Today my dog and long-time friend, Cheerio, succumbed to old age at 14. I don't think there has ever been a dog so incredibly loving. If given the choice, she would have survived on love alone, because that is all she ever asked of us.
Though she was never trained as a therapy dog, I had a friend who babysat her frequently and tutored children with learning and physical disabilities. One such kid, Stephen, had no fine motor control, but he loved animals. Unfortunately most animals could not tolerate him due to the fact he could be quite rough. During one such tutoring session, Stephen decided he wanted to crawl on top of Cheerio to give her a hug. My friend was going to take Cheerio away, because Stephen was pulling out chunks of her fur in the attempt, but Cheerio didn't so much as flinch, just turned her head and licked his face. She was like that with everybody: adults, children, other animals. If you were sad she'd be there to give you a hug and kiss your tears away. I've never known an animal so empathetic in my life and if I ever do again, I'll count myself as incredibly lucky.
Last year she had a stroke, and we thought it was time, but she recovered somehow to the point where the vet didn't think she needed to be put to sleep. She gave us plenty of time to love her and get used to the idea that she wouldn't be with us forever, but it still hurts to lose her.
This is based on a photograph my sister took of her lying in the window with her favourite toys. I miss Cheerio and wish I could have been with her for this. When people say dog is man's best friend, I like to think they're talking about Cheerio.
Though she was never trained as a therapy dog, I had a friend who babysat her frequently and tutored children with learning and physical disabilities. One such kid, Stephen, had no fine motor control, but he loved animals. Unfortunately most animals could not tolerate him due to the fact he could be quite rough. During one such tutoring session, Stephen decided he wanted to crawl on top of Cheerio to give her a hug. My friend was going to take Cheerio away, because Stephen was pulling out chunks of her fur in the attempt, but Cheerio didn't so much as flinch, just turned her head and licked his face. She was like that with everybody: adults, children, other animals. If you were sad she'd be there to give you a hug and kiss your tears away. I've never known an animal so empathetic in my life and if I ever do again, I'll count myself as incredibly lucky.
Last year she had a stroke, and we thought it was time, but she recovered somehow to the point where the vet didn't think she needed to be put to sleep. She gave us plenty of time to love her and get used to the idea that she wouldn't be with us forever, but it still hurts to lose her.
This is based on a photograph my sister took of her lying in the window with her favourite toys. I miss Cheerio and wish I could have been with her for this. When people say dog is man's best friend, I like to think they're talking about Cheerio.
Category Artwork (Digital) / Animal related (non-anthro)
Species Dog (Other)
Size 1000 x 797px
File Size 503.3 kB
Listed in Folders
This is a beautiful picture to compliment a very heartwarming yet bitter-sweet story.
I'm sorry for your loss - I know what it's like to lose a beloved pet and it is hard. He is in a much better place now, though, and I'm sure all of the joy and smiles he has brought many people will never be forgotten.
I'm sorry for your loss - I know what it's like to lose a beloved pet and it is hard. He is in a much better place now, though, and I'm sure all of the joy and smiles he has brought many people will never be forgotten.
I may be religious and my Cousin, but we both know the Lord is taking good care of Cherrio and Cherrio will always be by your side till the very end, her physical body may die but the Feelings, emotions and Spirit will live on with you forever. Never forget that. God bless her very much.
and for those of you who don't worship religion, I don't have the time to argue, nether does any of us, I respect other people's beliefs but be mature about it, thank you.
and for those of you who don't worship religion, I don't have the time to argue, nether does any of us, I respect other people's beliefs but be mature about it, thank you.
I'm sorry for the loss of such a dear and faithful friend and family member. I've been a long time dog lover and rescued a few pups that have blessed my family. One Buddy was very much in temperament like your dog Cheerio. I missed him when he was gone and think this picture will make a great tribute to such a wonderful member of your family. My heart goes out and I agree with your words. If ever man had a best friend your Cheerio was it.
I know how you fill. I wish my first dog lived a long life. She was wild but still loving to everyone she meets but sadly she was hit by a car. I broke down for along time, seeing her body on the street and having to put her into the ground. SHe only lived almost 4 years, 2 weeks away from her birthday I was going to give her a time of her life. Spend some time with her take her to a dog spa and play with other dogs, I was even gonna get her a daughter so she won't be alone.... 5 years later I still have her collar as a reminder.
I am sorry for your lost. I know how it is to lose someone that close to you.. But I'm happy that he lived 14 years of his life.
I am sorry for your lost. I know how it is to lose someone that close to you.. But I'm happy that he lived 14 years of his life.
What a beautiful dog and beautiful art as well. Those eyes are so deep and loving and I can tell you loved her a lot, as we all love our dogs and other close pets. I hope you and your family are well, and it sounds like Cheerio lived a very full and wonderful life, I'm sure she'll rest in piece and watch you from that big doggy park in the sky <3<3
I have a old brother of a dog about to hit 15, awesome dog. I know that he wont be around for much longer and I am glad I can be here with him before he has to go. Recently his brother died 2 years ago and sense then he has been constantly looking for him at night. It's sad, but he strong one, always seems happier at night.
I wasn't there for the death of our brother which bothers me to this day. I swore to myself that I would see him on so he wouldn't have to go it alone. It hurts not being there for someone in their final days.
Your puppy sounds wonderful, I'm sure this is a great loss. My condolences.
I wasn't there for the death of our brother which bothers me to this day. I swore to myself that I would see him on so he wouldn't have to go it alone. It hurts not being there for someone in their final days.
Your puppy sounds wonderful, I'm sure this is a great loss. My condolences.
My deepest condolences *hugs you tight until the sadness go away,
hope this helps a bit
it's allways sad to lose a good friend,
but everyone have only a limited time on this world,
we can't change the past to make the future better.
the live is going on no matter what will happens,
but if you time on this world ended you will go to a better place,
there are no sorrows there is no pain on this place
it's heaven
R.I.P. Cheeriohope this helps a bit
This is absolutely GORGEOUS ;A; It does hurt when you lose a loved one, be it animal or not, and seeing the effort you must have put to this really gets the pain through--if you can understand what I mean by that. In a nutshell, this is a really, REALLY touchig image, yes :3
You've captured her spirit wonderfully, Demi. I've loved and lost a golden Labrador Retriever myself. I know this emptiness and pain; my Queen lived until she was 16 or 17, I think. I like to think Cheerio and Queen are tugging on the same toy together now. :)
As many have said, she will always be with you.
My condolences and deepest sympathies.
As many have said, she will always be with you.
My condolences and deepest sympathies.
Cheerio is gorgeous. Your painting is beautiful, and I am ever so sorry you've had to say goodbye to such a dear friend. Not long ago, my Retriever passed away too at the age of 14. He was around for a lot of my life, just over half of it and was so big and always "in the way" looking for love wherever he went. I miss him, and seeing this made me smile and remember how lovely he really was and how much we loved him. Your words are wonderful and are so full of adoration for Cheerio. I am so glad I get to see things like this shared, as it reminds me of how wonderful animals can be to us humans. Thank you so much for allowing us to share something precious to you. I hope that you will be alright. Take care.
awww she looks just like my dog from when i was a kid named Hoover.
We called her hoover cause she'd always eat up the food I'd drop on the floor when I was a kid. That story sounds much like her in her younger years.. My family had her since before i was born till when I was 15 and she died.
We called her hoover cause she'd always eat up the food I'd drop on the floor when I was a kid. That story sounds much like her in her younger years.. My family had her since before i was born till when I was 15 and she died.
i think we all have the empathy here.
the dog i grew up with as a child recently died at 14 as well.
its the hardest to accept for anyone who has been blessed to have a loving family member that long.
half of me still expects to see her when i visit my gramps.
i dont know if any of this is helping but i truly feel for you.
the dog i grew up with as a child recently died at 14 as well.
its the hardest to accept for anyone who has been blessed to have a loving family member that long.
half of me still expects to see her when i visit my gramps.
i dont know if any of this is helping but i truly feel for you.
I feel your pain, D. I had a Lionhead Dwarf rabbit that came down with parasites that sent her into seizures and killed her by the time we found out what it was and had started treatment. http://kaiba-kins.deviantart.com/ga.....set=0#/d2qhk8a That's the pic I have of her on my DA. That bunny had an attitude, like an upstart teenage girl that thinks she knows best, but she was so adorable. XD She passed away a couple years ago, and my mother was quite upset.
I can't say anything that hasn't been said already but believe me, I know what it's like to feel your loss. Just two years ago, a cat I have lived with for almost all of my life that I can remember died. Her name was Morgana and it was heartbreaking, especially as I was with her when she passed away, but the pain can go away. I wish I could have done something as wonderful as this in her memory, but I'm no where near this talented, and I'm amazed that after such a long-time companion passes away you are able to make such great art.
I have a Golden Girl as well, and they are the sweetest! Mine sends her condolences -
http://www.furaffinity.net/view/996459/
And they are also one of the hardest breeds to draw, as many can not capture all that fur in its true glory, but you have done a great job, helped I am sure, by the love that you shared with her.....
http://www.furaffinity.net/view/996459/
And they are also one of the hardest breeds to draw, as many can not capture all that fur in its true glory, but you have done a great job, helped I am sure, by the love that you shared with her.....
I often like to share this with people who want to believe in it. I like to believe that all the remarkable pets that we have in life as we grow as people are only just waiting to see you again. Whether cat, dog, or any number in the list that people consider pets, they're just waiting to see you again. They go to a place where all our pets congregate in the next life, wounds healed and young and full of energy. They're playing with other dogs, cats, and others, time passing by with no notice until the day you come to find them in the next life. Our beloved, memorable pets are just waiting to see us again.
The longer I looked at the picture, the more I felt like crying. My old girl is 15 years old, suffering from arthritis in her hips, hard of hearing and vision, and has become incontinent. I'm just dreading the day when my phone rings and it's my mother giving me bad news.
I know it's very hard to lose a beloved pet, especially when they've been a part of your life for such a long time. You've done wonderfully by Cheerio's memory with this piece. It's very beautifully done and filled to the brim with emotion. I hope working on the piece is helping you through the pains of loss and that completing it may bring closure for you down the line.
I know it's very hard to lose a beloved pet, especially when they've been a part of your life for such a long time. You've done wonderfully by Cheerio's memory with this piece. It's very beautifully done and filled to the brim with emotion. I hope working on the piece is helping you through the pains of loss and that completing it may bring closure for you down the line.
That sounds exactly like my dog, Casey. She was a doberman pincher but she was the most gentle dog I had, aside from Angel. Casey would know when you're upset, sick, or needed some loves. Angel was the same exact way, but was much more easier to cuddle cuz of her smaller size. I never cry, but when I lost those two, my world seemed like it had ended. I wasn't home for Casey's death, I was in Louisiana at the time working for the Air Force, and even if I tried to make it home, I wouldn't have been able to. That upset me so much. Not even being able to say goodbye to her. I was given two great dogs and was very lucky to have them both.
I feel sorry for you losing Cheerio. She seemed just like mine, plus more. It's hard losing a pet, let alone a great one like that. I always tell people, "Time heals all things," even though it's been three years since Casey's passing and five since Angel's, I still cry at the first thought of them. They'll be in your heart forever and cherish every memory you had with them.
I feel sorry for you losing Cheerio. She seemed just like mine, plus more. It's hard losing a pet, let alone a great one like that. I always tell people, "Time heals all things," even though it's been three years since Casey's passing and five since Angel's, I still cry at the first thought of them. They'll be in your heart forever and cherish every memory you had with them.
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...
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...
don't cry don't cry don't cry... damnit I'm crying T.T
Such a lovely image. I had a best friend like her. Her name was Duchess. Pure-bred Boxer. Sweetest thing you could ever imagine. She died back in '08, to which we later found out it was a brain tumor that took her away from us. If it wasn't for that she would have lived 3 or 4 more years longer. I miss her everyday.
I know the pain and I offer my condolences.
Such a lovely image. I had a best friend like her. Her name was Duchess. Pure-bred Boxer. Sweetest thing you could ever imagine. She died back in '08, to which we later found out it was a brain tumor that took her away from us. If it wasn't for that she would have lived 3 or 4 more years longer. I miss her everyday.
I know the pain and I offer my condolences.
This is a loving, heartfelt piece. You have done a wonderful justice to your long-time companion and friend. Thank you for sharing Cheerio with us in this way, to let us in to such a tender and important memory. I wish that your pain mends as quickly as possible around such a wide gap...
I'm not a dog fan by far, but a lovely picture, and my condolences. My aunt had a golden labrador that died a few years ago, she was a very tolerant and loving dog. When I was very sick at my aunts from travel sickness, I found her laying against the bathroom door and she kept me company as I was on my own.
Sorry, just reminded me.
Sorry, just reminded me.
I know just how you feel. I had a Golden Retriever who we had to say goodbye to, few days after New Years, his age was 14 years as well. He was the most loving dog in the world. His name was Simba. Fear I got now, is that I would never find a dog like him again.
The picture you made of your girl, is really lovely! The eyes are the exact same eyes the beloved Goldens always threw at us when they thought they did something wrong or if they were looking at someone leaving <3 I love those eyes. Fantastic work, I'm sure your mum will love it
best wishes, it's so hard to loose a trusted friend like that. :c
The picture you made of your girl, is really lovely! The eyes are the exact same eyes the beloved Goldens always threw at us when they thought they did something wrong or if they were looking at someone leaving <3 I love those eyes. Fantastic work, I'm sure your mum will love it
best wishes, it's so hard to loose a trusted friend like that. :c
I lost my Jenny probably about seven or eight years ago now. . . But watching someone else go through the loss and pain brings mine right back. I loved her, I'd grown up with her, and she was so much like Cheerio. I feel for your loss. You are not alone in your sadness, and Cheerio will always live on in your heart and in your love.
I am so sorry for your loss...I had a dachshund and he died a few years ago. The memory of when I found out still resonates really hard in me :C I loved that dog so much...and I just shed a tear for now because I know how painful it is. *hug* Cherish every memory and moment you spent with him. He will always be there with you.
Cheerio sounds a lot like my dog, Missy. She was just put to sleep in January at 12. We decided we're getting a new puppy in June, but as much as I'd love a puppy, there have been moments where I've curled up to my partner and told him I don't think I can deal with it again. I know it'll still be at least ten years down the road, but my gods, it still hurts to think that she's gone. In the end, I think it hurts even more because it's my fault, really. I'm the one the family chose to make the decision and when we took her in, we found out that she probably had a spinal injury and it wasn't just old age and genetics (part German shepherd) that was the reason her hips were going.
I guess part of the reason I'm saying this is that maybe you'll take comfort in knowing someone else gets it, you know? Because I know sometimes I think my friends must believe I'm ridiculous to miss a dog so much. (My little sister and I have two matching tattoos for her. Her pawprint from last year and a memorial one the week after she went.)
I guess part of the reason I'm saying this is that maybe you'll take comfort in knowing someone else gets it, you know? Because I know sometimes I think my friends must believe I'm ridiculous to miss a dog so much. (My little sister and I have two matching tattoos for her. Her pawprint from last year and a memorial one the week after she went.)
I'm sorry for your loss. I wish you the best. I had a dog a lot like Cheerio but she left us at age 11. Just try to get through the next few weeks. And (at the cost of accidentally sounding like a jerk) do not get a new pet for a while.
-An anonymous guy who knows exactly what you are going through.
May Cheerio rest in peace on this Earth and thus rise higher to heaven which art above us and wait. Wait happily for her loved ones to join her as they once waited with her on Earth in the good times and the bad.
R.I.P
-An anonymous guy who knows exactly what you are going through.
May Cheerio rest in peace on this Earth and thus rise higher to heaven which art above us and wait. Wait happily for her loved ones to join her as they once waited with her on Earth in the good times and the bad.
R.I.P
Reminds me of my late dog Lucky. She was 16 when she passed last year and was the gentlest thing you oculd imagine. Very loving and never asked for anything from me aside from the occasional huggles and walk. Its a shame that our friends have to pass away so fast, but it makes you appreciate the short time you have with them even more then I think we give it credit for. *hugs*
This reminds me of having to put down my own dog a few years ago- http://www.furaffinity.net/view/1406908/
She truly was a beautiful soul from what could be felt from the story you told. Not many dogs posses such genuine compassion for the mentally handicapped like how you described. May she forever rest in peace
She truly was a beautiful soul from what could be felt from the story you told. Not many dogs posses such genuine compassion for the mentally handicapped like how you described. May she forever rest in peace
I dont know why I am not getting some of your submissions in my notices... its really weird.
Either way this is a really cute picture. Goldens and Labs are all known for their loving temperaments, and its good to see you had the same experience. They are such sweet and loving dogs. I am sorry to hear that yours passed away. I am sure she had a wonderful life.
Either way this is a really cute picture. Goldens and Labs are all known for their loving temperaments, and its good to see you had the same experience. They are such sweet and loving dogs. I am sorry to hear that yours passed away. I am sure she had a wonderful life.
Im so sorry for you lost..im strugling with my catBooga at moment.We keep fighting against kidney failure.
He has been with me since he was 6 week old, and hopefully turn 15 this year and still can give me lotsa loving years, and i can love him back for many years as well.
He has been always there for me, when i cry he comes to my lap, lick my cheek and purrs so every deeply. Lifts his front paws on my shoulder and presses his fluffy cheek against my cheek and wont go anywhere as long i cry. He keeps others in order when im sick, sleeps next to me purring and watching over me, sometimes i think he is more dog then cat*smiles lil*. He comes agreet me everytime i comehome, carryes round my wool socks...im so fraid i loose my baby boy to this illness that attacked up so behind tree.
He has been with me since he was 6 week old, and hopefully turn 15 this year and still can give me lotsa loving years, and i can love him back for many years as well.
He has been always there for me, when i cry he comes to my lap, lick my cheek and purrs so every deeply. Lifts his front paws on my shoulder and presses his fluffy cheek against my cheek and wont go anywhere as long i cry. He keeps others in order when im sick, sleeps next to me purring and watching over me, sometimes i think he is more dog then cat*smiles lil*. He comes agreet me everytime i comehome, carryes round my wool socks...im so fraid i loose my baby boy to this illness that attacked up so behind tree.
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