Your Face Is Ever Before Me

I see Juniper's little face and eyes ever before me today. As I held him that last time yesterday, cradled like a baby, he looked so deep into my eyes as if he were searching the depths of my soul. He covered my face with kisses. So often, I notice that dogs look away when I look into their eyes, but Juniper stayed with me, never looking away.

He really wanted to be an only child - my child - but had to share me with other brothers and sisters and so many rescues. He was frequently aggravated with me for doing this to him.

Murphy was one of the rescues I fostered. Poor Murphy. I remember Juniper barked at Murphy constantly, and Murphy spent much of his time hidden under the bed. Both Juniper and Murphy were greatly relieved when Murphy was adopted and left for his forever home.

Tashee is Juniper's mother. They always greeted each other with a kiss as if they knew they had a special relationship. None of our other dogs do this.

I remember Poppy's excitement when we brought Juniper home. Juniper was only about two months old. Poppy stood on his hind legs and waved his front paws - what a welcome he gave to Juniper. I'm sure that yesterday Poppy was waiting at rainbow bridge with Tom to give Juniper another welcome - a welcome to eternity and forever love.

Was That An Angel?

The young pup and the older dog lay on shaded sweet grass watching the reunions. Sometimes a man, sometimes a woman, sometimes a whole family would approach the rainbow bridge, be greeted by their loving pets and cross the bridge together.

The young pup playfully nipped at the older one. "Look! Something wonderful is happening!"

The older dog stood up and barked, "Quickly. Get over to the path." "But that's not my owner," whined the pup, but he did as he was told.

Thousands of pets surged forward as a figure in white walked on the path toward the bridge. As the glowing figure passed each animal, that animal bowed its head in love and respect.

The figure finally approached the bridge, and was met by a menagerie of joyous animals; together, they all walked over the bridge and disappeared.

The young pup was still in awe. "Was that an angel?" he whispered.

"No, son," the older dog replied. "That was more than an angel. That was a person who worked rescue."

- Author unknown

Juniper Crossed Rainbow Bridge Today

My precious Juniper crossed rainbow bridge today. As time has passed and especially this year, his ability to walk has diminished until the last few weeks, he could not walk at all. He ate, drank, and pottied lying down (which was very upsetting to him). I always tried to comfort him about this while giving him sponge baths to keep him clean. If I left his line of vision, he cried and barked and was very upset. Needless to say, I carried him around lots. He weighed only about 8 pounds.

Sweet Juniper was born on February 17, 1998. I named him after Brother Juniper, one of St. Francis' friars who was said to be a clown and a very funny fellow.

As Juniper crossed the bridge, I can see my husband and Juniper's dad, Tom, running to meet him. Tom and Juniper are so happy tonight. Juniper is pain free and young. His spirit is full of joy. I can see him running and leaping, playing with Poppy and the others who have gone before him. I can see Tom, holding and kissing him.

I won't forget our last moments, Juniper, and your sweet kisses and beautiful face. I could not bear for you to suffer any longer, especially knowing the pain was probably going to increase. What else was there to do for the sake of love and mercy?

Tonight I shall hold the others especially close and give thanks that they are still with me.

"All my dogs have been a ladder for me to God." Poppy's Mom