In Memory of Sasha... (1997-2008)

[Dan And Jennifer]

Hey all. I just wanted to apologize for being out of the loop this week.

We lost our big dog, Sasha, quite suddenly on the 4th of July. She was with me for 10+ years and was my confidant, best friend, and protector. Truly the best doggie in the world...

When we got to the ER she was diagnosed with 'bloat', or stomach torsion. Her stomach had literally flipped over on itself. Apparently this is quite common with older, big dogs. This knowledge did not make it any easier to hear...

The diagnosis was very bleak but we opted for surgery anyway to try to save her.

When they got in there, her stomach was more than 50% damaged with additional damage to her esophagus that they could not repair. They also found cancer on her stomach, spleen, and a few other small areas. They estimated less than a 20% chance of making it through surgery with a long recovery that would be followed by her death in a matter of weeks due to the cancer.

She was actually diagnosed with a very aggressive cancer 6 months before from a growth on her front leg. We chose not to put her through radiation treatment that had a very low success rate and instead enjoy the time that we had with her. The funny thing is that after we had the growth removed, she showed absolutely no symptoms of suffering or being in pain. It's amazing how well dogs handle this type of thing.

We chose to let her go - It was the hardest decision I've EVER made.

I am thankful that Dan, his dad, Jordan, Kaitlin, and I were there with her, were able to see her before the surgery, and say good bye.

In an ironic twist, while Sasha was in surgery, a woman brought in a Shitzu mommy who was having puppies and needed assistance with her labor. Just before I went in to get the news about Sasha, they were taking the new mommy into the room to induce labor. While painful to us, this is the full circle of life and it is perfectly normal and should not be feared or resisted by any of us.

One more thing. The night before she died, she came to get me from my daughter room and laid down by my side of the bed. She never did this, and I think deep down I knew that her time was near. I slept on the floor with her that night. The lesson here... Trust your heart and it will tell you what to do. I'm so thankful that I spent that intimate time with her before she left.

--jennifer

P.S. -

I do not believe that death is the end. I believe that she has moved on to her next life and I wish her well.

We hope that you will all join us every 4th of July to celebrate her life and the joy that she brought into our lives.

Sasha
1997-2008

[Dan And Jennifer]

We'll always remember you big dog, and you will always be close in our hearts. I am so, so grateful, beyond words, for every love filled moment you shared with us.

I learned so much from you... Thank you for teaching me the real meaning of unconditional love, as no one else could have... helping me see what truly matters from all the stupid drama we humans get wrapped up in... and showing me how to truly Live in the Moment - every moment, no matter what. Because every moment is special and sacred, a treasure to be appreciated. God bless you big dog.

I love you so much.
Dan

[Rachael559]

Dear Jennifer and Dan,
As I've said, our love and hearts are with you now and with Sasha as she continues on to the next great adventure. For those that don't understand, to many people our animal family members mean as much to us and often teach us as much as our human family members. I know that the time is not yet, but someday, a very VERY lucky animal will find itself blessed to share a place in your family and in your hearts. Not the same place that Sasha did, for that is irreplaceable, but one near it. Until then I can only wish you our care and hope you will find some peace.
Hugs,
Rachael

[Exavion]

Aww wow, I'm really sorry. I've had a few pets throughout my life and it's always so painful to lose one. I hope you feel better soon.

[Paul - Personal Changes]

Dear Jennifer, Dan, Jordan, Kaitlin & Cujo,

Since I personally knew Sasha and quickly grew to love her, I understand the depths of your sorrow, grief and pain at her recent passing. She was truly a big, gentle, kind and loving member of your family. She will be missed by all who knew her... and I send you all my love and support at this most difficult time.

Love and blessings,

paul

[K. in Cleveland]

Man, I must say I'm crying big tears.. a first for me at this particular corner of the web...

What a beautiful dog, very nice picture... reminds me of my old shepard from when I was a kid.. almost 12 years ago we had to let her go.. and it's still hard.

It's amazing the love and understanding that our animal family gives us. When I've done something wrong and feel like the worst person in the world, my dogs and cats don't care... that's the beauty of it. And if I come home depressed about something that the humans in this world have done, I sit down on the couch and get nudges and kisses from puppy tongues and somehow the world seems OK again. I always like to say that 1 bag of Alpo a month is cheaper than therapy and more effective... (Sorry to any therapists)

I feel the same as you Jennifer.. I think after death they go somewhere and wait for their family. See Rainbow Bridge (WARNING: If you've never read this before, you might want a kleenex!)

Next year I'll watch the fireworks and be thinking of that.. probably the first time fireworks will make me cry. But I think the tears show just what amount of love we have for our pets..

Hugs and thoughts with you all.

[rowenrealm]

Dear Dan & Jenn,

I feel so very deeply sorry for you guys with the loss of dear Sasha. I know how it feels and it bleeds my heart again thinking of my beloved one too. I can imagine just how difficult it was for you to make the choice to let her go but it was the right choice none the less. Always put their pain before ours.

My tears and prayers go out to her and you guys.

Goodbye Sasha, we all miss you girl.


Love.


Rowen