SAPPY Pet Loss & Grief Support Group of San Antonio: August 2009

August 4, 2009

In Memory of My Sappy

(May 13, 1989 - August 4, 2003)

I can still remember the day I welcomed Sappy into my heart. I was fresh out of college and starting my career when Sapster joined me on this journey of life.

He brought so much joy into my life. I will never forget my fur boy! Sappy was tiny when I first laid eyes on him. He was so very precious. He was fast asleep, covered with a small blanket inside a basket decorated with ribbons. He was my college graduation gift. He was the BEST gift of all. I received money, clothes, furniture and jewelry from family members. But, none could compare to my new little dog name Sappy. He quickly became my roommate. How he got his name is a long story.

Today marks six years since he left for his own journey to Heaven. I know without a doubt that he's there! And, I know that someday I will see him again. I will join him on the most awesome journey of all - eternity with God! I look forward to that reunion. For now, I will wait and continue to serve God each day because I know He has more for me to do on earth. Today, Jim and I pay tribute to our little Sappy. We will honor his memory today and always! He lives deep within our hearts and we will never forget him. That little dog changed our lives in a HUGE way. He was truly a gift from God. So we Thank God for allowing us to love this precious creature for 14 years. He's now fully restored and in perfect health. We can't wait to see him again! -We love you, Sappy. Rest in peace. Your pet parents, Julie & Jim

In memory of Sappy. We invite you to join our network of pet parents at: http://tributetotailssanantonio.ning.com/

Below is one of our favorite poems.

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...

Carol at Tribute to Tails 06'

Carol holds a poster-sized photo of her beloved Junior. Little Junior passed away in 2006. The following is a poem she wrote in honor of Junior. Here it goes: "This is a poem I wrote about Junior. He was born into my hand over 16 years ago and passed away a little over a month ago. Junior, my baby; my little man...you were my heart’s delight, the day you came into my life. Born in my hand, you looked so grand. I knew right then, you were my little man. Even though you only had three legs and no tail, you were going to be the best dog ever, I could tell. All odds were against you! The doctor said you had no chance, but you learned to run, bark and sing. You even learned how to dance! A happy life you did lead; that is why I find it hard to believe. Out of my sight,but not out of my heart. My precious baby, we will never be apart! We will never say good-bye! Just see you later, my little guy." By Carol Fink

Gracie "Gremmo"

Our precious Grace. She came into our lives in 1994. I was driving through a neighborhood and noticed this little creature crossing the icy cold street. It was very cold and dark that night. I had gone to my sister's house to pick up something and on my way home, I met Ms. Grace. I got out of my car and reached for her. She came quickly to my arms and I brought her home. I bathed her in warm water and soap. Cleaned her up, dried her and fed her a nice warm meal. She was so grateful. I remember seeing her little tail wag, wag, wag with gladness and thankfulness. She was my little Gracie girl. In April 2006, she passed away. She's now in heaven with Jesus, resting in God's beautiful pastures. She's with God and Sappy! My husband often called her "Gremmo," short for Gremlin.

Frieda

The following is a special poem written by my dear friend Maureen. Maureen wrote this beautiful poem shortly after Frieda went to heaven. Maureen and Frank are a special couple and I love them lots! A Tribute to Frieda: You walked and ran us thousands of miles,Greeted us with full body wags and smiles,Regarded all humans you knew as your peers,Comforted Grandma through her final years,Accepted your decline with dignity and grace,We’ll never forget your sweet, loving face.Monday, June 3, 1991 – the day we found you – and joy in our lives.

Pets Leave Pawprints

When the day arrives for us to say farewell to those beautiful creatures God called us to take care of here on earth, it's very difficult. I remember feeling empty and crushed inside. My heart was broken in millions of tiny pieces. I really felt a huge hole in my heart. That afternoon felt like the world was ending for me and my husband. It's been three years since our Sappy went to heaven with God. I still miss him and I find myself crying at times when I think of certain things about him. He was quite the gentleman. He was a handsome boy and very polite. I sure do miss him, but I know that he's in heaven with God, Almighty.
Have you ever read the Bible? There's some scripture that strongly indicates that our pets do go to heaven. It's true! They do go to heaven. I'll share more with you soon. Until then, keep your eyes on God and trust that your pet is in heaven too.

SAPPY Pet Loss & Grief Support Group of San Antonio

August 4, 2009

Tribute to Tails 2006

Tribute to Tails 2007