Gracie (Feb ?, 1996 - Dec 2, 2010) RIP

[TCups]

In June 1996, after months of begging and promising to take responsibility for a pet, my wife finally gave the nod of approval for daughter Janet, then 14, to get a puppy.  The same day, the kids and I were off to the pound with mom's admonition not to return with a large dog.  But Janet immediately fell in love with a flop-eared, big-footed 4-month old German Shepherd "mix" puppy, and there being no other alternative, home we came with a new pup. 

After a long family discussion about names, I suggested "Grace", pointing out to young Janet that it wasn't any promise she had made about taking care of the puppy, but only her mom's grace that had resulted in our new puppy.  And so "Gracie" was named.

Since that day, Gracie has been a member of our family. To the end, Gracie was the "Alpha-mean woman" -- fearless, never intimidated by any other dog or stranger --  never backing down, always full of energy and ready to run.  She was the smartest dog and most loyal defender, and best friend anyone could ever wish for.

Gracie saw my three kids through grade school, high school, and college.  She moved from our home 4 years ago, with Janet to her new home, to became the loving guardian of my daughter, her husband and two grandkids. 

Gracie lost her battle with cancer this morning, just two months shy of her 15th birthday.  We will all miss her, but take comfort in the thought that all dogs go to heaven.  RIP, Gracie.

[Addictedtoair]

I can't imagine the sense off loss you must feel. I am so sorry and please accept my condolenses.

[dk1677]

Sorry to hear that Tommy! I have not gotten a dog since we had our last Dachshund  ( Dog = God)

[daved]

I don't have to imagine it, you have my condolences too, Tommy.  Take care.

Dave

[JonnyReb]

 Brings tears to my own eyes.. i'm real sorry for ya'lls loss Tommy and i can empathize, i had my 2 old girls, who had been with us for 16 years and were adult dogs when we got them, both put down at the same time about 3 months ago. It sure is hard to deal with.. that which means that to love something is a guarenteed loss at some point down the road, It makes us grow in our experience and depth, this wonderful and yet painful cycle. Some people.. like my Dad, refuse to have another dog because they can't bear losing them in just a short 10 or so years. I choose to always have several and we commiserate our losses together. I hope they(you) go to the rescue shelter and adopt another furry family member to grace their home and your family. There will never be another quite like Grace but it's amazing how all of them turn out to be the best dog, each in a different way.  Jeff

[North Pack]

Nice looking dog Tom, - they certainly do become part of the family, a tough loss for all.

[VINNY]

I'm sorry to here that. I lost "My Little Girl" and cried [literally] every time I thought about her, for years.It took 8 years to get another dog. I am truly sorry for your loss.

[crowpopper]

sorry for you loss tommy, shes in a better place now

[uncle paulie]

Sorry for your loss Tommy. The only consolation is knowing she'll be there waiting for you when that time comes.

pv

[ezman604]

Sorry for the loss Tommy. It's tough losing a family member.
Dave

[oldpink]

Tommy, it's been said by some that no other animal in this world feels the degree of joy that a dog does.
I suspect Gracie brought as much to your family.
Gone, but not forgotten.

[lillysdad621]

... May the thought of her relief from worldly ailments console you my friend..., always know that she went to a better place.

[shadow]

Sorry for your loss brother Tommy and I know the feeling I just laid my cat to rest several month's ago. She had been a part of our family for years and I still miss her broken up meow when she would beg for dinner.Ed

[Rocker1]

My condolences Tommy I fully understand the loss of a pet , they are your forgiving campanions under any circumstances. Thanks David

[a1Bogey]

You and your family rescued a dog from the pound.   You gave her a good life.  She was good to you and you were good to her for 14 years.  She had a full life thanks to you.   You will miss her and it hurts but be proud that your family saved her 14 years ago.



Bogey

[jonnnyboy]

Tommy, special pets become family members who we love deeply and therefore, subject us to grief at their passing.  I think all of us know at least just a little of what you and your family are going through.  We care brother and hurt for you.  Your post will be with me all day in my thoughts and my prayers.

I once heard a pastor asked by a little boy if "there was fishing in Heaven?".  I leaned up a little closer to hear his answer.  He looked that little boy in the eyes and responded, "Jesus said that He was going to go and prepare a place for 'you.'  I think if He's getting it ready especially for 'you' then there will be fishing in Heaven for 'you.'"  I have consoled my own children with this verse over the loss of a beloved pet.

Take care brother,
joe

[CharlieDaTuna]

I certainly understand the loss Tommy. I too know the heartaches that are felt when loosing a pet, especially if they were part of the family for a long period of time. When we lost our dog Fred after 11 years because of cancer, I cried like a baby for a couple of days. He was my soul buddy. That was about 7 years ago and to this day I get chokedup thinking or talking about him.

[Jay]

Sorry for your family's loss of a faithful friend Tommy. I understand the hurt as it's been 4 year's since I put my best bud down an I still think of him an his love for me almost daily.