It's Not Goodbye, It's Au Revoire

[Erny]

I'm posting on behalf of my good friend Kelpie-i, her OH and her son, and to Buddy - their life long friend and beloved companion. This is the email that tells us of Buddy's passing. RIP Bud .... companion to all - best friend to his family.

Hi all,

Just a quick note from me to advise that "Buddy", Trish's German Shepherd, passed away today.

He had a had a long stint of back problems and at 16 years old, started having seizures last night, which unfortunately, led to a rapid decline in his health.

As Trish and Samuel arrived at the vet's today, Samuel opened the back of the car and Buddy slipped away in Samuel's arms.

"Buddy" or Budweiser (his full name), was the reason Trish fell in to dog training and was the catalyst for her to learn as much as she could about dogs, he was the reason Four Paws K9 Training was started and our company name "Noble Canine Pty Ltd" was decided upon because of Buddy.

For those that dont know, Trish's first marriage was not the nicest and again it was "Buddy" that gave her the will and ability to get away from that scene and at least for a little while, forget the bad and enjoy something she finds extreme pleasure in doing with her best friend.

For Samuel, Buddy was the brother he never had, the two growing up together and getting in to mischief together where they could, an extremely strong bond between a boy and his dog.

With respect to Four Paws, Buddy, in his heyday, was used for puppy socialisation. He would be placed in a drop and the puppies would be allowed to jump all over him. He took this in his stride and am sure he received much pleasure from this exercise.

Buddy was also used in situations where other dogs had canine aggression, as a way of showing the other dogs that not all were a threat and helped them relax due to his passive demeanour and laid back attitude.

For me I say;

Buddy, thank you for being there for Trish and Samuel, thank you for the many times I saw you upskirt ladies at the Vic market with your cold nose and finally, thank you for finally letting me off the roof of Trish's house, on the first day we met.

Rest in Peace Buddy, no longer in pain, a gentleman to the end and an outstanding example of an Alpha Dog than there ever was.

A true companion, a loyal friend and an example of how we would like all dogs to be.

My tears are for Kelpie-i, her OH and her son, to whom Buddy was and in their hearts everlasting, their rock and legend. Bless you Bud. May Kal find you at the rainbow bridge and learn your kindly nature and gentle wisdom.

Edited January 27, 2010 by Erny

[Kissindra]

oh how sad, safe journey Buddy my thoughts and condolences to the family and friends you leave behind

[ninahartland]

RIP Buddy Condolences to Kelpie-i and her family

[W Sibs]

RIP Buddy

Hugs to Kelpie-i (Trish), Samuel and Kelpie-i's OH

[moosepup]

What an excellent tribute. He sounds like he was much loved. RIP little fella.

[pie]

Sorry for your loss Kelpie-i

RIP Buddy, it sounds like you were one great dog.

Edited January 27, 2010 by amypie

[Kirty]

What a beautiful tribute to such a special dog. RIP Buddy. Deepest condolences to Trish and family.

[benshiva]

What a beautiful tribute to a lovely dog

RIP you dear old dog

[Snout Girl]

my best wishes to trish and her family

she is one of our trainers at 4-paws who we like and respect a great deal

RIP beautiful man

[Guest Clover]

Rest easy Buddy . I am so sorry Kelpie-i and family .

What a beautiful tribute to a much loved dog .

[Kelpie-i]

Thank you Erny for posting this lovely tribute to Bud and thank you for your kind words of support over the phone. I believe that Buddy and Kal will become very good friends at Rainbow Bridge...just as we are here on earth.

As Stuart (my OH) wrote, he was (and still is) my saviour and will be forever in my heart and mind.

Thanks to everyone too for their lovely messages.

I am still trying to come to terms with the events of today that led to Bud's passing..it was all too quick. As much as my heart is hurting at the moment, I know he has gone to a better place and I know he will be waiting for me when my time comes with wagging tail and kisses.

RIP my boy, my Angel and my companion...there will never, ever be another you. You were one of a kind. I love you forever.

[Cosmolo]

I am so very sorry Trish. I know he was getting on but it must seem so sudden. Our Otto will show him around too

[huski]

So very sorry to hear about Buddy Run free handsome boy

[Stolzseinrotts]

I am very sorry for your loss.

Tears are falling here as I read about you, Buddy you sounded like a true great dog.

Run Free Buddy

Edited January 27, 2010 by Stolzseinrotts

[haven]

Trish I'm so sorry to hear of your loss

He will be in good company at the rainbow bridge

[all that glitters]

[Freshstart16]

I am so sorry to hear of your loss of Buddy, he sounded like a absolutely amazing dog and even more than a dog, a best friend, what your OH wrote and what you wrote made me teary, I can only imagine the heartache and pain you must be feeling at a time like this.

Im sure Buddy will want you to stay strong and like you said you will meet again at rainbow bridge,I hope in knowing that brings you some comfort. My deepest sympathy to you and your family.

Naomi xxoo

[Poo-Fong]

So very sorry for your loss.

Rest well, sweet old man

[Starkehre]

I am so saddened to read about the passing of Buddy.

My thoughts and condolensces to Trish, Stuart and Samuel at this hard time.

Rest in peace Buddy, and fly free old boy.

You were a majestic ambassador for your breed and for Trish's business. Your family are brimming over over with pride and awe at what a magnificent dog you were.

[MsKatie]

Run free Buddy and watch over those who love you