R.I.P. Rio

[wipartimer]

Today has been a rough one for me. Rio, my 14 year old silver lab, had to be put down. She did have a long happy life but had faded fast over the last few months. Memories of great hunts (she was one hell of a pheasant hunter) silly antics, cuddling me when she knew before I did that I needed it and so many more are all jumbling around in my brain and through my tears to the point, I'm having a really hard time writing her a proper memorial. I guess really how can you put a life with that much love into words. Anyway, thanks for letting me babble. Hunt 'em up in Heaven Rio!

 

[YancyW]

It's the hardest part of being a good owner, but it is one of the most important, knowing when it's time to let go.

"The least we owe them is to live a life worthy of such great devotion"

 

[meigsbucks]

Sorry for your loss. Rio was a family member and the memories of your hunts and just being together will stay with you until you are reunited in heaven.

 

[TTundra]

Grieve and remember. Those who havent had the love of a pup will never know the hurt, but you need to have this time to truly grieve. Looks like you gave her the absolute best as much as she gave you her unconditional love. Sorry for your loss

 

[Just Gina]

Rio was my sweet girl and I will forever remember her! She had an internal clock that worked better than any other clock I have owned. She was the reminder of meal times and treats, and could sweetly bully anyone into extra treats. She knew just when you needed extra kisses and cuddles and would happily lick the skin off anyone who would let her. She never complained and was such a trooper. She loved wandering through the woods at the cabin and she loved hunting!! As Mike said, there are just no words. Rest easy my sweet girl, I love you!

 

[Mark Biggerstaff]

Sorry for your loss. They are family and it is hard to let go. I still have thoughts of one I lost to cancer over 20 years ago that was the most special lab I ever had as a companion.

 

[JES Adventures]

Sorry for your loss, a good dog is one of Gods great gifts to man.

 

[TOBY458]

Sorry for your loss! I know losing an old friend is tough.

 

[BRICKBURN]

...................... Hunt 'em up in Heaven Rio!View attachment 390014

Very sad for anyone who loves their dogs. Sorry you lost your buddy.

 

[yhc]

Condolences for your loss @wipartimer and @Just Gina

 

[KMG Hunting Safaris]

@wipartimer and @Just Gina Im so sorry about your loss my friends. Very sad news indeed.

 

[Kevin Peacocke]

Not easy, but cherish the memories.

 

[Ragman]

So sorry for your loss. Losing a loved dog is a hurt like no other. But then again having a good dog is a love like no other. She was a lucky girl.

 

[wipartimer]

Thank you all so much for your wonderful thoughts and wishes. It is truly awesome the way the members here support each other!

 

[PARA45]

So sorry for your loss, and our deepest condolences. It's tough, and as we get older it gets even tougher. Rio, enjoy the green fields of heaven.

THE RAINBOW BRIDGE POEM​

“Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor. Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together….”

— Author unknown

 

[Nyati]

Feel your pain, sorry for your loss.

 

[Ravensview]

Condolences on your loss, a dogs love is like no other.