grave on the hillside all day (it was too cold and icy today to physically go stand by the grave). Several times, I thought I saw Joxie out of the corner of my eye moving throughout the house. Last night, I don't think it was just the cold, that had the boyz all cuddled up to me (they cuddle some but not as much as they were doing last night). Today the boys (both Aries and Zeus have serious health issues and are pretty old themselves at 13) have been lying on either side of my chair or following me around the house, which surprises me just a bit as they seem just a little bit unnerved that I've been hugging them so much more today than usual. I guess we're all just trying to make sure that we're all still here and aren't missing anyone else today.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Since2005 on January 25, 2013, 09:47:20 pm
 I am sorry about your loss. Thanks for sharing your story.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: tednlou2 on January 26, 2013, 03:46:06 am
I am so sorry to hear about Joxer.  They are our children and best friends.  I know how difficult this is. 

Our first dog passed a year ago Christmas.  She was 16.  She had bad hip problems and we had to carry her out to use the bathroom.  But, she was still happy and loved to eat.  She began having problems one night.  Our other dog wouldn't leave her side.  I stayed up with her all night and was going to take her to the vet when they opened.  They opened at 8am.  Brian already left for work.  She got worse and I had to call him back home.  We rushed her to the vet.  She died as we were pulling into the vet.  I will never forget how her head flew back as we picked her up out of the car.  We rushed her in and the vet tried to revive her.  The vet said it was probably bloat, where the stomach flips, due to gas.  Man, I have never cried so hard.  She was my best friend.  She went everywhere with us.  Even though 16 was very old, I couldn't help thinking she died from trapped gas.  From what I was told, it would have required major surgery to turn the stomach back, and many die anyway. 

Our other dog has never been the same.  The role of alpha dog was now on her shoulders.  It's not a role she wants.  She now barks at every noise.  She is always on edge.  I truly believe she still mourns her older sister.  I mourn her.  I always think how she would have enjoyed the trip to the park, or a ride to grandma's.  I miss her deeply.  I am sharing a pic of her urn.  I hope it doesn't seem like I am pulling focus from Joxer. I think he would appreciate a fellow dog lover. 

(http://i666.photobucket.com/albums/vv22/tedunk/20121219_170510.jpg)
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Jmarksto on January 26, 2013, 03:56:05 am
Thank you so much everyone for your support.
I haven't cried this hard in a long time and forgot how much sadness death brings and how much grief hurts. :-X
When any one of my kids have passed away (and there have been quite a few now as all 7 in the first pack have been gone a while and now 2 of the 4 in the second pack are gone), I've always brought them home to bury them. Just before the interment, I have allowed the surviving dogs to see and smell the body. Now maybe I am anthropomorphizing a bit too much, but I swear I've always been able to tell from their demeanor and the look in their eyes, that the remaining dogs understand and miss their departed family member. (Aries did a double take looking at me with the saddest eyes ever while Zeus flopped down cradling his head between his paws)

I remember back when Triumph (the last of the first pack) passed away and I only had two dogs (Gabby and the recently departed Joxie) for a short while. I was amazed at how quiet a house could be with only 2 dogs. Since for about 7 years, I had dealt with not only losing Randy, but also with having teh aids and having SEVEN dogs; yes, having only two dogs seemed very odd and just too quiet in the house. And that's why I got two litter mates at the same time and ended up having pack #2.

I found myself looking up to the new grave on the hillside all day (it was too cold and icy today to physically go stand by the grave). Several times, I thought I saw Joxie out of the corner of my eye moving throughout the house. Last night, I don't think it was just the cold, that had the boyz all cuddled up to me (they cuddle some but not as much as they were doing last night). Today the boys (both Aries and Zeus have serious health issues and are pretty old themselves at 13) have been lying on either side of my chair or following me around the house, which surprises me just a bit as they seem just a little bit unnerved that I've been hugging them so much more today than usual. I guess we're all just trying to make sure that we're all still here and aren't missing anyone else today.

One...big...long...hug...

I am so sorry for your loss,
JM
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: J.R.E. on January 26, 2013, 06:26:10 am
Mike....

My condolences on the loss of Joxer.  :'(


Ray
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: ds4146 on January 26, 2013, 07:37:14 am
Mike, so very sorry to hear about your loss!

One of the hardest experiences to go through. Be good to yourself!
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on January 26, 2013, 08:17:12 pm
I hope it doesn't seem like I am pulling focus from Joxer. I think he would appreciate a fellow dog lover. 
thanks for sharing that.

So many people who have pets can empathize and sympathize. Many people seem slightly ashamed and say that our pets are "like" our children; but there's no need to hide grief behind a euphemism. Our pets ARE family. Maybe not children per se; but often they are in a similar role because of the care we need to provide for them. We talk to and with them; they are by our sides often; we worry about their unspoken problems; we worry about them when we are away; and we mourn their loss.

My head still hurts today and I feel "weird" - kinda like there's a hole in me. With the sun out and the sleet/ice melted, I went up the little hill to visit Joxie's grave for a little while. I noticed today that although Joxie was older he was the most active of my dogs, so daily life in the house is a lot quieter.

Instead of "being good to myself", I kept really active doing things. I helped get rid of some of the quietness in the house by working on finishing laying new flooring in the hallway to go with the den and my bedroom that have been my projects in the last two weeks. I only had two dogs watching over my shoulder and walking through the debris today. :( I have a little bit of trimming left to do now after a lot of hammering, sawing, and banging today.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: skeebo1969 on January 26, 2013, 11:16:03 pm


  Mikey, sorry to hear about the loss of Joxer....  I know it's difficult losing a long time companion.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: mitch777 on January 28, 2013, 05:11:32 pm
Mikie,
Sorry to hear about Joxer. :'(
We lost our oldest (15 years+) last April.
Still is painful thinking of the loss but we keep reminding each other of the joy and laughter.
Stay busy if it works for you.
(That is exactly what I did)

A story about the loss of our dog:
The local theater was putting on the play "Mame" at the time.
A 10 year old boy (actor) (Lucas) had met our dog a few times before he died.
He was a cutie and his family were truely amazing.
I spent much of the spring outside in the back yard and got to know them all well.
When he was told (by his mom) about our dog, he recruited the other 10 year old in making a memorial plaque for his grave.
(this kid was too much... he has a tiara collection already)
Anyway, they bought a kit from a craft store and poured cement in a mold.
The kit also had broken pieces of colored glass in it.
They picked out the red pieces of glass to press into the cement in the shape of a heart.
They wrote our dogs name with their finger and also "drew" a paw print.
The other muticolored glass was used for the border.
Lucas told his mom that he wanted to attend the funeral.(i found out later)
He came knocking on the door with such concern on his face and presented me with this gift.
I broke down in tears.
I will never forget this as long as I live.

Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on January 28, 2013, 08:50:48 pm
Stay busy if it works for you.
staying active is one of the best, and easiest, ways to combat depression and grief. I've finished up the new flooring in the house and will have to find something else to do now.

He came knocking on the door with such concern on his face and presented me with this gift.
what an incredibly great story and what an awesome kid :-*
thank you for sharing
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: anniebc on January 29, 2013, 05:08:15 pm
I'm so sorry to hear about your loss, I know how hard it is to lose a pet that has become so much a part of your family, I dread the day I have to say goodbye to one of mine.

In sadness
Jan :'(
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: jkinatl2 on January 30, 2013, 12:37:51 am
I am a hopeless mess when one of my guys dies. It is nothing short of awful.

I have deep sympathy for you and your furry family. We might have differences, you and I, but any man who takes on a four legged companion has got to be a decent guy in my book. It takes a lot of guts to love a creature that you know you will outlive.

You give that love because what you get back it worth it. Worth even the hardest parts of it. Your dog was lucky to have had you, and you wee lucky to have had that love.

Stay strong, and please continue to love. It's really all we have.

Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: oksikoko on January 30, 2013, 01:29:23 am
Adorable. It must be great to have so many and for them to have each other! :)

I know what you mean about being a mess. My first puppy died of cancer and my second one lives with people more capable of taking care of him. Like tednolou2, though I don't mean to take focus away, probably just trying to relate to someone on something, sorry it happens to be morbid.

I think a dog is just about the best thing that can happen to a person, and I miss mine so much I'm having trouble typing out this sentence. It doesn't seem to get better with time, unfortunately.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: oksikoko on January 30, 2013, 01:36:51 am
Ugh, my tone was completely off, there. I saw your first post, then everyone else's. I didn't realize what your update was about. I'm really sorry. I meant that time doesn't seem to make it better for me, but I'm in a different circumstance. It seems like you have things under control in genera. :) Good luck.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on January 30, 2013, 01:51:45 am
Worth even the hardest parts of it.
even though I terribly miss Randy, Appollonia, Elektra, LBB, EightBall, Hershey, Triumph, Sheagra, Jim, Gabrielle, and Joxer I wouldn't trade anything for the love I had with them, for them and from them. Having them for that short time each (heck a couple of the dogs outlasted the time I got with my partners) was so worth it that if the price I have to pay is losing them then I'm happy to pay that price in exchange for that kind of love. That's so hard to say too because I'd nearly give anything to have any of them (dog, cat or lover) back. If I hadn't been so loved though I would have already given  up on this existence; but it's my memories of them that keeps me going through the roughest of times living without them all of these years. How I can give up now after the love of two great men and the faith my animals put in me to care for them all these years?
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on January 30, 2013, 01:58:10 am
my goodness! That sure was some PTSD and survivor's guilt all mashed up talking just then, wasn't it?  ::)

But it is all true about how much love I'm been so lucky to have all these years. I just wish I had had more time with each of them - and I wish I hadn't had the responsibilities at the end. I am ever so tired of going to the vet one last trip or having hospice set up a hospital bed in my home. But I guess someone has to do it. sigh.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: jkinatl2 on January 30, 2013, 03:15:24 am
Dude, if you have PTSD then so do I.

The death of anyone we love is the shadow of the death of us, of our fragile legacies, of our conception of the future. We who have witnessed this works at its best and worst know that there really aren't levels in nor latitudes of grief. The fact that we remain human enough to shed tears now is a mark of real heroism. I just hope you know that.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: wolfter on January 30, 2013, 10:36:49 am
It takes a lot of guts to love a creature that you know you will outlive.


For many of us, it was the exact opposite.  My Butchy passed away in 2000.  I had him since I was middle school.  I was so depressed but reluctant to get another dog.  I did the whole fostering thing and Miss Lily was only supposed to be with me a short time.  I fell in love with her but was SO fearful of taking on the responsibility of an animal that was likely to outlive me. 

Little did I know that years later that she would be the catalyst that forced me to fight for my life.  I've shared this before, but my ONLY fear of dying was worrying about her after I left.  I discussed this issue with my family and made them all promise that in the worst case scenario, that she would be loved and well taken care of.  I still didn't trust or believe them so I had to rebound.

And now, I'm dealing with her terminal diagnosis and am heartbroken.  But I am determined to make her time even more special.  I have such deep respect for those who love their furry friends so deeply.  My granny used to say that she never trusted anyone who didn't.

Wolfie
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: Jeff G on January 30, 2013, 10:59:54 am
My girl Zita came to me at a crucial time in my life and I am certain I would not be here to share this if she didn't . She was the only reason I could find for me to continue on and live for a number of years .

She is old now and her health is failing fast and its now my time to be there for her during the good and bad days . I have people tell me I shouldn't care for her as much as I do , I don't waste my time trying to convince them other wise because I doubt they could ever grasp what this beautiful creature has given to me .

She sleeps in my bed with me and she is having trouble getting up and down the stairs into the bed , so this week I modified them . She didn't like it so I modified them three more times until she was happy . She has an expensive memory foam dog bed in the floor that she sleeps on when she wants too and its there waiting for her when she decides she no longer wants to share my bed .
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: wolfter on January 30, 2013, 11:09:09 am
I had to do some recent modifications for Miss Lily too.  I had to put a footstool next to her side of the bed so she can come and go when she wants.  Prior to my last severe illness, I never allowed her on the furniture, including the bed.  Now I enjoy cuddling with her as I fall to sleep.  Then she returns to her own bed.  I think I'm too needy with her sometimes. ;D
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: oksikoko on January 30, 2013, 11:26:59 am
Is that Lily in the picture? I recognize Zita from another thread, I think. Those are lucky dogs! :) And they look very pettable…
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: wolfter on January 30, 2013, 11:46:32 am
Is that Lily in the picture? I recognize Zita from another thread, I think. Those are lucky dogs! :) And they look very pettable…

That is Miss Lily.  She a purebreed, multicultural mutt.   ;D  She absolutely is the most loving animal ever.  She has never shown one agressive action in her life.  Even when my young nephew would torment the hell out of her, she'd just try to hide. 

I'm luckier than she is!!!!
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: leatherman on January 30, 2013, 12:24:29 pm
Little did I know that years later that she would be the catalyst that forced me to fight for my life.
and that's how this thread started up. A few months before Randy died, we got another dog. I just couldn't say no to a dying man's request for a puppy. But that left me with 6 dogs and teh AIDS. Back then, I was so sure they were all going to outlive me - at least that's what the docs and my lab results kept saying. So I've always had arrangements with some friends (even until today) who will take my dogs when something happens to me. I couldn't not make arrangements for their care.

I've worried about their care so much that I left the hospital once when I thought I really was dying, so I could take care of them my last few days. And it was taking care of them those days that actually ended up being the catalyst for me to fight to stay alive.

I'm really sorry to hear that some of my friends are also at points where their dogs are nearing the end of their lives. In a way I've been expecting my 3 boyz to reach the end ever since we moved to SC. Joxer went blind and I had to dog-proof so many of the corners and steps and stuff for him. I had to build steps for Zeus to use to get onto the bed because of his arthritis. Every couple of months, I sit with Aries in my lap, in the midst of a seizure, wondering if this will be "the one".

From all the losses I've had, I have reached one conclusion though. I'd rather know the end was coming and be able to make sure I spend quality time with them. I have been very devastated by my humans and pets who have suddenly taken ill and that was the end. I felt I didn't have the time I wanted to come to grips, to ensure their comfort, to get in the last of the loving. But when I've known the time was drawing nigh, I felt like I had nearly enough time to make things right for a peaceful parting and I was able to really spend good quality time with them. I've made sure these last 3 yrs in SC have been good for my boyz and I know we've had great quality time.

It sounds like y'all are making the best of your situations and getting in quality time too. ;) Best wishes to Lily and to Zita. Give them some hugs from me & my boyz! and best wishes to you too Greg and Jeff as you deal with these tough times :-*
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: BT65 on February 01, 2013, 05:12:53 am
I know this thread is primarily about dogs but I just have to chime in about my kitty.  Her name is Poppy.  I did not give her that name, the shelter I got her from did.  They told me she was dropped off there when she was a young kitten, in a box, and had lived there for 3 years (they are this area's no-kill shelter).  When I went into the room where she was, she immediately jumped on my lap.  When the other kitties came by to check me out, she swatted at them with her paws.

It's been almost 7 years since I adopted her.  When I come home from work she sits at the edge of the living room until I put my stuff down, look at her and say "come on," then she runs over to me for a petting.  If I'm sleeping past my usual time she lays by me on the bed until I get up.  When I talk out loud, she looks at me and meows when I'm done speaking.   She's given me reasons to get up on some down days, to take care of her.  She's become a side kick. 

We become extremely attached to our pets.  They love us unconditionally despite our shortcomings.  They're better at that than some humans.  To lose a pet is to lose a trusted companion, friend and some days, our reasons to function.  Any person who owns a pet and takes good care of it has decency.  Anyway, just wanted to include kitties in this "pet" thread.
Title: Re: Pawsitive Praise
Post by: klassykitty on February 02, 2013, 10:45:51 pm
I struck it good.  I have a doggy, and kitty. 
Poncho is a lab/chow mix, 11 years old, and a lover.  tonight when I got home from work he ran out of his dog house, (he lives outside) and jumped into my car before I was out of the door.  Then we played in the snow for about 30 minutes, in the dark and yes it is cold, but theres nothing better then playing in the snow with a dog,  tomorrow we will walk in it.

Since Poncho is 11 and having health issues I try to get in every last minute of time with him.  The other night I went up to feed him and laid down in his house with him and slept for an hour.

When I went inside Kitty was waiting for me and promptly attacked my legs, he doesn't attack ankles he jumps on my legs, then we played with the rabbit tail I bought him.
 
I know when I have had a bad day at work or school that they will always be able to cheer me up. 

Michelle