Rainbow Bridge

Shelby

Shelby has crossed the Rainbow Bridge. She was the longtime loving companion of one of our supporters and friends of rescue, Sandy Nueschen. Sandy has been instrumental in saving dogs in Illinois.

When Shelby was diagnosed with cancer, it was fast and aggressive in nature. It did not allow time for treatment. Sandy graciously donated vet care in Shelby’s name to one of our senior foster dogs that was in need of much help.

Sandy wrote, “Shelby was diagnosed with cancer this summer. We were prepared to pay anything to treat her, but never had the chance.” 

We would like to honor Shelby’s life and her special bond with her rescuer.

Without such help from supporters, many dogs would be left behind. Shelby left her paw prints in Sandy’s heart and helped another senior with a second chance at life.

Hans

Thank you, Laura Grommish who sent a nice donation in Memory of Hans.

He will be forever missed and left a hole in their hearts forever. Rest in Peace Hans, until you meet your loved ones again at the Rainbow Bridge...

Nikki

Nikki would have been two years old in Nov of 2009. She was diagnosed with Mega Esophagus in January. This disease prevents food from traveling downward to the stomach and causes extreme vomiting and malnutrition. Nikki's Dad did everything that was recommended to him. He fed her in an upright position, made her special food, and never missed a dose of medicine. In the end, the disease took its toll on Nikki and she was suffering.

Gunther

Gunther left us much too soon. He was living his dream with his devoted Mom when he was struck down by a brain tumor. Gunther was a friend to everyone he met. A gentle giant and sadly missed so much that no words can convey. Until we meet again....Shelley and Gunther, Forever.

Shilo

Shilo, a life long friend and companion missed dearly by Vickie and Angie.

Nibbles

Nibbles was only about 2 when he was struck down with an aggressive form of Leukemia. After overcoming so many problems as a baby we thought he had survived the worst. In his short life he was happy and loved.

Izzy

Izzy was only about a year old. She came to us from the Katrina disaster.

Her energy just wasn’t what it should be for such a young dog. As with all new dogs, we took her straight to the vet for shots and testing.

We found her to be heart-worm positive and an x-ray was done. Her entire chest was full with an enlarged heart. The vet saw worms inside her lungs. It was quite unreal that she had not succumbed to the disease before now. He said she would not survive the treatment for heart-worms.

We allowed her to go over the bridge with peace and dignity when she could no longer go on. Her foster Mom stayed right with her. Izzy passed with loving arms around her.

Izzy traveled a long way to get to us. She will be always in our hearts.

 

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.  When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.  There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.

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, someone who was left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance.  His bright eyes are intent; his eager body begins to quiver.  Suddenly, he breaks from the group, flying over the green grass, faster and faster.  You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again.  The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into those trusting eyes, so long gone from life, but never absent from your heart.

 
Author Unknown

Just A Dog

From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's Just a dog," or, "that's a lot of money for just a dog."

They don't understand the distance traveled, the time Spent, or the costs involved for "just a dog."

Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog."

Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog," but I did not once feel slighted.

Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog,” and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably understand phrases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a promise."

"Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy.

"Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person.

Because of "just a dog", I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future.

So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment.

"Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.

I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog", but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being “just a man or woman."

So the next time you hear the phrase "just a dog" just smile... because they "just don't understand."

by Richard Biby Tulsa, Oklahoma
Contributing Editor VHD From "The Versatile Hunting Dog” NAVHDA’s Magazine February 2006

Bear - our logo dog

Abby

Abby was rescued in 2002 and along with Bear (above) was one of the first canine blood donors in the Quad Cities.  She had a great life and will be terribly missed.

Kloe and Anja

Both loved their jobs helping their family work the farm. They were Daddy’s Helpers and Mama’s Girls.  Kloe injured  her tail in a farm accident that resulted in complications.  She died unexpectedly during surgery.  Anja passed after complications of a tetanus infection from a split toenail.  Who would suspect such a tragic outcome with a routine and common injury?

Shelby


A genetic disease took her young life. In the end, she knew she was loved and had fun for awhile.


Lexi