My beloved friend, Mr. Whipple, slipped quietly into the arms of the angels at nine o'clock this morning.

He died as he lived, with strength and grace. And through him I've learned that death, too, can be a miracle, though dark and sad. It is a mystery how such a small fellow as he could leave such a large hole in my heart.

As always, he taught me about life. He has always been a great friend and teacher. Now he has taught me about dying. I hope I can measure up to his class when my turn rolls 'round.

He gave so many lessons in life, he had no words but he spoke with the eloquence of poets.

He taught me the rules of being a "Good Dog". And, if more people could just be "Good Dogs" the world would be a warmer and more liveable place.

The Rules as told to me by Mr. Whipple:

1. Be overjoyed to see a loved one. Even if they have been out of your sight for just a few moments.

2. Greet each day with a stretch.

3. Learn about the real treasures and soak them up. The real treasures are: Head scratches, belly rubs, and warm rays of the sun.

4. Defend your family against all threats, no matter how large.

5. When in doubt, bark.

Goodbye my friend. I'll carry you in my heart forever, your memory and your gentle spirit are a part of me as is the air I breathe.

Frolic in the tall grass of heaven. Chase the butterflies on an endless summer's day. I'll be along, by and by, and we shall run in the meadow together, and once more I'll pet you, and hold you in my lap.

You've made the great step into the Darkness, and I must be brave enough to let go.

Know this:

I am. And shall forever be. WhippleDaddy. Proudly so.

_________________

so sorry for your loss - I know how much a pet can mean to someone.....take care.

nancy

Dear Whippledaddy, your goodbye is eloquent and loving. No words of mine can touch it. Much love and grace to you, and goodbye, Mr. Whipple. I am so sorry for your loss. I hope he is up there getting dog treats from my mother! She's a light touch.

((((hugs)))) Cindy

I'm so sorry for your loss.

Ohh man that is so sad. I am so sorry for your loss, but like you said you will always have the memories.

awwwwwwww I am so sorry for your loss. Pets are like family...and they love so unconditionally......they have only us and will always remember how we took care of them...........hugs.......

A tear rolls down my cheek thinking of my own best friend I lost last year. Amazing what unconditional love and devotion can inspire in our own hearts.

Hugs to you. Long live Mr. Whipple and my Rusty.

He left the same week as my Kitty. I'm glad he has such a great dad to carry on his name and love.

awwwww peace be with you as well as loving thoughts & prayers

The lessons that Mr. Whipple taught you, now have shown things to think about for us too. Already, your dear friend lives on.

Within your heart, you can visit him often. Within your soul, you can touch him. Within your dreams, you can visit him. Within closed eyes and concentrated mind, you can see him.

I found that nobody ever truly dies, they just live on through us. There is a completely another world in remembering.

I am so sorry for your loss. Cherish the memories. Celeste

Sweet words for a sad loss.

So sorry for your loss.. I am sure you had beautiful Memories

Memories, I don't think any of us would survive a loss without memories. Sorry about the loss of your friend.

I'm so sorry about your loss. Sounds like he was one lucky puppy to have lived in such a loving home.

(((Whippledaddy)))

I'm sure my beloved Max welcomed him and helped him through the transition - he loved other dogs. I picture them frolicking together. *sniff*

He loved cats, too, so I'm sure kitty Milo got a grand welcome, as well.

Our beloved pets are the background music of our lives, and when they move to the next level the silence is deafening. I miss Max (10/01) and Sadie (2/02) everyday, and one day I will have another four legged companion to share my life with.

But for now I hold the memories close, and tell him daily what a great friend he was, and how much I continue to love him.