There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colours. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge there is a land of meadows, hills, and valleys with lush green grass. When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place. There is always food and water and warm Spring weather. The old frail animals are young again. They play all day with each other. There is only one thing missing, they are not with their special person who loved them so much on Earth.

Each day they all run and play until the day comes when one suddenly stops playing and looks up! The nose twitches! The ears rise up! The eyes are staring! Then suddenly, this one runs from the group! You have been seen, and when you and your special friend meet, you take him or her into your arms and you both embrace. Your face is licked again and again and you look once more into the eyes of your trusting pet.

Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together, never again to be separate

author unknown

To my dear Fleece - I can never forget the night that we sat with your mother and watched and waited as you and your litter mates were born.
You were my first Border Collie and very strong minded and I made many mistakes along the way. Your greatest achievement in Obedience was to win a run-off for Pre-Beginners at Cefn Coed - I was so proud and kept looking at the red rosette and trophy on the passenger seat - I missed the motorway turn-off and got lost in the middle of Cardiff! The rosette is still there on the board along with your many Beginner places.

You retired gracefully at 5 years of age when Tarn came along and for ten and a half years you came along to shows just for the pleasure of it, you loved camping, loved meeting people and other dogs and were just so excited when we arrived at a venue.

At 15 ½ you decided enough was enough and the decision was made. You slipped away peacefully in my lounge - your greatest achievement in life was to be my most darling girl, and to help me keep my boys in order which you did to the end.

DUSTER'S MAGIC MOONSHINE (TARN) 05.12.1996 - 19.04.2008

Little did I think that just over three short months after losing Fleece, my soulmate, my very special white boy, Tarn, would follow. Despite putting me in hospital with a broken ankle, wrist and dislocated elbow at 10 months of age, you took me from Beginners to B. I did not know you were ill until skin secondaries began to appear and even then it wasn't until the biopsy results that we realised just what they signified. Even if we had known earlier, there was no cure, no treatment that could have helped you. Losing you so suddenly has been the very worst thing that has happened to me in my life - you were so vibrant - as a friend wrote - "you lived life in the fast lane" and only 48 hours before you left you were playing hide and seek with me on the airfield. I am so glad that you had that last holiday with me a couple of weeks ago in Oxfordshire - despite the snow and frost you were chasing happily around, with no foreboding of what was to come.

You had some very special friends in your life, Madge, Pat, Hilary, Penny and Rachel, and when you met them you would greet them with squeals of excitement and one of your special "smiles".

You slipped away in the same spot as Fleece, halfway through a mouthful of sardines. I don't sleep properly now - the space where you slept beside me on the bed, head on the pillow, is so empty and I miss you so very much. Sendaway was always your favourite exercise and now you have done the longest sendaway of all - and how I wish I could do the callout, A light has gone out in my life.

I know that you will be with Fleece now and will be happy but it is so hard to be left behind.

Love you both always and forever. Sue Reed.

Hollymoor Truly Scampcious - Sadie Adopted in 1993 and left us 8th August 2007 & The Taffington Teddy Bear - Taffie Adopted in 1994 left us on 2nd April 2008

My two rescue dogs both passed away within the last 9 months. Both brought me and many others so much pleasure.

Sadie was such a tomboy, wonderful with other dogs and put up with so much from Taffie when we first adopted him. She taught him how to behave like a dog. She always had a smile on her face and never had a days grumpiness!

Taffie the troubled terrier, led a charmed life, led me and others a merry dance but certainly touched the hearts of those that knew him properly.

Both were stalwarts of Clevedon & District DTC league team, in their day and went through a whole season with either of them coming first or second in the Beginner class, when the team won the South West Obedience league. I was so proud of them.

I still can't believe they have gone.......

Digit (Danesway Double Digit) Wednesday 16th January 2002 - Friday 18th April 2008 Loved and will be missed forever by Jodi and Jenny Lunn

Digit my great companion left us on Friday 18th April, due to a neurological condition. He had been ill last august with an undiagnosed problem despite being at the vets and then referred to a specialist. The day he came home I was staying round my friend's who lives next door. When I saw the van pull up outside I immediately ran down the stairs and got my shoes on. When I came in he was laying in the living room and when he saw me he tried his best to come to me and greet me like he did every morning. When I came and sat with him he did his funny little grunt, which always made me laugh. He then soon recovered. He had been going off his food lately, we tried him on different foods and different flavours, which he ate for a few meals and then refused to eat it. We tried his favourite foods, spaghetti and lettuce (yes, and odd favourite isn't it?) Despite not eating, his stomach was hard and bloated so we took him to the vet, he was then sick in the night and looked weaker the next day so we took him back. The vet said the food shouldn't be in the stomach for more than a few hours. He was then put on a drip so he wouldn't dehydrate. Later on Mum rang to see how he was doing, the vet said he was standing with his head in the corner pressed up against the bars or he was walking round in circles which concerned him. Roughly half an hour later she rang back and asked if we could go and see him, and the vets said he was glad she was coming. When we arrived there and went up to the kennels Mum burst into tears. He was laying with his head on one side and his leg sticking out the other way. We turned him over so we would be comfortable although he probably could not feel anything. The vet said he was not under any sedation or on any other medication other than the drip. I sat down by him and stroked him. His eyes were glazed and to me, he was already gone and he was beyond the point of no return, quite literally. We came to the decision to let him go. I then went outside into the hallway, Graeme MacGregor and Jenny Holt came in. 5 mins later I went back in to see a blue liquid being injected into his leg. He then took one last gasp of air. I leant over and gave him a kiss on the cheek. We took his collar off and left the room. When we got home I went up into my room and cried. I couldn't believe he had gone. Every time I look at his pictures I burst into tears.

Mum says that I should remember the good times we had together rather than the end. He was such a good dog to me and he won two pre beginners, three beginners and won out of Starters, Elementary and Graduate in YKC. He also won the YKC at Crufts, and got 2nd the following year. I remember the times at home when we piddled around doing training and whenever he heard a knock at the door he would go ballistic. The times when he romped around with Lulu and making me laugh. The times when I took him on walks and he would dance around me tugging the lead. I just see him everywhere, looking at mum trying to get Millie to play, or sitting there with his ears pricked, or laying with his chin on the ground but desperately trying to look up at the same time, or cheating by putting his head on his paw and waiting for me to chuck the tit bit at him.

I now have a permanent lump in my throat. We have an empty dog bed in the dining room. An empty cage in the van. An empty blanket by the side of my bed or on my bed at night. An empty collar with a lead. An empty space in my eyes where he once was. He was Millie's shadow, and Lulu's best friend. They would sit on the top of the stairs just touching each other.

Run free with your dad Ru and your brother Darcy. Enjoy having full eye sight once again. Your memories are with us until we meet again.

Lots of Love,
Jodi, Lulu, Jenny, Millie & Nana xxxx

My princess left us this morning, very suddenly and the shock is unbearable.

I know that at 15½ years of age I should have expected the end to come soon, but Alice was so fit, active, and bossy right to the last day that I can't believe that she's gone. She was my best friend and life will never be the same without her. At home, at work, on our walks she was always quietly around, always following behind my heels and tripping me up. Her mission in life was to extract sausage; liver etc. from everybody, and she would do whatever it took to achieve her goal.

I could write pages about my special girl but perhaps I should just keep our memories in my heart where they will remain forever.

I hope Alice has found her mom Folly, who passed over 'the Bridge' in December, aged 17½ years and all her cherished family too (watch out Jonnie Potipher she'll make 'a bee line' for you, she was such a flirt!).

Thank you Gill and God for blessing me with 15½ wonderful, memory packed years with my special angel and thank you to everyone who appreciated how special she was and loved her, for HER, not just her achievements. It meant a lot to us.

I'm sorry my words are clumsy and don't do Alice justice, but I felt that her friends in the obedience world would want to know of her passing.

God Bless sweet Ali, until we meet again, (I hope they're throwing a party for you up there, you did love a party!).

All my love, Lou

DEBAKS DADSEDYES 30/01/95 ~ 08/10/07

To Piddle

It was cold and dark and wet, the night you stole my heart
Sue carried you into the hall; I loved you from the start
I took you home
Dad wasn't impressed
He said you couldn't stay
You licked his face and wagged your tail
You even made him play
He tried hard not to like you, but it was all in vain
He finally said 'yes' and that's how you got your name
We started with our training and mostly got on fine
The only problems that you had were nearly always mine
You took me through the classes; Not knowing what you'd done
From Prebeginners to Ticket - I hope I made it fun
We never managed to get to Crufts, our chances went astray
But I know if I ever get there, you'll be with me on the day
You always knew if I was down or if things had gone bad
You'd snuggle up and lick my hand and stop me feeling sad
I hope I did things right by you on our final ride
And I hope you weren't too scared, coz I was right there by your side
You know how much I love you and I know that you will wait,
Until I come to meet you outside the Pearly Gate
Now you're not here it feels as if, my world has fallen apart
It was cold and dark and wet last night, when you broke my heart

Luv Debz x

Dave Bain and Gill Maxwell wish to express their devestation at the loss of their foundation bitch Sarkams Invernesian Dream of Baindream, aged only four.

'Callie' came with us to breed shows, although too big for the breed ring, and enjoyed meeting people when NFC. She was part of our lives fron 5 1/2 weeks of age, and was one of the most intelligent, responsive, trainable dogs we've met.

'Callie' opened our door to border collies, and without her there would be no Baindream or Gilestria Border Collies.Iinitially, she did Obedience, but it didn't light her fire, so she turned to Agility and was both fast and accurate over fences and contacts, her one problem being a love of the dog walk which she just couldn't run past.

A glitch with her health made her give it up competitivly, although she still enjoyed using the equipment in the garden. her much awaited litter proved her a superb brood bitch, passing good nature, intelligence and her superb temperament to her pups. She recently turned back to Obedience with renewed enthusiasm, and only needed to be shown a new skill once.

Her desire to please and play motivated superb performance, and her first shows had been entered. Slight behaviour and temperament changes were the only hints of a problem, but nothing could be found on examination. A huge, overwhelming brain haemorrhage took her from us in minutes, leaving a gaping tricolour hole in our hearts.

She was not just our dog, she was our friend. one of her pups is training with SARDA Southern Scotland, and is expected to pass grade I in January, and we have a son and daughter at home carrying food bowls about as she did.

Spare a thought for us, missing our extraordinary, 'ordinary' collie

Jess, today 6th Jan is 2 years since you died.
I cant believe it , its gone so quick and its no easier now .

People say time heals but I cant see that , I miss you terribly and even though I have amber to love , she is diffrent.You were always that special girl , so full of cheekiness and always waiting with that sloppy kiss.

I miss your cuddles , and I know that you were my first dog to work , and one that taught me so much , if it wasn't for you I wouldn't have had the chance to go to crufts three times for the welsh KCJO, that was an achievement with a dog like you , who loved everyone and loved all the crowds watching you, as you did what you liked in the ring and left me walking around doing the round whilst you were noising at everyone!!!
Well jess , we will meet again one day , but for now look after Gus , and keep a space for me ,

Love mum [Beth] and kisses from Amber xxxx

RIPPLING BLUEBELL OF FEROAMA 14th Mar 1994 - 14th Dec 2007 "Ripple"

Two months after the vet advised it, we had to make the heartbreaking decision to let Ripple rest in peace.

She was unique; never setting foot in a ring, but worth more than any Champion. One of my favourite photos is of her slumped across a chair sleeping, while on a dog training course. None of that obedience lark for her, she was above it. Oh she loved the shows, wagging her whole body and demanding attention if you had been chosen to be one of her friends. She loved weekend shows and camping out and very often invited herself to a “neighbouring camp” for breakfast or just to be admired. If she went missing at a show we always checked “next door” and she would be there, settled in with her new friends, whether they wanted it or not. Poor discipline on our part you may think, but if you knew Ripple you will be smiling now at the memory.

She was the boss, quite simply. A superb mother, who still recognised and “checked out” her kids right up to the end. She had two superb litters to Carol Clack’s great Toddy, each pup going to seriously vetted homes; each one loved for their character and nearly all competing in obedience at various levels including Ch. C.

Thank you to Jane Masefield for allowing me to take Ripple. She wasn’t ordered and I was simply looking, not buying. Within 10 seconds I had chosen her.

She was a fussy eater all through her life and you had to have the right titbit at the right time otherwise she would walk off and leave you standing there, feeling like a fool. She didn’t “do” tricks. When all the gang lined up and showed off their tricks for treats, Ripple simply raised her left paw and she gained her treat. As her turn came around again and again she would simply raise her paw each time and win her treat.

Ripple fought long and hard against her illness, showing so much strength of character. In May she came down with pneumonia. Already underweight, we feared the worst, but she recovered very well indeed. In October our vet advised sleep as there was nothing else to be done for her. We declined. It wasn’t the right time and she still had light in her eyes. However, she was very ill and we expected to be back at he vets in the following few days. She quite simply got stronger and a month later she was playing football with my brother and the rest of her doggy family on a beach in Wales. Oh how I treasure those photographs.

She turned up for yet another monthly check up, much to my vet’s amazement and ate spaghetti bolognese for another couple of weeks, before deciding one night that enough was enough. We understood and the deed was done later that day. She hadn’t moved all day and was ill and weak. We carried her to the car and lay her on the back seat (she hated the boot). I nursed her all the way to the vets, where she promptly jumped out of the car and trotted in to the surgery with tail wagging, defiant to the end. She went peacefully to sleep in my arms and my heart is broken.

John and Vicky, she adored you, as you know when she always came screaming after you. Did you ever manage a walk without her? It won’t be the same on our next trip.

Dear God, Ripple loves Spaghetti Bolognese and ice cream, a soft bed and some company, but she will probably choose her own friends.

Chris and John Marriott

OBI - Ob Ch ZULLMARG ZETHUS 13th March 1995 - 11th November 2007 Owned, bred and very much loved by Kathryn Gillard Crufts Obedience Champion 1999, Crufts Reserve Obedience Champion 2000

Dear Obi was given sleep when an operation went very wrong.

He had retired from competitive obedience early aged only 5 and whilst at the top of his obedience career due to ill health when a deep lung infection and two damaged discs (caused, no doubt, by doing everything at 200mph) threatened his life but due to very careful nursing and much TLC he recovered and lived a full and happy life although competition was no longer an option for him or Kathryn. All those that had the pleasure to watch him work would no doubt agree that he was exceptionally talented and beautifully trained. He leaves some fabulous offspring, many of whom have made their mark in obedience and agility.

Obi, we will never forget you.

Dale & Ian Fraser

MOBELLA RUBY TUESDAY AT ROSSACRE (Harris) Born Mar 1992 Much loved, much missed

Mannie 'Booabout Shadow Dancer' 12th March,1994 to 30th November, 2007 Dreadfully missed by Shirley Budgen

Mannie was without doubt one of the sweetest natured dogs I have ever had the privilege to own. He shared my bed, my life and my heart. I can't believe he has gone, I thought he would go on forever. He was the first dog I qualified to work ticket, gaining places in the class. Mannie was just so unassuming, never any trouble, even when he had to leave me he only gave me one day of worry … my vets and I tried so hard to save you, but sadly it was not to be. Bye my bestest boy, I will be waiting for that special star to shine very brightly then I know you will be with me again …

Loving and missing you .. mum xx

Stillmoor Touch of Gold (Danny) 1st March 1997 - 16th September 2007

We knelt gazing at the litter of lovely chunky black and white puppies when suddenly from behind the cardboard box in the corner, out he came.
A HUGE tri-colour pup, which looked more like a gigantic guinea pig that a border collie! Wow! He was beautiful!
Nigel and I looked at each other.
"I've got to have HIM", Nigel declared.
Danny's breeder protested for a while as Dan was the one she wanted to keep, however she relented and that was the beginning of our relationship with Danny.
The day we brought Danny home a comet was sighted - an unusual occurrence, which we thought was a good sign and boded well for Danny.
From the start he was immensely loyal, hugely possessive of his family and had an enormous personality to match his big handsome frame.
In the early days we misread him, not immediately recognising his sensitivity, which we think was the reason that he could not cope with the Obedience world.
He would panic in stays and either do a runner or eye upthe male next to him - either way he would get himself into trouble. However he did win 3 Novices and gotplaced in Class 'A' a couple of times. He could have been very successful.
Once he had discovered his true make up he was retired from the Obedience ring to take up his role as minder to his Mother and the female members of our human and canine family. In fact any female would immediately be added to his extensive harem.
His life was complete when we introduced his baby half-sister Ruby, to our home and he adored her, ensuring thatno harm came to her.
Danny has left a huge gap in our lives, which will be difficult to fill.
We already miss him head-butting open the kennel door to go for his run and kangarooing up and down at the kitchen counter, worrying that he may be left out at teatime. We miss the daily sparring sessions between himand out cat.

Whenever we go on holiday, our dogs are looked after by Aunty Lou and they delight in racing around the paddock all day when they are with her.
The last time Danny stayed I asked Lou if he had behaved himself this time, as he was always prone to starting a scrap with one or other of her dogs.
Lou assured me that Danny had been 'a very good boy'.
On hearing this, Danny puffed up his chest, a big grin on his clown face.
How pleased he was!
"My Aunty Lou says I am a very good boy!"

Danny was taken ill quite suddenly and after just a few short days he was gone. We are still taking it in as it was totally out of the blue. He was ten and a half but acted like a two year old and we had hoped to share many more years with out big handsome boy.
The next evening we saw a rainbow - we also saw this as a good sign and boded well for Danny - he had crossed over the Rainbow Bridgesafely.
So God, if you hear a commotion at the gate of Rainbow Bridge it will probably be our Danny head-butting it open. He never did have the patience to wait until it was opened.
Oh and can you please add this to the bottom of his cv:

"Danny was a very good boy", cos his Aunty Lou said ....

Sleep well our big handsome land till we meet again.

Mom, and Dad, and your girls - Maisie, Sian-Louise and baby sister Ruby XX

Jack, Prince of Scots (Jack) 05/11/1993 - 18/07/2007 (Owned and loved by Pat & Les Perry)

I remember so well the day we brought you home, a small, lively bundle of fun. You grew into a wonderful family dog, who loved to play.

Obedience wasn't really your thing, you were too interested in the smells from the Catering Van!

However you shone at exemption shows, never leaving without a rosette for Handsomest Dog or Best Rescue and in your later years, Best Veteran.

It was after much heartsearching that I made the decision to let you go, but I know that the time was right.

Run free at Rainbow Bridge, Jackie Lad,
We miss you loads

Mum xx

"Cut the leash that holds me here,
Dear friend, and let me run,
Once more a strong and steady dog,
My pain and struggle done.

And don't despair my passing,
For I won't be far away,
Forever here, within your heart,
And memory I'll always stay.

I'll be there watching over you,
Your ever faithful friend,
And in your memories I'll run,
...a young dog once again."

I was standing on a hillside,
In a field of blowing wheat,
And the spirit of a japanese akita dog,
Was lying a my feet.

He looked at me with kind dark eyes,
An ancient wisdom shining through,
And in the essence of his being,
I saw love there too.

His mind did lock upon my heart,
As I stood there on that day,
And he told me of this story,
About a place so far away.

I stood upon a hillside,
In a field of blowing wheat,
And in a twinkling of a second,
His spirit left my feet.

His tale did put my heart at ease,
My fears did fade away,
About what lay ahead of me,
On another distant day.

" I live among god's creatures now,
In the heavens of your mind,
So do not grieve for me, my friend
As I am with my kind.

My collar is a rainbows hue,
My leash a shooting star,
My boundaries are the milky way,
Where I sparkle from afar.

There are no pens or kennels here,
For I am not confined,
But free to roam god's heavens,
Among my akita kind.

I nap the day on a snowy cloud,
Gentle breezes rocking me,
And dream the dreams of earthlings,
And how it used to be.

The trees are full of liver treats,
And tennis balls abound,
And milkbones line the walkways,
Just waiting too be found.

There even is a ring set up,
The grass all lush and green,
And everyone who gaits around,
Becomes the best of breed.

For we're all winners in this place,
We have no faults you see,
And god passes out those ribbons,
To each one, even me.

I drink from waters laced with gold,
My world a beauty to behold,
And wise old dogs do form my pride,
To amble at my very side.

At night I sleep in angels arms,
Her wings protecting me,
And moonbeams dance about us,
As stardust falls on thee.

So when your life on earth is done,
And you stand at heavens gate,
Have no fear of loneliness,
For here you know I wait".

Author Unknown.

Oskha was a 'Wonderful' ambassador of his breed, he was given sleep with
Steve and I by his side.

Sleep well 'BIG LAD', go find your best pal Drift and your litter sister
Siqha.

Jess, its one year today that you snatched away from us so suddenly , I miss you so much Jess , and think about you every day.
Today Jess, Gus [the cat] , your mate has come up to be with you, he wasn't well and we thought it best that we give him the peace he deserved.
Amber, Jade , Poppy and Holly miss you and your funny ways , Jade has taken over your duty of top dog and is keeping the pack in order , well Jess I hope you and Gus know that we will always remember and miss you both , run free and help Gus to catch mice , until we meet again.

Mummy [Beth ] , mum , dad , Michael , Gareth , canines Amber , Jade ,and Poppy and cat Hollyxxxx

Glarenmoss Sonny n Cher April 1995 to Dec 2006 Owned by Joan & Merv Richards

Our Dear Sonny bun you never let us down, a great ambassador for the aussies we miss you little man, Bobby is lost without you God Bless You.

If it should be that I grow weak,
And pain should keep me from my sleep
Then you must do what must be done
For this last battle can't be won

You will be sad, I understand
Dont let your grief then stay your hand
For this day more than all the rest
Your love for me must stand the test

We've had so many happy years
What is to come can hold no fears
You would not want me to suffer so
The time has come please let me go

Take me to where my needs they will tend
And stay with me to the end
Hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see

Please do not grieve it must be you
Who has this painful thing to do
Weve been so close ,we two these years
Dont let your heart hold back the tears.

Chocalert Travisty March 1993 - Nov 2006 Owned by Brian Coates

Our dearest old boy Travis has left us. So reliable, such a gentleman, never a moment's bother, you hardly knew he was there, but how massive is the hole he's left now he's gone.

He ruled the roost without even a curl of his lip, gaining the respect of the other dogs in some unspoken way. And how he enjoyed doing something for you, endlessly bringing a toy just so he could bring it again. He loved obedience, before he had to be retired due to the onset of arthritis. He'd take anyone in the ring and work them, steering them round, laughing all over his face.

He loved everyone, especially small children, although picnic sandwiches were at risk if he and Tam launched a two pronged attack! Usually bringing up the rear on a walk but joining in if there was a game, in spite of his fragility, getting back to his feet every time he got knocked over. We had to help him stand towards the end and when his kidneys failed, the difficult, but inevitable decision had to be made to give him rest.

Run free of pain, Jack. Reunited with Tam at Rainbow Bridge. We will miss you, bobble head...

"If you bury him in this spot, he will come to you when you call.
Come to you over the grim, dim frontiers of death,
and down the well-remembered path to your side again.
And though you call a dozen living dogs to heel, they shall
not growl at him, nor resent his coming, for he belongs there.
People may scoff at you, who see no lightest blade of grass
bent by his footfall, who hear no whimper; people who may never really
have had a dog. Smile at them, for you shall know something that is
hidden from them, and which is well worth the knowing. The one best
place then, to bury a dog, is in the heart of his master...."

JAIMYS REET PETITE (Fidget) 11/9/95 to 21/9/06 Loved and sadly missed by Ethan and Jackie.

Last week we celebrated her 11th birthday, this week little Fidget gave up the fight against cancer. It took all my will power not to back out, but I didn't and she left without fuss this afternoon two days after Chance's 1st anniversary. I can't believe how quiet our house is right now. For such a small dog, she has left such a big, big hole.

She was without a doubt the most unassuming dog I've ever lived with, and so very gentle with it. All her life she'd stand at the door and wait to be invited in while the other dogs rushed past her regardless, she sought eye contact for confirmation that she was doing something correctly, if she found a toy before the others she'd dance around it to attract attention then back off, laughing all over her furry little face when they realised what she had. The only thing she stood her ground over was her food dish, and NO ONE dared challenge her over that.

I can't believe my oldies are all gone, but with luck they are reunited again - China, Chance and Fidget, the three Muskateers, doing what they did best - chasing each other around like loonies and enjoying each others company.

Run free from pain Fidgey Woo, until we see you again.

Jackie & Ethan BABY.

BANJO 29-05-1999 to 06-10-2006

Well our beautiful boy, you are now free of all the pain that you borne with such dignity, we are very proud to say Banjo you were our special boy. When you was born you was deaf, but you never let that stop you from doing lots of things.

We had a special bond you and I, we started out doing sign language but we didn’t need that did we, we knew what each other wanted and that is the bond we had. You could talk the hind leg off a donkey and give people whip lash with your wagging tail that ever stopped still, Even when the pain was so hard for you to bare your tail still wagged, not as fast as it used to but it still wagged.

At least all of your pain is gone now and also your poorly heart will be mended ,but mine and your dads will take a bit longer to heal we didn’t want to let you go .but we could see that you were very tired and deserved to rest your weary head. We have planted a tree in your honour up were you spent a lot of time and were you loved to be. Drummer says hello he cannot understand why you are not here to play tic-tac-toe with him, the game you always played until the pain took over.

The house is so quite without you I have no one to back chat me anymore, but one day we will all be together again and play all the games we used to, So goodnight sweet prince, god bless and keep you safe until we can play in the green fields over in rainbow bridge remember Banjo you are in a special corner of my heart which is for you alone.

All love and kisses

Mum, Dad, Drummer, Oboe, xxxxxxxxxxxxx

Fizzy (Bytchek Dancer) BC 2-2-1992 to 6-9-2006 Sire Sh Ch Fieldbank Independence Dam Bytchek Celeste

My Dear Little Fizzy is gone and I can’t believe it.

Never really set the world of Obedience alight but had fun trying.

Her greatest achievement was having a litter, she truly found her niche in life in that and was such a devoted Mum she would have made herself ill caring for her babies.

She ruled all of my dogs with a rod of iron but was always fair and was often seen trying to get them to play with her. Loved all people and was such a great comforter to me in times of trouble, not sure what I’ll do now. She loved to run around in circles and bark and even learnt later in life what fun swimming was.

Fizz was diagnosed just 6 weeks ago with Lymphoma and I never realized her time would be up so quickly. Even after 14 ½ years making the decision to let her go was just so difficult even though I know it was the right choice and she left me while she still had her dignity.

Gone now to be with her two daughters who went before, one at just a few hours old and her first born Jarna (Byru Dancer OW). Still here and grieving are another two of her puppies Wenoki Woody and Aasta Risk and not forgetting her number one son Tri Clans Magical Addition OW (Mary Prentices Bertie).

Gone but will NEVER be forgotten, my darling Fizzy. Saying goodbye was so damned hard.

Until we meet again my little Squid.

From your heartbroken Mum Rose and the other dogs you ruled at home Woody, Aasta, Phoenix and that Kelpie, Inca

Love you always.

Old Dogs Do Not Die

We have a secret, you and I,
That no-one else shall know.
For who but I shall see you lie,
Each night in fireglow?

And who but I can reach my hand
Before we go to bed,
And feel the living warmth of you
And touch your silken head?

And only I walk woodland paths,
And see, ahead of me,
Your small form racing with the wind,
So young again, and free.

And only I can see you swim
In every brook I pass.
And when I call, no-one but I
Can see the bending grass.

--author unknown

Pip Knall 1989 - 9th August 2006

Over 16 years ago I saw you in the pound, brought in by the dog warden with bleeding pads, filthy dirty, cowering and shaking with fear.

For over 16 years you were the most devoted and eager companion, trusting and gentle with an overwhelming zest for life.

At 17 despite your body's failings you still wanted to run and play and when you fell over you clambered to your feet and carried on. On that last day when I tried to wake you, you looked up and the spark had gone, I could tell that the time had come to give you sleep. You didn't have the will to run any more.

Though you never competed, you will always be the greatest winner I have ever known and I hope I did right by you little man!

Sleep well angel, run and play and be free of pain and we will come for you again one day. Missing you every second!

Love Mummy (Paula) Daddy (Chris) and Ben

BERNICE PEARL, CDEX (Crumble) Labrador 25.9.89-19.8.06.

Crumble was my first competition dog and we've certainly come a long way together in nearly 17 years. She was a great character and there was nothing she couldn't do if SHE wanted to although doing it because I wanted her to, now that was a different matter! We have had a most amazing journey together, from the very naughty young Labrador to the very elderly dog and the house will certainly seem very empty without her.

She was always a "Champion" at getting people to empty their pockets of any titbits through her "I'm a starving Labrador" eyes. Once the sparkle started leaving those eyes, it was time to say goodbye.

Goodbye "Black Witch". Gone but never forgotton.

Bernice, Frankie and Spy

'LOOK NO FURTHER' CD.EX BORDER COLLIE (MIKE) BREEDER M. ANDERSON SIRE CH. LOCHIEL LOOK NORTH DAM DESIGNA LACE 21.9.96 TO 23.6.06

Your breeder gave me you because she would not be able to sell you as you had a half white face. BUT you qualified for Crufts in breed. She said you would not work BUT you got to 'B' in Obedience and got to 'WD' in trials. You were such a character, loved by all that met you. You loved your skateboard and all the Mary Ray tricks. You were my fun dog. I miss you so much. It broke my heart to have to let you go when your kidneys would not work. I will never forget you.

Owned and loved by Helen Rajska

MELNOLA GOLDEN GUINEA OF RETCOLL (GILDA) XB 16.6.91 - 31.5.06 Owned & Loved by Sue Ellis

Life became such a struggle and I couldn’t see this grand old lady go on. It broke my heart to say goodbye, playing god isn’t easy. Gilda was from Deckers first litter and she was also the start of my Retcoll affix. She had two lovely litters of which I am so proud, they all made wonderful obedience, agility and working trials dogs but most of all lovely to live with. Obedience she loved but the stays, well let’s not mention them. She loved everyone and most of all puppies, she would even leave the ring if there was a puppy around. Her love in life was to carry bun buns (soft toys) around and she even gave birth to a litter while suckling on her ‘bun bun’.

Sleep well my ‘puppy dog’ those aching bones are no more. Hope you meet up with your son Copper at Rainbow Bridge and you can go and play with the rest of our ‘family’.The angels had better have lots of ‘bun buns’ for you to carry. Dave and I will miss you terribly and Kedi well who’d have ever thought she would miss you but you’ve both grown old together and now she’s wondering where you are.

Rest in peace my Golden Girl.

Your heartbroken Mum and Dad Sue and Dave Ellis and Kedi (the last of our doggy family)

Hopalong Cassabea 13th April 1992 - 19th May 2006 Loved and missed by Debbie Back

For fourteen years you've shared my life and how quickly they've flown by,
I'm just so glad I held you as you took your final sigh.
You weren't well known for heelwork, retrieves or recalls,
You were just happy to be chasing round and running after balls.
You were the leader of our gang and kept everyone in their place.
You didn't need to snap or growl, they knew just by your face.
You started to get weary, your legs started to give way,
I wished I could make you young again.
I just wanted you to play.
You defied the vets and lived, for many extra years, but that doesn't ease the heartbreak or wipe away the tears.
Time waits for no one, not even the best.
You looked so very tired and I knew you wanted Rest.
I hope you're running through the clouds to go and get your wings,
But before you cross the bridge I've got to tell you one last thing.
I'm proud to have known you and I'm really glad you see, that fourteen years ago, you chose to live with me.

Jumble 12/8/89 - 27/03/06 Put to sleep age 16 years old.

You were just 7 weeks old and all alone with no-one to guide you when i first saw you in that big cold kennel. I remember picking you up and cradling you in my arms and the first thing you did was to lick my face. I knew then that you were the one for me. All you wanted was alot of love and care. With no experience of how to look after you, i took you home and we learnt together. You was my first dog who i learnt everything from. You took me into a world i never thought existed. Obedience, agility and now heelwork to music.

You finally lost your fight, after 6 years of kidney failure, but you put up a fight to the very end.

I thank you for all the things you taught me and all the good times we had together. I thank you for keeping peoples feet clean and sitting on my lap everytime i mentioned putting you in the bath. I thank you for taking up all the bed so i got to sleep on the edge, but i didn't want to wake you. I thank you for making me chase you until you wanted to come back, but you knew i needed the exercise. Thank you for taking me into the world of fun dog shows and making me a better dog owner.

I never thought this day would come, but you are now free from pain and i am sure you are back running about with your sister Jess causing havoc over rainbow bridge. Say hello to her for me and remember you will never be forgotten (either of you). You have left a legacy of memories in this life, not just for me but to all that knew you.

Taz, Bertie and Tia are missing you already, but i will look after them the way you taught me to do.

Sleep well, and keep each other company until we can all be re-united once more.

mum xxx

WONDERHOME BRYN OW 25/5/90 - 15/1/06

Bryn came to us as a sixteen month old 'rescue' after his two previous homes did not work out for him.

We were told that Bryn was a 'Half Sealight' so we fully expected to see a tri-colour boy at least - but no!, our Bryn was a traditional black and white with five naughty spots on his nose!

For the first two days with us he refused to come into the house and opted to sleep in the yard. However, on the third evening, a little face with five naughty spots peered around the door. "Come on then, mate" said Nigel. Bryn entered the room, jumped onto Nigel's lap and a partnership was formed. From then on, all Bryn asked was a warm bed, a full belly and lots of love.

Bryn took well to his training, and being a quick learner he often left Nigel behind. He proved to be a very willing little dog who won through his classes fairly quickly. The zenith of his career was when he was awarded the Reserve CC at Wolverhampton in 2000 by Charles Allcock.

We were so proud of our little rescue or "Mr Bim" as my young niece called him - His nickname stuck for life!

Bryn was retired from obedience shortly following this, due to Nigel's work commitments and proved to be a wonderful pet and companion. He was clean, quiet (he almost never barked), polite and well mannered - "A proper little gentleman".

You could take Bryn anywhere - his behaviour was impeccable.

As he grew older, Bryn developed a heart condition and arthritis in his spine but until a week before he died, Bryn enjoyed life - daily walks in the Sandwell Valley with his pals, wheedling sweeties from all the dog walking ladies he met in the park.

Shortly into the New Year, Bryn suffered a stroke from which he was never to recover.

Thankfully he was ill for just one week before our vet informed us that Bryn's internal organs were failing.

There was no other choice, Bryn would have been sixteen in May and although our vet is brilliant, he is no magician. Bryn left us at lunchtime on Sunday, with his family by his side. - And do you know what? - he never did get to use those bloomin' naughty spots!

So, God - if you are reading this, please take note - if a little face with five naughty spots peers around the door, please take care of him 'cos he is no trouble, he doesn't bark and is very polite. All he asks is a warm bed, a full belly and lots of love.

Sue & Nigel Slater and Mr Bim's pals:- Maisie, Danny, Sian and Ruby.

Jess put to sleep on 6th January, 2006 aged ten and a half years

Jess, you were a special dog , who made her way into everyone's heart , you had a special stubborn streak in you which made you even more lovable .
You were taken from us so suddenly Jess and its so very hard , but I know once I am over the initial shock I will remember all the good times we had together.
You competed at Crufts in the KCJO for Wales four times and I am very proud of you Jess, I know you are out of pain and suffering now and with your best friend Sadie.

Jade tried to help you in your time of need , by donating her blood for you but this was not enough and there was no way out , other than for the vet to send you on your journey.
Jess , auntie Rach, held you and cuddled you whilst you were given the final injection as we did not want to put any more stress on you by waking you up from your sedative , we came to you soon after to give you our final farewells.

Jess I will always think of you and you will always be our special girl


lots of love and hugs

from

Mummy [Beth] , Mum , Dad , Michael , Gareth.
Your canine sisters Jade , Poppy and Amber and those who knew and loved you.
xxxxxxx

Her journeys just begun

Don't think of her as gone away
Her journey has just begun
Life holds many facets
The earth is only one

Just think of her as resting
From the sorrow and the tears
In a place of warmth and comfort
Where there are no days or years

Think how she must be wishing
That we could know today
How nothing but our sadness
Can really pass away

And think of her as living
In the hearts of those she touched
For nothing loved is ever lost
And she was loved so much.

Nutty was given rest when life became too hard.

Nutty had her fair share of rosettes but was retired after a back operation for a slipped disc caused too many slow sits in her work.

She enjoyed obedience and took my daughter, Amber, to Crufts in the KCJO competition.

She also did flyball and had a staring roll in a Disney Club production one Saturday showing a day in the life of a young girl (Amber) and her flyball dog. She did some other film and TV work but I suppose her main claim to
fame was about 30 seconds in the film 'Shakespeare in Love'.

She had a superb temperament and, together with 'hubby' Bamboozle Fleet, had 2 litters with 8 puppies in each. She was a true matriarch and taught puppies wonderfully.

I shall miss her so much, I can¹t believe she¹s gone just 12 weeks after my beloved Tofee.

Rhoda Burns.

FREYA (MALARIDGE REVELATION) 26-01-01 - 20-09-05 Border Collie who was loved and is missed so very much by Angie and Keith Xavier-Smith

After big sister (Rema) lost her puppies,Janet Aldridge (the breeder), came to me and said she had repeated the mateing, if I would like a puppy, it would be a full sister instead of a daughter, I jumped at the chance, then one night the phone rang, it was Janet to say you were born, she called you Odd Job because you had one black front leg, I said o.k. I would have a look. When you were 3 weeks old I went to see you, and what did you do when I walked in the room, you came over and bit me on the
ankle, I knew you were the one for me, and all though your short life you were still biting me. You caused havoc in the house you were so bossy, but I was always proud of you, you had style and you were so beautiful although you were small and slim, but in the ring I never knew what you were going to throw at me, but I never stoppped loving you. I could never have guessed hao short your little life was going to be, you always had something in you mouth,and chewing plastic bottles I was always having to
take things from you, but this time it was one thing to many,and I was to late to safe you within an hour you were gone from us for ever. Everywhere we look there are things with teeth marks in so you made sure that we would never forget you. You have left a very large hole in our lifes, but like Mavis said maybe one day the pain will stop and we will only remember the good timesGod bless you Freya I hope oneday we can meet again and have fun together again. Thank you very much for all the phone calls and cards
they ment so much it just goes to show how much people do care and understand thank you everyone. Angie and keith and big sister Rema (who know gets to hold the ball all the time)

Chance (CHANCE TO DANCE WITH JAIMYS) April 1992 - September 2005 Loved and missed by Jackie, Fidget and Ethan

CHANCE came to live with us when he was just turned a year. He came from a rescue kennel in Gateshead, Newcastle. I was told that the family who left him said the kids were allergic to him, but it soon became clear there was probably more to it than that. He'd empty bins faster than I could fill them, pull wallpaper off, and steal anything he could get his teeth into.

HIS best asset was his endless patience and love of all things young. He was the welcome wagon for every kitten and puppy that came his way. One of the favourite games shared between himself and Kamen the moggy was `Get that cat!` I'd say out of the blue, `get that cat` and Kamen would race up the stairs with Chance on his heels. He'd eventually get `caught` and would end up on his back legs in the air with Chance nibbling his belly. They'd lie like that for a while, then when he'd had enough, Kamen would belt Chance on the nose and the game would be over. Fletcher and Danny, the other cats, didn't `get` the game at all, but I think Kamen thought he was a dog and enjoyed the rough and tumble.

EVERY now and again Chance would try to pretend he was a tough nut and stand up to a dog, thinking he was `all that`. He got the shock of his life one day when a GSD came back at him with `What did you say?` Chance turned tail and ran screaming all the way back to the house. I nearly wet myself, and he never tried it again. :)

HE was a natural retriever, willing to carry or drag anything he took a shine to when we were out on walks. They ranged from ordinary to the ridulous. I can still see him the day he decided he wanted to bring home a car seat.....and I mean a WHOLE car seat. After many minutes and many laughs he gave up on the seat and had to be content with the head rest!

HE loved his toys more than anything and would often be seen with up to five squeakies, balls and ropes in his mouth at one time. I couldn't persuade him that heelwork was a good thing. When he didn't want to do something, he took on the personality of a mule and there was no shifting him. So he was `retired` at an early age, happy to potter around the place with his gob-full of toys.

CHANCE was a law unto himself - ignoring me regularly, much to my frustration at times. The big ginger b****r! However, I have absolutely no regrets about taking him on, he was a pleasure to own and to have around. It was their loss when his previous owners dumped him at the rescue kennel.

HE was Fidget's hero and Ethan's guide, but he was always, always China's best friend. Hopefully they will have met up again, and they can play their race games again till their hearts content.

See you later, `George`. The pleasure was all mine.


Jackie

Jet [Blackface Jet] B.C. 27/5/1993 - 15/9/2005

Jet came to me as a 10 week puppy courtesy of Kay Lawrence and my daughter, he was an adorable bundle of black fluff with one white leg, people often thought he had a bandage on. Unfortunately he was diagnosed with quite severe HD at 5 months, but he never let it restrict his life, He was a very gentle dog friendly with all creatures, human or otherwise.
He did not like obedience, he just made it into A & B but i decided to retire him at about 4,
He was quite a loner, and only came alive when you played or when he rounded up Tango on walks, and would often take himself up to the top of the garden and lie by himself., but I am sure he was quite content with his life.
Run free my lovely gentle boy, find our other departed companions, give them my love, we will all meet again some day.

I wrote this little piece one day not so long ago, when I was watching him.

Soliloquy for Jet

I look out of the window and see you lying there by the gate, nose pointing up the path., nothing unusual in this, it is becoming more and more the norm with you, but again I wonder, why? What makes you always prefer to be on your own, whether it’s lying in the porch when I bring you indoors, or as now, in the garden?

What are you thinking of my boy? Do you wish for the hills and valleys of your home in Wales where you were born, do you feel the confines of a domestic home too claustrophobic, perhaps you dream of the sheep that you could have rounded up, the streams to be forded, the dykes to be jumped? Instead you have been asked to do my bidding which is so alien to your instincts, having to learn the commands of heel, watch, find, that we use in competition obedience. The timeless commands of your birthright, ‘way to me’ ‘come bye’ nothing but a misty memory. If you do remember them, my Jet, and mourn the loss, I am so sorry

I wrote this to my boy on the 30th June 2005, how was I to know that not so long after you would be gone from me…….back to the Welsh hills and valleys perhaps?

Jet 27th May 1993 – 15th September 2005

Arlene Phillips

Bosun (SANBREWN KALA DANCER) 22/9/1992 - 7/9/2005

How very lucky I have been to spend nearly 13 years with such a very special dog. Bosun loved people, was my very special friend and was my little shadow at home. I was devastated when he was diagnosed with cancer but luckily he never knew he was ill.

It was hard to believe that my lovely boy who was so full of bounce and life wasn't going to be around for long, but how lucky that I had some warning and had a chance to make his last few weeks so special.

Bosun will be misssed by Crumble and Frankie. He will certainly leave a big gap but I do have so many very special memories of him. Gone but certainly never forgotten.

Bernice

Amber Our Long Coated German Shepherd Dream (Mascani Hindi) 26-1-2002 to 8-8-2005 3 1/2 years young

You bounced into our lives,
a puppy just right,
So full of loving energy,
a light so very bright,
A lady of saftness you were,
so full of living,
Gentle yet energetic, bold yet sensitive,
always loving, very giving,
Siezing obedience but not as a pet,
strutting you stuff so proud,
In the competitive ring doing well,
ensuring you pulled a crowd.
Your loves in life were many,
with gusto thrown in all,
Leaping for bubbles, chasing reflections,
anything up the wall,
You lived life to the absolute max,
doing it at fast pace,
Didn't want to rest and miss things,
living to you was a race,
As long as we were going somewhere,
or doing something good,
You were by my side with a smile,
doing everything you should.
Joanne's life was built around you,
24 - 7 bonded strong,
She and Mark had no idea,
you weren't to be here long,
Now grieved as a daughter lost,
we try to recall above,
Try to smile through all the tears,
Remember our deep love.

Amber - you touched many hearts - right now they're all broken,
Love Always,
Your Joanne and Mark Stanley xxx

The six week old pup was carried into the manage by Rowena. It was a red tri and had so many spots on its nose that they became one smudge and looked as though all the stable crud was smeared onto it. I fell in love with that pup and knew that I had to have one just like it.

Three year later I went to see the litter, a repeat mating, I wanted a bitch but had first choice of the dogs and second of the bitches. I was drawn to the big handsome dog but when Anne said that she had a possible home for the dog if I didn¹t have him, I went with my original idea of a bitch. The dog became Ob Ch. Dalemain Red Rascal and achieved his full potential with Carol Clack. Being a big strong boy and me being a novice handler he would never have done that with me.

I brought Toffee home at 6 weeks, a big bundle of fluff with china blue eyes. She grew up to be my perfect idea of a collie. Big, heavy coated and beautiful. We had a special relationship, she gave 100% in everything I asked her to do but was sensitive and just wanted to please. She was my ideal companion. Despite having been asked time and time again for a pup by her I chose not to breed. Her one failing was her temperament with other dogs. I didn¹t want to pass that on.

The first couple of seasons in obedience were frustrating as she would put in a stunning round only to spook at some invisible ghost in the far distant corner of the field. This happened in every round and so I knew it would take a great deal of work to sort her out but with the help of friends we did it. She went from strength to strength, qualifying ticket on 4 wins and a second. During this time she also became the Tornadoes flyball team¹s lead dog and was, for a while, the fastest flyball dog in the country. She really loved her flyball and would have done it all day every day.

Our first season in ticket was very much a learning curve. At the start of our second season Toffee began to bark unhappily in fast pace and stop. Eventually I realised that she was becoming reluctant to play with her tuggie (her favourite toy) and checked her teeth. She had a broken tooth which was subsequently removed and she was back to her old self. I rebuilt her confidence slowly and she started working happily again. Unfortunately she broke another tooth, and at that time, the veterinary profession were not convinced that dogs suffered pain with broken teeth, so my vet refused to remove it. Her tooth seemed painful when she ran with her mouth open as she did in fast pace, presumably it was the cold air hitting an exposed nerve(we¹ve all been there).These days I¹d have asked for a second opinion
but then, rather than allow her to be uncomfortable, I retired her from obedience.

In her younger days she had done some agility but as she was phenomenally fast I couldn¹t keep up with her, so I didn¹t go back to that. The adrenaline buzz that she got from flyball made her oblivious to toothache so we concentrated on that. Her flyball career lasted well into old age, she was still putting in amazingly fast times at 12 years old beating most of the younger dogs hands down.

During her lifetime Toffee took part in the prestigious Superdogs event managing to come 7th even though I wouldn¹t let her do some of the equipment as I wasn¹t happy with it and felt it may put her at risk. She was also in the other Superdogs, the TV version, winning at flyball and racing. Anything that involved speed she excelled at , some people may remember her scent exercise!!!! She always treated scent as a time trial. She was on pop video tapes, the David Letterman show and she even took me over to Ireland to appear in a film (Toffee, not me). That was the epitome of pleasure for me, doing nothing but working with her for 5 days and she just loved being the centre of attention with no other dogs around. The added bonus of being paid to do something we both enjoyed so much was icing on the cake.

As I write this Toffee is 17, and she will still chase a ball or frisby. She is deaf now but if I show her a toy and put it in my left hand she still enjoys heelwork albeit somewhat wobbly. She has had two strokes and is senile but still happy. Her health is now deteriorating quite fast and I know that, when the time comes, I won¹t be able to write anything so I¹ve put pen to paper today.

People say that you have one special dog in a lifetime. Dalemain Toffee Nose Trouble of Wumblibumbly OW was mine.

Rhoda

RETCOLL SEARBY SILVER DOLLAR (BC) 20.11.89 - 12.5.05 Owned and Bred by Sue Ellis

Losing two dogs in 6 months is very hard to cope with and it never gets any easier and neither should it if you love them.

DOLLAR was put to sleep to save his dignity when life became a struggle. One word describes him - PERFECT, he was in every way. 2 ½ years ago he had a stroke and we nearly had him pts then but our vet said give him 3 days and see if he improves and typical of DOLLARs strength and willpower he got another 2 ½ years.

He was big, handsome and loved everybody and everything. His obedience career was cut short because he hated out of sight stays and even to the end he would be looking where I was. Everyone who met him loved him and he used to smile just like his mum. He adored playing football to the extent of making his legs sore and camping was his dream, it meant he could get as many cups of tea as possible.

Rest in peace now son, your mum Tanna and Copper, Carla, Loki and Sam will be waiting. Don’t look round for me this time DOLLAR because I’m not there with you - not just yet, just wait at Rainbow Bridge for me. The house seems so quiet now we’ve gone from six dogs to two, we miss them all so much. I must admit we are finding it very hard at the moment but I know time and memories will help. Sleep tight my handsome boy.

From your loving Mum and Dad Sue and Dave Ellis and Gilda who is missing you terribly and Kedi.

My darling 'Little Angel' I miss you so much
Your happy wagging tail and your tender touch
You left me so suddenly before you were seven
To join your dear Father Visa in that lovely Heaven
A wonderful PAT dog, all the people who
You met and comforted, they all loved you!
My precious Malaika always in my heart
Until the day we are no longer apart.
You'll always be remembered if through my tears
But thankyou my darling for those wonderful years.

With all our love
Mummy,Daddy & Harvey

Darling Visa, the love of my life. I cannot bear to be parted
from you, my brave beautiful boy. You tried so hard to stay with
me but it was not meant to be.
My heart, my soul, together forever - one day I will see you
again.

Dying is just another adventure

Lay down your sweet and weary head
Night is falling you have come to journeys end.
Sleep now, and dream - of the ones who came before
They are calling from across a distant shore.
Why do you weep, what are those tears upon your face?
Soon you will see all of your fears will pass away.
Safe in my arms you're only sleeping
What can you see on the horizon?
Why do the white gulls call?
Across the sea a pale moon rises
The ships have come to carry you home.
Hope fades into the world of night
Through shadows falling out of memory and time.
Don't say we have come now to the end
White shores are calling, you and I we will meet again.

In less than one month I have lost two companions and two
friends.

I would also like to mention

Brijack Mighty Quinn
G.S.D (JESTER)
19.5.92 to 19.12.04

Hope you are with your brother Visa and getting up to all things
naughty.

And Jetril Oska Wilde
W.S.D. (OSKA)
17.10.94 to 2.1.05.

A grandson of Ryan. Hope the world is full of Frisbees.

My thoughts a re with Janis and Glynis.

Foxy Lady Love 05/12/89 - 02/11/04 "Toyah"

Sadly I lost Toyah and part of me died with her. She has left a void that can never be filled. I could not replace her and never want to "she was one in a million".

I was with her when she took her first breath and I was there when she drew her last, we had a really good time along the journey.

Her heart was as big as her ears and as you can see they were great. Her nick- name was Big Ears, she was a loyal and devoted friend and I miss her so very much. I hope she is playing with her mother "Corrie" who was another great girl and is also sadly missed.

My heart goes out to all who have lost their pet.

We may never have won a ticket, but she was my "Champ".

We worked together in obedience for 12½ years, and she really loved it, her tail was swinging and ears were up. For the remainder she just dabbled, she would join in when she felt like it, which was quite often. When I was training the other two, she'd be there waiting her turn, and could get quite vocal if I didn't work her.

Bye for now, you will remain in our thoughts forever.

Love

Moira, Dave, Broxi and Pepsi xxxx

Elsa - Bluequills Melody GSD 15/6/1992 - 17/11/2003 Coco - Coco the Clown WS 25/10/1988 - 21/11/2004

Elsa was my first GSD she was a wonderful dog very loyal and protective she came to all the shows with me and loved it in the caravan. I did work her in obedience and she won a novice but I retired her at 6 from open shows due to ill health. She still worked in the league and did a few companion shows, which she enjoyed.
She was a very vocal dog and the house is so quiet without her she couldn't even yawn quietly, she always sang for her dinner or yum yums as she called it!

She was a lovely tempered dog - unless crossed, she did not like dogs in her face and told them so in no uncertain terms. She was brilliant with people unless they had a go at me then she was lethal.

Elsa had cancer of the blood vessels of the heart Sunday she was poorly and I took her to the vets Monday she was PTS that quick, at least she didn't suffer.

I miss her more than words can say and just before Christmas last year Coco left me to join her. Coco was 16 still going out for walks right up to the end but everything packed up, her liver kidneys and she wasn't eating very unlike Coco. I remember going on holiday in September and we wanted to go for a walk, too far for Coco but she was determined to come so we took her I had to carry her up a steep hill which nearly killed me but she had her walk with the other dogs. Coco was my first obedience dog she never got to the dizzy heights of obedience Coco won a beginners and had stacks of other rosettes but the elusive 2nd beginners was not hers Elsa won it which put me out.

Coco was always in the way and at 16 I had to do so much for her she had her routine and did not waver from it she was always in the way lying across the door way, she also slept on the settee we sat on the floor!

I miss you both very much hope there are plenty of squeaky toys for you Elsa and balls or balloons for you Coco.

Love Hilary and Simon

CLAIRIST BUNJIMIN “Bunji” FDU Feb 1994 – 19 Dec 2004 Owner – Claire Porter

Bunji was given his well deserved sleep, after bravely fighting the cruel cancer for so long.

Bunji introduced me to the world of Obedience. I decided I wanted a dog to train. I was so naïve back then, that I went down to the local RSPCA and choose a 12 month old, loony, short-coated dog that paid no attention to me what-so- ever, wouldn’t play, already had 4 previous homes and was named Bunji because all he did all day was jump to look through the window of his kennel but as long as it was a Collie it would be alright….wouldn’t it?

Bunji was very hard work, and I’ve got the scars to prove it. He would never be affectionate to anybody in public but he did enjoy ‘giving five’ to anyone to had food. But behind closed doors, when there were just us two, there was a special secret side to Bunji that only we knew about. The bond between us was so strong and I will miss him so, so much. He was my shadow and I don’t know how I am going to cope without him.

Bunji growled and protested all the way through from Pre-Beginners to 2 ‘B’ wins earlier this year, amusing many judges and stewards as he could all his heelwork showing his teeth and growling all the way out to the sendaway box. He never really wanted to do obedience, but he was so loyal that he just went through the motions to please me; he was always getting placed because although not at all stylish, he was so accurate.

Bunji would not play with toys at all and his greatest loves in life was travelling in the car, fireworks, thunderstorms, kites, lorries and hot air balloons. Everything that ‘normal’ dogs hate. That is what made Bunji so very special.

My world was torn apart in May when, after a tooth extraction, I was told they had found a lump. I had to be strong for Bunji’s sake for 8 months and he was so brave until a week before when the cancer started to win the tug-of-war with his soul, and he told me enough was enough.

The house seems so quiet now. No growling, no barking at the others or thundering down the stairs to attack the TV when he heard any gunfire on the news. The car seems so quiet, no whining or throwing himself at the window when a big lorry goes past.

Sleep well my handsome white boy. I hope there are plenty of fireworks where-ever you are. I miss you so much.

A heart-broken,

Claire Porter

RETCOLL COPPER CHANGE (Copper) 30.5.93 - 24.11.04 Owned, Bred and Loved by Sue Ellis

My pride and joy, my big black boy has gone. He was taken from me so suddenly I haven’t had time to come to terms with it. COPPER was my dog of a lifetime. I know we shouldn’t have our favourites but he was that extra special dog. I bought him into the world and right from then I felt a bond which lasted 11 ½ yrs. He was my helper at home when I couldn’t pick things up and he would help me up from the floor by standing at the side of me. He was everything you’d want in a dog, not always gentle because everything had to be done NOW but he loved people and dogs especially puppies. He loved his obedience work and became ‘C’only thanks to my friend Wendy winning his last ‘B’ with him. These words from a friend describe him totally - ‘Across the rings a wagging tail, a huge personality, a clown who oused drive and pleasure from trying so hard for his mum, he was handsome and optimized everything I wanted in a dog, I had fallen in love, I had met COPPER’.

There are lots of Coppers around now and he has left a legacy for me to see, it will be hard to begin with but I know in time I will watch them all with pride, they have inherited his attitude and style and most of all his loving ways.

There are no more fireworks or thunderstorms were you are now son and the suffering is over. You never reached the top in obedience but you will always be my star and you touched so many hearts on your way up that a lot of people will remember you. Rest in peace ‘Bumble’ and wait for me at Rainbow Bridge when you can give me a ‘Big Kiss’. We’ll love you forever.

Your heartbroken Mum and Dad

Sue and Dave Ellis

DANESWAY DOUBLE INDEMNITY 16th January 2002 - 23rd May 2004 Owned by Roz Valentine

It has taken me over six months to attempt to put pen to paper about my very special little man. The only reason I had Darcy was that Fleet (Snowhite Mystery) was in his pedigree some seven generations back. I brought him home not knowing that I had such a golden little sweetheart. He gave me the "oomph" back into training and also the confidence that I had lacked for several years.
I train my dogs through a lot of play and motivation and he was a natural, always "popping" about with a toy in his mouth. Everything was done at 100 mph and he very rarely "walked" anywhere as he was always too busy. He was so eager to learn like a little sponge absorbing anything new and he only had to be shown something a couple of times and he had got it. My youngest son came home from university one weekend and was playing "footie" in the garden with the dogs. Darcy would immediately drop the ball on the command "enough". No problem but the first show (exemption) I entered him in he did a brilliant retrieve and then threw the dumb bell at my feet with the expression of " Go on then - kick it". From that day on I realised even more how clever this little dog was and needless to say nothing was ever kicked for him again!! Yes you could pick up a toy and throw it but not kick it. He loved sendaways and would run the length of a football pitch. He just loved life to the full and although sensitive was up for anything new. He loved everybody and didn't just wag his tail when he met you but wriggled his whole body from head to tail.

I entered about eight shows with him at the latter part of last season and he won four novices and was placed in all the others and I felt fully confident he would come out this season and cope quite easily with A and B.

Through the winter I normally give my dogs a complete "chill out" and only occasionally ask them to do a bit of work and demo at pet club. I decided to pack up working full time in March this year and not long after I was in the garden with the dogs and thought I'd do a retrieve with them. Darcy again excelled himself and did a perfect retrieve and that was to be the last time I ever worked him. Little did I know that three weeks later this poor little boy would be so ill.
He was at Bristol University for two weeks and they couldn't find out what was wrong with him, but basically his bone marrow packed up - no red or white cells or platelets being produced and severely anaemic. He was tested for everything including a bone marrow biopsy but no results to work on. This I find the hardest part as I don't feel I can put a final closure to his untimely death. He was sent home from Bristol after a blood transfusion with the instructions to keep him quiet and he could live another month - no way- he could do what the hell he liked. Thirteen days later he started to haemorrhage and we had to take that final visit. As his veins were so poor (blood tests every day at Bristol) he had to have three injections and it took about 10 minutes (not that he knew anything about it after the first jab) but still traumatic.

I have never felt this heartache and grief over anything in my life and I miss him so much, he was my soul mate and my best friend and I just miss his little antics, like talking to me if I was on the phone and bringing me a toy and trying to push it in my hand and then when I went to take it he would quickly pull away with a smile on his face. I would do anything to have my precious little man back and it just seems so unfair that this honest little dog had to leave at such a tender age with his whole life in front of him.

People say remember the good times but there were never any bad times with Darcy. Once in a lifetime dogs come in your life if you are lucky - well he was definitely one and I feel honoured and privileged to have been in part of his life. I don't think I will ever get over his untimely demise and I miss him so very much. I just hope he points me in the right direction if and when I ever have another dog.

God bless you Darcy I will love you till the day I die and I can be with you again at Rainbow Bridge.

Love from Mum and Dad, Murry and Geordie
xxxxx

JARNA 'Byru Dancer O.W.' Sire: Forevermagic Ru / Dam: Bytchek Dancer 19th November, 1996 to 9th December, 2004 Aged 8 years and 3 weeks. Owned, loved and so very missed by Shirley Budgen

Rainbow Bridge … two very separate words summing up how I feel about my Jarna, she was my Rainbow and now there is this uncrossable Bridge between us.

Rose Barham brought Jarna, her Fizzy's first born, into the world, and I must thank her for allowing 'Princess Pushy' to come and share her life with me. Jarna was so easy to pick from the litter … I arrived to see this lovely tri bitch trying to stretch over the edge of the playpen towards me … the bond was immediate. Jarna was such a 'miss goody two shoes', she was like a little schoolmistress, my other dogs were never allowed to be 'naughty'! I was so lucky, she was easy to train and only had eyes for me. She had an amazing ability to wiggle and squiggle her whole body upon greeting me, she was my constant shadow, everywhere I went so did she … how I miss all that now.
Jarna raced through the classes to ticket (C only in your first season and in ticket in her 2nd year competing), joining my Mannie in ticket, not because of my training I just feel sure she was not going to be outdone by the only 'bloke' in my household! She gained several places in ticket and I was so very proud of her achievements. Jarna was often rather proud of herself too, and managed to let most of the showground know she was around and competing by barking her head off between exercises. The showgrounds will be much quieter now without you my little excited one.

Jarna was ill in January of 2004, one evening I just knew she was poorly, she was quiet and out of character. I immediately phoned the vets, they examined her and could find nothing wrong. 24 hours later I took her back when her urine was like liquid blood. She was suddenly so poorly, and she was in the vets on various medication and drips for such a long time, all the various tests, x-rays, scans and examinations found nothing conclusive, after massive antibiotic treatment she seemed back to normal about 4 weeks later. She was home, happy and back to her bouncing self.

On 10th April, 2004 I went to Oxhey show, she was her normal self on leaving the house, first to the van demanding to be let in before the other riff raff. When I arrived at Oxhey I immediately knew something was drastically wrong. Not knowing what to do, I raced back home to my vet, where I heard the dreadful words 'I am so sorry, she has liver cancer and there is absolutely nothing we can do for her'. I was distraught, she was only 7 years old, this could not be happening. It seemed incredible that 2 months earlier nothing had shown on her x-raysor scans, and now a huge tumour had invaded 90% of her liver, the tumour had bled at Oxhey which made her so ill. The vet gave her one week to live.

I was devastated, I took time off work to be with her 24/7. She recovered from the tumour bleed within 24 hours and was honestly back to her normal self, it was so strange to she her knowing what was going on inside her. She raced around, playing bally, walking miles with me. The weeks went past, I took 3 1/2 weeks off work to be with her, I then thought she was invincible and went back to work. They were wonderful and let me bring her in with me … so from diagnosis to her leaving me I think we probably only spent a few hours apart. The 'one week to live' turned into a wonderful whole summer (8 months in total) of fun and games together. People at work brought in her favourite treats each day. I went to very few shows in 2004, as I was paranoid about travelling her too far after Oxhey. At those we went to she adored walking around the venue, she barked her way around the showgrounds and stole
food from anyone who was mug enough to carry a treat within a yard of her. She did just what she liked when she liked and she had such a good time. I was so glad she made her 8th birthday, she even got more birthday cards than I do! Even in her last weeks coping with Liver Cancer she tried so hard not lose her special sparkle. She was so very brave.

It was so hard to let Jarna go, my lovely girl has left such a huge hole in my heart that I wonder if it will mend. I just wish she were still here with me now. God I will miss her, rest in peace by beloved Jarna until we can shadow each other again.

'The Sun can't be shining today, as I have no shadow,
My constant companion isn't here,
She is not beside me,
My lovely happy, noisy, bouncy friend has left me,
Not there to touch if I move my hand,
Too young to leave, life's choices are too hard,
My shadow has left me'.

From your heartbroken mum; loving you, missing you, crying over you.

FRANMEAD FAITH (Tia) BC 7th March 1989 - 19th August 2004 Owned & Loved by Josie & Bill Bleeze

You were our Special Girl and the love of my life.
You were always there to give a helping hand,
whether it was to pick up something that someone dropped or fetch Mums slippers
You spent hours in the paddock doing Sendaways by yourself and you never forgot how to do your DC,
even though you did in the last few years forget lots of other things.
I hope there are lots of Sendaway markers set out for you at Rainbow Bridge.
Until we meet again my little 'T', we will always miss you.
Luv Mum

DRIPPING (Nuwave Nautibuoy of Wagalot) 27/5/95 - 12/10/04

He died early morning from heart failure. It was completely unexpected. The end of an era of my Newfies as the line is finished now.
Dripping was given to me by the breeder, Jo, to whom I shall be eternally grateful for allowing me to spend 9 years of my life with such a terrific dog. He was the nephew of Lumpa who was the first and only Newfi to qualify for ticket and with whom I was determined to prove that obedience could be for ALL people and dogs (the so called other breeds).
I had such fun with Dripping, a very intelligent dog learning how to unzip his titbit purse at six months. He was nicknamed "The Lager Lout" when young as he was so naughty and he remained true to his registered name. He was also my carer pulling me up from the floor when I fell down
I had hoped to go on further with Drip but what with all the delays from my stroke, a long period of Drip's lameness, and numerous problems with my van it was sadly not meant to be.
I have lots of lovely wonderful memories though, of my big, handsome, brown and white boy, always rolling upside down just before going in the ring. He loved showing off his work. I had often been told how beautiful and stylish his heelwork was. I shall always remember how high he carried his tail, waving it about like a huge flag, to be seen by all at the other end of the show ground
He remains immortal from his TV appearances in 2 point 4 Children and The Last Detective.
Lots of hugs always my slobberdog Drippydrawers.

Karen (Rainbow) Swarbrick

Scolopax Tim of Robate 8/4/91 - 5/4/04 TIM - Superspan ll (The Sequel ) Scolopax Angus of Robate 16/11/94 - 24/9/04 - GUS - Superspan ll (The Return of the Hoolihounds)

I got Tim off good trialling lines to work obedience when my old spaniel Fred was getting old. He was always laid back and easy going but trained up well. He will be recognised throughout the world as the puppy at the start of Sylvia Bishop's heelwork video. He started to work well and gain places in obedience when an X-ray revealed serious heart problems when he was 3 years old. On medication he was initially no longer laid back but completely over he top. However I never worked him competitively again as I was frightened to stress him in any way, especially as he enjoyed it so much. The last class he worked was B at Tunbridge Wells 1994.
I then obtained his nephew Gus. He was never laid back and gave everything his all. We always said 'Gus could have been a contender' He competed in 4 shows and gained 1 write up. (Thank you Sharon we will always treasure that) I then realised that he might have the same problem as his uncle. Unfortunately this was confirmed by ultrasound and he retired at 18 months old.
Since then Tim has had a lazy life lying about and Gus has still lived life at high speed although no longer training. Gus was the only dog I know who could do a rollover on the run from the stand into the stand and then continue to run.
Tim's heart gradually deteriorated over the last year and he became less and less active until it became obvious he had to be helped on his way. Gus continued to enjoy flushing pheasants and partridge at full pelt. The last pheasant he raised was 23rd Sept when in his cheeky way he squeezed under the dog proof, but not Gus proof, fence into our other field. 1am on 24th he was trying to steal tissue paper, which was one of his tricks. At 5 am one of the dogs had obviously had an accident and my youngest dog was fussing and we found Gus collapsed. despite intensive treatment he died in my arms at 6.30am. Gus died as he lived at full pace and high speed.
I found it difficult to cope with Tim's death but I have this image of him competing at the gods field trial - fit, well and able to do everything. ( Cerberus usually wins having 3 heads to mark the game), What I never realised was that they needed Gus as well for the brace class.

Rose and the spanielless Robates

Zellik Twisting Tornado (Tarik) 3.12.2000 - 2.9.2004

Well the day finally came when I had to make that dreaded decision to have my beautiful border collie put to sleep to save any further suffering, we didn't think it would be so soon.
Tarik started having fits at 18 months old and it plagued his life and ours, I had already lost my lovely collie Keebo at 4 years old to epilepsy 3 years ago and now dear Tarik.
Tarik was a true ambassador of his breed with a wonderful temperament a dog with such feeling and was friends with everyone.
He was always happy and so brave and strong even through the worst times of the epilepsy, over the last year or so you could see small changes in Tarik and his illness was starting to take his strength out of him.
Tarik in the beginning only did about 7 shows and won 2 novices and had 5 placings and could of gone on to greater things in the ring but as the fits became worst I decided to retire Tarik as I felt it was to much of a risk for him being at shows .
Tarik seemed to enjoy his retirement and having our young pup around Jaz, Tarik I thank you for all the times we have shared and I will miss all the funny things you did and also our special cuddles.
We miss you so much and you know we love you with all our hearts you are free from that horrible illness ,now and you are with Keebo.
One day we can all cross the rainbow bridge together and be a happy family again, until then sleep tight . I owe you so much, you owe me nothing.
God bless


love

Mum and Dad and Jaz

Jess Put to sleep on 23rd May 2004 age 6 years old.

You lost your fight against a two and a half year battle with liver disease, and although we only had the pleasure of your company for three and a half years, that time was very special to us. It was so unfair that you should be dealt with such an illness after the start in life that led you to a rescue centre, but from the moment we saw you, we knew you were the dog for us. I'm sorry I had to let you go, but I could not bear to see you suffering anymore and although it broke my heart I knew it was the best thing for you. You were my little girl and you were entitled to have the life that all dogs deserve. Life is so quiet without you but Jumble, Taz and Bertie have you in their thoughts everyday and I will never forget you.

sleep tight Jess until we meet again.

Mum xxx

OB . CH. KIRKELLY OF STILLASH (KELLY) W.S. 04.07.1987 - 15.06.2004 CRUFTS WINNER 1993 OWNED (& ADORED) BY HEATHER WOODFORD

It is with great sadness and a very heavy heart and months of agonising I had to finally make that dreadful decision to have my wonderful Kelly put to sleep.

She would have reached the grand old age of 17 years old in 3 weeks time. She had been suffering from arthritis for some years, but the last 12 months had become almost impossible for her to walk very far, her body was ravaged with old age but she tried so hard to join in with family life.

With very careful nursing and the occasional short walk, I had managed to keep you going. Your undying love for me was evident and your struggle to keep living had been relentless. You were my dog of a lifetime - you will never be replaced.

Those 9 years of competing in the obedience world together were the happiest of my life, and I feel so very honoured to have owned you, my beautiful dog - my constant companion, for so many years.

Kelly has now gone to Rainbow Bridge running free with Janet Oliver's Jessie where they will be practising "SENDAWAYS" together - Kelly's favourite excercise.

My tears will flow and she will know that I was always there for her.

"Although it's hard, there has to be
a time to say GOODBYE
but memories which are dear to me
will never ever die"

Until we meet again my precious Kelly - Broken hearted - Heather Woodford.

Sparta Cool (Saffie) 1995 - 2004 Owned & Loved by Pat & Les Perry

Saffie was given sleep when the burden of life proved too much for her.

She fought auto-immune disease for the last four years of her life, but sadly could not beat it.

She was a loyal and courageous dog, a credit to her breed.

We all miss her so much.

Sleep well my special girl.

Mum xxx

JAIMYS CHINA BLUE (China) Oct 89 - May 2004

Loved and sorely missed by
Jackie, Chance, Fidget and Ethan

Bestest clever collie, and a very special girly pal.

Forgive me, my beautiful `Chizzy`. I didn't know what else to do.


"I am standing on the shore as a great ship gently glides from the harbor and sails toward the horizon. She is beautiful. Sails billowing; and shining bright as sunlight sparkling on distant waters. She grows smaller and smaller until at last, her white sails shine as ribbons out where the sky and water mingle as one.

And as I watch, a voice behind me says, "Well, she's gone." She's gone. Gone? "No," I tell myself. No, she is not really gone. Not really. She is gone only in the sense that I can no longer see her.

In reality, she is the same as ever; just as beautiful; just as shining. And deep in my heart I know, that on another shore someone is crying out, "Look! Look everyone! Here she comes!"

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