In Loving Memory of
Kara
O'Mal's Dancing Queen
11 Years
8-25-2012 - 12-1-2023
We lost Kara last night. The fenbenazole was working and had almost eliminated the original tumor. But apparently the cancer had spread much farther than we knew, to her armpit lymph nodes and lungs. She put up a good fight but passed peacefully as we were all going to bed last night. She had many names (a dog with many names is much loved....Kara Comedian, Cara Cara Orange, Smiley, Fuzzbutt, Mop Queen....) As a tiny puppy when I was mopping, she would jump on and RIDE the mop. She was best friends with her sister LeeLou...they were "the unit"...and did everything together as if they had one brain. They shared dishes to lick, treats, attention and always looked out for one another. They would race around the yard like it was coreographed...one left, the other right, meet in the middle, repeat. If Kara went out, so did LeeLou and they would ask for each other. The way they played even at 11, you would think they were puppies. Kara wasn't big on toys but would do ANYTHING to get to the swiffer duster...she would follow me around the house as I dusted, hoping to grab it. It became a big game. At a young age she was hospitalized 3x - a kidney infection, a surgery. She never let it get her down and the vet staff adored her. She loved to lay in the craziest positions...upside down with her feet in the air, like a cat with her front feet tucked under her, and every other bizarre position.
Once we took a trip to Fayetteville with Kara...a nearby abandoned ghost town. She had to say hello to everyone she saw and loved exploring the town. She was always smiling and happy, and got along great with other dogs. Near the end, Kara was so cooperative even with a million pills and food stuffed in her mouth. She fought hard. She never complained or even let on that she was feeling so bad from the cancer. She was preceded in death by Max only a couple of months earlier - he was the love of her life ever since she was a tiny puppy. As a pup Kara adored him and followed him everywhere (but for most of her life it was unrequitted love). She never gave up and always loved him. He finally noticed her when he lost his other girls and she couldn't have been happier. She never minded being brushed even though her coat was practically a wooly coat, she even liked being 'plucked'. Dan would take her on short walks, she'd only want to go SO FAR ...but he didn't dare leave her behind because she'd be sitting by the door waiting for him to take her next. When we got the baby chicks, she was the only one NOT thinking about what a nice snack they'd be... I'm going to miss her sweet happy smile most of all. You'd walk in and that smile would make everything ok. She was such a happy girl. The house is so empty now...LeeLou is missing her best friend and there's nobody to chase me around when I dust. We will always love and remember you, my sweet Orange. LeeLou did a lap around the yard in your honor this morning.
In Loving Memory of
Max
O'Mal's Gladiator
13 Years
8-12-2010 - 10-18-2023
We said goodbye to Max yesterday...he fought a valiant fight. He was particularly close to Dan because eventually they were the only guys in a household of girls. He slept by Dan's side of the bed. Kara adored him from puppyhood (though he only recently appreciated her attention). He was protective, loyal, patient and such a sweetheart with a quiet dignity. He loved his hedge hog toys (he had 3 sizes) and liked to be tucked in to bed and covered up with a blankie. As a teen, he looked up to Theodore and Superman. He was "afraid" of the girls and avoided them at all costs back then. He preferred to hang with Mom Pod, or Jazzy (Mom#2) or Mocha or Simone - the younger girls were just "scary" - just like the vacuum cleaner! But when he sadly lost his best dog friends, one after the other, he took over looking after the girls anyway. He loved going for long walks with Dan, or hang out in the kitchen when cooking. He never stole anything off the countertop though he was big enough to, but did like to steal paper towels from the trash. He was always a giant puppy at heart. He was content to just be nearby whatever we did. Though, like his Dad (Superman) decided the minute we sat down to watch TV he HAD to go outside...and it was really a con to get Dan to make a snack they could share instead. He had emergency surgery for a pancreatic abscess at 5yrs, which caused intermittant seizures thereafter. He learned to trust that we would always take care of him when these scary things happened, and repaid us with such loyalty holding on at the end with every organ shutting down just to be near us. It's so hard to walk into the living room now that he's no longer there. We will always love and miss you Mr. Max.
In Loving Memory of
Lily
Honorary Malamute
Lily was an honorary Malamute...she took her identity from Cheesecake after she was rescued by our daughter Colleen, and son-in-law Deane. They were looking to adopt her and had the people bring her over to meet Cheese...and the people just took off and abandoned her. Technically she was a Lab and Shar Pei mix. Back then she was quite a bundle of energy...but a hundred tug ropes and thousands of toys and attention later she became the most awesome dog. She got along with other dogs so well, and always deferred to Cheese. She would go on long walks with Colleen. When Cheesy died, she was lost for a time but then they got Iris. Lily was very special and never let a moment pass that she wasn't trying to get you to play.
In Loving Memory of
Mocha
O'Mals Alaskan Iced Mocha
(one of the last of the Alien 11 litter)
16 Years
4-19-2008 - 4-15-2023
I fell in love with Mocha the day she opened those big brown eyes. She became my heart dog of all heart dogs...a once in a lifetime dog. The gentlest, sweetest, most caring dog ever. She was a malamute that loved every dog she met - big or small, even other adult females, and every person as well. And she adored puppies. My biggest regret is she was never a mom - but she made up for it by being 2nd "mom" to Jazzy's 2nd litter, her half siblings. She was also best friend to Max who looked up to her when he lost his other two "mommys". He would check on her constantly to make sure she was ok. To the end all the dogs loved and respected her more than any other dog and would do anything she wanted.
She was not an alpha personality at all, but became the alpha of the pack by default when Jazzy passed because everyone loved and respected her. She even got along with the dogs others had issues with (Netiri, Simone, Jazzy) - and NEVER started or even finished a confrontation...she would just walk away or roll over. I never heard her growl - ever...unless it was in play with Kara who liked to pester her and she would pretend to be annoyed. Kara knew it meant nothing and kept on pestering. She would break up fights between other dogs because she didn't like aggression. She loved to play, and gut every toy, and made up games to play. She loved playing the game "kill Mocha" where the puppies would all "attack" and she would roll over and have puppies (even adult ones) on top of her all cuddling. If someone visited, she was in their lap.
She was the ultimate helper. Our house was her world, she never liked walks too far from the house...she was content to be home. Once I took her for a walk to the back of the property and she broke loose and went running. I freaked out, OMG she was running toward the road...but no she wasn't - she ran for the door and wanted inside. She was always there to help with the puppies, the other dogs, or offer a cuddle when you were down or sad. We would watch TV together, not for TV but for the cuddles and pets. She liked animal shows and was interested in other species she saw on TV. She had a big beautiful ruff on her neck you could snuggle into and she loved attention. She was empathetic and loving. She had a huge heart and while she wasn't a talker like her brother (Superman), you knew she cared and tried to help in every way she could. She was a big help when we took in Darby, Tasha, River and Safera temporarily, helping them adjust. If there ever was a perfect dog, Mocha was it...from corraling puppies to a paw on your lap when you were sad.
She never liked crates and would throw a nonstop fit till she was let out...so she never had a crate but never needed one. She was never shown, but I didn't keep her to show - I fell in love. She was the puppy always in my arms and heart. She was my best friend. She was a big help to Jazzy when she lost use of her back end, running the pack in her sted, so naturally took over when we lost Jazzy. Because Mocha was such a helper, it bothered her a lot when she herself lost use of her back end for the last 3 years because she had to BE helped...she didn't like it, but saw Mom Jazzy deal with it before her, and so adapted. If she needed anything she would ask quietly, with a soft woo that persisted until the problem was resolved. I was so lucky to have such a special girl for 16 wondeful years...I miss her so much and always will.
In Loving Memory of
Simone
O'Mals Moulin Rouge
(of the Chipmunk litter...Alvin, Theodore & Simone)
13 1/2 Years
12-26-2008 - 7-16-2022
In Loving Memory of
Dawson (aka Daws Paws)
O'Mals Jazzman
14 Years
4-19-2008 - 5-8-2022
In Loving Memory of
Kiska
O'Mals Texas Baked Alaskan
14 Years
4-19-2008 - 4-22-2022
Kiska crossed the rainbow bridge on 4/22/22, a few days after her 14th birthday, and I am crushed. Her body failed her as a result of degenerative myelopathy. Fourteen years is a long time for an Alaskan Malamute to live, and every day with her in the later years was a gift.
Kiska was friendly and outgoing and very happy. She never missed an opportunity to meet people and get petted, play at doggie daycare, or sniff other dogs. She was smart and sneaky. She was an expert counter surfer in her younger days, and was known to steal pizza, pumpkin pie, and quesadillas right off your plate when you weren’t looking. 😜 She was sassy and opinionated, and sneezed at me when she disliked my choices or wanted to persuade me. She regularly howled or talked for attention when I was on the phone. When you said “show me” what you want, she would walk over and stare at the box of Milkbones. She could tell time too. She was my morning alarm clock until she passed that job to Kobuk. If she wanted something I could tell her “10 minutes” and she would come back in exactly 10 minutes. We took a bunch of training classes. She was a Canine Good Citizen. She knew all kinds of tricks and would perform as many as she thought I needed to see for her to earn a treat.
Kiska loved her daily walks, hiking, camping in the woods, and playing in creeks and pools. She loved our weekend walks with Julie and her pack of huskies. Arbor Hills Nature Preserve was one of her favorite places to spend time.
Kiska wanted nothing to do with Kobuk for the first 2 weeks we had him. Then she took him under her paw, showed him the ropes, and trained him. She loved playing chase with him. They raced across the house, made flying leaps onto my bed, ran circles around the sofa, wrestled, and played tag. They hunted squirrels and bunnies together in the yard. They were best friends, inseparable until he died.
She was always a sight to behold. Is she a wolf? A husky? I cannot tell you how many people stopped and talked to us over the years. For the last 18 months of her life, she was an advocate for handicapped dogs. That was when she started wearing the Help ‘Em Up harness on our walks. About a year ago we got the Walkin’ Wheels wheelchair. She demonstrated the tools for people and posed for photos. I hope we helped prolong the lives of other disabled pets as a result. Kiska was O’Mal’s Texas Baked Alaskan. She responded to Weasel, Kiska-Bo-Biska, Zilly Dilly, Z-per Pupper, Zeep… maybe she just responded when I spoke to her. 😁 She had a wonderful life, and I’m so glad I was part of
it. I miss her terribly.
Kiska, go run and play with Kobuk! Mama loves you! 💕
In Loving Memory of
Sophie Safera
O'Mals Star Goddess
8-12-2010 - 3-16-2021
In Loving Memory of
Kobuk
O'Mals Textraterrestrial
8-25-2012 - 7-1-2021
In Loving Memory of
Kava
O'Mals Arctic Winds Kava
4-19-2008 - 6-2-2021
Sorry to lose another sweet pup from the Alien 11 litter. Loved by Jen and Kris of Canada, RIP fuzzy guy. You will be so missed.
In Loving Memory of
Shadow
O'Mal's Southern Exposure
4-19-2008 - 11-9-2020
Loved by Di & Santa in Florida....an Alien 11 pup. Tribute coming.
In Loving Memory of
Theodore (aka Poopador, Mikey, Theo)
O'Mals Eye of the Tiger
12-26-2008 - 12-14-2020
Theodore passed away last night at 3:08 am....I suspect it was septic shock from the UTI infection we were fighting. He died here at home, peacefully. I saw his breathing was shallow on the webcam and we went to check on him and he passed seconds after I hugged him and told him we love him but it's ok to go and see Mula now. They called this morning to say it was a very rare bug.... another covid casualty because it took too long to get the urinalysis back so he could be put on the correct meds sooner thanks to all these bullsh*t "protocols". I'm sorry Theo, we tried everything we could but age (he would be 13 the day after Christmas) and covid restrictions worked against us. We will miss you forever....the kindest, gentlest tough guy we've ever had. He died quietly and unafraid like he lived life. While other dogs were sometimes afraid to walk into the woods, Theo never was. While other dogs had their peccadilloes with other dogs, you liked everyone. He embraced unusual situations with gusto. You were strong, confident, and lovingly friendly to all people and dogs. You weren't intimidated by dogs twice your size and taught Max to be a big guy like yourself. You started out as one of the 3 Chipmunk litter...Alvin, Theodore and Simone and became a strong and confident Chuck Norris of the dog world. You were also our "Mikey" that would eat ANYTHING so we had to limit your toys and access to many things so you didn't eat everything. But you never complained about anything...ever. Stoic and happy, always the eternal optimist. You got your superpowers and larger than life persona when you embraced the ecollar you had to wear for a couple of months after surgery to remove a lump on your tail. You thought it made you look cool. Your life wasn't easy....assorted vet visits for eating things you shouldn't, and the infamous obscene "hairball" they removed from your stomach...and several almost bloats. You never ever complained, or cried, or whined but persevered and set a wonderful example for your kids. Mula, your Mom, was so proud of her little boy. I imagine you are having a wonderful reunion with her in heaven right now. Theodore is survived by his 7 daughters (Holly, Netiri, LeeLoo, Shotzi, Kara, Darby, Della, and son Kobuk) and sister Simone. Our hearts are broken. We will miss the Theo strut and your howling with the gang every morning. Even though almost 13, you never seemed old...no gray at all and still happy, alert doing zoomies around the yard with Simone until this. You had the most beautiful coat was our smallest male, with the biggest heart.. You were our "pigpen" (from the Peanuts cartoon) but we loved you anyway. We will miss your mud puddle excavations and poop snacks. It's hard to believe you're gone....we will miss your sweet smile and happy disposition most of all. RIP Theo....
In Loving Memory of
Jasmine (Jazzy, Wheezer, Jazzer)
O'Mal's All that Jazz
16 Years
9-8-2004 - 8-10-2020
Mom of the Alien 11 and 2nd Alien litters
Jazzy's claim to fame was being a Mom. She never liked dog shows, not a fan of car rides or toys, but she loved puppies and cuddling. She became everyone's Mom, sometimes she even acted like she was mine, telling me "it's bedtime, get in here". She ruled with an iron paw and all her puppies had total respect for her even when she could no longer get around. She hated certain smells, and would wrinkle her nose like Elvis. One ear would turn backwards when she was feeling unsure or worried. Her time keeping was legend...and would yip nonstop when something needed to happen (dinner, flip her over, drink of water please...). God help you if you ignored her, because she would persist and you'd get no peace. When Pod couldn't care for her puppies, Jazzy stepped up. Max loved his adopted Mom so much...It was so cute how she'd play with him, even when he become twice her size... and he would check on her constantly and look out for her. She passed on her love of puppies to Mocha as well. She was close to Mocha and they depended on each other for everything. For years I didn't understand why Mula (her sister) didn't want the alpha job, especially since Jazzy seemed the shyer one. But later on it became apparent Jazz had a will of iron and a competitive streak a mile long, easygoing Mula never had a chance. The last few years she was deaf, and for 3 years of her life she couldn't walk, but her eyesight was keen and she had a great attitude and still ran the pack. She managed to have largest litters (11 & 8 when the others averaged 4), and lived to 16 years - ancient for a malamute - coming back from the brink more times than I can count, with sheer willpower. Jazz was always cooperative, except for taking pills - you'd find it spit out, hours later. For some reason, she never liked Simone, but loved to smell shoes. She had no favorite toys, and preferred meat to any fruit/vegetable which got spit out too. She taught Mocha to be her right paw, and her other pups would respectfully suckup as they went by. She is so missed by everyone, but especially Mocha, Max and Theodore who are lost without her. And me, I lost my second Mom....
In Loving Memory of
Juno
O'Mal's Hot Fudge Sundae
12 Years
4-19-2008 - 6-27-2020
Sundae from the Alien 11 litter.
In Loving Memory of
Stryker
O'Mal's Sargeant Stryker
12 Years
4-19-2008 - 6-13-2020
Rocky Road from the Alien 11 litter.
In Loving Memory of:
Superman
O'Mal's Kryptonite
11 1/2 Years
4-19-2008 - 11-30-2019
RIP Superman...you were a very special dog and your name said it all, but you had that silly superboy side too. Sadly, the Kryptonite of old dog seizures were what did you in, though we tried everything. It's so unfair, you didn't deserve such a difficult death. Your silly personality, your happy disposition, the way you could clearly speak human English- "I want a carrot", "apple", "I'm hungry", "go out"- that we could have conversations with you will be sorely missed. How you liked to con Dan by telling him you needed to go potty, but it was clearly a ruse to get a snack. You loved watermelon and would clean the end out right to the rind, and had an immense stuffed toy collection that filled your crate that you would rearrange regularly and use as a bed. You liked to play catch with Dan with the tiniest of toys. You were our helper dog when we'd have a foster...Tasha, Peeky, Darby - you'd take them outside to potty and show them the routine. You got along with most everyone - even Theodore, but we joked you were "scared" of the younger girls (he'd hide in his crate till they went by). Our biggest joy was in the evening when you'd vocally make sure Dan had a snack for himself...and became the "let's get fat" dog from the famous meme (below). In your younger days your were the crate destroyer (4 within a week until Dan built you one)...nothing could hold you. You perfected the CPR pound and could escape anything. As a puppy and young dog you were the "man over steel" because you could jump a normal fence, even escaping once, only to return home by following some joggers you were trying to make friends with. You had such a sweet temperament, beautiful looks, great sense of humor, and so much joy in everything. We could take you anywhere, and you'd get along with any dog. Superman is survived by his remaining alien 9 (of 11) brothers and sisters, his Mom Jazzy who is 15 1/2, his best friend and litter sister Mocha (who is taking this really hard, they were very close), and of course us. You may not have pulled an actual sled in life, but you went out like a sled dog...packed in snow (to lower the fever) and pulled on a sled to your final resting place. He'll meet up with Cheesecake and Mulan in heaven and no doubt be the life of the party - "let's get fat".
(the painting above is called Final Journey for Superman)
In Loving Memory of:
Mulan (Mula)
O'Mal's Moola Moola Tova
13 1/2 yrs.
9-8-2004 - 4-19-2018 (8:20pm)
I don't know where to begin except the beginning. I fell in love the day she was born. She had this incredible little mismark that looked like armor and so in the Disney princess litter she became Mulan - it fit her well. Somehow we started singing the Princeton song Boola Boola as Moola Moola and she became Mula. She was so friendly, so happy, so good natured. The one dog that got along with everyone, never picked and avoided fights, and loved every person and got along with every dog she ever met. How do you describe your heart dog, your perfect dog...that was Mula. She loved dog shows and did really well because of her attitude. I could take her anywhere. She's the only dog of ours that ever pulled a sled, she went to Renaissance festivals, parades, hot-air balloonfests - she loved going byebyes and walks in the woods, and was always ready for any adventure. She was the subject of a major lawsuit and and almost died several times, but that never got her down. She always came back better and happier. Her joy was infectious. She was a great mom, and loved her kids so much. She was such a big part of our lives...from potscrubber, to bathroom visiter she was always just there. On her deathbed, she managed to walk down the hall so she could tell her little boy Theodore 'goodbye'. Mula and Jazzy were our first sisters that could get along all the time - due to Mu's sweet nature. If Jazzy wanted to be boss, ok, fine with Mu. I'll never forget our trip to Colleen's...she thought it was amazing they had a back door she could go in and out of whenever she wanted...so she did. She would choose a favorite toy and carry it everywhere and loved tennis balls. The other dogs knew they were her toys, and while thieving was done with each other, nobody ever stole Mu-Pig or Snowman from Mula. She was the happiest dog I'd ever known. From her happy dance when she went for walks, to her nose in the refridgerator telling me "I'd like that for a snack" and the pure joy with WHATEVER she got. We called her our 'Foodie' because she'd eat anything. Best of all were the body snuggles. She wasn't a cuddler, but would give you head rubbies. She loved to hang out on the bed with us, but pet her too much and she was outta there. Her happy woos started the whole pack singing... She was always so confident, so afraid of nothing until she got Sundowners at the end (a kind of altzheimers) and bloated twice from anxiety. She finally gave up when the sundowner demons became too much for her - the foodie stopped eating. I've never had a malamute like her, and never will again. She was an amazing best friend in a small package. Our hearts are broken...We love you Mu...see you at the bridge someday....I'm going to miss your very special sense of humor.
In loving memory of
Cheesecake aka 'Cheese'
O'Mal's Moving Experience
4-19-2008 - 6-24-2017
Our daughter Colleen and her husband Deane lost their wonderful Cheesecake after 9 years. She was Deane's heart dog and Mocha's almost twin from the Alien 11 litter. Rear paralysis came on her suddenly after April and it went progressively downhill. After lots of expensive tests at MSU they came away not knowing much more than when they started. She eventually had to have her bladder expressed which eventually caused a massive kidney infection and shut down. They did the right thing and ended her suffering and pain even though it caused them horrible heartbreak. Last time I visited, Cheese wanted to stay in my room and visit all night - maybe she knew it would be the last time. My heart is as broken as theirs...Cheese was like my own and she was so loved. She would always have a blast playing with Mocha and Jazzy when they visited, and got along with everyone. If there were some way I could tell them, they'd be devastated because they always looked forward to visiting Cheese and if they didn't get to go, we'd be sniffed thoroughly for messages from their extended pack member. She lived a wonderful life with Colleen & Deane - Colleen took her on long walks and she had a minion of her own - Lily the lab mix. Deane would wrestle and cuddle with her for hours, he wanted her so badly when we had the litter, it was love at first sight. Lily will be lost without her, but we all will. Cheese was such a sweetheart, so friendly, so happy and she would always be all over us when we'd visit. I'm going to miss her terribly. But my heart also breaks for Colleen and Deane whose world is their two "kids" Cheese and Lily. Life is not fair, and 9 years isn't long enough and you are never ready to let them go. Our only comfort is she will have many friends and relatives in heaven to keep her company, she'll never be alone. We will never forget you!
In Loving Memory of:
Pod
O'Mal's Tiny Dancer
9-8-2004 - 11-25-2016
Pod we loved you so much. You were brave, patient, strong and like most mals, wouldn't take any shit from anyone, even your sister. In your last days you showed tremendous courage fighting an aggressive tumor and never had one accident in the house - you always made the effort to go out no matter how you felt. It seems like it was just yesterday you were a scared little puppy, trying to figure out the world. Because you were the pack outsider, you never quite fit in, until you had Max. He loves you so much. He made that weird little oot oot oot sound when you would go outside together - I think it meant "I love you mommy". He adored you. You gave us little Shuffle who taught us so much about how it's not how long your life is, it's how you live it. She had your quiet strength of purpose. You were a good girl, you never got in trouble (except when you'd steal chocolate). I wish there'd been time for more walks, more play, and cuddles on the bed, but there never is enough time. But you had your pack friendships too and your special guy Superman, and your routine and those were what defined your existence. We'll never forget you and will meet again one day at the Rainbow Bridge. In the meantime you'll join the rest of the O'Mal pack that went before and meet up with little Shuffle in Heaven, because every Queen needs a minion. Run free big girl. We'll never forget you or your soft thoughtful woo.
Pod's Page
In Loving Memory of:
Moya
1-7-2003 - 10-27-2014
My Princess Moya, the days were sad & lonely since your golden heart stopped beating a year ago. Life is empty without you here. The only thing that gets me by day to day without you is knowing we definitely will see and be with you again when we pass over the Rainbow Bridge. We love you very much....Love, Mom & Dad
In Loving Memory of:
Tiny Little Hooters
You were only with us a such short time and went to the rainbow bridge shortly after arriving home....but we'll never forget you. A puppy with a heart so big and so loving it wouldn't stop beating when it should have nor did fit in her chest. Imagine had you lived....
In Loving Memory of:
"Mr. Riggs"
O'Ma'ls Lethal Weapon (his lethal weapon was love)
1-7-2003 - 8-1-2012
Riggs was our 'Big Guy'. Even though mom & dad were standard sized, he grew up to be a teddy bear of 120 lbs. As a puppy he would sit next to Grandpa Homer and listen intently as if Homer were telling him stories about how to be respectful to the old guys, and he always was. Later, as an adult, he looked after Hoover and Shadow when they became more and more imobile, sleeping near them and keeping them company. He had a knack for knowing when a dog was sick - perhaps because he loved to watch TV medical shows. He had the respect of the entire pack - even young males never challenged his authority. He adored puppies - letting them crawl all over him, teaching them with gentleness as he was taught. His soft gentle woo would summon everyone to dinner and wake us up in the morning. At night he'd sleep by the door protecting us all. He loved to go for walks with us in the woods off leash in his old age, let us burrow and hug his thick soft fur even though it was undignified, and made sure he kept his status in many small ways with the other dogs, even as his health declined. He loved when company came over and stole the heart of everyone that met him. Laying him to rest was one of the hardest things we've ever done. The house is silent now of gentle woos and quiet strength as he has gone to his peace. We'll miss the stubborn crankiness and gentle concern...it won't be the same without you. We didn't take care of you Mr. Riggs, you took care of us.
In Loving Memory of:
"Gracie"
Iceberg O'Mal's Queen of Storms
10-26-2002 - 10-5-2011
Has there ever been a malamute friendlier than Gracie? Gentle and sweet, she wowed everyone with her huge size and big heart. She never met anyone she didn't love. She bounced on all fours with happiness much of the time. She loved to give full body hugs and purr at you - which was a bit intimidating because she was so big, but there was never any doubt she only wanted to please and be loved. She followed all the rules, never made waves, and tolerated the other dogs sassy attitudes toward her with grace and tolerace (most of the time). She was 100% a Daddy's girl and lived for Dan who spoiled her with special treats and attention. A sensitive soul, she took care of Chevy and was surrogate mother to Pod. Sadly, we lost her much too young to a very unexpected and strange case of bloat. She'll never be forgotten, run free Gracie Girl.
In Loving Memory of:
"Koani"
O'Mal's Hunter's Koani Kayla
12-10-1998 - 8-6-2011
Pronounced – “Ko-wah-nee" which is Blackfoot Indian and means “To Play"
and Kayla, which means “Strong of Heart"
Nicknames – “Little One", “Little Miss" and “Stink"
And how very appropriate your names turned out to be. How you loved “to play" with your Golden Retriever “brother", Hunter, and how your heart was so strong – right to the very end. You, my “Little One", were the puppy love of my life.
The very first time we laid eyes on you, you were only ten days old – and we did not even know which of the four beautiful little girls would be ours – or even if we would be approved for any of them. And little did we know that it was not only Cindy & Dan that had to approve us, but Grandma Penny. We were so thrilled when we learned that Penny had approved and we would be making another trip from Florida to Michigan to bring you home with us. I thought I would be holding you in my lap on the long trip home to Florida, but oh no, YOU wanted to be in the back with your new golden brother – because you had to start off early to teach him just who was the boss – and he learned quickly how this little girl was going to run the show. He let you get away with just about everything you wanted to - and how the two of you were inseparable.
Grandma Penny taught you well in the nine weeks she had with you – Hunting skills that provided you with the stealth speed to snatch a possum off the fence and snap its neck when you saw it heading toward Hunter; grab a Blue Jay out of mid-air in the back yard that was dive bombing at your head while you were trying to find a spot to potty; the multitude of what we call “lizards" (chameleons to you northerners) that you captured and brought in the house so proudly to “share with me"; and of course the distaste for black dogs – what was that all about? And we cannot forget how well your Mom, Star, taught you how to do the “pre-wash" cycle for the dishwasher. Ah yes, when we remodeled the kitchen, we had a special pass through built in just for you to have access to it.
Some of your favorite things were going for a ride in the car and God forbid should we accidently place something in “your spot" – as you would just stand there and stare at it until we moved it. Spoiled? No, not too much… You LOVED going to the beach – I can still see you swimming, swimming, swimming and refusing to come out until we made you get out to shake off because you were so weighted down with water that your butt was sinking – and then right back in. You loved the comfort and security of your crate – but no door on it please – I wish to rest my head on the edge with my nose hanging out just so we know who is in control here. And how you loved “showing" in the obedience ring. As you sat at my side waiting for the judge to say “begin", you would puff out your chest and woo woo woo to make certain you had the attention of everyone in the place before we could start. Some judges laughed and thought it was cute and some thought it was not and struck off a ½ point – but we didn’t care about the points because you were happy. And you still received your ribbons and titles. Then when Dad was in hospice, you loved going to visit as you strutted through the halls and got all kinds of praise and petting on the way to his room. You brought a smile to so many faces there.
Then, it was time for you to be a “hospice patient" and for us to provide that extra care and assistance for you over that last summer. Although you were telling us for several months that you were getting weaker and weaker and it would soon be time for you to leave us, we still were not ready. Our vet told us to think of her 3 favorite things to do and when 2 of them were gone, her quality of life was no longer what she would want. When she could no longer make it to the beach, then her daily walks became shorter and shorter until one of her buddies that lived 3 doors down from us had to come visit her instead of her visiting him for a cookie, we knew it was getting close. And finally, she could no longer manage to get in the car for a ride – even with the special ramp we bought for her. Our dear, sweet, loving Koani girl, we had done all we could for you, our hearts were aching and we loved you so much we could not bear the thought of losing you, but it was that same strong love that made us realize we could not ask you to suffer any longer. It was then that I knew your heart was the only organ that remained strong and you would stay here for me – and how selfish I was being to make you endure all that you had been enduring just for me. Our vet came to our home and Koani left us very peacefully laying in her favorite spot, surrounded by her favorite people and her little brother, Shadow – our next O’Mal malamute to keep us on our toes.
How ironic it was that from a litter of 4 girls and one boy, all four of the girls passed away within a period of 3 months of each other. I am quite certain that ALL of the previous O’Mals were there waiting to greet them and that they are all romping together free of pain and illness. Woooooo Woooooo to you all and thank you for the joy you brought into our lives.
In Loving Memory of 12 1/2 yr old:
"Shelby"
O'Mal's Twinkling Star
12-10-1998 - 8-2-2011
Caren & Shelby became inseperable, and Caren always told me she was "the best malamute ever". She loved to chase tennis balls and play in the snow. She was a sweet soulmate through rough times and fun times. She even accepted Dawson into her pack and taught him how to be a proper malamute. You will be missed...and I'm sure Caren will write something once she gets through the tears.
In Loving Memory of:
at 12 1/2
"Holly" aka Wolly
O'Mal's Danger Zone
12-10-1998 - 5-25-2011 (5:37pm)
I fell in love with you the day you were born and insisted this was the puppy I had to keep. You were a fantastic Mom to your puppies and even helped raise your grandpuppies. You became our most prolific bunny hunter, sometimes one a day! Independent, stubborn, very smart and sometimes difficult - you were a true old-style malamute. You loved a good brawl - just for fun. You distained any dog you felt didn't give proper respect (including your son Riggs) and were an alpha female through and through, matriarch to the O'Mal pack. You were Queen of the kitchen and our very efficient "potscrubber" - nobody else does half as good a job. You blossomed into a beautiful girl in middle age. As "Grandma", you managed to teach your beloved grandson Max the fine art of bunny annihilation. He adored his Grandma and had great respect for you. Those piercing eyes laid waste to anyone you considered unworthy. You will always be in our hearts my dear Wolly, forever with us, and will go with us up north where you did your last inspection of the property and gave it your approval for generations to come. Run free sweet Holly, the bunnies at the rainbow bridge better beware! We are going to miss you so very very much....
In Loving Memory of:
"Meekow"
12-10-1998 - 4-26-2011
O'Mal's U Melt My Heart
And she did...Meekow went to the rainbow bridge peacefully in her sleep. She was loved by one wonderful family and will be missed greatly. She became very close to her two boys and was a beloved family pet for 12 1/2 years.Meeko, Meeko, after a rocky start you became the LOVE of my life! Noel was the puppy I wanted least from Cindy and Dan's litter, she was the " trouble maker " But guess who WE got. We picked you up from Michigan on Valentine's day and stopped 2X on our way to Chicago to let you out.. you were just MAD we awakened you! When we arrived home you were not impressed, with the yard or the house. You would NOT go potty for 2 days despite going outside with you every hour, but, you did find a rug in the living room you thought would work out well!! After that you were a VERY good girl. You never wanted to be picked up or carried and those puppy teeth let us know !! You grew quickly to become our beautiful little girl, we constantly received comments on how pretty you were, and what a gorgeous coat you had.
You and I cried a lot of tears together... when our boy's went off to college... when my mom got ill....when my mom passed away. Meeko you were always there for me listening and I know understanding, and even commenting sometimes ! You loved your cookies and chewies and having your "babies" around you when you slept. Meeko you were a truely amazing girl, and we are blessed to have all the memories of our sweet girl. We will miss you alway's. Run free Baby !
Love, Mommy, Daddy, Stuart, Andrew
In Loving Memory of:
"Jack"
O'Mal's Jack Frost
9-8-2004 - 10-8-2010
Such a sweet gentle boy, taken at a young age. You were loved more in your 6 years than most dogs are loved in a lifetime. Sometimes it doesn't seem fair what life throws at us, but everything has it's time. I don't know why your time was so short, but I know Mark and Laura loved you very very much and did everything possible to find answers to difficult questions. I don't think any dog ever had as many toys or bones or love, and in spite of everything you still looked out for your cats, helped raise Natasha and filled Frosty's shoes as Mark's "Bubba" (best friend). Some live their lives fast and full, that was you. Sleep well beautiful boy, until we meet again at the rainbow bridge...
Shuffle
8-12-2010 - 9-17-2010 - just 5 weeks old
Shuffle, you touched our hearts and those of everyone we know. We all cheered with your struggles to survive being born 1/3 the size of your siblings, and cried with your accidental death so young. We'll never know your purpose upon this earth, but I think it was to teach us compassion for the weak and small, and to never give up. My heart breaks and I will always love you and remember you as the puppy that lived a lifetime in 5 weeks...you went to restaurants, for car rides, to dog class, played outside, were loved by your doggy cousins and aunts, and brought strangers together on Facebook to cheer you on. You are special and always will be. You are beautiful like the flowering tree you are buried beneath and will never, ever be forgotten.
In Loving Memory of:
"Nemo"
O'Mal's Capt. Nemo of the North
9-8-04 - 11-4-09
I'm crying because it didn't have to be like this...I am so sad for you Nemo - I'm sorry. Now you can go home. Hoover will take care of you, his son, at the Rainbow Bridge. I will miss you and your "Penny head wiggle" always...my heart is breaking for you. A few medical bills should never be the reason a dog is put down - EVER. You were only 5...and a big puppy at heart.
In Loving Memory of:
"Stormy"
O'Mal's Juno Northr'n Snowstorm
(April 28, 1995 - January 1, 2009)
It is with a very heavy heart that I wanted to let you and Dan know that we had to have Stormy laid to rest this morning (January 1, 2009) at 8:00am. Robin and I are completely devastated about losing her and can not find the right words right now to adequately express what her loss means right now. She has been fighting a losing battle with age for some time. Towards the end, she was sleeping all day and was losing her sight and hearing. I came home from work today at 6:00am and found her in the dining area, unable to stand and crying. We immediately took her to a 24-hour vet in Brighton, where we made the decision to end her suffering and let her young spirit free from her aging body. We have been talking all day about all of the great times we spent with her in her almost 14 years. She was never much of a hunter, chasing squirrels but never seeming to get the angle quite right! In fact, her greatest catch was a turtle! We treasured every day that we spent with her and will miss her tremendously. Kevin, Robin and Thunder
In Loving Memory of:
"Chevy"
Iceberg O'Mal's Like a Rock
2-14-2004 - 8-5-2008
Our time with you was so short and filled with problems, but they never got you down. You were supposed to be Dan's winner in the show ring, instead you became a beloved pet. Your boyant spirit and infectionous happiness was always there - even when you had no reason to be happy. Chevy, you were like an innocent child dealt a very unfair blow. Epilepsy, cataracts, ear infections, did damage to your body but never hurt your spirit ...You never growled at a person or dog, ever, and loved everyone turning the other cheek when someone growled at you. You were alway sweet and enthuastic no matter what life dealt you. Your reason for being was to teach us to accept our limitations as happily and gracefully as you did, and when they became too large a burden, leave with dignity. You were a very special dog and it was the hardest thing in the world to send you to the rainbow bridge because you WERE so happy with nothing. A drink of water, to run around the yard behind Pod, those were the joys of your life. I know you will be missed by all the other dogs, as they all stopped by your pen to say hi whenever they had the chance. Riggs seemed to be especially upset with your passing. But you will be especially missed by Pod who was your eyes, your alert dog when you had a seizure, and your very best friend. Now it's your turn to watch out for her from above...like she looked after you. Rest in peace, dear Chevy.
In Loving Memory of :
Tribute to Elsie
Elsie was a very special German Shepherd. Her life was much too short because of a tragic accident. In her short life she affected many lives - especially 3 young children who loved her dearly. She taught others the real meaning of love, and that love doesn't always come in the expected package. She will be greatly missed.
In Loving Memory of:
"Hoover"
O'Mal's Starcrossed Voyager
4-21-96 - 1-31-2008
I'll miss the soft woo and hoovie hugs...
We miss your courage, your soft "hooving" woo, your gentle smile, your
full-body Hoovie hugs. You never made waves and wanted
everyone happy. Your patience and steadiness were boundless. You
never did anything even remotely wrong - you knew all the rules and
followed them ... always - except for that time you stole some food
from the cupboard and kept the boxes in your crate - without a
dent. You were patient with puppies, loving with people, got
along with intact males, and made the most of any situation you were
given - including being a paraplegic for almost a year and never, ever
complained. You had a special dignity, sort of like the
invincible Hoover Dam, so I'd hoped you would always be here.
Hoovie, you were my joy, my best friend and I could always depend on
you. I loved when you went trick-or-treating or to parades with
the kids - we could take you anywhere - even on vacation up north,
though by then you couldn't walk. I'll never forget they way you
happily draged me down the sand dunes with just 2 legs or would be
trying to get up every time the van stopped to see what was next.
You loved life and saw it through to the end. Now you really are a star
crossed voyager - when I look up into the night sky I'll always think
of you...You gave us many beautiful pups and much love in your 12
years... but I'm going to miss your Hoover hugs most of all.
Goodbye my beautiful boy - we love you. Hoover's Page
In Loving Memory of :
"Shadow" aka "The Butthead"
O'Mal's Moonshadow
5-2-94 - 5-31-07
How do you eulogize a dog so intense, so complex, so beautiful in a few words? The most intelligent dog I've ever known, smarter than most people, Shadow was manipulative, intense, persistent, and knew exactly how to get what he wanted. He outsmarted three homes and finally returned to us forever - his ultimate goal, no doubt. We were told by many, "put him down" because some early experiences caused aggression problems - we didn't listen and he learned to trust again - though it took many years, lots of work and compassion. He needed constant supervision, was in your face, demanding your attention and always needed to be doing something. He took an incredible amount of time - but gave so much in return. He was special from the moment he was born - he could have excelled at so many things - showdog, obedience, search and rescue - ANYTHING...but fate dictated that he was meant to spend his life being the most awesome pet anyone could ever dream of owning. He was demanding, pushy, opportunistic - and cuddly and loving. He was loud, determined, persistent - and silly with an incredible sense of humor. He taught me EVERYTING I know about dogs, about Malamutes, about mistakes people make, and how to try and fix those mistakes. He was suspicious and trusting, vicious and friendly, challenging and interesting - and could read people better than they could read themselves. He frustrated us beyond belief, then made it better with that deviously silly butthead smile and his sincere appreciation and love when you mustered the patience to work through the problem with creativity and kindness. He wanted you to UNDERSTAND his perspective, and he yours. He wasn't a typical dog, he was a proud Alaskan Malamute - something else indeed.
He loved small animals like
hamsters and bunnies, didn't trust other dogs and strangers, but loved
his family with a heart as big as the universe. He adored little
children and would walk on water for Stephanie - her wish was his
command. He was a dog that didn't automatically respect you - you
had to EARN that respect. He was dignified, proud, magnificently
beautiful. His complexity and toughness were hard to understand at
times, but he was so loving, so gentle, and so sincere to those he
loved and trusted, he holds a very very special place in our hearts.
The hole he leaves in our hearts is endless. The hardest thing
I've ever had to do was help him to the rainbow bridge - his body was
failing - almost blind, mostly deaf, enlarged heart, rear that didn't
work, bladder infections, cancer, prostate problems, and more...he was
in severe pain, but you'd never know it because he hid his pain so
well...especially to his beloved Stephanie. All he ever asked for
was respect and kindness and to be nearby. He held on for 6 months
longer than he should have, waiting for her to return home from college
for the summer, then could go on no longer - though he wanted
to. He desperately wanted to. We always felt he was the one
Malamute that if we were alone in the arctic, would save our
lives. He would never give up - and he never did. Rest in
Peace "Shabo" - we were blessed to have had you 13 years, and you were
truly the most wonderful dog we've ever had the privledge of knowing.
No one else even comes close.
In Loving Memory of :
"Tova"
O'Mal's Change of Luck
5-2-94 - 12-20-06
In Loving Memory of :
"Ode"
O'Mal's North Star Qilaq
5-2-94 -
In Loving Memory of :
"Gus"
O'Mal's Snowstorm
5-2-94 - 1-3-05
Gus came to us when I was 7 years old and was my constant pal growing up. I'll aways remember him up north swamping and sitting by the campfire trying to sneak hot dogs, marshmallows and anything else his nose could find. His favorite spot at home was the front porch and he would let anyone in except our two cats. Gus was so friendly that if our house was robbed Gus would have helped them carry out the stuff. Our friends and family all loved Gus and would greet him fondly. Gus, I'll always miss you but now you can roam the woods freely up north and will forever be next to us by the campfire where we laid you to rest. -- Derek
Gus was special to me too - 2 kids, and a loving newbie family (who'd never owned a Mal before) - I'll never forget the vet's words as she checked over the litter of puppies and told me "how can you saddle all this hair with a NEW mal owner". But the Morse's were more than capable and Gus turned out to be a true sweetie and fantastic pet in their care. He enjoyed family vacations up north and adored his kids. Mary had so many sweet stories to tell me and they always sent pictures. He survived porcupine quills and a freak accident, only to be laid low by a tumor on his spleen in old age. Like a stoic Malamute there was no hint of anything wrong except that he stopped eating. Gus, your family (and extended family - us) will miss your happy smiles. You've left a hole in our hearts that will be difficult to fill. Enjoy romping the green pastures of the Rainbow Bridge until we meet again. Rest easy sweet Farley.
In Loving Memory of :
"River"
O'Mal's Daisy Jane
5-2-94 - 1-14-05
River was very special to me. From our second litter, she inherited the cute head shake that only Penny, her mom, did - which always melted my heart. We kept her a full 14 weeks before she went to her first home, then was returned to us at 1 1/2 and went to her forever home with Mike & Kate. I really believe she was just waiting for them to come along - they were so perfect for her - it was meant to be. Finally she was an only dog, with all the love and attention she craved, had a pack of cats, and eventually a beautiful little girl to love her. River LOVED kids. I think River had found heaven on earth. They took her for hamburgers and fries at McDonalds, lots of visits to friends and family, and shy little River blossomed into a happy, wonderful pet. Unfortunately, life took a turn for the worst and suddenly she could no longer get up - her wonderful family did everything they could to make her comfortable and try and find out what was happening, but in the end, it was her time. She is now at the Rainbow bridge running and playing and waiting for her family, once again...
Kate writes: The heartbreak from losing her is at times is unbearable. We loved her completely and she made our family whole. She is dearly missed by Mike, Sophia, my parents, her extended pack (Freedom, Chaos, Vivace, Legend, and Zion - who walks around in a daze looking for River), and of course me. River would follow me from room to room, and would greet our daughter each morning in her crib. River would always lay in front of our daughters door when she took naps. River was a protector for all of us, always a good judge of character.
As she was leaving us I told her to do her wildest "Wild Dog", give her longest loudest howl, chase as many bunnies as she wanted, and to eat as many treats as she desired. I asked her to please be ready to greet us when we come to join her once again.
In Loving Memory of :
"Star"
Am/Can Champion O'Mal's It Was Love
5-2-94 - 10-13-04
It seems impossible that she could be gone. I still look for her in her favorite spots - under the van seat downstairs or next to Stephanie's computer. Our loving Starry, so full of infectious exuberance died fighting a valiant fight against spinal meningitis caused by leftover bacteria from a pyometra spay. She came back from the brink 3 times and seemed fully recovered, only to crash leaving us totally empty and devastated.The house is quiet now without the happy greeting scream-howl that got the others going, there is nobody to hang out the window at McDonalds for fries, there is no enforcer of the pack rules, nobody to start the mass howl at dinner time. Everything she did, she did with exuberance- from showing (she achieved an American & Canadian championship in just a few shows) to ruling the pack as alpha bitch. She loved to show and worked hard to be "top dog" in the pack. There was no dog sweeter with children, or as loving to adults or mal puppies - but hell on wheels to adult dogs. She never met a person she didn't love - greeting them with ear nibbles and kisses. There are dogs, and there are once in a lifetime dogs, and Star was one of those. Smart, Beautiful, the perfect Malamute. Everyone that met her loved her. Goodbye sweet Star, your time with us was just too short and your passing so unnecessary...rest in peace my beautiful one .
In Loving Memory of
"Harley"
O'Mal's Harlequin Romance
5-2-94 - 7-17-04
In loving memory of...
"Frosty"
O'Mal's Frosty the Snowdog
12-10-98 - 2-20-04
In loving memory of...
"Homer"
Hill Frost North'rn DreamTyme
12-15-91 - 8-1-03
What do you say when you lose your "rock". Homer was steady, sure, always there and my rock. He quietly ran the pack with confidence and kindness, keeping the peace between 4 girls until age caught up with him. Then he gave the job to Hoover, and retired quietly and with dignity (and just a little meddling). We helped Homer across the rainbow bridge at 11:00 8-1-03. It was like losing a best friend. His body gave out long before his loving heart would have. For almost two years he was stool incontinent and had difficulty getting up, but his incredible will and indomitable spirit kept him going just when any other dog would have given up. Homer adapted to his limited circumstances and kept going with dignity and good humor. The last week of his life, he could barely walk, but jokingly "teased" me that he was going to run away across the yard with a grin because he didn't want to come in. He could communicate everything with his eyes and a gentle head snuggle. He was passionate about a few things - Ice cream, cheese and anything sweet but most of all the puppies. He was our puppy raiser, their security, and they all loved him. Just when we thought he couldn't go on any longer, 2 new puppies (Gracie and Riggs) gave him the will to live 8 months longer so he could share his wisdom. Great grandson Riggs would spend hours quietly sitting nearby, listening intently, probably to Homer's stories. He was respected and liked by all the other dogs, including Shadow. Now he is again with his beloved Penny and Bog at the rainbow bridge - his first pack, to watch over again with gentle guidance. There is nobody like Homer, and though he was never shown because of his wooly coat, was a show dog at heart. He was our rock, he will be greatly missed.
In loving memory of...
Little Lucy
Jan. 7, 2003 - Jan. 13, 2003
If you believe great things come in small packages, or that there is a reason for everyone's existence, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, that would explain Lucy. One of 3 live puppies born to Holly's first litter: the biggest, strongest, pushiest. She only lived 6 days, but perhaps her legacy is that she almost alone brought in the milk that her sister and brother thrived on. Maybe she was never meant to do great things - except ensure the survival of someone who will - or perhaps to teach us there is meaning in all life, no matter how short-lived. We will never know. All I know is she touched our hearts and will live forever in them.
In loving memory of...
Penny
Hill Frost Tasha's Luckypenny
March 16, 1990 - June 24, 2002
We have lost our beloved Penny- my second heart dog - dignified and beautiful, stubborn and persistent, she taught us about the breed. She was our first Malamute, so special it convinced us one Malamute wasn't enough. A friend with many nicknames - most recently "Squeaky" and "Speedy", I admired her unflappable calmness and confidence, her dignity, her love of puppies. She has passed on her intelligence and spunk to her children and grandchildren. Though she loved our entire family, Penny and I had a special bond. She would listen to me when she would listen to no one else (probably because I "asked" instead of "commanded") - she didn't like to be told what to do and would always let you know it! If you needed someone to talk to, she would listen. She would look at you and expect you to understand with ESP. She never spoke unless she had something important to say, and usually she would hand you a paw to let you know "this is important". She had her own ideas how anything should be done. Penny did everything "her way" - she was a very independent thinker. Penny's stories make a great contribution to this website, and it will stay that way. She never had much interest in obedience or showing, but was a great Mom and Grandma - loving even the grand kids as her own. She was particularly close to Homer (her mate) and Star her daughter.She was afraid of nothing - even death.
Strong and confident, trusting and loving -
Penny you will be my best friend, always.
In loving memory of ...
Bog of Dog (a.k.a. Nova)
O'Mal's Dark Star
May 2, 1994 - February 22, 2002
There are no words to express the way we feel about losing our Bog. Our hearts are broken, and it will be forever before we feel normal again. She is missed so much. We will never forget you "Bog of Dog".
She will still be a part of our lives in many little ways - We had a "bog language" and Colleen and I would make her talk in a lispy, matter of fact voice - such as "Yesh, I want to go to my Rooooooooooom". She humored us and sometimes I wonder if she ESP'd what we should say. No doubt she'll still tell us what to say.
We will still go to dog shows and think of the way Holly and Bog would yell greetings to each other in and out of the ring. We found ourselves hiding them from each other, so as not to disrupt the show, but they'd still manage to woo encouragement to each other from across huge buildings.S
We only had her a short time, in relative terms since Penny is 12, Homer 10, Star and Shadow 8 -- and Nova was only 4 (a month shy of being 5) when she left us - but she had a huge impact on our lives and hearts. She lived a busy and happy life, and we will see her again someday. She left no descendents, but is "survived" by her only sibling Hoover, who is also sweet and loving.
Colleen taught her to do a High-Five, a double High-Five, rollover, and lots of other little tricks. She would do tricks just because you asked, not for the treat and was so proud of her accomplishments. She could catch a tidbit from across the room. You could mold her into any position when cuddling, just like a beanie baby stuffed toy. Most of all, she was always willing to please and tried so hard in everything she did. Nothing will be the same without you.
In loving memory of...
Etch
3-3-99 - 5-20-01
I thought I'd never get attached to another little critter after my Gerbils, but Etch was different - he had lots of personality and was always sweet and willing to be held. He even didn't mind when Steph dressed him in Barbie clothes! Stephanie spent hours "hanging out" with him in her room. He was so tame, so gentle, nothing seemed to upset him. He must have been a "wooly" hamster since his fur was silky soft and grew very long in odd tufts so it had to be trimmed regularly. He lived to 2 1/2 - a respectable old age for a hamster. Etch we will miss you!
In loving memory of....
John Swire, friend and breeder of
Penny and Homer,
was tragically killed in an automobile accident on 7-13-00.
He will be missed by many, our prayers and love go out to Laura, his
wife.
In loving memory of....
Buddy
(Whippet Mix)
Buddy was my first "heart dog" - we went everywhere together and I loved his calm, gentle personality. I brought him home one day and sprung him on my dog loving parents - knowing they couldn't say no. We would ride my bike for hours (he in the back in a makeshift rumble seat) and go with me to my teenage friend's homes. He would play gently with my gerbils. He got along with every dog he ever met. He moved into my first apartment with me and saw me through many life changes - graduation, moving out, marriage, the birth of my kids. We tried to guess his parentage, I think there was some whippet in there, along with something else. He had a whippet's gentle sweetness and many of the characteristics I admire in that breed, and will be the reason I will someday get a whippet. I used to wish he were a purebred so we could go to dog shows, but he was everything else I ever wanted in a dog and will always be so special in my heart.
Mouse (the gerbil, with Buddy)
I
n loving memory of...
Lucky
(Rat Terrier Mix)
My first childhood dog, lucky was stubborn, sassy and probably a Malamute at heart. She introduced me to the world of dogs and started it all.