Nellie came to us when her owner’s school schedule prevented her from giving her dog the time and attention she needed. With hopes of giving her a better life, Nellie was surrendered to us on Sunday, October 26th, 2014.
We picked up Nellie knowing that as soon as we verified that she was current on all vaccines, cleared her health and physical exam and behavioral assessment, an eager Weimaraner-experienced foster home was already ready to take her in.
Unfortunately, Nellie never made it to a foster home. A full blood panel conducted by our veterinarian confirmed a suspected diagnosis of liver disease/liver failure. She didn’t have much time left, and was already showing symptoms such as loss of appetite, severe recent weight loss, unsteady gait, and general weakness.
We let Nellie go on Monday, October 27th.
…
Meeting Nellie for the first time at the dog park with her family.
A very sweet girl.
Happy and observant of what was around her.
Loved on by her mom.
Leaving the dog park, I was on the other end of Nellie’s leash. She didn’t mind it at all!
Loaded up in the car.
Getting ready for French fries from McDonald’s!
French fries were good… and then it was nap time while I drove.
One last French fry got stuck between the seats, so I gave it to Nellie when we got out of the car. She was very polite about taking it from me.
Nellie passed our behavior assessment with flying colors. By Sunday evening, we had already learned that she was good with children, adults, and other dogs, big and small. Not reactive, not aggressive, not shy, not timid. Just a happy, go-lucky lady. Loved to be cuddled with. No one could have predicted what was to come.
On Monday morning, I took Nellie in for a routine vet exam. And then we went home and made lunch.
Vet exam.
The look that says, “please, no shots today!”
Not long after coming home, the vet called with some test results. It wasn’t good.
I broke down and cried.
And then I alerted the appropriate parties.
And then we rearranged our plans for the day.
…
Later that afternoon, I drove through the McDonald’s drive-thru. I ordered French fries and chicken McNuggets.
Then Nellie and I went to a park and found a patch of grass. We took a walk. And then we had dinner.
Fresh and hot!
It didn’t take long for her to smell it.
She stole the first few pieces before I even laid it out.
Per Nellie’s mom’s request, I wrapped her in the red t-shirt that came with her.
Also per her mom’s request, I called her “Nells,” as I fed her the nuggets. She loved them.
I scattered the French fries around and Nellie turned it into a game where she had to find them in the creases of the blanket.
On the way back to the car, Nellie stopped to watch the sunset.
And then we went back to the vet.
Nellie wasn’t done watching the sunset, so she continued from the window.
By now, I was sitting on the floor and bawling like a baby. Nellie was still watching the sunset.
I held her in my lap. And with her arms around me, and mine around hers, we watched the sun go down together.
And then I said goodnight.
Goodnight, Nells.
We’ll see you at the bridge.
…
There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colors. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass.
When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place. There is always food and water and warm spring weather. All the animals who have 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. Her bright eyes are intent; her eager body begins to quiver. Suddenly she begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, her legs carrying her faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion. 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 the Rainbow Bridge together, never again to be separated.
- Author Unknown
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