VGSR's condolences go out to volunteers Pat Callahan and Mark Tonepohl on the loss of their German Shepherd, Daisy. The beautiful Miss Daisy went to the Rainbow Bridge on the morning of the Fourth of July. She was 12 and 1/2 years old. She is now frolicking with her buddy Jake who went to the Rainbow Bridge on July 5th seven years ago. Daisy had a wonderful life. She got to go swimming and boating and traveled to many states in her earlier years. Daisy enjoyed regular servings of ice cream and her favorite people food was spaghetti (a girl after my own heart). She frequently went along with Pat and Mark as they did their rounds for Critter Sitters. At home, Daisy ruled the other German Shepherds in her pack as she was the Queen Bee. She was a gentle spirit. Daisy will be sorely missed by those that loved her.

VGSR sends condolences to Stephen and Michele Sledge on the passing of Daisy Mae #2 to the Rainbow Bridge on September 12, 2007. The Sledges write, "It's with a very sad heart that I am writing about Daisy. We had to put her to sleep on September 12th as she had tumors in her right front leg and also in her chest. The vet said there was nothing more we could do for her as we had been trying to make her comfortable for the few weeks before as she could barely walk. Her heart and mind were still there but her body was tired of fighting at around 10 years of age I guess as she had all but stopped eating. It was really frustrating because none of her tests showed anything was wrong until they finally did the x-rays. It has been very hard on us losing her sooner than we had expected. We wanted to say thank you for the almost 5 years that we got to spend with her. It was a wonderful time from the daily walks trying to find squirrels, rabbits or even the geese at the pond to chase to a few beach trips that she took with us. She will be greatly missed by all our family as well since she always came with us on visits. "

Sincerely,

Stephen and Michele Sledge

VGSR sends deepest condolences to all the VGSR volunteers who had a part in helping Dakota. Dakota was such a scared little fellow that wasn't sure what was happening to him since he was dumped at the shelter by his owners for barking and howling. Dakota came to VGSR on August 2, 2008, in hopes that we would be able to help him find comfort in a warm loving home. Being so unsure of what was going on Dakota ran from his foster parents, out of confusion. Unfortunately Dakota was struck by a car and died. Dakota may you rest in peace knowing that VGSR was here to help you.

VGSR sends condolences to the family of Dana, one of our happily re-homed German Shepherd Dogs. Gail, Dana's former case-worker writes on October 6th, 2006, "It is with great sadness that I inform you of the passing of Dana vom haus Lind-Mark (1/13/94 to 10/4/06). Dana was adopted from VGSR in December 2003 by Natalie B. Dana was just shy of her 10th birthday. I was their homechecker and caseworker. During our initial visit I was so impressed with Dana's wonderful temperament that I suggested to Natalie that she get Dana certified as a therapy dog. A couple of months later Dana passed her TDI test and began going with Natalie to several facilities in the Tidewater area. Dana knew exactly what was going to happen when Natalie pulled out Dana's therapy dog vest and would run to the door ready to "go to work." Natalie retired from the Navy and moved back to her hometown on the New Jersey shore. There she and Dana spent more time visiting hospitals and nursing homes. Natalie even got a weekend job at a nursing home and Dana was allowed to go with her and would roam the halls spreading affection and being an awesome ambassador for the German Shepherd breed while Natalie manned the receptionist desk. She enjoyed going with Natalie to a friend's farm where she could lie in the shade while Natalie watched her granddaughter take riding lessons. Occasionally, Dana would attempt to "chase" deer that were on the property, but generally never went far from Natalie's side. Sadly within the last several months Dana's health began to fail. She had a variety of problems including Pannus, intestinal problems which even a special diet couldn't control, her hind end began to give out on her, and weight loss which the vet thought might be as a result of cancer. It was with a heavy heart that Natalie made the decision to let Dana go to the Rainbow Bridge. Her ashes will be spread on the farm that she so loved to visit. I have attached a recent picture of Dana taken at the farm with her Great Dane buddy, Kiwi."

Gail

Deja Vu the beloved dog of Lea (VGSR president) and John went to the Rainbow Bridge on November 3, '03. Cancer claimed her life just 15 days after her mother Josey had gone to the Rainbow Bridge. Now mother and daughter are together again, healthy and happy, and playing with Pee Wee the test cat. Deja was born with a silver spoon in her mouth. She was pampered and spoiled all of her life. Deja was the problem child that destroyed a bathroom when she became trapped in it, ate furniture, TV remote controls, car remote controls. She was not good with children but Lea spent countless hours taking her to Giant and PetSmart and getting her used to kids. She was a lot of dog that needed a firm hand. Lea was that firm hand and Deja grew into a magnificent dog that could be taken anywhere. Deja got to go on one last vacation to the beach a couple of weeks ago. The dogs always loved the beach and this time was no exception. Deja was Lea's heart and soul and will be sorely missed. VGSR offers deepest sympathies to Lea, John, and all who Deja allowed into her life.

VGSR sends condolences to Dee and Don McGibbon on the loss of Deli on April 18, 2007. Don writes: "Just a sad note to let you know Deli passed over to rainbow bridge this morning. Her back legs had become paralyzed because of hip dysplasia and she had kidney trouble because of the dysplasia too,not her food. She was a trooper until the end with a healthy appetite and always trying to get up for us so she could go out but the hip/s really got her. She was also just too old for the anesthesia it would require. We had two good years with her and spoiled her as much as we possibly could with absolutely great food and no discipline and no regrets. And she never gained weight!!! She barked at every person, dog, and squirrel that passed her bay window right to the end. She has even got our big boy Rommel barking at everything now. We know there are lots of folks in the rescue that willl remember her as the senior alpha that stayed and stayed. We did find out she was half elkhound which accounts for the magnificent eight-foot fence jumps. Even the vet didn't believe that part. We will all be back to normal maybe next week. Too hard to write this but wanted you to know first. Love Ya!"

Best regards,

Love, Don and Dee

VGSR sends condolences to VGSR volunteer Bonnie Kayser on the loss of Dixie on March 11th, 2008. Bonnie writes: "Dixie crossed the Rainbow Bridge just shy of her fifteenth birthday. This was her fifth home and I've had the pleasure of her company for the past ten years. Her job was to be my companion and she was very good at it. She curled up next to me once when I was sick and her warmth and soft breathing were very comforting. She did her part to help keep the house clean by meticulously searching out and devouring any dog biscuit crumbs left on the floor. She was an excellent counselor for the foster dogs who stopped here briefly before going on to their forever homes. She seemed to do her best work with the dogs who had suffered the most. She was the only dog I've ever seen who smiled when she ate. She aged with dignity and still insisted on going for a walk every night. Dixie could almost talk and would "woo" when she wanted something. She was also a very talented doggie ambassador who could make friends with everyone - even people who were afraid of dogs.

Dixie, thank you for the things you taught me and for being a part of my life. You are greatly missed. Woo."

Bonnie and JT

VGSR sends deepest condolences to John Krause and his family on the loss of Duchess on January 17, '08. John writes, "Duchess crossed the Bridge on 1/17/08. We adopted her through GSR of MD on 6/20/98. She was found as a stray in Fairfax County and adopted out of their shelter. After a few years they had some domestic problems that ended in divorce. She was estimated at 4 years when she joined our family and was a true lady who didn’t like to be in the rain, get dirty or play ball. She did like affection, non-stop. If you stopped you got a paw as a reminder to continue. Friends and visitors would comment on how nice she was. We would reply that “everyone loves Duchess”. She was also my shadow. She would watch me from a distance and move when I moved. Her personality was so special and we miss her very much."

Everyone Loves Duchess

John Krause

VGSR extends condolences to Steve and Marty Reilly on the loss of Duke. Marty writes, "We wanted to let you know about our boy Duke (tag #416) who we adopted on May 15, 2003, when he was about 4 years old. He tried to steal a plate of cheeseburgers from the table shortly after he came here but aside from that indiscretion, he has been a wonderful friend and companion. Duke was "it" for a while but eventually allowed 2 girls in the house with him, Duchess (a GSD mix) in 2005 and Dixie (a golden retriever) in 2007. He tolerated them both and they never had any problems. As Duke got older, arthritis started to set in and he started having more difficulty getting around. We looked in to stem cell transplant ( a vet in Charlottesville was doing the procedure on arthritic dogs and getting good results) but in June 2008, we found that arthritis wasn't the main problem. He had developed degenerative myelopathy. He had his good days and his bad days but we could see his condition slowly deteriorate. He had more trouble getting around and became incontinent of stool. Last Saturday he was incontinent of urine and could only stand with help. By Sunday he couldn't support his weight at all. We made the difficult decision that it was time to let go. We went to the vet Monday afternoon the 18th (May, 2009). and she helped him cross over the Rainbow Bridge. He will be cremated and we will bury his remains next to Dusty, our golden retriever that we lost 9 years ago. Duke was a great dog and will certainly be missed."

Steve and Marty Reilly

Our very deepest sympathies go to Tommie Lanasky, one of our dedicated volunteer fosters, on the loss of Eddie, one of her foster dogs. Eddie was a 6-year-old, black and tan, long-haired German Shepherd that was seized from his owner by animal control because his owner kept him outside all the time, and probably didn't supply him with water or shelter in the heat of summer. Eddie was a great, mellow, fellow who was laid-back, easy going, despite having been given a really bum rap in this life.

Tommie writes, "I wanted to let all you fine people of VGSR know that my friend, Eddie, was laid to rest on Tuesday, January 7, 2003. To the people whom didn't know him, I just want to say he was more protective than most; more loyal than most. I loved him; I only wish I could have kept him. I will remember him for a really really long time. I have been fostering dogs for VGSR for close to a year. When I bring these dogs home I open up my heart to them. I am sure you other foster moms and dads know what I mean. When they are fortunate enough to find a home I always fear they won't be loved enough. I have cried over many after dropping them off to their new homes. I thought that was the worse it could get. I was wrong . . . . Eddie had become part of my family and I miss him. But I don't have to worry about him anymore. I know he is safe now."

We are very saddened that we must report that Edge (formerly Esso) passed away on May 30, 2007. It was very

sudden and heartbreaking. The doctors indicated that it was neurological because of the symptoms that came about

in such a short time. Edge had been through so much in his life prior to us receiving him in July 2002. We found

out almost 2 years ago that his hindquarters were full of birdshot. This explained so much about his fear of

thunderstorms and fireworks. We feel that we are blessed to have had our 140 pound best friend for the short time

that we did and he meant so much to many people. Our sons adored him as much as he adored them. Nothing can fill

the void that he has left, but we know that we will give other dogs that need homes a wonderful place to live out their

lives because of our experience with Edge. He was so grateful to have what he had and you could see it in his eyes,

especially when he wanted back inside of the air-conditioned house.

His bed is still at the foot of our bed and it will remain there for the next one(s) to arrive. Our house is not a home

without a dog. We miss him so much and know that he wouldn’t want us to be sad forever. He will always have a

special place in our hearts as well as in the hearts of the many people that knew him.

WE LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU EDGE!

YOU FILLED OUR HEARTS WITH LOVE AND LAUGHTER.

YOU PROTECTED US IN YOUR OWN WAY.

WE CAN NOT PROMISE THAT WE WILL NOT CRY FOR YOU.

WE CAN PROMISE THAT WE WILL REMEMBER YOU FOREVER.

The Legacy

When humans die, they make a will

To leave their homes and all they have

To those they love.

I, too, would make a will if I could write.

To some poor wistful, lonely stray

I leave my happy home.

My dish, my cozy bed, my cushioned chair, my toy.

The well loved lap, the gentle stroking hand,

The loving voice.

The place I made in someone's heart.

The love that at last could help me to

A peaceful, painless end,

Held in loving arms.

If I should die, Oh do not say,

"No more a pet I'll have,

To grieve me by it's loss"

Seek out some lonely, unloved dog

And give my place to him.

This is the legacy I leave behind -

Tis all I have to give.

--author unknown

VGSR extends sincere, heartfelt sympathies to Kim Richardson, Elliott's foster mom, on his trip to the Rainbow Bridge on Saturday, July 19th, 2003. Kim writes, "Good-bye Elliott...your foster mom misses you very much but she knows deep in her heart that you are in a beautiful place romping around with your new puppy friends where you no longer feel sick. You will never be forgotten!"

VGSR extends deepest sympathies to VGSR volunteer Amy Acland and her family on the loss of Enzo. Amy writes, "It is with a very heavy heart and unimaginable grief that I pass on word that my beloved Enzo passed away Monday, 22 December (2008). Enzo has seen me through some very rough times as of late and was my constant and ever faithful companion. He was my joy – he was lovable and goofy, he was sweet and had a kind soul, and hands down he was the BEST thing on four legs. I miss him so much. I want to say thank you to Brent Jacques, his foster dad, who let me take Enzo home to his forever home last June. I have loved every minute of my time with him and I will be forever grateful.

Amy Acland

VGSR extends deepest sympathies to Liz Hartwick and Mark Cantrell on the loss of Fritz #2 on Thursday, January 22, 2008. Mark Cantrell, Fritz' foster writes, "It is with great sadness that I wanted everyone at VGSR to know of the call I received this afternoon from Liz Hartwick of Arlington, VA, on the passing of Fritz #2 yesterday, Thursday night 1/22/09. Although we don't know Fritz' true age, we guess him to be about 7 years old.

According to Liz, Fritz had been having problems with no appetite for a few weeks and despite that appeared to be gaining noticeable weight in his belly. I had been dog-sitting Fritz the past week for Liz and when she picked him up Wednesday night she noticed how much bigger in just the passing week his belly had gotten. Fritz only picked at his food for the week I was watching him and threw up his food in the car on the way over to take him to Liz's house Wednesday evening.

Alarmed at these symptoms, Liz took Fritz to Columbia Pike Animal Hospital Thursday and his "belly growth" was diagnosed as a massive cancerous tumor of the liver and other organs. The doctors immediately operated but the growths were beyond treatment and other complications arose during the surgery. Liz decided to not revive Fritz from the surgery and he passed quietly on the table with the vets and Liz at his side. Needless to say Liz is stunned and beyond herself with grief that the cancer in Fritz belly could grow so fast and without any obvious outward symptoms of pain or other warning signs.

Fritz was a special dog to me as a VGSR volunteer as he was my very first foster GSD in May 05 when I began working with the group. I had just lost my 12-year-old GSD, Wolf, two weeks earlier and decided that fostering with VGSR would help me deal with my grief by turning the pain of my loss into doing some good by helping to rescue GSDs. Fritz came into VGSR from the Anne Arundel County, MD, shelter where he was unceremoniously dumped in the night drop in the spring of 1995. He showed signs of abuse, but otherwise appeared to be a well-mannered boy. I was supposedly given an "easy" foster and for the first few days Fritz was a perfect gentleman - all while inside the house. The first time I took him to the local dog park, however, Fritz broke his leash on me on a rush to attack several other dogs before I could get him under control. As it turned out, Fritz had a severe dog aggression "switch" that was turned on unpredictably and with great force when it was flipped on. The "easy first foster" turned out to be quiet a handful and more than I bargained for. I used some pretty extreme training methods to get Fritz under control and had him 70% cured of his dog aggression when he was adopted by a single parent family later that summer who supposedly had previous GSD experience.

As events happened, Fritz's new family's heart was in the right place but they did not have the discipline to train and control Fritz and he was returned to me 6 months later, severely overweight and with even worse dog aggression than when I adopted him out. I worked tirelessly again with Fritz for several more months and vowed to be very picky in selecting who would adopt him the next time.

Liz Hartwick adopted Fritz in December, '06, and while I had reservations about her background with GSD's, it turned into almost the perfect home for him. Liz's father had experience training GSD's in the military and the first weeks she had him, Fritz was on a plane to Liz's parents home in Arizona for a vacation where he received the kind of structured training that helped him become a very manageable GSD. Liz had the perfect combination of patience and firmness with Fritz that he needed for his next level of socialization, and while he never totally got over his dog aggressions, it became manageable and my first and by far most difficult foster turned into a success story.

Unfortunately, like all good things this good story came to a gut wrenching end yesterday by the evil working of cancer in the operating room of Columbia Pike Animal Hospital, something we see all too often in working with German Shepherds.

Please keep Liz Hartwick [and Fritz] in your thoughts and prayers as she deals with the terrible grief over the coming weeks that only those that have loved and lost a GSD can understand. This is absolutely the worst part of being involved with this rescue, and may I say with utmost force and candor that cancer "REALLY SUCKS" IN DOGS.

Thanks everyone for listening."

Mark Cantrell