In Memoriam
He was central in our home. He woke me in the morning and went to sleep with me at the end of each day. With very few exceptions he was with one or both of us 24/7... a constant companion for the past seven years. He ate most of his meals from our hands... bonds we developed early in our time together.
He was the most easygoing and laid back little guy that you could ever expect to find. He gave his snuggles and kisses freely and asked only to be given some play time, food, and an open door to do his chores. Grooming, in his mind, was optional (but necessary).
He was a "loner" where other dogs and humans were concerned, preferring to spend his time and energies with just the two of us. In the presence of another dog, he simply ignored them and went on his way, doing whatever he had his mind set on, whether that was a walk, relaxing on the deck, or exploring the yard and gardens. He was a gentle and sometimes timid soul and neighbours came to say hello to him on our walks around the block. He knew where his home was and he never strayed.
While he no longer wakes us the morning, his memory lives on with us. The smell of his fur, the depth of his big brown eyes, and the warmth of his body snuggled against a leg or arm will stay with us forever. He was our best friend and forever companion and we mourn the short time we had with him. Cancer can be so vicious and displays no sense of sympathy for matters of the heart. So it was with Riley... One of God's Angels needed a companion, and He selected our friend to fill the role. We are thankful that we were given a couple of months to say good-bye and to ensure that Riley's final days were filled with all the love and affection that his family and friends could give him.
We miss you Riley... Enjoy your pain free days and nights. Watch for us at the Rainbow Bridge where sometime in the future we will meet again and cross over together... to our new forever world. In the meantime, you will be in the care of a very special angel.
Grandma and Poppa
Our attachment with Riley was very special, and those who have experienced a close relationship with a pet, will understand that their passing leaves a huge void which takes time to heal. To all of our family and friends who have given us the time and space to grieve... Thank you. The pain changes, but it just never goes away.
More of the life and times of our friend, including a video of his life, can be found at www.rileyboy.ca.
