Goodbye Charlie, You Will Always Be My First Puppy Love
Saying goodbye to a beloved pet is one of the hardest things in life to do. The more you love the pet the closer you become, and the closer you become the more difficult it is to say goodbye. The two of you have had such a great life together. You have so many warm memories and so many photographs, you will never forget him. You will always have a small lump in your throat when thinking or speaking about him. And he will always be in your heart.
Puppy Love
It was such a delight to bring home this cute little puppy that bounced all over me and eagerly licked my face, while trying to get all of my attention. The baby barks and curious little whines endeared him to me and helped me decide on his name. It can be hilarious deciding on a name for a tiny pup but when you know he will grow from this adorable little ball of energy to a handsome, mature, well-loved dog, it might be a good idea to use a little thought. Fido is way too common and Charlemagne is far too ridiculous. So I decided on "Charlie". It is still quite common but I have always loved my great uncle Charles and would like to remember him through this wonderful little guy: my new dog, Charlie.
Life with Charlie began with the usual negotiations of what Charlie could and could not play with, that outside was where he was to do his business, and how quiet he was to be if he was allowed to sleep on my bed. (I should make it clear right now: this is not a “How To Train Your New Dog” Manual. I bow to the expertise of others for that information and motivation.) To help my Charlie go to sleep at night I had to give him a soda bottle with warm water in it, wrapped with a towel. It was like a hot water bottle but firmer and it reminded him of his mother enough so he would sleep contentedly for most of the night.
As Charlie grew and his body started to match his big paws, he became a handsome looking dog. Charlie was a beagle and had fabulous dark chocolate brown and golden patches on white fur. His paws were white and he had a white-tipped tail, usually wagging so fast you could not see the white except as a blur! He developed some interesting personality characteristics that drew us very close to each other.
After our initial greetings when I came through the door, having been away long enough to do some chores and get groceries, he would hide. I knew where he was but he thought he was hiding. After about 10 minutes he would come out of hiding and quietly enter the room where I was reading or watching television. He would peer his head around the corner of my couch and bark (more a quiet ‘yip’.) Then with tail wagging to beat the band, he would jump up on his seat (my footstool) close to me and wait to be petted. I don't know how or from where he acquired this little feat of entertainment, but each time he performed it, it made my heart leap with happiness. Every time I knew it was coming but it still "broke my heart" with joy.
Charlie and I had wonderful times together and they were all special to me. Time flew by and life continued with a number of very pleasant surprises for me. I married a wonderful man who also loved Charlie. We all moved in to his large and comfortable home on five acres in the suburbs. Charlie loved to roam the acreage and would frequently bring home special treats for my husband and me. On special occasions such as Halloween, Valentine’s Day, and St Patrick’s Day, we would dress Charlie in a simple costume and take pictures. We loved it – he was not so impressed. Charlie still performed his routine of hiding and then finding me, but only when we were alone. He was such a dear and I loved him so.
When Charlie no longer wanted to roam the acreage or even, really, go outside. I knew something was wrong. He had difficulty walking, and jumping up on his favourite stool was obviously agony for him. I took him to his friendly vet and left the examination room for the doctor to look over my little love. When I returned to the examination room Charlie was quietly lying on the padded table looking just fine. But when the doctor spoke it was in quiet tones of empathy and professional wisdom.
My worst fears were realized: it was time for Charlie to go. The doctor told me Charlie was in a great deal of pain. Not at the moment because he had been given a mild painkiller. He told me the problem was cancer in his kidneys that had moved to his blood system. It was inoperable. I wanted to pick up Charlie and run back to our home where he was loved and cared for. That would surely help him recover and regain his puppy energy and life. But I knew that would not work and I would never put Charlie through such a painful experience.
I called my husband and told him the terrible diagnosis. He joined me at the pet hospital to be with me while I made the hardest decision of my life. Charlie barely wagged his tail at seeing him, but wag his tail he did. My husband helped me to make the only loving decision I could make for Charlie by listening to my broken heart and all my stories about Charlie and me before he was in the picture. He helped me by guiding me to the inevitable decision that was mine alone to make.
I said "goodbye" to my sweet Charlie that afternoon, knowing I would never have such a deep affection for another dog in my life. Yes, I have a lump in my throat when thinking or speaking about Charlie. And, yes, Charlie will always be my first and dearest puppy love.
© 2011; Maralexa, Marilyn Alexander, MBA. All rights reserved
Comments
AUTHORPamela, thank you for your comments. Yes, thinking of Charlie now makes me feel happy. I'm happy he was in my life, I'm happy he was so loving to me, and I'm happy he was so healthy until the end. I think of him with love now, not sorrow - and that's such a blessing. Marilyn
This was so beautiful to read. You wrote it two years ago and I hope with time having gone by that you are able now to think of your Charlie without feeling sad. I know the feeling and I know it takes faith.
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Oh, Mary, how kind of you to take the time to read about Charlie. Thank you for your comments. I do hope your grief over your little Rikki will fade to fond memories. I still get a lump in my throat when I think about Charlie, but a smile comes because I loved him so much. I hope your beautiful tribute to Rikki will help you in this process and that you will come to a time when you can smile about how much love she brought to you and your family.
My heart breaks for you about Charlie. As you know because you read my Hub on our loosing a beloved Pet, we are broken hearted right now. You will never forget Charlie, nor will we forget out little Rikki.
Beautiful trubute to Charlie.
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Isn't it wonderful that we can call our pets our "best friend" ! If Lassie was as good a friend to you as Charlie was to me, you are blessed indeed. Finally, my memories are bringing me more smiles than tears.
Thank you, Eddy, for your very warm comments. Marilyn (Maralexa)
My favourite dog breed ;I had one as a child called lassie and she was my best friend, I am saving this one and look forward to so many more by you.
Eddy.
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Hi Kashmire. Thank you for your very kind comments. I know you understand having lost Tanya so recently. I read her story and found her to be amazing and sweet. Thanks for sharing your story and thanks for sharing mine!
Maralexa, what a beautiful dog Charlie is. Looking at his photos while reading your story of Charlie and you, my eyes started getting misty, then I just cried, making it hard to read more.
I have a dog, he is a darling cockapoo and I called on him (wiping away tears) to sit beside me, which he didn't coz he just wants to nap, lol.
Your first puppy love was for sure a great and amazing love!
Thanks for sharing. Sad yet a beautiful story.
Hi Maralexa, your Charlie was such a beautiful dog and enjoyed your wonderful story about him. I had a lump in my throat when reading the end. I've been there many times and it never gets easier, i just lost my dog Tanya in March and i still miss her a lot. Thanks for sharing this beautiful story about your first puppy love.
You might want to read about my Tanya in the hub Escape to the other side .
Vote up and more !!!
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Justsilvie - what a wonderful story yourself! Having to leave Flora must have been hard but how wonderful to know she is enjoying life in the country. And now Lulu, life works in mysterious ways. You are very fortunate - and so is Lulu. Thanks for reading about Charlie and sharing your story about your two wonderful pets.
Oh my I could hardly read this without tears falling..Charlie looks just like my Chrissy but is a basset beagle mix...I can tell you loved him so much and he was a blessed puppy to have you too. I am so sorry for your loss, my heart goes out to you. God bless you. Charlie is adorable!
Such a heartwarming tribute to Charlie. I know how much you must miss his presence,
I am a beagle lover also. I had to leave my beagle Flora in Austria when I moved here, she was just to old (14) to put through the trip, but she is living a happy retirement in the country. So now we have Lulu Her last owners gave her away because she is getting old (9). Hard to believe someone can be so cruel but their loss is our gain. She is a love.
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Hyphenbird
- your comments are so appreciated, thank you. 21 years is a long time to have a close friend in your life. To lose your little Hyphen must be very hard. How clever of you to use such a memorable hubber name. I hope it keeps Hyphen closer. Blessings to you, too. And, yes, I do hope we will see them again on the other side.
Maralexa, I am so sorry about Charlie's passing. It is such a difficult thing to bear and one's heart always remembers. I just lost a best friend, my little cockatiel Hyphen. He had been with me for 21 years and life seems to have a huge hole. I believe we shall see them again on the other side of this physical body. Bless you for loving Charlie so well.
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Thank you for your comments, Audrey. The fact you felt the joy and the sorrow makes writing this difficult-to-write hub all the more worthwhile. But then, beautiful poets, such as you, are usually more sensitive to other people's feelings. I hope that you and Sasha have many more years of joy.
It is so difficult to say goodbye! I have a 10 year old named Sasha--and she is slowing down these days--I love that we can be so close to them and they to us. I felt all the joy and sorrow in your story---
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I understand what you mean when you say your Bonnie was somehow special and losing her a very sad experience. I too would do it all again. I wouldn't trade the wonderful memories to escape the pain of losing Charlie. He meant so much to me.
It is just great to hear you have 2 more special dogs in your life. I would love to hear the story of your first puppy needing a puppy! I truly hope these new special "people" in your life help you overcome the sadness of losing Bonnie.
Sincerely, Marilyn.
I read your beautiful tribute to Charlie with tears in my eyes. I know some time has passed since you wrote this, but I also know as the rawness of losing him has probably passed, the void will always be there. I lost my Golden Retriever, Bonnie, 9 months ago, in a similar way to you. I had other dogs and cats besides Bonnie, and loved them all and miss them too. But Bonnie was just one of those once in a lifetime dogs that are so special, losing her was somehow more intense. But I am so grateful for having her. I would do it all again, pain and all. In reading your comments, it seems you have that feeling also. I have since gotten another puppy, (actually 2, because after a few months this puppy, needed a puppy, it's a long story). Dogs are special "people", and I enjoy them. I wish you lots of healing and good memories. Thank you for sharing Charlie with us. I can tell he was something special. Rated up and beautiful.
- AUTHOR
Hi Carter06. I know what it feels like to lose a beloved pet. It took me 4 years before I could write my hub. So, I just gathered up all the photos I could find and wrote some notes to myself. It helped so much to write the hub but I couldn't write it until I was ready. Thanks for reading and sharing.
This is so sad for me as we have recently lost a loved dog...was intending writing a hub about it but still a bit raw yet...sometimes I wish we didn't get so attached!!!...thank you for this one...adorable photo btw...cheers
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Thanks, Nell. It's the photos that count so much. They provide such wonderful memories of a loving pet. My cat KC meant so much to me too. Although they are both gone I wouldn't change the fact that they were in my life for anything.
Hi, this was so sad, I totally feel for you. I cried buckets when my lovely Sheba died, she was a collie cross alsatian, lovely photos of such a gorgeous dog, nell
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Hi Will! sounds like you and your wife are once again in the beginning stages of falling in love -- with a new pet that is! Take pictures and write about your new family member as often as you can. We do live longer than our pets and the memories are truly wonderful; they make up for the hurt of losing them.
Why not see if there are friends or family members who would house-sit with you pet(s) when you travel? Knowing they are in good hands makes it easier to leave them for awhile.
PS: I hope you get the chihuahua, but labs are so beautiful! Best Wishes, Marilyn
We are currently without a dog, and don't want another one right away, because we want to travel without the burden of a pet. Besides, the pain is so intense when we have to do the right thing and put them down.
Right.
So I am baffled that my wife just sent me a text picture of a Chihuahua puppy (she's a labor and delivery nurse) still nursing its mama. I know what that means! But I'm even more baffled that I am so enthused about getting a new puppy!
I wonder how it will get along with the new lab I haven't told her about just yet!
BTW, my first pet ever was a sweet little beagle, and how I loved her! I'm so sorry that you lost your Charlie.
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Hi miccimon, thanks for your kind comments. I too hope Brando is with you for a long time to come. I hope you have pictures of him that you can treasure now and in the future. Pets are such wonderful companions and friends. Here's to you and Brando enjoying time in the park!
What a beautiful story about Charlie. My Brando is only 5 years old, and although I know he will be around us for a long time God willing, I can't imagine not having him in our lives. So reading your Hub makes me realize that I should enjoy everyday with him and take him to the park more!.........voted up!
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My memories of Charlie are really happy ones! Because I took a lot of photos I can look back and smile. Writing this article and sharing it has made quite a difference in how I feel now.
Thanks for reading and commenting, Angela. I appreciate your visit.
Wonderful, I couldn't help but, think about my first puppy love, Roman, as I read this! Nice and in the end sad memories. He was delightful! Thanks for sharing!
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Unconditional love -- it is what makes the relationship with our pets so amazing. Thanks for commenting billips. It's hard to let go sometimes.
I understand how your feel Maralexa - pets give us so much, and ask so little - we have made this decision before and know we will have to make it again in the near future - it is the last kind thing we can do for our pets, our companions, and those who give us unconditional love - B.
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My Minds Eye53
Thanks for your comments! Sounds as if Sebastian and Puddy Tat have a fabulous home. I am a lot like you - I too love dogs and cats, puppies and kittens. I also love your hubs and appreciate your time in reading one of mine.
I have a puppy I saved this past summer. Sebastian is half beagle but looks like a full blooded one. He looks a lot like your Charlie. I have had many many pets over the years and I think the one I bonded most with is my cat Puddy Tat. I got her when she was just a tiny sick kitten. She slept with me every night. She sounds like she has asthma. This is odd, because I am a dog person. But I have had her 4 yrs. now. I will help any animal in need. I am a sucker for babies especially.
Voted up
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Thanks for taking the time to read and comment, Patty. Yes, it was hard losing Charlie. But not only did we have a long and happy life together, I have my memories and my photographs.
Poor Charlie - I hope you and he had a long life together before he was in such pain. It is hard to lose a close friend.
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Thank you for your commnents, bgamall. Your words are so true. Pets can steal our hearts.
Thanks for this story. Pets are a gift, and when they go, they are missed if loved the way they should have been. They are souls and they are far more intelligent than many understand. They will have it better than most people in the afterlife. I am sorry for your loss.
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Hi Sinea, how good to see you! I do understand how you could miss Blondie so much. And I am so happy you have Lexi. Although she will never take Blondie's place, it is just so wonderful to have a beautiful, happy dog in your life.
I would not have changed anything about Charlie. I have been so blessed having him in my life.
We lost our beloved Blondie just a few years ago. We'd had her from a pup...saw her through 5 years of diabetes, blindness, eye surgery and finally she died of probably cancer. It came suddenly and I got the answer to my prayers...that we would not have to put her to sleep. God took her. We missed her so much and, though no dog will ever be Blondie, we were blessed with rescuing another yellow lab who is almost her twin. Lexi is a doll but she's her own self. Maralexa, thanks for sharing this. Charlie had a great owner in you!
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Thank you, RT for visiting my hub! I find that all my pets have had interesting and endearing personalities. And when they pass on it's hard to take even though you know it's time. I wish I could give each of them a big hug today.
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Aley, thank you for letting me know how much you liked my hub. I really appreciate your comments. I am sorry about your loss of Chloe recently -- our wonderful pets make life so much more rewarding. I would never choose to not have the pain of the loss because then I would never know the joy of sharing life with them.
Charlie was a beautiful dog, and it sounds like he had the personality to go with his looks! I'm so glad you enjoyed him and have wonderful memories, even that you can rest knowing you always did the wise and kind thing for him to the very end.
The thought of losing our precious pet is difficult, yet I know it is coming--she has had more than her share of 9 lives already.
I lost my Chloe in July, she was 13. I relate to this Hub so powerfully! Thanks for honoring Charlie and all beloved pets. They are our fur angels and our memories are pure and strong!
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Thank you so much for your beautiful comments, amymarie. Because I loved him so much I had to do what was best for him, not me. It was a hard decision. Thank goodness I have the memories and the photos of him.
Hi Maralexa,
I have tears in my eyes as I write this. This is such a beautiful tribute to Charlie. I'm so sorry that he's passed. He is so beautiful in these pictures. Just remember what a beautiful life you gave him and all the pain you spared him when the time came.
Rated up & beautiful.
- AUTHOR
Thank you for caring, Tina. It is so hard to say goodbye to a beloved pet. I have received so much comfort from people like you who have also had a wonderful pet and companion. Thank you for taking the time to comment.
Oh, I am so sorry for your loss! I sit here with tears in my eyes while reading because I can so relate to this. Like all dog-owners, I also had to make that horrible decision a couple of years ago. I know how it feels and I still miss my dog very much. You did a wonderful hub about him and he will always be with you in your memories!
Tina
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OrlandoJohn1, you should write about your companion and best friend. And take pictures of him too. I know you enjoy Magic and will continue to enjoy his company as time goes on. One of the ways you can save good memories of him is to write notes to him. Tell him how much he means to you. This may sound a little nuts but what beautiful memories it provides as well as a lot of comfort when he is no longer with you.
Best wishes to you and Magic.
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the lyricwriter, thank you so much for your heartfelt comments made a few weeks ago! My apologies for not getting back to you sooner. I truly appreciate your stopping by and reading my hub about Charlie. You are very kind with your remarks.
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So sorry to make you sad, leann2800. It really helped me to write this because I miss him so much. Thank you for your comments, I really do appreciate your stopping by.
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Hi 2besure, thanks for your comments. Being able to share my sadness with others really does make it easier. Thank you for the blessings. Yes, they are our friends - dear friends.
Saying good bye are indeed tough... and when I read a passionate tale of an emotional good bye, sometimes it is as if the pain is shared... the lump can be felt without the good bye. It happens when the tale's words are from the bottom of a heart and so was the case with this one. Great pictures, great hub.
Awwww....this makes me so sad. But, your writing is beautiful. Good job
As soon as I read the title of you hub, tears came to my eyes. I do not have a dog, but I have 2 cats and I dread the day they pass. They are our friends, our children and we love them so. God bless you Charlie!
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You have expressed that very well. I miss the companionship most and I am so glad I have kept all the photographs to remind me of the good times with him. Thank you for taking the time to comment, GmaGoldie. I appreciate it.
Maralexa,
Loosing a pet is a horrible trauma. I still yearn for all my dogs. My two goldens kept me company during good times and bad. I couldn't have made it without them. Even today when I am extremely happy, extremely sad their furry faces are before me. I miss them terribly.
The memories of our loved ones and our pets are priceless.
Thank you for sharing.
This really touched my heart. I have been battling with the idea of writing about my own dog, Magic. He's a golden retriever that turns 10 years old on Christmas Eve. He's starting to have trouble jumping, and trots more than he runs now. The vet suspects the beginning of arthritis, which is treatable, but is a warning sign that he is definitely aging. I hope to have many more years with Magic, as he was really the first dog I have ever had as a companion. I say companion because he's more than just a pet, he's my best friend.
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Hi Vicki99. Just keep on loving Kona. Make some good memories with Kona. Write about your experience. Take photos. All that helps so much when your wonderful pet has gone. It is surprising how much happiness I found in missing Charlie so much.
As I read your story, my dog Kona lies next to me with his head in my lap. I am so sorry for your loss. I know that I too will have to go through the same thing, and I don't know how I will make it.
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Thank you homesteadbound. Our pets are so wonderful, so good to us, no wonder it hurts when we lose one. Pom's are lovely dogs. I understand your feelings about Zorro and Angel. Thanks for taking the time to read my hub and comment. Really appreciated!
It is so hard to lose a beloved pet. I have lost a few and I have a lump in my throat from reading your story. Your pictures are wonderful and Charlies's personality shines through. I have a pom named Angel who helped me survive the loss of my pom Zorro 2 years ago. When Zorro tragically died very unexpectedly, I didn't know how I would make it. I understand your pain. Blessings to you.
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What a beautiful story, Barb. I know how you felt about Ebony and that doesn't change even with Cee-Cee. I am so happy for you. Thanks for reading my hub and for taking the time to comment.
@Maralexa...Losing a pet is a grievous circumstance, and the best cure is a new relationship!
When I lost my beautiful Newfoundland, Ebony, I thought I would never stop grieving. Time does go by...Then one day a picture in the newspaper's Humane Society section, well, need I say more?? Her name is Cee-Cee, and this new little Border Terrier mix -- a fifth the size of dear Ebony -- is my new love...
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Thanks for your comments, Nicolas. Isn't it wonderful how we can laugh at the memories of our pets (past and present)! I know whaat you mean by the house seeming to be so quiet.....I am glad you got another dog. They are sooooo special.
Hi Maralexa,
Dogs never complain and spend a life of just trying to please you. They are pure love without condition, they are deeply rooted into our families and hearts. As mentioned, you made the only right choice...I lost my dog five years ago from old age and still laugh at the silly stuff he used to do. The house seemed very quiet without him so my wife and I got another dog, four years old now. Thanks,
Nicolas
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Thank you lyla1. I know you too love animals and so understand how hard it is to lose a pet. I find great happiness in my memories of Charlie.
im very sorry that you have been thruogh these awful times. I belive there is always something out there that brings happiness, i hope you find it! :)
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rb11 when you make a choice from love it is never wrong. Your dear little girl, though in pain, must surely have loved being with you when she died. Don't ever regret the kind of choice you made, it was absolutely right for your dear little girl and you. And if you ever doubt that just think what choice you would make if you were her. Dying in the arms of a true friend -- I only hope I am so fortunate.
Thanks for sharing your loss and your pain. When you get the opportunity perhaps you would like to share the wonderful memories you have with her.
You made the hard choice, but the right one. I lost me dear little girl at the tender age of 10. She had internal issues and looking back I made the WRONG CHOICE. I tried to treat her at home, I just couldn't make the choice you did and I regret every day of it.
Even with the pain killers she was still in pain, she died in my arms and at least the pain was over. If I had to do it again I would make the choice you made - As tough as it is your choice is the RIGHT CHOICE.
Our pets memories will live forever with us.
Charlie is with your forever....
- AUTHOR
Thanks suziecat7. I needed to share my experience. It has helped me to live with the happy memories more than the sad ones. Thanks for commenting.
So sorry about Charlie. I loss my 14 year old beloved Tuck in January. I will always miss him. Thank you so much for sharing.
Wow, such passion from this hub. So sorry for your loss. It makes me shed tears. I couldn't imagine a decision like that and the emotion it brings. Your hub is quite extrordinary. From beginning to end, from joy to sorrow, a template into lifes ups and downs. Yet, inspirational to have a love so strong. My heart goes out to Maralexa. Glad to follow your work. Take care.
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Thanks, Steph. Your sister's beagle sounds wonderful. Still trying to have fun. They are so wonderful our little companions.
Thanks for your comments.
So very sorry for your loss! My sister has had a beagle for 14 years and I cry thinking about how his time is coming to a close. He's deaf, and cannot see very well, but he still tries to chase the ball in the backyard.
A dear tribute to your Charlie. Best to you, Steph
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Thank you Peggy, I truly appreciate your comments.
Your Charlie will live on in your memory for as long as you live. He was obviously loved very much and loved you as well. We have shared the same kind of pain when we have lost beloved pets. This brings a lump to my throat just hearing about your loss and remembering ours. Bless you and your dear Charlie.
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You are sooo right blog8with j. We do need to move on. One of the reasons I wrote the hub was to pour all of my heart into the hub so as to my sad feeling go and keep the great memories. With the wonderful comments I have received I know the world knows about my beautiful boy, and to an extent, also loves him. That makes me feel much stronger and able to move on!
Thanks for your very good advice. I appreciate your reading my hub and commenting.
It's so sad to loss a pet. It happened to me once. It's hard but we just need to move on.
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Hi LABrashear! Thanks for your comments. Yes, they sure are great memories for me too. He was so great with me.
Thanks, appreciate your dropping by.
What a beautiful boy! Thank you for sharing your heart and bringing great memories for so many of us! Voted up!
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Oh Sue, thank you for your very kind thoughts. Sorry my story has touched you so. My writing about him and how I feel has really helped me love my memories of him more. Thanks for such caring comments.
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Thank you so much for your very kind comments, Eiddwen. Our little friends are so wonderful to have with us when we need the comfort of unconditional love. Charlie and then KC came to my rescue so many times. I am so glad Lassie was with you during your childhood. I really do know what a difference that can make.
I look forward to sharing many more with you. Thank you.
Oh how I loved this tribute,so touching and beautiful !!!
It hit home with me because I had a Beagle called Lassie when I was small and she was my best friend all the way through a bad childhood.
I have written a tribute for her too.
I am bookmarking this gem and of course voting up.
Here's to many more to share.
Take care
Eiddwen.
Hi Maralexa,
I am so sorry for your loss.
What a smart and handsome boy your Charlie was.
Your beautiful touching heartfelt tribute to Charlie made me cry.
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I appreciate your kind comments randomcreative. thanks so much for stopping by. Yes, my family does still miss Charlie. You would think we were just children the way some of us respond when we think of him.
Thank you for reading and commenting.
- AUTHOR
Hi Flora. I hope you have years with Amy. I wrote this only because I was feeling so sad for both Charlie and for KC my cat. I have loved them both so very much and miss them so much.
I have been so surprised by the response I have received from my friends here on HP that it (my writing the hub) has done a lot of good for me.
I hope you will let me (us) know when you lose Amy, but in the meantime perhaps a small diary of your time with her will help ease the pain you will feel in a number of years.
I am so pleased to be a follower of yours. Thanks for taking the time to comment.
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My dear friend, Kathy! How good to see you here. Thanks for commenting on my dear sweet Charlie. He died a little while ago now and my husband and I have parted (no comments, please) so I miss Charlie all the more. Sharing my feelings like this (online) was difficult to do, but I am warmed by such loving response from so many people.
I know you understand my sentiments for Charle (and for KC), thanks for stopping by.
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Hi Deborah, you are right, it has helped to share my experience by writing a hub about it. It is so hard to lose a pet that means so much. Finding others who feel the same gives me more comfort than I thought it would.
Thanks so much for reading and commenting. Blessings to you and your memories of Turley.
This is a beautiful tribute to your dog. It is so tough losing a pet, especially one who has been with you for a long time. I know that he will be fondly remembered by your family.
Marlexa-my cat was already old when I adopted her at the shelter. So far I have had her for three years, but I know that I won't get to have the time wit her that you had with Charlie which breaks my heart, because she is my soulmate. I'm so sad to hear about you r darling. Thanks for sharing this story. I don't think I will be able to write a hub when Amy dies. I might just announce it to my followers and leave it that. Hopefully, I still have years to go with her.
Oh, Maralexa; I am so sorry about this. I do know the deep, deep feeling of loss and sorrow when we lose a beloved companion animal...your sweet Charlie was such a joy and constant source of contentment for you and your husband...and, then, when we can no longer hold then near, hear their sweet voices..just knowing they are with us here on earth...such a great emptiness. You've written such a sweet tribute and memorial for your little friend. I am trying really hard not to make a scene and nuisance of myself here in the public library..just know, Maralexa..that you are understood and your love for this little one is valued! Your friend, Kathy
I am so sorry for your loss, Maralexa. I lost my 10-year old lab mix, Turley, to cancer 6 months ago and I'm still not over it. It's so very hard to say goodbye. But this is a wonderful tribute to Charlie, and I'm sure it helped you find peace by writing about how special he was to you. Take care.
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Thanks you for your very kind thoughts, Sunnie. He was my great friend. He loved me when no one else seemed to. I miss him very much. And I am so grateful for the memories.
Thanks for your comments and your hugs. Marilyn
- AUTHOR
Oh Cardisa, I am so sorry too. Our friends mean so much to us -- it is so hard to lose them. Thanks for reading and writing your comments, it's not easy.
I am so sorry for your loss. I lost three goats last year and one a few weeks ago. It was devastating to me. I know how it feels.
Dear Maralexa,
I am so so sorry for your loss. My heart just was broken as I read your story of Charlie, He was truly a beautiful dog and those eyes I am sure could melt your heart. I pray as time goes on your hurt will be less and you will only think of the good memories with your sweet Charlie,
God bless,
Hugs
Sunnie
- AUTHOR
Thank you so much for both reading my story and for your kind comments. Yes, I do miss the sweet little guy. He was such a good friend.
So beautiful when they're puppies and they give so much love and enjoyment, thanks for telling your beautiful story Maralexa, so sorry Charlie is no longer with you. Voted up and beautiful.
- AUTHOR
Thank you very much Larry71. I appreciate your commenting on my hub. Yes, Charlie was a wonderful friend and I still miss him today. He was so special and I loved him very much.
I see that you are new to HubPages, so Welcome! and I see you brought a very pretty young redhead with you. I look forward to reading your hubs.
Thanks again for commenting. I appreciate it.
Heart touching.
Marking up and beautiful.
Have dogs of my own.
Sorry to hear of your loss.
- AUTHOR
Oh Epi, I really know what you feel when it comes to your beautiful cats. I would rather be with my cat (or dog) at home too. Unless they are in pain. For the past 3 years I have been without a dog or a cat and I miss them so much. I have been on my own for over 20 years and really found my cat was a great friend to me. As I said in my hub about him, it seemed he was the only living thing that cared for me for quite awhile then.
So, love your cats as I know you do and save some good memories to warm your nights when they are gone. It won't be the same at all. But one thing is for certain, you will always have friends who understand and care about you.
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