Bailey

I adopted my Bailey Girl in January of 1997 and little did I know how much this 11 week old puppy would affect my life forever. The bond we shared is something that I can not explain other than it was an amazing gift and I am truly grateful for her and the almost ten years we had together.

As a puppy you had ears that seemed too big for your head and paws that always seemed to trip you up. You were a very determined girl, did what you wanted, and were never afraid of anything. So many things we have been through together and the two times that you could have gone to the Rainbow Bridge but you said, “It’s not my time and I am NOT going”. You beat the broken leg from getting hit by the car and the roll over only left you with some cuts and scratches. You never gave up on anything in your life. So many memories from the last ten years and there are not many that you are not a part of or were there. All the car trips to Duluth and Ely with the family and Wabasha MN, and the holidays especially Thanksgiving. Times at Grandmas house with Buddy and Flash, picking on your sister Roni the miles and miles we have walked, and the list goes on. I am thankful for the last few months that we have had here on the prairie that allowed you to "run free". No leash or collar and all the room to run, sniff and play that you could want.

On January 9th 2006 we found out you had cancer (Osteosarcoma) and also a mass of some sort in your abdomen. It was the same leg that was broken when you were hit by the car, back to haunt you again. You beat it the first time but not this time. You were a strong girl through those weeks and did your best not to let it slow you down. Up until the end you were playing and doing most of what you used to do, just not at the speed or duration. The decision was not an easy one, but I knew it was best for you. I laid by your side on the floor at the vet holding your head and talking softly to you, until the pain was over and you finally had some peace.

You are in a better place now with no seizures, no cancer, no arthritis in your legs, no more allergies, all the water you can swim in, sticks to chew on and sunny spots to lay in. Soon enough we will be together again, but until then have fun and if you need me just look and I will be there smiling and saying, “Hi B-Boo”

You will always have a place in our hearts where your paw lightly stepped and made a hole when you left.

Momma, Dad and Feline sister Roni.

TEN COMMANDMENTS FOR RESPONSIBLE PET OWNERS
1. My life is likely to last 10 -15 years. Any separation from you will be painful.
2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.
3. Place your trust in me – it is crucial for my well being.
4. Don’t be angry with me for long, and don’t lock me up as a punishment. You have your work, your friends, and your entertainment. I only have you.
5. Talk to me. Even if I don’t understand your words, I understand your voice when it’s speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however you treat me I’ll never forget it.
7. Before you hit me, remember that I have teeth that could crush the bones in your hand, but I choose not to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, I’ve been in the sun to long, or my heart my be getting old and weak.
9. Take care of me when I get old. You too will grow old.
10. Go with me on difficult journeys. Never say, “I can’t bear to watch it” or, “Let it happen in my absence.” EVERYTHING is easier for ME if you are there. Remember I love you.

Elizabeth Borowska