I was here ten years ago for my Beauregard. Now I am here for my Woody. Woody was a dog that nobody wanted so me and the wife took him in. He was a handful at first and he made us wonder if we made the right decision but he turned out to be a wonderful dog. He was a retriever mix and a beautiful red color.

Well, on Sunday 09/21/08, I went out for the day and the wife took the dogs (we have another shelter dog) for a walk. They were both on a leash but Woody pulled away from my wife and ran into the street. He was hit by a car and the wife got animal control to take him to the emergency clinic where the vet said it didn't look good. The wife made the decision to let Woody go and when I got home, my heart was broken. My poor wife had to watch him get hit by the car and then make the decision to let him go. We are both heartbroken. I can't sleep, I can't eat, and all I do is cry at the drop of a hat. Our other dog (Smokey Joe) is 9 years old but Woody was only four. I expected him to be around for many years. Why did God take our dog from us? I don't think that we are bad people. We took in both dogs and two stray cats. We love our animals like children. Why was he taken from us?

sorry to hear you had to come back, but hope you find the support you need here again. the old forums are still up and running (read-only), you may be able to find your original pos,t if you want to locate it: http://lightning-strike.com/forum/index.php?showtopic=5

I'm sure Woody had some special calling for him to have been taken so soon. Just as my Sissycat. There was a incident beside my driveway with her and a car. She was taken June 5th this year. Way too soon. Only 2 years old.
Wish you didn't have to come back here, but you know we are here to support one another.
Beautiful pictures by the way.

Share some stories or more pictures if you like.

Hugs to you!!!!!!!!!!!

Steve, I am so sorry about your sweet fur kid Woody. He looks a lot like my Buddy dog in build but a different color. I also rescued Buddy dog from severe neglect and abuse.

How awful for your dear wife to have witnessed what happened. She is probably as much of a basket case as you are at this time. Steve, I wish so much I could reach out, put my arm around your shoulder so we could cry together. How gosh awful terrible this must be for you and your wife.

Please accept my most sincere condolences. I can feel your pain. I truly can and I do weep with you. And Woody was four years old. Your heart is breaking and it feels like your world is tumbling down around you. Of course you're not bad people. You're wonderful, caring, loving people! Where would this world be without those like yourselves who rescue these dogs and cats? What a dream come true for those fur kids to be in your loving care. You're the cream of the crop, Dear One ... You and your dear wife. Please don't ever, ever forget that.

I feel so bad that you're suffering so because of this accident that took your Woody from you. My gosh, I feel at such a loss any have many tears right now. I'm supposed to be comforting you and I know I'm not doing a good job of that at all. I feel much empathy for you and your dear wife. I hope you don't mind if I post a song here for the you, your wife and fur kid Woody. Again, I am so very sorry this happened.

I pray it brings you and yours some comfort knowing that Woody is still very near, right there with you. He's only just a breath away. And a breath away is not far at all to where you are, Steve.



















Please come back when you're able to talk more. I realize how very difficult it will be to type or even see your PC monitor through your tears. It is by caring and sharing that we help each other get through these very difficult times. Woody is and will always be right there with you. Truly, he will. You've just gotta believe and then you'll feel and know it's so.

Many Comforting Hugs, Love, and Hope for Peace to You, Your Dear Wife and Woody!

Always,
Dottie xoxoxox

Hi Steve K., I'm so deeply sorry to hear about your precious Woody. Your words of pain have been mine too. Why, my Arthur, why so young(2 1/2) I felt I must have done something to deserve this terrible pain of losing him. Someday we will find the answers to our whys. As much as this hurts we have to continue to remind ourselves we were lucky to have had them in our lives no matter how long or short of time it was. It may not seem it now, but the joy and love they give us is more powering than the pain of losing them. Your pictures are beautiful. Such teasures..It was an unforseen accident, I know all to well, my heart aches with yours..Hugs.Ann

Why did God take our dog from us? I don't think that we are bad people. We took in both dogs and two stray cats. We love our animals like children. Why was he taken from us?

When I read these questions, it made me think of a topic I put in the Tributes section of the forum, called "A Dog" about a little boy's answer to such a question. It was a feel-good answer when I first read it and there may be a little bit of comfort there.

I am so sorry about what happened to Woody and that your wife had to witness it all. That to me is one of life's cruelest moments that can't be explained. It is a terrible accident and seems just so senseless a loss. And yes, the question would be WHY?

There is really no comforting answer because it is just felt it should not have happened at all. What power is it that does this to such an innocent baby?

I see by his pictures that Woody was a beautiful boy and big dogs are always so very huggable!

It is understandable to cry, and then cry again. Taken so young is heartbreaking. What has helped me over the years is I came to the belief that when it is a baby's time to go....it will be taken out of our hands and we will have no control over what happens because that is the one battle we will always lose.

If they are not truly meant to go, we will be able to do things to keep them with us longer. We are allowed to win that battle.

I have seen puppies go, I have had a 3 year old boxer/shepherd become epileptic (at a time there was no cure or treatment), and we have no choice but to accept what happens. All we can ever do is the best we know how...sometimes it works and we are thankful but other times...it is truly beyond our control.

In the way it happened....part of your crying may be looking for a closure because you were not there through it all. That can make you feel helpless but if you can think of it as fate was in charge..you will realize...nothing could have changed what happened. It is a terrible tragedy and all you can do is hug your wife and you two cry together because you both have the same pain and understand just how much it hurts inside. Of course, you two are not bad people. The answer to your WHY question is asked by many who have been in similar situations...and I guess a simple answer would be that....it was just meant to be. Not fair? Of course not..it never is. But it is a cruel part of life that sometimes becomes a part of our lives...for no reason at all.

I like that you mentioned you have another shelter dog. A few months ago, I got a shelter cat and gave him a home when we lost our last one, Little Guy, last September. Sometimes I think they are taken from us because maybe there is another "brother" or "sister" who needs us and I know when I have such a loss...it helps me to get another and it helps them to have a real home. I also know if over the years...I never lost the first one...I would never have known the next one, and so on. Sometimes it helps to feel something good can come out of a tragedy.

And, instead of "no reason", I like to think of what the little boy said in that topic I posted in Tributes called "A Dog".

Please write here as often as you feel like it. Share your thoughts and feelings and questions. We all share the same pain because we have had the same loss so we do understand and we try to let you know what has helped us to start healing.

Grief is exhausting and very overwhelming and it takes time before we are in more control of it.

You describe both your dogs as shelter dogs. You and your wife gave both these babies a good home with love in it. They could not have asked for a better life than you provided. You both did the best you could for Woody for the time you were allowed to have him. He knows that and you both know that too, deep down in your hearts. What takes these precious ones out of our lives is something we cannot win that battle.

Woody has a special place in your hearts. That is where he can never be taken from you. In time, you will be able to remember the good days of happiness of being together and just know that time is so very special....we are always glad we did have it.

One "Mom" here said: The pain of losing him will never ever be greater than the joy of knowing him.

Think about that. I do and it helps me because no matter how great or how little the time, I am grateful I had each one of these precious best friends for the time that I did and I would never ever have given up having them in my life...even though I know there will come a time they will be taken away. We always pray it is many years in the future but we and our best friend never have any guarantee, do we?

Hugs to you and your wife. I am so very very sorry about what happened to Woody. His pictures show a very happy, beautiful and loveable dog.

I wish you peace and healing....and just remember (as you said you were here years ago) that it really does take time. But by coming here, you are never alone.

There is always someone here listening and wanting to help.

Hi, Steve, please permit me to offer you and your wife my sincerest sympathies in the loss of your beloved Woody. Losing a beloved companion is never easy regardless of the cir%%stances or how long we have had the blessing of their company. You ask why God took Woody from you? Well, God didn't take Woody from you - - Woody was hit by a car - - an accident that ended very tragically. As with people, sometimes the only way God can heal our beloved companions is when they are released from their physical bodies and return home to the angels. Your wife did everything right in trying to keep Woody safe, but unfortunately Woody was stronger which enabled him to pull away from her. If this side of eternity were "perfect" this tragic accident - - and other tragedies involving our beloved companions - - would not happen. But unfortunately this side of eternity is not perfect, and consequently, our lives include having to endure the heartbreaking cir%%stances of losing our beloved companions. But God is still with us in these times of tragedies as He reaches out to us through the hearts of others who try to comfort us and give us hope. Woody knows that you love him with all your heart, and would have moved heaven and earth to restore him to a healthy life with you. God has healed Woody and is holding him in His loving arms until it is time for you to resume your rightful place with Woody at your appropriate time in eternal joy. The grief journey you and your wife are now traveling is not an easy one, Steve, but it is one that you do not have to travel alone. You are among friends here who do know first hand the heartache of losing a beloved companion, and we are here for you for as long and as often as you need us. Please know you and your wife are in my thoughts and prayers, Steve, and please let us know how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

It has been four days since I lost my big red dog and the pain of the loss has not diminished one little bit. I thank all of you for your kind replies. I continually ask God why he took Woody but I know that I won't get an answer here on earth. I love all of my animals but Woody was a special guy. He was full of life and he loved to run and play. He took a chunk of my heart with him when he left. The tears keep flowing and I can't stand the thought that I have to come home from work and Woody isn't here. Don't misunderstand me, I love my Smokey and he is also a one of a kind dog, but they were the best of buddies and I think that Smokey misses his pal. My wife is the office manager of a cranberry farm here in NJ and we used to take the guys to the farm to let them run and play in the woods. Woody used to go into the ponds even on the coldest days. We used to bring them to the farm several times a week until the price of gas went up but even after it rose to $3.00+ we made sure that they got here at least twice a week even though it is a 50+ mile round trip. Both of the photos below were taken on the farm. The photo of Woody and Smokey was taken the evening before Woody was hit by the car. It was his last full day on earth. I sure do miss my dog.

Steve, please allow me to say to you how sorry I am to read about Woody, I know there is no words in this world to make your pain less easier for you and your wife, I too lost my Son Buster on June 20th in a different way and my pain is there still, it feels like it was yesterday when I have to let him go. You can come to us every time you need too as much as you want to talk to us 'cause that is why we are all here to listen to the one in need like I was once, my condolences to you and your wife and please give lots of love to Smokey he probably miss him as much as the two of you, always here, Jorge Click to view attachment

OH, how precious. They certainly looked liked the best of buds. I know how hard it is for you to go home and Woody won't be there. I'm still having a hard time with it after 4mo. But Smokey needs some extra hugs. I'm sure he is hurting too. You both need eachother to heal. It makes it that much harder when they are so special to us. That picture is so cute and yet the hardest one to look at I'm sure. One of the my favorite photos of my Arthur was the last one. It sure does hurt. Many hugs to your family including Smokey.. Ann

Hi Steve--------I am so sorry to hear about Woody.I lost my boy,Willy on 9-3-08.As a guy who is getting to the age where I can start to get my senior discount at Dennys I have racked up a bundle of PO'd moments through the years with God.I will present two sides of my view here,both positive AND negative.First the negative.If,as a lot of us believe,me included,that this brief thing on this planet we call life will be followed,if we are decent folk,by a conciousness and a new spiritual form in an actual place(heaven,state of nirvana,whatever) and if we came from this mythical place initially,why this 'step',this life,this proving ground? Some say God the Father/Mother(women give birth not men) has so much love He /She wanted children and loneliness would no longer be an issue with God.Why, then,wasn't the 'family' created and left in place in the heavens so God could hang with his kids.Why this whole invisible,we think your 'up 'there and we really want to please you game so we can fly back to you after we have suffered,loved then lost love(as in the case of our pets) 'prove' our love to you so we can spend eternity HAPPY! There are those who say that was the original plan but one putz out of the bunch was a revolutionary(Satan) and screwed it up for the gazillons of people there and all who came after.What a load of HOOHAW that is .God creates this place and invents humans and can't blow away one dude.Oh please!The younger me conceived God as a Spiritual EVIL scientist/inventor( if we are still talking single,sentient being with form) who created all we see and discovered with telescopes and gets off watching us flail with loss, grief, infirmities,a keeping us in the dark as to final outcome but sending messages through certain men of 2000 plus years ago who said that if we follow the teachings of a human said to be his son,well,then I gotcha covered baby!Isn,t the fact we were created(I really can't believe the CHAOS theory as there seems to be too much inter-connection-one element survives because of another element and the symbiotic relationship of all living forms-atom compressed matter) really good enough.Are these thoughts because a huge ego and we DESEREVE a predictable long term Happy pension plan(heaven)?AFTER ALL WE DIDN'T CHOOSE TO BE CREATED AND BORN,YOU(GOD) DID!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Now for the positive.GOD HAS NO POWER OVER WHAT HAPPENS ON EARTH.And frankly, I don't see how anyone can say for certainty what the PLAN is.In the East it is said Desire creates attachment and attachment creates universe.Look what humans have created.It is endless.Are we chips of the old Supernatural Block?(God).Is all the suffering,sickness,LOSS,grief,loneliness,seperation and uncertainty really just a function of our humanity?(not yet in spiritual form) and a 'STEP" as we CREATE(as sons and daughters of God) 'OUR' specially tailored versionof heaven?Is that why we have to be here because God digs us so much HE/She wants us to have the chance to experience things on our own(free will) and 'CREATE' what for each of us, through our experiences,is our own version of Heaven? HERE'S THE GOOD PART:HE THEN DOES GIVE TO US, AFTER WE DIE,OUR OWN CUSTOMIZED HEAVEN WITH ALL THAT WE WANT.IN OUR CASE,(ALL THE GOOD FOLK HERE ON THE FORUM),(after the orientation meeting)ALL THE BEAUTIFUL PETS (OUR BABIES)we have lost and ALL OF OUR OTHER DESIRES AND WISHES!!!!!LET'S FACE IT:THE 'RAINBOW BRIDGE' IS PURE CREATIVITY!!!! I BELIEVE IN IT,I HAVE FAITH IN IT,I CAN'T "SEE" IT but somehow I just 'KNOW' it is 'THERE'!!!!!!!!

BELIEF,FAITH,CAN'T SEE BUT IT IS THERE...........hmmmmmm.........SOUND FAMILIAR?

I THINK WE ARE COVERED
Brought to you by the twisted mind of Bubba.....Thanks for lisennin and I'll keep the light on for ya.
GOD BLESS BEAUTIFUL BABY BOY,WOODY-------------PEACE and LOVE

Hi, Steve, this grief journey can feel like it will never end, and is very intense in the beginning. What you are feeling and experiencing is very normal so early in your grief. The mental health profession now recognizes that the grief journey for the loss of a beloved companion is the same as it is for a human family member or friend. The stages of grief are the same, and the most difficult part of the grief can be spread over the course of a year. The first year is very hard because it holds all the "first" anniversaries - - the first birthday, the first holidays, the first day, the first month, the first 6 months, etc.. And each of these anniversaries are reminders of the one who is physically missing. But hopefully through your grief journey you will come to know that your beloved Woody is still with you as he always has been been. His sweet living Spirit is forever etched in your heart and your memories, and no one and nothing can ever take that away from you. Because the first year is so difficult, or at least some of it, it is important to know that you are not alone in your grief journey. Each of us here understands the deep loss you and your wife are feeling, and we are here for you for as long and as often as you need us. Thank you so much for sharing pictures of your furkids with us, Steve, and please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

It's Saturday morning. Woody used to get us up at first light but Smokey is older now and he doesn't like to get up early. I cried myself to sleep last night and when I took Smokey across the street to the field this morning, I cried for my Woody again. We have two cats and a dog in the house but it still seems empty without my red dog. Steph bought Smokey a new toy last night and that cheered him up. We played for a while and I hope it helps him. In the morning after we got up, the dogs would get on the bed and I used to throw a blanket on each of them. Smokey walked over to the bed this morning and sniffed at the blankets. I guess he was looking for Woody. I told him that he's not here. I know he doesn't understand, but I had to tell him something. Saturday or Sunday would be one of the days that we would take the guys to the farm, depending on the weather and our schedule. We will still take Smokey but the trip is not the same. The pictures below show Woody in the pond and coming out of the water. I miss my boy.

Oh, he look so good in those pics am afraid they are perfect, am so sorry to feel your pain 'cause it feels like my own, May God Bless Him up in Heaven in company of my Beloved Son Buster, Jorge Click to view attachment

Hi, Steve, I can imagine how your home is feeling the loss of Woody. Your life is not the same without the physical presence of your beloved Woody; it is now different. Don't be afraid to change your routines a bit - - keeping them exactly the same can sometimes add to the grief of your loss. Woody wants you to remember the times you had with him on this side of eternity with a happy heart, and eventually you will be able to do that but only after the heaviness of your deep grief has had a chance to pass. Smokey knows his buddy is no longer physically with him, and Smokey will grieve in his own way, and needs comforting, too. The time you spend with each other will hopefully strengthen your bond with Smokey and will be comforting as well. It is good that you feel you can cry, Steve, for they are healing tears for your heart and soul and body. So many people think they can get through their grief faster and easier if they don't "give in" to the grief emotions, but clinical studies prove this is very unhealthy - - medically and emotionally. By suppressing the grief emotions they are increasing the stress of their grief which eventually can cause among other physical symptoms heart disease and severe arthritis, and clnical depression. So taking the time to grieve the loss of your precious Woody is healthy and normal. And hopefully by now you know you are not alone in your grief journey, Steve. Each of us are here for you for as long and as often as you need us. You are going through a very difficult adjustment as you would go through with any other loss, Steve. But please know that Woody is still with you in your heart and your memories, and you will see him again when it is your appropriate time to join him in eternal joy. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers, Steve, and please let us know how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

I am home alone and all I can do is think of my Woody. The weather is miserable and I am stuck in the house. Posting these messages seems to help me and I'm sorry if I am overdoing it. I wanted to show my four legged family (before we lost Woody) and the photos below are each of my babies. Smokey Joe is the oldest at 9 1/2 years and Karma is the youngest at one year old. "A" is thirteen and Woody was four. Woody and Karma used to play all of the time and Woody used to chase "A" down the hall but he never hurt him. These guys are my life and one fourth of my life has been snatched away with the loss of Woody. I love you, my friend.

Great pictures Steve., These are the hardest days by far. The adjustment. Moon Beam is right when she said to change up the routine a bit. That was the hardest (and still is) for me do. I sat on the porch b4 work every day for 3mo after I lost my Arthur and cried(I still cry). That was always my time to watch and play with him. My partner who I shared him with changed his rountine for day 1. Is it willpower, strength, I don't know. Next time your out with Smokey, walk a different path, go different places with him. It may help. Many hugs.. Ann

Hi, Steve, thank you so much for sharing your pictures of your fur family. When my Eli joined the angels almost two years ago (December 2006), I found it very comforting to hold something that belonged to him - like his collar. I even slept with his collar under my pillow. It helped me with adjusting to not having his precious little physical body with me. The grief journey is both physical and emotional. While you enjoyed Woody's physical presence with you there was a chemical bond that formed between you, and now that this bond no longer has the physical nurturing it is now physically painful to not have Woody's physical presence with you. Clinical studies have proven that when a spouse dies, the first year for the surviving spouse and other family members is very critical because the surviving spouse, and any other family members who were dependent upon the deceased, has an increased risk of dying also within that first year due to the physical adjustment of not having his / her spouse physically with them. The older the surviving spouse is as well as their medical health also increases their risk of dying within the first year. This is also true of elderly people who are totally dependent upon their companion animals for physical and emotional nurturing. So, if you can find some way to help bridge the physical absence of Woody you may find this to be comforting while you are adjusting to the loss of his sweet physical body with you. I know, Steve, this grief journey is the absolute pits - - particularly in the beginning and the several weeks and months that follow. But I promise you there willl come a time when you can remember Woody and smile, and when that happens, you will know that Woody has not left you. He is still with you as he always has been. Your relationship with him has just temporarily transformed to a different dimension. His sweet living Spirit is indelibly etched in your heart and your memories, and no one and nothing can ever take that away from you. You can still share your life and your heart with him as you always have, and he is listening to you as intently as ever. But for now, "knowing" this does little to comfort a broken heart. We share your pain and brokenness, Steve, and are thankful you are here among us so that we can reach out to you when you need us. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers, Steve, and please keep letting us know how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Hey Steve--------No way are you overdoing anything!!!!!!!!!! It has been over 3 weeks since Wiily my boy passed away.I cry FREQUENTLY and with intensity.Moonbeam is correct.Holding it in and not grieving is not good for you.At the risk of being redundant.YES,we are ALL here for you for a long time.Write often.Your friend at LS.
Bubba...............

Woody boy,

Mommy and I miss you more than we can say. You and your brothers (Smokey Joe, "A", and Karma) are/were just about the only joy in our lives. I remember rushing home from work every day to take you out for a run and to do your business. I remember getting up early every morning for the same purpose. I still get up early and rush home for your brother, Smokey, but it's not quite the same without you. I am so sorry that the car hit you. If I could have gotten home one hour earlier, I would have taken you and Smokey for your walk and since I am stronger than your Mom, you wouldn't have gotten away from me. We had an understanding, didn't we? You didn't pull on the leash when you were with Daddy. I'm not trying to blame your Mom, I know she would do anything in the world to change what happened. Mommy loves you and she would never have let you get hit by the car if she could have prevented it. Mommy's heart is broken and so is mine. Smokey, "A", and Karma miss you, too. I hope you are with Beau and Furfee and that you are waiting for Mommy and me. We'll be there with you when our time comes. Good night my big red dog. Mommy and Daddy love you.

Woody Boy,

We just took Smokey for a walk at the County Park. We never took you guys there before because you would want to have a confrontation with all of the other dogs and probably some of the people on the trails. Your brother, Smokey, is more mellow since he is older and he did pretty well with the whole experience. I miss you very very much and I still cry several times a day because you're not here. I love your Mommy but I just don't understand how she let you get away from her. I know she feels badly about it but I can't say anything to her without her getting mad at me. I will always love you, my big red dog. I will always love you.


Dad

Steve

I am so sorry to hear about your Woody and I share your pain. I too ask myself the same questions about this difficult physical world we live in.

My pets are my life too. I lost my "little Buddha" cat Zita in October of last year - she just disappeared and I've never seen her since. I am still brokenhearted. But in December I adopted Ziggy, who could have been her sister or mom. She was such a remarkable loving kitty and I felt so lucky to find another cat so special. She didn't replace Zita, but she was my "helper" cat. Then on August 23rd she was shot. The vet didn't do the right surgery and 5 days later she died. It hurts incredibly.

I miss her all the time, but especially before bed, when she used to purr loudly and snuggle in, and in the morning when she accosted us for her "drippy water" fresh from the sink - she insisted that this was the way she must have water. She was adorable.

One thing I can say to you is do cry your tears, and grieve this loss. My husband has shut it off somewhere in his heart and is unable to stand my grief (tells me I'm acting like a child). He just wants me to get on with it and says he doesn't have time to be dragged down in this way. Personally, I don't think this reaction is healthy, and my husband had a near heart attack last Sept, which I believe is exactly the result of this type of holding in emotion. I personally wish he would react more as you are reacting, by acknowledging this deep loss. (Ziggy really loved him especially.)

Despite his and others reaction, I know this loss is for me, just as significant as losing a child for someone else. There seems no sense in it, but the only way I can cope with these losses is to try to "make meaning" from them and to use them to draw close to others who share the pain. Especially for couples, I think grieving can either drive you apart or bring you close together, and I hope you and your wife can openly share your grief, because I think this helps with healing.

Buddhists talk about attachment and the pain it creates, but I once asked a Buddhist monk, who I respect, about attachments with animals who are hurt or dying. He said to have empathy and "heart", we indeed must have attachment. And so in our attachment, the loss creates pain. But not being attached can result in the sort of behaviour of the person who shot my beloved Ziggy. So I choose attachment and I choose the pain that goes with this attachment. Because without it we would miss out on joy. That does not make the loss easier, but I hope it is some comfort that you are not alone.

namaste

Jan.

Today was really bad for me. For some reason I cried on and off all day. I had to go out to my truck for 15 minutes while I was at work so I could cry for my Woody. I start to think about all of the things that he did and how I will never see him do them again and it overwhelms me. Smokey still seems to miss his buddy, too. I don't know what to do for him. We give him extra attention and love but we can't give him Woody. I will never understand why Woody was taken from us. Even worse, I will never KNOW the reason why Woody was taken from us. I love my Woody with all my heart and that 's what makes the pain so great. Sometimes I wish I would go to sleep and not wake up again. I'm not suicidal, I'm just in pain and tired. I would never leave my Smokey and Karma and "A" and Steph. Steph just came home and she is going to feed Smokey and then we will take him to the park for a walk to try and take his mind off of our collective loss for a while. Thanks for listening.

Steve - I know this feeling all too well. It's like wanting a direct connection to your boy and not having to wait until "Rainbow Bridge". I know also the feeling of never knowing for sure "why". The most comforting thought to me is the idea that our life here is just one grand illusion and on other levels we are in contact with our deceased love ones all the time. Also I imagine that my pets are looked after in ways greater and more lovingly than anything I could provide here on earth.

I think it is healthy that you are acknowledging your pain and not burying it. For me, I think the healing of this grief comes more quickly than to pretend you are "okay" when clearly you are not.

Woody is an incredibly lucky dog to be loved as he is by you. I'm sure if he could he would give you slurpy kisses and comfort you in the best way he could. And perhaps he is doing this anyway, and you just don't realize it.

Jan.

Steve, let me start by saying i am truly sorry for your loss and i know exactly how you feel about never knowing why our babies r taken away from us out of no where. i lost my 2 year old cat a month or so ago to a freak accident. i think the reason why it hurts so much more is because they were taken so suddenly. Its easier to deal with when they are sick and taken away, when u have a little bit of a warning. But when they are taken away like that for no apparent reason it hurts soo much more! And when people say they r in better place it just feels like they ain't because they were in no pain her on earth with us. But i can promise it gets a lot easier to handle the pain and be able to have a normal day. There isnt a day that goes by that i dont think about buttons but i am finally able to think about her and smile! I hope things get better for you soon, and keep posting here because here we are always here for you. i know if it wasnt for this site i have no clue what i would have done!

Brittany

Hi Steve,

I'm gonna make this brief. There is no reason why this happened. It was fate. It sucks, I'm being blunt, but there is no other way to describe it or make it feel any better.

My best little man was taken from me within 2 short weeks, and it came as a shock. It sucked, I cursed out the world, I blamed myself for making the decision to let him go......

I am so sorry for your loss, my heart bleeds for you as I know mine did. It hurts like hell, when our best little buddies get taken away from us so suddenly. There is nothing in our power that we can do except grieve, grieve, and grieve some more. Cry your heart out until you feel all dried up, and then even cry some more. I think it's the only thing that helps.

I don't know what else to say, except, know that your buddy is in heaven, and he knows that he could never replace the love you gave him.

All my thoughts,

Geese

Dearest Steve, the pain and anguish from your loss of Woody is devastating and it feels like your world is crumbling down around you. In 15 days on October the 16th, it will be a year since my loss and I still find it so difficult to cope that at times I literally forget to take my next breath. I feel your pain so deeply. Truly I do.

Here is the most beautiful song of Blessings that I personally have ever, ever heard in my life. It brings me comfort and I pray it will do the same for you. I wish so much to give these Blessings to you and your fur child, Dear one. Hang in there and don't forget to breathe. Now, many Blessings to you and your fur kid with much love, Steve!







Lay down your head and I'll sing you a lullaby. Back to the years of Loo-Li,Lai-Ley. And I'll sing you to sleep and I'll sing you tomorrow. Bless you with love for the road that you go.

May you sail fair to the far fields of fortune with diamonds and pearls at your head and your feet and may you need never to banish misfortune. May you find kindness in all that you meet.

May there always be Angels to watch over you. To guard you each step of the way. To guard you and keep you safe from all harm. Loo-Li,Loo-Li,Lai-Ley.

May you bring love and may you bring happiness. Be loved in return to the end your days. Now fall off to sleep. I'm not meaning to keep you. I'll just sit for a while and sing Loo-Li,Lai-Ley.

May there always be Angels to watch over you. To guard you each step of the way. To guard you and keep you safe from all harm. Loo-Li,Loo-Li,Lai-Ley. Loo-Li,Loo-Li,Lai-Ley.

Many Comforting Hugs, Loving Angels, Hope, Faith and Peace to You and Woody!!!

Always,
Dottie xoxoxox

Jan, Brittany, Geese, and Dottie, I would like to thank you for your kind thoughts and words. I thought that today would be a little better. I didn't cry when I took Smokey for his morning walk and I didn't cry while driving to work. I made it through the whole morning without a tear. I usually go out to my truck to take my lunch break because I like to open the windows for fresh air and then I usually read for a while. Well, I didn't do much reading today. The tears started as soon as I got into my truck and I cried for almost my enitre lunch break. I managed to shed a few tears a couple of other times during the afternoon, too. I'm missing my Woody Boy and it doesn't seem to be getting any easier for me. I want to say to my wife, "how could you let him get away from you" but I don't dare. She is hurting too and if I say that it will just start a big fight. I know she didn't do it on purpose but I just wish she would have held on to him. Part of our job was to protect him and we failed him. I keep telling him that I am so sorry that we failed him even though I don't know if he hears me or not or even if he understands if he does hear me. A friend told me about some puppies that were born on 09/11/08. We are going to look at them on Sunday. When our 17 year old cat, Furfee, died last year on 08/01/07, the very next day Steph found a four week old kitten in the woods. We had to hand feed it around the clock for two weeks and that helped us with Furfee's passing. It was like Furfee sent the kitten to us as a replacement and it helped us. The father of the puppies is a Rottweiler/Lab mix and the mother is a Boxer. The pups will be big and we always take the big dogs because no one wants them. We are getting a fence around our yard so Steph doesn't have to walk them on a leash anymore when I'm not home. It's too late for Woody but maybe it will help with the next babies. Do any of you think that we are disrespecting Woody's memory? The puppies can't leave their mom for five or six more weeks and I'm thinking/hoping we will be ready for them by then. I think Woody would want us to adopt again but I don't want to do anything to take away from his memory. I miss my big red dog. Daddy and Mommy love you Woody Boy.

You are not disrespecting Woody's memory by getting another.

I hope you realize that you do have two pages here in your topic and hope the replies on Page 1 helped you also.

Today was a little easier than yesterday. I stilled cried for my Woody Boy several times but I was able to read my book and eat my lunch without crying. I still thought of my boy during my lunch break but at least the tears didn't start. I still can't believe that he's gone. He was so full of life and love.

I belong to a motorcycle club and we have our monthly chapter meeting tonight and our semiannual regional meeting tomorrow afternoon. I will stay at the clubhouse tonight because it's a 60 mile round trip and I have to be there early tomorrow to help with setting up for the meeting. Being around all of the guys will take my mind off of Woody temporarily. I hate leaving my Smokey but I will be back tomorrow afternoon as soon as possible.

The last time I left the house (other than work) I had two dogs. When I came home, I only had one. God wouldn't do it to me again, would he? I think that I will go off the deep end if I lose my Smokey. The sad thing is that when we took the dogs to the vet in May for their annual checkup, Smokey's urine test showed protein in his urine. The veterinary practice I was with at the time couldn't make up their mind what to do about it and I went through everything from "don't worry about it" to he could be gone in three months. We took him to the vet that treats our cats and they said that he has a renal insufficiency and that they treat a lot of dogs that have the same thing and that dogs can live along time with it. I didn't ask what she meant by a long time but it said on the internet that they can live anywhere from a few months to a few years with it. She gave us medication to control the protein loss in the urine. Smokey doesn't have any of the clinical signs yet and he is dong well. But, I thought that I was going to lose Smokey first and that I would have his "brother", Woody, for a long time. I never expected to lose Woody first and that's what makes the loss even more painful. Woody was going to be my comfort when we lose Smokey.

I couldn't get on the LS website this morning so I will post this when I get home. I typed it at work and sent it home to myself. I will copy and paste it into a reply when I get home. Thanks to all of you whp responded for caring and for your support. You are all very wonderful people. I always thought that motorcycle people were the best but "animal people" are even better.

Hi, Steve, each day, each week, each month will get a little bit better hopefully to the point where you can remember your precious Woody with a happy heart. Have you thought about doing a biker rally in honor of Woody that would raise money for research, financial support of companion animals who are victims of domestic violence, as a donation to your local humane society, etc.? You could make this an annual event in Woody's honor and designate each year for something different, as a suggestion. This may also help ease your loss to keep his memory alive - - not just for you but for your communty as well. And you could incorporate Smokey into the advertising for the event - - even make the donation toward research in canine renal insufficiency that would - - perhaps -- find better treatment for companion animals who have this illness. These are just suggestions, but I thought I might ask as many folks who are bikers and belong to biker clubs do these types of fundraising events for various different organizations. Steve, God knows your struggle and is a compassionate God. He is with us at all times and in all cir%%stances. I do understand your struggle, but for different reasons which actually has brought me to a closer relationship with Him in spite of the horrendous traumatic cir%%stances. Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Our journey on this side of eternity is a walk by faith, not by sight. For if we only believe in what we see, then we become seriously disillusioned and have no hope for something better. And when a spirit - - of any life form - - loses hope, then it loses the will to live. So, Steve, believe in your heart that God's merciful and bountiful blessings will be with you at all times and in all cir%%stances, and you will have the assurance that He is a loving God. I hope you will accept this in the spirit of friendsihp it is offered to you to be a means of comfort and encouragement to you - - and not as a means of "preaching" at you. This grief journey raises many questions in our hearts and minds, and if I have been able to help you find a way to have some peace in your heart and mind, then I am content. Steve, please know you are in my thoughts and prayers, and will look forward to knowing how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Hi Steve, If you feel the time is right for a new dog, then go for it. You know it won't replace Woody but heal the wounds a bit. I know how you feel about wanting to say something to your partner. In my case, Dave wants to just forget about the whole thing and move on. Not forget about Arthur but the shattered heart he experienced. I cannot ignor the pain, tears, all that. He wanted him to be an indoor cat, I wanted outdoor. He use to say to me whenever he came home hurt "your the one that wanted him to be an outdoor cat". Even after this I said please don't say it and he said no, no, he loved it outside that's where he wanted to be. But I can't help thinking he's bursting at the seems, holding it in, and one day boom! "he should have never been an outdoor cat this is all your fault". It makes me sick to my stomach but that is how I'm feeling. Is he thinking this or is it my own guilt. Like you I know how you want to say something, but your right, there will be problems, she will think your blaming her and it was just an accident. So, let the tears flow. I also know that you didn't get a chance to say goodbye and I know that has played a big part in your grief. When my cat Daisy was put down without my knowledge I literally had a nervous breakdown. This time I was there, I had to be. But in all honesty, the vet called Dave at 4am and said he had a rough night and was having a hard time breathing. Dave said after the whole ordeal "I wish they said he had died so I wouldn't have gone thru this". And in some ways so do I. My first euthemism and it was the most horrible thing I ever went thru.. Only we know when it is time to let our grief go. I hope your new pup will help you with yours.. Let us know.. Hugs ..Ann

Steve,
I am crying as I write this. I cannot believe that there was another Woody out there that came to such a tragic death. Our beautiful boy Woody was killed on the highway several miles from our country home, I happened Friday night the 26th just some days after your Woody. My husband and I are just so sad. My heart is broken, and I feel so responsible. I cannot even write of the cir%%stances it is so distressing to me. Woody was 10 and the very best dog we ever had. We too have another dog, Schatzi a little 11 yr. old Corgi. We are all grieving. I know there is nothing to take away your pain as there is nothing that takes away our pain. I just wanted to let you know that there is someone out there feeling your pain and crying with you as you mourn your Woody.
ann f

A lady stopped by today that saw our Woody get hit. She pulled over to ask my wife if she needed help when it happened. She stopped today to ask how Woody is. I told her that we had to let him go and she said she didn't think that it looked that bad when he got hit. She expressed her condolences and told me that she has two dogs and I could see tears in her eyes as she left. Now I am concerned again that my wife might have overreacted and let him go when she shouldn't have. The Vet wouldn't have let my wife let Woody go if something could have been done, would he? I should have gone over there. I just should have gone over there.

I wanted to share something with all of you. My mother-in-law gave us a book called "Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates" by Gary Kurz. It says that it is a book for those who have lost a pet. I just started reading it and I like what I have read so far. The author researched the Bible for this book and one paragraph in the book starts out "In Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates, indisputable and convincing evidence is offered to prove that God has indeed made eternal provision for all of His creatures." It will take me a few days to read it but I will let you all know what I think when I am done. The bottom line of the book is that we will see our furry children again.

Hi Steve,

As sure as I am sitting here, I am also sure that we all will reunite with all those we have loved that have gone before us and those who will pass after us. Knowing this brings me so much peace of mind. You and Woody's time together here on earth was just a mere fraction of what eternity will bring for both of you.

That was kind of your Mother-in-law to give you "Cold Noses At The Pearly Gates." It's not one I have read, but will look up tomorrow. I have read many books about pet loss. One I would highly recommend to you is "Angel Dogs" written by Allen & Linda Anderson. Since you mentioned this book "Cold Noses At The Pearly Gates"cited proof of eternal provisions for our furloves, I have pasted a list of scripture directly from the Bible which may also bring you some comfort. (See at end of post.)

Working through a devastating and sudden death of a furchild is by far the hardest thing I have ever been forced to do in my life. Though bodies may persih, loving spirits never die. My Goliath was with me here on Earth and remains with me in everything I do, everything I touch, everything I see, and everything I feel. His loving spirit is alive and well all around me and inside of me. Woody is still with you too. Your bond with Woody cannot ever be broken........even in death. He soars amonst the angels and is in God's almighty hands.

Much love and comforting hugs to you and your wife,
Beth

ACTS 3:21 Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by the mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began. (KJV)

REV. 21:5 And He that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And He said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. (KJV)

ECCLESIASTES 3:18 I said in my heart, "Concerning the condition of the sons of men, God tests them, that they may see that they themselves are like animals”. (NKJ)

ECCLESIASTES 3:19-20 Man's fate is like that of the animals; the same fate awaits them both: As one dies, so dies the other. All have the same breath, man has no advantage over the animal. Everything is meaningless. All go to the same place; all come from dust and to dust all return. (NIV)

PSALM 36:6 Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains, your judgments are like the great deep; you save humans and animals alike, O LORD. (NRS)

GENESIS 1:30 and to every animal of the earth, and to every fowl of the heavens, and to everything that creepeth on the earth, in which is a living soul, every green herb for food. And it was so. (DBY)

ROMANS 8:19-21 "the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God, because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the *** of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God."
(KJV).

LUKE 3:6 And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.'" (NKJ)

Steve,
I read your post tonight. I posted earlier today about our own Woody. Please be careful of the guilt, feeling you should have done something different. It has been eating at me all week and it will surely bring you no peace. Cry, mourn, honor the memory. That is what I am trying to do. All these feelings are surely normal. Please know that others grieve with you. It is in this intense pain that we know we are truly alive.
annf

Hi, Steve, when it comes to "hit by car" injuries, there are a lot of variables. Even though the "hit" may not have "looked all that serious", the internal damage escalates over time -- bleeding / bruising in the lungs itself can be fatal. Add to that shock and other injuries - - your wife followed the vet's advice in Woody's best interest. Part of the grief journey is the questioning process "what if" and "why didn't I" and "I should have" - - it's normal. The second guessing can almost drive us insane because we want so much to "make sense" of what happened. I am so glad you have found a book that may help you find some peace, and I will look forward to reading your book reivew of it. Goliath has certainly given you many good Scriptures to read. Revelation 5:13 is absolutely proof positive that animals are in heaven - - and not just in heaven but are gathered around God's throne. I have also done an extensive Scripture study on animals in heaven, and would be glad to send it to you - - but only if you would like to receive it. Steve, this grief journey just takes time to get through - - there is no "proper way" of doing it. We each must find what is helpful for us individually. But it is a journey that no one has to travel alone, and I am so glad you are here so that you can receive support, encouragement, and comfort along the way. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers, Steve, and please keep us posted as to how you're doing.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Hi Steve,
In answer to your question if the vet would have put Woody to sleep if it was unecessary......the answer is NO! It was nice of the lady who witnessed the accident to stop by and express her condolences to you and your wife. Even though she said it didn't appear to her to be that bad, she would not have been able to see what damage was done. Sometimes injuries that look to be minor often turn out otherwise in both humans and animals.

It sounds as though you and your wife are both very distraught about Woody's accident and the result. That is completely understandable. Hang onto each other and love each other. Woody would not want either of you to let this already tragic event of his death to come between you. This is a time to be close, even if in silence. It will take both of you alot of time and tears to come to terms of acceptance of Woody's death. Just remember that his spirit is alive and well from here to eternity. The best is yet to be and will last forever and a day.

Thanks for bringing this book "Cold Noses At The Pearly Gates" to my attention. I did look into the book today and see Gary Kurz has two more books in print right now and should be ready for sale in about 3 weeks. The two that are coming soon are titled "Ghost Pets" and "God Of Me Too." This kind of reading always provides so much comfort for me and I hope it does the same for you.

Peace, hugs, and blessings,
Beth

Hi Steve,

I wanted to tell you how sorry I am to hear about your loss of Woody. I lost my Candy several months ago, but it was her sister Pepper who we lost several years ago when she too got struck by a car. It's been years and I still miss her. I wish I had the words that would help make the pain go away. Just know that we all are hurting with you and that one day, we will see our precious ones again.

Hang in there.

Candy's Dad

Hal

Well said. thank you for this.

Jan.

It has been over two weeks since we lost Woody and I thought it was getting a little easier for me. That is until today. Yesterday, I asked Steph when we were going to get Woody's ashes back. She said that she would call and when she did she found out that because she was so upset when she filled out the paperwork at the emergency clinic where they took Woody that she gave them the wrong phone number. That is the reason that we had to wait so long. So, she went today to get Woody's ashes and when she got back in the car, she called me crying her eyes out and that started me crying my eyes out. I had to take Smokey to get his nails trimmed today and when I got home Woody's box was on the table. I picked it up and hugged it and the tears and feelings were there just like it was the first day. At least my Woody Boy is home. He's not in the same form as when he left but at least he is home. Life sucks rght about now. I'm about half way through the "Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates" book and I like it. If you aren't a Christian and don't believe that the Bible is the Word of God then the book won't give you any comfort. I should be done in a few more days and I'll let you know what I think about it then.

Steve,
I am crying with you.

Dearest Steve, I read your post and my heart is literally breaking for you, Dear One! Please forgive me but all here who know me do realize that it's so much easier for me to express myself using images, poems, songs and the like. This is what came to me to give to you in your time of great sorrow at this moment.

Woody says:
I hear your Voice on the Wind, Dad! And I hear you call out my Name!
I am the Voice of the past that will Always be!
I am the Voice of your hunger and pain. Answer my call and I'll set you Free!
I am the Voice! I Will Remain!









Many Comforting Hugs, Love, Peace, Faith, Hope and Angels to You and Woody!!!

Always,
Dottie xoxoxox

Hi SteveK., Oh how I know how your feeling. I never had a problem with having Arthur's ashes. I feel that I know where he is and I have something to hold and cry over and talk to and kiss. And it brings me comfort. I do hope in time it will do the same for you... Hugs.. Ann

when I got home Woody's box was on the table. I picked it up and hugged it and the tears and feelings were there just like it was the first day. At least my Woody Boy is home.

I'm glad your boy is home. Your reaction is very normal. It takes time and even then at times the pain and tears will hit us again..unexpectedly. Again...all normal.

Whatever helps you to feel better is the okay thing to do. Sometimes in my topic, I write a post to my boy...that helps me to get out my words somewhere since he is not here for me to tell him in person. Others here do the same. I guess it is one way of feeling a "contact" again with them.

Everyone has the same pain but sometimes we cope in different ways and surprisingly, we find sometimes we cope the same way. So one may ask...am I crazy? And the answer is always...NO you are not. Whatever helps is okay.

Two weeks is such a very short time...the easing of pain usually takes much more time. We take baby steps forward one day at a time and then one day...out of the blue...we feel it all back again, overwhelming and painful and we cry until we are exhausted. And..that is normal. That is okay.

I am glad you have Smokey. I have had 2 dogs and lost one. I have had 1 dog and lost that one. And for me, it really helped so very much to have one still with me vs none.

I wish you and Steph peace and healing and know it takes a lot of time and never truly goes away completely because as long as their memories are with us, we won't forget the good memories and we also won't forget the sad ones because all were a part of our lives. The healing begins when we use the good memories to push away the sad ones. We are so grateful they were part of our lives and we know their souls are with us forever. There are special bonds formed that can never be broken..by any power.

Hi, Steve, getting our furkids ashes back can be both comforting and difficult because it is another "reality" check that our beloved furchild is not with us as they used to be. Holding Woody's ashes can be very comforting, as I did that with my Eli for quite awhile, and still do occasionally. I also slept with my Eli's collar under my pillow for months. This grief journey is both physical and emotional - - and so it is important for you and your wife to do whatever helps to ease the burden of this horrible loss in your lives. And I have e-mailed the Scripture study to you as you requested. I hope you find it helpful, and I will look forward to reading your book review of "Cold Noses". Steve, thank you so much for sharing your wonderful pictures with us, and for keeping us posted as to how you're doing. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Peace and blessings,
moon_beam

Woody's ashes stayed in the bedroom last night on my chest of drawers. He will remain there for a while until we get one of his pictures framed and then we will place the photo next to his ashes in a prominent place in our living room. Woody loved to carry around a squeaky hamburger dog toy. He would carry one around for several weeks and then he would chew it up. Once he chewed it, we would get him another one or two or three. One time he chewed the bottom out of one and it is almost a perfect circle except for the chewed edges. I carry it in my pocket every day and hold onto it several times a day. I have seen posts from some members that mention a sign from their recently departed pet. Does anyone have any experience with this? The day that we had to put Woody down, we took Smokey for a walk across the street. There was a certain location that had a lot of undergrowth where I expect rabbits may hide. Almost every time we got to that spot, Woody (when he was alive) would literally hop up into the air and vault over the undergrowth and run around in the brush looking for the rabbits. Well, as I was saying, we took Smokey for his walk that sad day and when we got to that exact spot Smokey leaped into the air like Woody used to and ran around in the brush looking for the rabbits. He never did it before and he hasn't done is since. He's almost 10 years old and he doesn't do much jumping (if any) anymore. My wife said that it was a sign from Woody and that he was saying goodbye. If it was a sign from Woody I would like to think that he was telling us that he is okay. What do all of you think?

Yes, Steve I have had at least two similar occurrences. The answer to your question is no. It was not a sign that Woody was saying good-bye. Steve, animals have a 6th sense which most of us do not possess. They can sense and see those things that are not visible to us. If you wish me to provide links to Websites verifying this, I will be glad to do so.

Again, Woody was not saying good-bye. Steve, you got visited by Woody. Word! I'll be glad to answer any questions you have to the best of my ability.

Tons of Hugs, Love and Angels to You, Your Dear Wife, Smokey and Woody!!!

Always,
Dottie xoxox