I had Bali for 13 years. She was my soulmate, my guardian angel, my best friend, my twin flame, and my entire soul. I've never felt pain like I did with her passing. She went peacefully in my arms on September 27th, 2023 of sickness and old age. A part of me died with her. I had Bali for all but 1 or 2 years of her life. She saved me, and I don't know where I would be without her. I feel so incredibly lucky to know she's watching over me now, and can't thank her enough for visiting me in a dream so I could see her again. Pet her, kiss her, tell her goodbye. The most beautiful Snowshoe ever. I love you my Bali boos. Thank you for being the best thing that ever happened to me.

Ibn Astraney (aka Ibn) by Astrafix x Shaneya, was an adorable Arabian colt, a wonderful personality, like a puppy, born a seal brown bay, turned into dapple black/grey then white. He would understand the simplest words/sounds and respond. As a stallion he was so easy to handle and train. Ibn was the Horse Love of my life...To this day I’ve not gotten over him. He died accidentally. It’s been 14 yrs. My “feral cat named Kitty” (also listed here) took over to heal my heart. Ibn and his mare wife ChutYanna died six months apart, they were my muses in many of my paintings. If you like, you can read about Ibn on my webpage https://hubpages.com/@delia-delia

I was in a riding accident that made me afraid to ride again... then I got Blue. He is so goofy and so smart, I was in love with him almost immediately. Then I found out he has a degenerative disease in his front feet and it makes him lame most of the time and will shorten his life. I could have sent him back but I already loved him so I couldn’t. We get to play in the arena but we rarely get to ride and trail rides probably won’t ever happen again. He will live out his life with me and I will love him forever...

Lilly is out of my very first horse Cookie so she’s been pretty special since birth, I was 13 when she was born and I got to witness the whole thing, my hands were the first hands to touch her. She even followed me around before she followed Cookie lol She was my trick horse, kids that visited couldn’t believe I had a horse that could smile. She could smile, say yes and no, hug me, bow and lay down plus all the cool things she could do under saddle. She LOVED her treats. Lilly would talk to you when she thought she should be fed and she loved to run out the gate when My brothers or dad left the gate open too long. Then she’d prance around you out of reach till you got that feed bucket. She was so intelligent and had quite the ornery streak. Or if she got out and nobody’s out there to chase her she’d eventually end up on the car port, waiting for me. I will miss watching her gallop towards me when I call.. My husband proposed to me by riding Lilly in and surprising me while I walked the dogs, he knew how special she was. And included her on that special day. She’s in our engagement photos too. I miss her so much. I was there for Lilly’s first breath into this world, and I was there for her last. I hope she knows how much we loved her. And how much she’ll be missed. There will never be another horse that I love as much as I loved you. Stephanies Lilybud 5.13.03 - 10.11.19

Lady gave me 10 amazing years. I had never really liked mares before I met her but she changed my view on them forever. Mares have a way of connecting with you. I met so many amazing people in my life all because of her, I even met my husband! She was my best friend and taught me so much. She will be forever missed and while I won’t ever find another like her, I’m blessed she was in my life at all.

Annie was a horse my family rescued. She was training to be a racehorse. (Annie Leader) She was very terrified of people when we first met her. Actually took 2 hours and a group of people to catch her. Now she is super sweet and has a lot of sass. She will follow you anywhere!!

We have been on the receiving end of three pet deaths in a relatively short time. We lost our sweet Norwegian Elkhound Cinder to cancer (11 yrs old) We then lost our 1st cat child, Rain to old age (16 yrs old). A few months after she passed we lost our little man (pictured) Nox (otherwise known as Sir Blacks A-Lot). He had sudden cardiac failure at the age of 7. Cinder was a puppy mill rescue. Rain was a tiny kitten abandoned by her mom who we raised and Nox was a feral kitten who adopted us. All three were painful losses in quick succession. we were able to get paw prints of each animal for free from the vet before each one passed. The Painted Pony, Crossing Rainbow Bridge guards those paw prints and is accompanied by the rainbow bridge poem. Thank you for making this Pony.

The best dog ever. Such a sweet and gentle soul. You are forever missed. Meet you at the Rainbow Bridge. 1998-2013❤❤

A few years ago we rescued this beautiful baby..... she was in training to be a racehorse unfortunately her career didn’t take off because she was whipped, beat, and even possibly buzzed. When we adopted her she had a fear of people and would not let any one close to her. It took 3 hours just to catch her even with a group of people. Today she will follow you anywhere and loves treats. She still is not totally rideable but we have come along away. Back then she was named Annie leader but today this sweety is called Annie Belle!

Simba is a well loved barn cat. I met him before his eyes were opened and claimed him. He had alot of respritory problems that I tried to help him with shots and foods that would build him up. I was getting ready to move and had to leave him for a couple weeks but I told him if he was still there when I got back he was coming with me. Well, we had a big truck backed up to load and I looked out the door and there was Simba on my husbands shoulder! Hes living up to his name as he is King over my other two cats.

I first met you when the neighbor brought you over when you were eight weeks old. I remember how soft your fur was when you were a kitten. I remember how much you loved to be left alone to just do your thing. I remember how you used to lie on my neck when we were sleeping. I remember the 16 great years we had together. The 16 years you were by my side, until one day you were let outside never to come back meowing at the front door to be let in. The countless fliers and Facebook posts never brought you home. I will miss you every day you are gone from me but I will never forget you in my heart. I love you max. It’s been 407 days since I’ve heard your handsome meowing, felt your gentle headbutts and soft fur.. It’s been 407 days since I’ve let you outside or you’ve climbed on my back to sleep.. It’s been 407 days since I’ve raced you up the stairs or gone on a walk around the neighborhood with you on my heels... It’s been 407 days since I’ve smelled your lavender scented coat and looked at me with your big loving eyes. It’s been 407 days since you’ve comforted me while I cried, or cuddled up to Ruffy... It’s been 407 days without you... It’s been 407 hard days without my best friend...

I found HarleyJack at the local Humane Society. I knew nothing about his history at the time I spotted him laying in the corner of a big pen surrounded by small barking dogs jumping all over him. At that moment I fell in love with the quiet little dog. I thought I better get him now before someone else spots him. I opened the pen he was in and sat on the floor. The next thing I knew he was sitting in my lap and looking up at me with his big brown eyes. A Volunteer came over and I told her I wanted to get him. She told me that he had just been put in the pen 10 minutes before I arrived. She then told me the story of the little dog. His owners turned him over to them because they didn’t need him anymore. He had only been a stud dog for them, they had never taken him to a vet, had not given him any shots or had him fixed. One thing they did do was to have his vocal cords cut so he didn’t bark. The Humane Society, had him fixed, gave him the shots he needed, had to pull several teeth and chipped him. I have MS and my new little guy must have sensed something was wrong with me because if I was having an MS attack he would jump in my lap not letting me get up. For a little mistreated dog, he loved everyone and everything including other animals. I was told he was 10 years old but it didn’t matter to me. I just knew I loved him. In April, of this year I had an engagement I needed to attend in California. I left HarleyJack, with a friend but called daily to check on him. He was fine, just a little tired. When I got home I got my boy but the entire weekend all he wanted to do was sit with me in the chair or on my lap. On Monday morning I called his vet and took him in. The vet examined him did blood work then came to tell me that my little love HarleyJack, had cancer and his kidneys were shutting down. I asked if he was in any pain and the vet told me he probably was. I knew at that moment my little man and constant companion would not be coming home with me. I truly believe he knew it to and was ready to cross the rainbow bridge. He looked up at me with those beautiful big black eyes, licked my face and hand saying goodbye and then left me. I only had him for 4 years but it seemed like so much longer. I do know we will be together again one day. Until that day I will not forget you MEBOYO2.

Here are my two mini dachshunds. The red (Mini Me) passed away Nov 2012. The black & tan (Stitch) passed away June of 2013. The photo I posted of the Chow mix was their "big" sister Sweetheart. It was a difficult time as they all passed within months of each other. :(

She was a rescue. We got her from the shelter when she was 6 months old. She was 16 or 17 when she passed in Jan of 2013. That was a hard time for me. We had two mini dachshunds. One that passed Nove of 2012, the other in June of 2013. :(

Ruby taught so many children (and adults) not to be afraid of horses. Some children even planted a horse chestnut tree (because she was a horse) in her favorite spot on the farm. Everyone loved her and so many were affected by her passing.

On 4/20/19 I had to say the hardest goodbye of my life. I had ShuShu for around 17+ years and I will never forget her. I rescued her from a shelter and I still remember the day she stared at me with those bright blue eyes and reached through the cage with her tiny paw for me. She saved me as much as I saved her. She was so small she could fit in my hand but had such big ears it was so cute. She stuck to me like glue and followed me all through high school, college, two moves and more. She would sleep with me, cuddle with me and the best part she would greet me every day at the door when I came home. Her meow was something no one would miss, we called it her banshee cry and I miss it now more than ever. It's the worst not having her at the door every day as well. I held her so close as she drifted off to that Rainbow Bridge and I know she's no longer in pain and she's happy but I can't wait to see her again. I miss you so much baby. I'll see you again one day. I love you.

We have had our little red furbaby since she was a puppy, as a foster from the Ga. Humane Society. She came to Arizona with us and 4 years later we got Tootsi from an Australian Shepherd Rescue, who happened to be the same age as Inu. Inu wasn't sure she was happy not being the only dog anymore, but in the last four years they are getting along much better. However, Inu is still the diva of the house, but there are times when they sit by each other and take naps with me! I hope we have them for a long, long time...

I have had guinea pigs for over 18 years, and I could not imagine being without them. Olivia was a surprise birth at my house. I rescued her mom Amelia from someone who had apparently let Amelia’s brother impregnate her. Because of her genetics and a strep infection, I lost Liv on May 2nd of this year. She would have been three in August. One thing I would love non guinea pig owners to know about them is that they are extremely personable pets, and they have just as much personality as a dog or cat. It’s funny that my two favorite animals (horses and guinea pigs) are completely opposite in size. But what I am getting at is that no one can or ever will replace Olivia, and it hurts so much to know that I will never hold her again or see her run up to the front of her cage for treats. Amelia and I will always miss her, until we meet again at Rainbow Bridge.

June 27, 2007, my Siamese Akasha and Manx Joseph, surprised me with a special bundle of joy. Jesse spent 11 years with me before passing away from cancer. She was met by her parents at the Rainbow Bridge on August 18, 2018. There's not a day that goes by that I don't miss my little girl or her parents. They all have a special place in my heart.

My Aussie dog Oreo saved my life. She found my cancer before it could medically be detected. It began innocently enough, her laying with me in bed sniffing my chest, I thought how endearing this is! It increased in frequency, progressing to sniffing my wrists and breath, to barking and growling at me with a pleading look in those beautiful brown eyes. I went to the doctor, who found nothing remarkable, I wanted a mammogram which at the time I was too young for one. There was nothing there on the film, I told the radiologist about my dogs behavior and they sent it for a second look...barely there, almost invisible was a suspicious spot. Yes, it was cancer...after a year of chemotherapy, 9 weeks of radiation, my beloved Cookie stopped sniffing me, and until she passed away never did those behaviors again. I am now celebrating 10 years cancer free thanks to my sweet Oreo Cookie Dog. I loved her and miss her greatly.

When I went to look at the kittens from the breader I saw this little grey fluff ball who had so much character. I knew immediately he had to come home with me, after many months I began to realise he liked me building pillow forts for him to snuggle and sleep in. I still to this day make him a pillow fort in the spare room every night. As you can see in the photo its the perfect place for him to sleep!

These are our 2 boys, Sgt and Solvig. They are bonded brothers from other mothers. Our pack consists of Pearl, the matriarch female at 9 years, Sgt our rescue lab mix from a kill shelter in TX and our rescue Giant Schnuazer Solvig. Our world would be so boring without these 3 amigos, they light up our days and fill our nights with endless love. Life is better with dogs.

This is Tipsy my Sheltie. I only went to look at him. I had no intention of buying a dog but after I got home I couldn't stop thinking of why I didn't want him so I called the breeder back and went and brought him home. He was such a sweet funny little puppy and as he got older became very loyal and tried to please which is a trait of the Sheltie. He loved to ride in the car and went with me every where he could. He died about 11 years ago from congestive heart failure. For Christmas one year my sister had a pillow made with his picture on it which I treasure. He will always be with me as long as I'm here.

This is Tipsy my Sheltie. I only went to look at him. I had no intention of buying a dog but after I got home I couldn't stop thinking of why I didn't want him so I called the breeder back and went and brought him home. He was such a sweet funny little puppy and as he got older became very loyal and tried to please which is a trait of the Sheltie. He loved to ride in the car and went with me every where he could. He died about 11 years ago from congestive heart failure. For Christmas one year my sister had a pillow made with his picture on it which I treasure. He will always be with me as long as I'm here.

I lost my beautiful Irish draft back in 2003. He was in his late 20s and was a gentle soul. I used to ride him for a lovely lady who wanted Someone to keep William ticking over. He had ringbone, side bone, Cushings, etc and was generally a geriatric, but everyday I'd be there to brush him cuddle him and every Friday afternoon we'd ride out around the village for 20 mins, we'd meet my neighbor Who'd leave William wombat a carrot on the windowsill. We’d then pass the pub where in the summer he was offered A 1/2 pint of Guinness and I only got a coke because I was only 15, and on the way home we'd pass the newspaper shop where the owner would always give him a sugar cube. He was loved by everyone where we lived and he was magnificent. He was 17.2 and stood to attention like a police horse and Had the kindest eye. He was my best friend and I miss him so so much. xx

This is Terra. She crossed over last month at the age of 15. She was the most loving and friendliest cat I have ever had. I still feel her here.

Heineken was a very unique dog for me. I got him when I was in middle school. I was always being bullied as well as dealing with family issues over the years. He has been with me for nine years before I decided to join the Army after high school. During that time my mother suggested that I rehome him. I didn't want to and refused too. So I found a lady that I paid monthly for his care. This happened for three years. During that time I deployed to Iraq. He was of course waiting for me when I visited home for leave. After active duty I went right into the reserves. Time went one and I went away for another year, this time to Afghanistan. I returned late one night, and of course with him being older he could only bark, howl, and bounce happily at my return. I was finally put in for a medical retirement in 2016. By this time Heineken was no young puppy and his health was bad. We made a move from Hamilton Missouri to our new home in Kansas. We stayed two weeks at my mother's house. He had decided that this was the time to say goodbye. My sister in law had to make the call to the vet. Anytime I tried I broke down in tears. By this time my loyal, brave, and amazing boy was 19 years old. Heineken had many health issues by this age and already was having trouble eating and breathing. The night before I was to take him to the vet I begged him to let me know I was doing the right thing. He licked my face as I cried. I'm sure this was to say it was okay and he was ready. The morning came as bad as i didn't want it too happen. My dad drove us to the vet. As we waited he was acting like a puppy again as if pain free. When we went to the room he went and laid on his blanket letting out a heavy sigh. The vet said I could go once he was sedated. I wasn't going to leave him. He had been with me throughout my roughest years and this once when he needed me I wasn't going to leave him. He sighed when he heard me say that to the vet. So as he drew his final breath I swear I saw him staring and smiling at me. I hope that he is young and wild across that rainbow bridge. Always a little warrior.

Kitty came to us about ten years ago, right after my last horse died. She helped to heal my heart and I helped her life. She definitely is the smartest cat I’ve ver had...she rings a bell to go out, comes to my whistle, does not go on furniture except the one allowed, sits before she eats, then the word ok ..etc. I wrote about her and am adding a link if you wish to read more. Hubpages delia-delia https://hubpages.com/animals/feral_cat

I received Toby as a fifth birthday present from my parents, he was more than just a pet to me. He became my best friend. The winter of 2011 Massachusetts had horrible ice storm and because of that ice storm Toby suffered a route to the eye. Which led into the blindness of his left eye, which quickly spread to his right eye. Once the infection was under control, Toby seemed to be better. Three years later he became horribly ill and passed away the summer of my 21st birthday. This July will be five years without my best friend and I miss him every day.

I got bailey right in town where I live. She is a pomapoo, half Pomeranian and half poodle. There where only two left, my mom saw her at work before she got her. When she went to get her she ran right up to her knowing that was her new mommy. She will be 9 next month. She been through a lot. When she was home one day she jumped from my arms and broke her leg, she was here not even 2 weeks when it happen, she had a cute pink cast with a heart on it. The sad part of her life when her two best kitty friends passed away. She is really spoiled, at night after dinner she cries for a treat. She loves playing ball outside, swimming and going on walks. She hates being left for too long, if she does she goes swimming in her water dish and gets water everywhere. Bailey loves Christmas soooo much. She gets a little stocking with all stuff in it she likes. She loves car rides, we put a bed in there for her and she falls right asleep. One year her birthday was on Easter and she got a huge basket of toys. She was watching for the FedEx guy because she gets treats. She loves playing in the snow, she does not mind the cold. At night she love getting belly rubs, if you stop she waves for more. Yes she will wave to you. She is kind of shy around kids but still sweet. I hope time with her never ends.

Lost our beautiful boy in Dec. 18 at the age of 2. Left us deeply heartbroken but taught us that love in your heart is space,- and endless. We’ll welcome a new boy in April, but Jack will never loose his place in our heart!

Prisilla Dot Com will forever hold a very special place in my heart. This gorgeous paint mare took me through youth riding career to the beginning of my adult riding career. Prisilla was a one of a kind horse that not only taught me how to succeed successfully within the show run in every discipline, but she also showed me what true bond of friendship, love, and respect was. Prisilla passed over the rainbow bridge in July 2016 after a long, exhausting, and painful battle with Lyme Disease. Prisilla will always remain my heart horse and surely will never be forgotten.

I met Naughty when we were both 15 in a muddy field. She was a former racehorse and broodmare and I was a freshman in high school. We were three months apart in age and she taught me so much about horses and being a good person. I knew Naughty for five years until one day while I was three hours away at college. I got a phone call from my dad saying Naughty was sick. I knew it was bad and within a few hours I was having to say goodbye to my best friend over the phone. Her loss has continued to shake me to the core but through her loss I was able to learn so much about myself. I miss my best friend more than words can say but I am forever grateful for Naughty and the lessons she taught me. She will always be my forever horse and her loss is felt everywhere I go. It’s been almost eight years since I said goodbye but I know I’ll see her again someday.

I wrote this story a few weeks after learning that Emmie, my 8 yr old Australian Shepherd was diagnosed with nasal cancer. When you acquire a dog, you are or at least you should be their decision- maker for life. How do you react to people that say it is “just a dog” when the end is near and you have to make that final life ending decision? Not only is it life ending for your friend, but it can also be life altering for you. Where do you begin when you tell of the loss of a friend? Do you start at the beginning or does your mind go to the end? When I think of Emmie and the heartbreak of losing her my thoughts go to many days of my loyal companion by my side. However it all really started even before Emmie was born. My true love of an Aussie dog started at the Ohio State Fair in 1997. I knew I wanted a dog of my own; one that could be my shadow at the barn, at the horse shows, anywhere and everywhere. One little blue merle female caught my eye. That sweet angel of a dog became Calico Calgirl, “Callie”. She not only won my heart but the hearts of everyone around her. There was and will never be another Callie. She was unique and was definitely more than “just a dog” even to those who did not even care for dogs. Calicocalgirl became my email address, my screen name, and my user name on several online forums. Her name is what many knew me by. Calicocalgirl opened me up to so many things. Not only did she give me a recognizable alias but also showed me about unquestionable love and forgiveness in her eyes. When she was ten years old and experienced her first stroke, it stabbed at my heart thinking of her life coming to an end. Even just the thought of losing her was so devastating. There would never be a replacement for someone like her, but her decline led to my search for another companion. I did not want just a puppy. It had to be the right puppy. This dog would have big shoes to fill someday. Callie never really excelled at anything other than being special. So our new sidekick had to have the potential to be just as special as she was. I found an ad online for puppies in Everett and I took Callie to look. She was not overly impressed with the idea. One by one I held each puppy but only one stood out to me. They were only a few weeks old so I would check back when they were ready to make sure that this was indeed the one for Callie and me. When the puppies were 8 weeks old, we returned to claim Callie’s little protégé. The mother dog jumped in the trailer and every puppy followed her too. A few years prior, I thought I would have to make a life ending choice for Emmie due to early arthritis and two torn ACLs. People said she would not have a good quality of life due to those injuries unless I had surgery which I could not afford. I did not have the surgery but we walked every day to strengthen her. She was on maintenance medication that was far below the recommended levels. She beat the odds on that one and even through her weakening condition today you can hardly tell she has anything that impairs her gait. She fought through that to be able to enjoy every day of her life to the fullest. I know she is a fighter but she is losing her fight to a horrible disease. I want to end her suffering. I don’t want to end her life. This is not a decision anyone wants to make. I don’t know how much time she has left that she can live comfortably, but I don’t want to write the ending to her story. Shortly after writing this....Emmie passed away February 27, 2015.

I lost my beautiful Tango in November. She was the most loyal, obedient, loving dog anyone could ever ask for. I miss her everyday and will never forget her. She took a piece of my heart with her ❤️❤️

Strider and I are just walking to cool down after a ride, Strider can be a bit overprotective thank goodness. I don't know how I would have survived these last few years since I have epilepsy. Strider is always there for me no matter what. He has a nervous nip because he worrying about me. I love him more than anyone, He's my partner through thick and thin.

We went to a rescue looking for a donkey to keep our miniature horses company out in our barn. We were searching and all of a sudden I heard a loud ruckus of a trailer door opening and two horses stumbling out... I saw my horse for the first time, and we automatically knew he was going to be mine. Automatically clicking with him, we came back a couple weeks later and got him. Not only did he make me the happiest little girl in the world, he was also my best friend, my other half. I knew he was old but not exactly how, until we had to make several emergency trips to OSU, ending up knowing he was to be 27. We decided to humanely euthanize him, as he was suffering and only hurting the both of us with the pain he was in. As he took his last couple breaths on my lap, I held onto his halter the whole time, just being there. Although I struggle two years later to the day, I never forget the good memories and times we had together... always in my heart baby boy. Rest Peacefully.

We went to a rescue looking for a donkey to keep our miniature horses company out in our barn. We were searching and all of a sudden I heard a loud ruckus of a trailer door opening and two horses stumbling out... I saw my horse for the first time, and we automatically knew he was going to be mine. Automatically clicking with him, we came back a couple weeks later and got him. Not only did he make me the happiest little girl in the world, he was also my best friend, my other half. I knew he was old but not exactly how, until we had to make several emergency trips to OSU, ending up knowing he was to be 27. We decided to humanely euthanize him, as he was suffering and only hurting the both of us with the pain he was in. As he took his last couple breaths on my lap, I held onto his halter the whole time, just being there. Although I struggle two years later to the day, I never forget the good memories and times we had together... always in my heart baby boy. Rest Peacefully.

First and foremost, I'm sorry that I'm not in the photo. However, this is all I have left of my precious childhood dog Muffin. He died of heartworms when I was just ten years old. I cried so much when he passed. He was my best friend. I was so excited to see him everyday after school. My parents spent over $400 to try and save his life but God had other plans for him. I'd love to win an ornament to place on our tree every year in honor of him. I have so many memories with Muffin that I'll always remember and he'll forever be in my heart.

Cassie was a very special horse that I took in from a rescue. She was purchased from an auction for $25. She was starved and neglected and very pregnant. I took her in as a foster until she was able to have her baby but quickly fell in love with this very sweet soul. Just 2 months after being with me she gave birth to a beautiful little colt who was absolutely perfect in every way despite his moms deplorable condition. She was terrified of people, especially men and you had to work very hard to earn her trust but she absolutely loved children and was very kind and patient with them, including my neighbors son who is autistic and got very excited to see the new baby. When he got excited and started screaming and jumping up and down beside her baby I thought she was going to hurt him, but instead she put her head on his shoulder and nuzzled him. It was the first time I had seen her connect with anyone but me and it assured to me that I was going to keep this special mare. After that she became the baby sitter. You could put any child on her back and lead them around and she would take care of them like the precious cargo that they were. Unfortunately early this year at the approximate age of 34 we had to make the decision to put Cassie down. It was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make but she let me know that it was time so with the help of the vet and with me by her side my beautiful girl crossed the rainbow bridge.

I lost Mijo in June of 2016. He was 18 years old! He was the first dog of my very own and he was all about me as I was about him. I miss him every day. I was there at his very beginning to his very end. We buried him under the flag pole in the front yard, wrapped in his favorite blanket, so that when I look outside I can see him. He was with me through the good times and the bad times and even the worst of times. He never failed me, he never judged. Unconditional love and a belly full of food (treats included) is all he asked for! I will forever miss him.

Frankie was the typical little dog that thought he was a big dog. Always barked at strangers and pretended he could take them. I grew up with this guy, literally. He became very sick overnight one night, very suddenly and we have no clue what happened and to this day still do not know. He was rushed to the emergency vet hospital at about 4am that day. A few hours later we received a phone call from the vet saying they didn't think he would make it through the day. We got there and he was for sure in rough shape and as soon as I held him he took a deep breath as if relieved I was there to be with him and he could let go. He was put to sleep a few minutes later and took his last breaths in my arms. He was my best friend since I was a little kid, he passed when I was 19. I will forever miss that little dog. We will meet again someday and I am a little less sad knowing that. There are things that happen everyday that still let me know he is here watching over me.

My daughter rescued Sam, a Great Pyrenees, from a puppy mill and gave him to me in 2009. He was about 6 months old and skinny but a truly happy soul. If you’ve ever seen a dog “smile “, you know what I mean. My sister, my mom, and I all had houses on our 85 acres. Anytime I would go see one of them, Sam would follow, and wait by the door for me. He loved to come into the house during the day, but insisted on being outside at night to keep the coyotes away. He was my constant companion and we loved each other more than I thought possible. Sadly, last year he developed osteosarcoma in his right leg. He was only 8 years old and way too young to die. As he had hip dysplasia, the leg could not be amputated. It would be too hard for him to walk on 3 legs. I made the difficult decision to have him put to sleep. I held his head and cried as the vet administered the injection. Sam “smiled” at me, as if to say it’s ok, I’ll see you at the Rainbow Bridge. The picture posted here is at home right before we made his last trip to the vet.

The year was 2002 when our family got Meg at the local animal shelter. A rescued black lab mix who was one year old. As we start different chapters in our life Meg was always there a loving, loyal and caring dog. We love her very much. She got lost once trying to follow our family but thankfully we found her and she was back home safe and sound. Meg was a good dog through out the years always wanting to play ball, run around the fields and play with our newest family member Sophie Mae. Sadly on June,15, 2015 we had to say goodbye to Meg as she crossed the Rainbow Bridge to live with the other dogs and hopefully one day we will be reunited again someday.

Shunka was adopted by me at about 8 weeks and became my service dog. I trained her myself and she helped me with everything related to my P.T.S.D. for her whole life. She was instrumental in making it possible for me to go out in public again including new places which was impossible before. She went everywhere with me and helped me learn to talk to people again. In January of this year she had major surgery for a cancerous tumor on her belly. She was not the same even after recovery. In late June the tumor came back and got very large very quickly. On August 1st I had to make the decision for her to cross over. It was the most painful thing I ever had to do. She is greatly missed!

When I was 2 years old, my parents got a call from the Doberman Rescue in Illinois. We had just put old, sweet Sherman down, and mom was very sad, so mom was very happy to get a call from the Rescue about a pup in need. Oliver was small, and had been found on the street when he was 2 or 3 months old. Oliver and I got along from the start. Four years later, we moved to Pennsylvania to take care of my ailing grandparents, and took Oliver with us. They loved Oliver and when they died after 2 years, we started looking for a new home. By this time, Oliver was getting old and gray-nosed. A little while after we moved, Oliver got temperamental, and very inconsistent in his behavior, to the point were he bit me on the leg one day after going for my arm. Mom and I decided Oliver was too dangerous be trusted with everyone who loved him so much, so 1 week later, she left me at a friend’s house and met with the vet to have him euthanized. I couldn’t bear to be there when it happened because I loved him so much, but I knew it was the right thing to do. I miss him so much. Sometimes, the only thing that keeps me going, is that when I cross that old river Jordan, I’ll see Oliver again.

Rocky was rescued from a life of BigLick, he bore scars on his cannon bones from the abuse he withstood. When I went to look at him, he proudly sauntered out of his stall and introduced himself to me as a true Southern Gentleman. Despite all he had been through in the name of money and the many scars that now adorned his body, he held his head high and proud. I brought him home and promised he would never know life like that again. He carried my 2 young children over some intense trails, carefully placing his feet so that his tiny charges were safe. He would swim with them clinging to his neck as they splashed. He never got upset or shied away. I was riding him one hot July night, and we were hit from behind by a speeding car. We flew up and over the car, my shoes even went flying off. I came down directly on my tailbone and broke my right wrist. Rocky didn't fare as well, he had been struck on his right flank and he was not able to stand. We were unable to get a vet out there quickly, so a State Trooper did what we thought was the right thing to do and put him down right there on the side of the road. We buried him under a huge willow tree overlooking a pond behind his pasture. He was only 16, he was with me for 11 years. He saved my life, I am so grateful for that. I miss him everyday and have a scar on my wrist to remind me.

The sweetest and best dog I have ever owned is my boxer Daisy, she was my best friend and I love her very much. I was there the day she was born, I was there the first day she opened her eyes and I was there when I made that hurtful decision to put her down. Daisy has given me the best 14 years of my life and I hope I have done the same for her. I hope when it is my time to go she is waiting there for me just like when I get home from work, very happy to see me, I love you Daisy and I am always thinking about you.

My sweet baby Sis Miss was my first and only dog. She was the best companion and did everything with me from the age of six weeks old. She was born on the first day of Spring and started her young life camping, fishing, hiking, bike riding and kayaking with me. I took her EVERYWHERE I went. She was such a sweet, smart, loving dog. Last year she got diabetes and lost her eyesight. Even when she was sick she was so, so sweet. I loved her and she loved me back every day for many years. She crossed the rainbow bridge last year on Halloween at the age of 12 1/2. I still miss her every single day and I'm not sure I'll ever be able to move on to another pet after her. Thank you for this outlet that allows us to share the memories of our beloved pets who we miss so much. <3

Indy is my new 'very naughty' Aussie pup who has come to be my new best friend (I lost my GS girl Lucy and miss her so much). He is very adorable and everyone in my town stops to pet and talk to him. He loves all the attention. He also gets to grow up alongside my young granddaughter who adores him, when he is quiet!!! He seems to have a love of water and runs off to dive in the river... at least I know he can swim. He seems to find all the blackest mud. He loves everyone and everything, except people that dare to walk past my front door and does his best 'noise' to protect me from them.

This is my 16 year old POA rebel. I have had him since he was a yearling and I have loved watching his color change over the years along with his personality. Rebel and I competed in 4-h when I was younger and even at the state fair where we took a 5th in showmanship. Rebel and I share a bond that no one else can have with him, many have tried and failed. He is definitely one of a kind and is spoiled rotten.

Born on March 20th, 1989. She was the prettiest red roan filly. She taught me an I taught her to trust me. She was 25 1/2 when I lost her on February 8, 2016. She was my trail pal, cattle herder when needed, and she taught my daughter how to ride at the tender age of 3. Impressivelycheryl aka Jewel was my best animal friend ever. I miss her dearly an know she is on the other side of rainbow bridge waiting for the day she sees my face again so that we can be together forever.

My Quincy...adopted from the Humane Society in 2003. He was found as a stray and was 5 years old. He lived to be 15. He crossed over the Rainbow Bridge 5 years ago. He was my best friend, my confidant. I miss you, Quincy. Love always...

I adopted Aires, the brown tabby when he was a kitten. He fought a long battle with an illness and crossed the rainbow bridge at a young age. He was a sweet cat and is missed dearly everyday.

This is my big boy Mister, he came back to me after my sweet girl Desi passed suddenly. He had been at a horrible barn that was starving him, he was a shell of his former self. Three years, lots of good food, love and a trillion kisses later he’s thriving and I couldn’t be happier with him back in my life!

The first dog I ever owned. She was 14 when she crossed and I still miss her like crazy❤️

This is Jasper. He’s the best friend a girl could ask for. We’ve been through a lot together. He loves me unconditionally and I wouldn’t take a million bucks for him.

Saving one animal may not change the world but surely for that one animal the world will change forever. This is Superman (I called him Henry). He is one of the lucky ones that gets a second chance because there are people who care about animals. Others are not as fortunate as Henry.

This is my husband and his service dog Grizz. We have had Grizz since he was six weeks old with all intentions that he would become a service dog for my husband. Before Grizz was old enough to work with him, my husband didn't really like to go places or be around large crowds. After we started his training and being able to take him places with us, my husband was able to comfortably attend our sons high school graduation. The graduation took place in a packed expo center where concerts are also held. Their bond together is definitely something to be seen. Grizz loves my husband as much he loves him right back.

2 year ago my partner past away, left me only with my horse, my dog and a lot of beautiful memories. After this 2 years I am happy to say that I am doing fine, managing all the things on my own,"Still going strong" thanks to the loves of my life, my best friends, my 2 partners in crime: This one goes out to my pets who are always there when I need them. So much love for my 2 pets <3

Me and Candy Girl. She is at the rainbow bridge and was 29 years old and dearly missed.

Walking up a slight incline to have the first meeting with my foster horse, Ziggy, my balance was poor and I tired easily from just finishing radiation treatment a few weeks before. I had been diagnosed with lymphoma 6 months earlier and still had lasting symptoms from the surgery and chemotherapy. The next visit I was looking forward so much to grooming Ziggy that I wasn't aware of the hill ahead of me. Ziggy was a large aged part draft horse who had been rescued two years before I met him. As I curried and brushed him I couldn't help but notice the harness scars on his body telling the story of years of pulling a vegetable cart through the streets of Baltimore. He seemed to like the attention I gave him and stood still underneath the turnout shed without me needing to hold him. I like to think I helped his recovery in a small way, but I know he helped me on my road to health. It wasn't long after starting working with Ziggy that I was able to continue my volunteer work as a photographer for Days End Farm Horse Rescue. Ziggy passed away in 2013. His kind and gentle spirit touched many and he will be missed by all that knew him and grew to love him.

Me and my BooBear, he went to the Rainbow Bridge 05 January, 2018. He came to live with us when he was 5 weeks old, left for the bridge when he was 14. Dearly missed.

This is Snickers, my mini doxie. She is a rescue dog and has been my bestie since 2013. I adopted her a week after we unexpectedly lost my other mini doxie, Stitch. She really helped me get through that unexpected loss. I love her with all my heart.

My 14 year old daughter, Kaitlyn Hughes with Alleycat. Sadly she was PTS only a few weeks ago because of cancer. She was over 30 years old.

Let me introduce you to Wyatt the Riot. He's a rescue pup.

This is my horse, Magic. He died at 26 years last winter. I laid on top of him crying as he took his last breath and I watched him go to heaven. I grew up riding him ever since I could walk. He is my reason of my love for horses. He was one of the greatest, sweetest, and best personality horses that I have ever encountered. No one knows what it is like to lose a pet until you’ve lost someone as great as him. To win this contest would mean the world to me because I would then have a painted pony for him to be remembered by. I hope you’re eating your favorite carrots and have a big green pasture where you are baby.

One Dance Left, a Colonial Spanish Mustang and his owner, Gretchen Patterson.

We were together for 24 years, he was almost 28 when I made the hard decision to euthanize him on October 30, 2017.

This is me with my beautiful faithful old friend Mac Morrissey. He's been my best friend for more years then I can remember, he's now 23 years old. Here I am posing with a bunch of cow parsley for him. I love The Trail of Painted Ponies.

This is me with my cheeky monkey Lenny. He's been my best friend for 6 years and he's now 18 years old.

This is my beautiful Roxy who died suddenly on the 26th of April this year. My life will never be the same without her.

With my Little Miss Op who passed the rainbow bridge in June 2017. I miss her so much.

This is my cremello QH, Binky, who crossed the Rainbow Bridge last year as the result of a tendon injury - he was only 6 years old and I miss him dearly. Binky was special from the start, born 20 November 2011 (in Australia, that is written 20/11/2011), he was orphaned at 10 hours and that was the beginning of our very close bond. I basically lived in my tack room for 3 months, commuting between home, stables and work, on public transport - it was crazy! At 8-10 days old, he was fostered by my leopard appaloosa mare Harli and so he was lucky to be taught to "be a horse". But Harli did not have milk, so he was still bucket raised. I feel very blessed to have had Binky in my life, to have the amazing experience of hand raising him, of seeing Harli take on a foal by free choice who wasn't her own, for having the chance to have such an incredible bond with a horse.

This is me and my forever horse, Brooke. She was my first project horse that was rescued from an abusive life and ended up being the most kind and gentle soul I have ever encountered. Brooke crossed the Rainbow Bridge in 2013 due to an illness. As I said before, she is my forever horse. Even though she is gone, she is always with me in my memories and my heart.

Here are a picture of me with my corgi, Morgan. Morgan loves to dress up and smile, and is very photogenic.

This is my one of my favorite photos of my horse Shaker and I. Shaker passed away from colic Easter weekend at the end of March while I was away. I love my boy more than anything in this life. My biggest regret will always be that I was not with him when he had to leave this world. He was fearless, stubborn, an amazing teacher, best friend and confidant and sassy as can be for a 18 year old gelding. I prayed to have more years with him. This I will not get, but I am so thankfully every day for that path that lead me to having him in my life. I love and miss my baby shaker every day.

Adelynn and her horse Rosie.

Me and my girls Indy, who is a husky mix, and Roxie, who is a red heeler mix.