Wednesday, November 7, 2012

A tribute to Halo

I walked up to the school yard one cold spring day. I had our little Clover in my arms, maybe 10-12 weeks old.  Another mom approached us with the warmest smile.  She enthusiastically said "a Vizsla!"  Well much to my surprise, YES! I was immediately relieved to escape the explaination one more time that our puppy was not a dachshund. In a neighbourhood with hundreds of other canine companions, we both bonded over our beloved red dogs.  That's all it took. We spent the last nineteen months getting to know each other, sharing stories, laughing at the craziness and validating the sanity in our Vizsla lives. 


When I met Halo, he's everything you would expect; tail-wiggly, gentle, affectionate... thieving.  He has a habit of counter-surfing to steal recyclables.  I know first hand, it's tough to outsmart a V.  If they want something, they'll devise a way to get it! I recently lost a debit card out of my pocket for Clover's chew toy. 

Halo

Clover

In early October, Halo was diagnosed with hepatic (liver) cancer, leaving him anemic and anorexic.  His illness came with great speed, very unexpectedly. In just a couple of weeks, his physical condition was critical. 

I was heartstruck as we discussed Halo's prognosis and multiple visits to the hospital. I tried to give my best advice when it was requested and listen as much as possible.  I've had a great deal of personal experience with pet loss.  Nine of my own to be exact. Not all owners grieve openly.  When they do, it's amazing, because they are sharing a raw part of their soul. 

Halo, surrounded by love, said goodbye yesterday.  It's a moment that will sear their hearts forever.  His talented mom created a video online, demonstrating worldwide, the enchanted life of their four-legged boy and the family that adores him.  


Thank you Sarah, for giving me permission to post your precious photos and video. I'm honoured.  Sleep well sweet Halo

There’s a special place for grownups
A special place for kids
Me? I’ll be on the other side
The side called Rainbow Bridge.

Across the dark green meadow
A’top the hills I’ll run
Where the colours from the rainbow
Glitter from the sun
Anonymous edition of Part two of the famous poem Rainbow Bridge 


Update
I commissioned a local creative mom (who just happens to have an  Etsy store) to create these pendants for the boys.  I also handmade a shadow box of lake rocks and a photo of Halo with the poem above.  I didn't want to reveal this on the original post because I hadn't delivered it to the family but here is a look at the jewelry.  



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