A year ago today, at about exactly this time, I was walking back into my home without the best four legged friend I could have ever hoped for.

The silence was deafening and that horrible quiet has never left my home. I think of him every day.

I am not good at story telling but I owe it to him to try to get his story here. I never posted in Rainbow Bridge about him as I just couldn't bring myself to it....

Rusty was a "pet-store" puppy that my Aunt bought (on impulse) for her daughter and two grandchildren.... They come from a place where dogs are "animals" and are kept outside...
When I first laid eyes on this outgoing puppy, my heart just broke. I knew that he would not get the love and attention he was deserved...

When I saw him again about two months later, he was starved for attention, dirty, scruffy and hungry. Of course, no one paid any attention to him except to yell at him for digging holes, tearing up patio furniture...
I tried to explain, but it feel on deaf ears.

The only thing I could do was give them an out. I told my Aunt, anytime, anyplace, call me and I would come get him. I would LOVE to have him.

I have had dogs all my life but never had a golden. I didn't know what I was missing.

The weekend before Thanksgiving, that call came.
My hubby got in the truck and off he went. He came home with a dirty skinny 6 month old golden that looked at us with caution and a little fear.

That didn't last long. He realized quickly, that INSIDE our home was his home. At my feet and at my side my buddy stayed until we laid down beside him and helped him cross over. He had just turned 9.

He took a big part of my heart with him.... I will never forget or stop missing him.

Your Daddy and Mommy love you very much. I hope you can feel that. I wish I could hug you and kiss your pretty head again. Feel your soft fur under my fingers. Smell those big feet. Look into those pools of brown soft eyes.
Rusty, I hope you are well and loved at the Bridge.

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Doolin's Outback Melody (Didge)
Born~June 27, 2011
Gotcha Day~August 20, 2011




Diagnosed with Lymphoma December 18, 2009, went to the bridge June 5, 2010.
I miss you more than words can ever say, my sweet sweet boy...my forever heart boy.

Kathy

What a beautiful tribute to your Rusty. You rescued him and gave him unconditional love for the remainder of his life.

I've been thinking about you, knowing this day was coming up for you. I'm glad you got his tribute posted and it doesn't matter how long it takes, because the love is there even if it's not written down for others to see.

HUGS to you on this first anniversary of his leaving you. Just know he's looking down on you every minute from the Bridge and I bet he's guiding you to find a new sweetheart to bring home and love again.

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Meet Yogi! http://www.goldenretrieverforum.com/...tion-yogi.html

Sweet, sweet Rusty. He's perfect and happy and waiting for you. For him it will seem like an instant and you'll be together again forever. Unfortunately for those left behind, it seems like so long. I hope time will soften the pain and let the memories shine thru. Hugs.

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Betty and the Dallas crew


“Until one has loved an animal a part of one's soul remains unawakened.” A. France

Sounds like you were a wonderful mom to him! Thank you for sharing his story. Sorry you lost him so young.

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Susan

UCD URO1 HighRoller Fast Track Filly CDX, RN, NA, NAJ, CGC
River Run Absolutely Riveting CDX, RE, CGC
UCD Hot Gold HankyPanky CDX RAE CGC (retired)





"Discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment." ~Jim Rohn

Rusty, I hope you are well and loved at the Bridge.
Healthy, Happy with the Rainbow Bridge Pack, and awaiting the guaranteed reunion.

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Thank you all so much. It has been a very difficult year but without the friendship and support I received here I really don't know how I would have muddled through.

Unfortunately too many of us have had this heartbreak and know exactly how I feel and so many other.

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Doolin's Outback Melody (Didge)
Born~June 27, 2011
Gotcha Day~August 20, 2011




Diagnosed with Lymphoma December 18, 2009, went to the bridge June 5, 2010.
I miss you more than words can ever say, my sweet sweet boy...my forever heart boy.

Kathy

I hope you are enjoying yourself at the bridge, Rusty. I am sure you and Ginger are playing together. You are sorely missed.

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I''m so sorry that you lost him at such a very young age. I know this is a VERY DIFFICULT anniversary for you. Bless you for giving Rusty such a wonderful and loving home. I know that Rusty has love at the bridge and so many wonderful friends until you are re-united. Hugs on this very difficult milestone.

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A wonderful tribute to sweet Rusty. He is perfectly fine and having a great time with lots of our buddies while waiting for us at the bridge. Rusty is happy, healthy, and running free.

A very beautiful and touching tribute to Rusty. He had a wonderful life with you and knew he was loved and very special to you.

Hugs to you on this sad day, my heart goes out to you today.