In Memory of Kaiser

On June 1st our 14 year old dog, Kaiser, passed away. It's the hardest decision that a pet owner can make, but we promised ourselves that if his quality of life was not what it should be then we would do what we had to. An excruciating decision.

A few days later we got a sympathy card from our vet's office with a poem enclosed. It was very true and really struck home for me. So as a tribute to my companion, friend, protector and furry child I will share some photos and the poem. You may want to get a hanky handy. I'm just warning you.

If you never met Kaiser, then you truly missed out. Although he was leery of men, he was an extremely lovable boy. He smiled often and loved to hug. Oh and he was truly a ladies man.

The Last Battle

If it should be that I grow frail and weak
And pain should keep me from my sleep,
Then will you do what must be done,
For this — the last bat tle — can’t be won.

You will be sad I under stand,
But don’t let grief then stay your hand,
For on this day, more than the rest,
Your love and friendship must stand the test.
We have had so many happy years,
You wouldn’t want me to suffer so.
When the time comes, please, let me go.
Take me to where to my needs they’ll tend,

Only, stay with me till the end
And hold me firm and speak to me
Until my eyes no longer see.
I know in time you will agree
It is a kind ness you do to me.
Although my tail its last has waved,
From pain and suffer ing I have been saved.
Don’t grieve that it must be you
Who has to decide this thing to do;
We’ve been so close — we two — these years,
Don’t let your heart hold any tears.
– Author unknown

And we did.

Goodbye most beloved boy!