Just wanted to let you guys know...don't know if I'll be on for a while. Tonight, my Yorkie, Buster, died in a freak accident. We were puppy-sitting another dog and he tried to bite it. I swatted him away to help the puppy, and he landed on his neck wrong and broke it. Devastated doesn't even begin to describe it. He was my baby and we did everything together.

Oh no, Springie. I'm all teary-eyed with you. I had 4 dogs at one point, and am currently down to one, so I feel your pain. Sikari was my special little one. She spent so much time under my desk, keeping me company, that DH put a "Sikari's Office" label on the bottom of my desk. If one of us gave each other a hug, or a massage, or whatever, Sikari would try to squirm in between and hog all the lovin'. When she had a medical issue we brought her in for a routine procedure, but she had a freak reaction to the anesthetic and never woke up. Take all the time you need. People who don't have dogs, or who haven't had that special dog who bonds so closely to you, really don't understand. It's like losing a part of yourself. *hugs*

I'm so very, very sorry for your loss, Springie! It might sound like a cowardly thing, but the reason I don't have a dog in my house, today, together with the fact that I don't think I could give it the best of attention at this moment in time, is the fact that, when the only dog I have had died, I had felt so devastated, as you're saying, that I hesitate to pass through all that again! Please know that my heart is with you.

So sorry to hear of your loss Springie. They are one of the family, as dependent of their owners as any child is, and their passing is as devastating as losing a child. I know you won't forget him, but in time you'll remember the good times with fondness, and the pain will ease.

So sorry for your loss, Springie.

Oh, Springie! I don't know what to say. It's always so hard to lose a pet! (Believe me, I know.) Take whatever time you need. We're not going anywhere. And if you need a shoulder to cry on, just hit me with a PM.

Springie, I am so sorry to read about your loss. Remember the good times you had with buster, and give your family lots of hugs. When you are ready to return we will be here waiting for you.

I'm so sorry, Springie! I was practically raised by dachshunds, so I know what you're going through. The good memories will eventually outnumber the sad thoughts you're feeling now. In the meantime, remember we're here for you.

I'm sorry you are feeling so devastated, Springie. Please know that my thoughts are with you.

Oh no, I am so sorry, Springie! Heartfelt wishes to you and your family to find some comfort, with your shared memories of Buster, during this sad, sad time of loss.

Springie, my thoughts and prayers are with you.

Hugs, Springie. I am so sorry.

I'm so sorry, Springie! This is incredibly sad.

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...

Very sorry about your loss, Springie! A big hug.

Thanks so much for all of the kind words. I am still reeling...but at least now I have a little distraction in the house. Little Oliver is a sweetheart...