Central Ohio Sheltie Rescue's Memorial Page

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Central Ohio Sheltie Rescue's Memorial Page

"Sir Leo Du Pre" (8/11/01)

"Sir Leo Du Pre" was rescued from the Stark County Animal Shelter on June 2, 2001.

Leo, approximately 7-9 years old, was turned over to my rescue on June 10. He was immediately placed in a foster home that eventually hoped to adopt him. His foster Mommy named him “Sir Leo Du Pre” because he had already been through so much that he deserved some nobility in his life.

While his Mommy was away on vacation, Sir Leo became very ill. He was brought back to me so I could care for him until his Mom returned. Leo never got to go back. He was diagnosed with renal failure (kidney disease).

Most rescues would have simply not spent the money or taken the time to help this guy. They would have simply put him down. But not me. I’m not like those other rescues. I couldn't do that. There really was something very special about this little guy…actually, they are all special in their own way, aren't they? Leo was no different. He deserved a chance to know what love and devotion were before he was to don those "wings".

With three goals in mind (make him comfortable, give him the love and devotion that he may have never had, and to return him to a somewhat normal doggy life), Leo's care became my way of life. Due to his fragile medical condition he required a lot of medications and fluids several times a day. It was truly a labor of love. I think I even surprised my husband. I know I surprised myself.

I do have to say though that during those moments of weakness that we all experience at times, Darla was right there for me. I can't count the times I called her in tears. She always knew what to say to get me headed back in the right direction. Her friendship and guidance has truly proven to be "priceless".

Even though the disease dictated Leo's way of life, his spirit would have no part of that! He showed a fight and spirit like none I've ever seen before. He wanted to live. He wanted to stay. But, sadly, his body had other ideas.

No matter how ill he was or how bad he felt...he was always ready for a game of fetch with his favorite tennis ball. Even if it was only one toss. Sometimes, I think it was just to see me smile.

But, in the end, it wasn't meant to be. After three Grand Mal seizures in less than thirty-six hours, Leo's health was quickly failing. His spirit fought the disease with all he had, but his body could take no more. By this time, he had heart and lung disease as well. His body was leaving him.

I truly knew it "was time". People always tell you you'll know..and, you do. It was in his eyes. He told me that it was okay to do what I must do for him.

On Saturday, August 11, 2001, I gave Leo the ultimate gift of love. With my heart shattering, I held him as he took his last breath. I made sure that he knew he was loved and wanted as he finally took hold of those wings that had been ever present...just out of reach.

I kissed him as his little spirit donned those wings. I told him gently to "fly". With that moment, my third objective was attained. Sir Leo was finally able to run and play and be free of the pain and discomfort that had so ravished that precious little body. We tried. There is no shame in our efforts. Only sorrow over the outcome.

Those pawprints on my heart will never be erased. He will live there forever. He was truly an "angel in waiting".Go with Love my little friend...you are dearly missed. My life will never be the same...

So, you see it really doesn't matter how long we are blessed with them, it still rips out your heart when they go. Pain knows no difference between six weeks and sixteen years. In Darla's words.."Love 'em while you have 'em"...for too often, it's never long enough.

"Renal Failure, Kidney Disease...Know the Symptoms!"

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"Lily"

In Loving Memory of a special girl that touched the heart of a special lady in Athens, Greece. Lily donned her wings and left Alexia way too soon. Unfortunately, there are just some things that we have no control over in life. Lily now runs and plays at the rainbow bridge with Sir Leo and my Sonny as they await our eventual arrival.

Lily had been a stray, running the streets of Athens when she met Alexia. She quickly became Alexia's best friend. Lily showed no signs or symptoms of the Chronic Renal Failure that would quickly take her life. Lily was barely over two years old. So, don't for an instant think it's an "old dog" disease. It isn't.

Even though there is no cure for Renal Failure, the symptoms can be controlled with diet and medications. Alexia would like to stress the importance of every dog owner/lover to know the symptoms so that if your dog should become ill, you can catch it early. Catching it early will give you precious time (sometimes, many years) with them that Alexia didn't have with Lily (nor I with Sonny).

"Fly, Lily, fly".... you are dearly missed...