We originally published the following update from Carolyn Scott and Rookie on February 27, 2008
I have received so many emails of support and prayers I feel blessed. Thank you all for taking the time to write and keeping us in your thoughts. Rookie is doing GREAT! He greets me with a smile every morning as he leads me to kitchen for his breakfast. : )
As many of you know Rookie was diagnosed with a spindle cell tumor on his right leg near his elbow a few months ago. Since Rookie was about to turn 15 I decided to have my vet remove the tumor but I didn’t want to put him through any further treatment. My vet removed the tumor and I happy to report there is no sign of it returning.
At this time I decided to cancel my seminars and not schedule any others for awhile. I just couldn’t be away from home at this time. Then about a month afterwards, when I woke up, I found Rookie completely paralyzed in both rear legs. I was devastated and thought this was the end BUT Rookie had other ideas. I took him to the vet where she x-rayed and explained to me he had arthritis and some other problems that were probably causing the paralysis. Our floors are tile with very little carpet and he could not walk without falling. I decide to follow the vets recommendation and put Rookie on bed rest for awhile with meds to see if he improved. Well, by golly he perked up and was a happy camper every day during this. After a couple of weeks he was able to master the tile and even throw in a few spins.
I have to admit I have been depressed a time or two but I have realized that Rookie is happy every day. So I decided to live in the moment as he does and do the same. I feel I have been so blessed to have this extra time with my sweet boy. His attitude is amazing everyday. The other day I let him out to roll in the grass by the pool and the next thing I knew he got this wild look in his eye and headed straight for the pool. Rookie loves to swim but even in Houston thewater in a pool can be very cold at this time of year. I almost wasn’t able to stop him from jumping in. : )
Like I said, Rookie loves life and doesn’t realize he is 15 years old now. I am hoping it will warm up soon here and he can take a swim and once again enjoy one of his favorite activities.
Thank you all for your continued support and prayers. I cannot begin to express how much they have meant to me. Rookie will always be a eternal puppy with thoughts of freestyle, rolling in the grass, eating and swimming in our pool. He thinks everyday is his best day and I am trying hard to do the same.
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Sadly, I now have a new update regarding our beloved boy, Rookie.This weekend Carolyn contacted me to let me know that she would be helping Rookie to cross over to the Rainbow Bridge on Monday. She asked me to pray for her to have the strength and courage needed to let go.
Carolyn and her hubby Randy helped Rookie over the bridge at 3:00 yesterday. Today, Carolyn let me know that she was not up to writing anyone about this traumatic event. Her heart is breaking, and understandably, she is overwhelmed with feelings of sadness. She truly needs your prayers and support right now, and specifically requested that I link to the following video featuring the Jane Siberry song, Calling All Angels.
I have included the words to this special song below
Calling All Angels
Santa Maria, Santa Teresa, Santa Anna, Santa Susannah
Santa Cecilia, Santa Copelia, Santa Dominica, Mary Angelica
Frater Achad, Frater Pietro, Julianus, Petronella
Santa, Santos, Miroslaw, Vladimir and all the rest
a man is placed upon the steps, a baby cries
and high above the church bells start to ring
and as the heaviness the body
oh the heaviness settles in
somewhere you can hear a mother sing
then it’s one foot then the other
as you step out onto the road
how much weight? how much weight?
then it’s how long? and how far?
and how many times before it’s too late?
calling all angels, calling all angels
walk me through this one
don’t leave me alone
calling all angels, calling all angels
we’re cryin’ and we’re hurtin’
and we’re not sure why…
and every day you gaze upon the sunset
with such love and intensity
why it’s … it’s almost as if
if you could only crack the code
then you’d finally understand what this all means
but if you could … do you think you would trade it in
all the pain and suffering?
ah, but then you’d miss
the beauty of the light upon this earth
and the sweetness of the leaving
calling all angels, calling all angels
walk me through this one
don’t leave me alone
callin’ all angels, callin’ all angels
we’re tryin’, we’re hopin’, we’re hurtin’
we’re lovin’, we’re cryin’, we’re callin’
’cause we’re not sure how this goes
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UPDATE
This special montage is a tribute to the most unique 15 year partnership of Carolyn Scott and her beloved Golden Retriever, Rookie. Arguably, the most famous canine freestyle team in the world, Carolyn and Rookie’s love for one another has been cheering millions through the many clips that have circulated over YouTube since Dave Mintzer originally digitalized the famous routine from a videotape Carolyn had provided us several years ago. Little did we know that our posting of that video would bring so much joy to so many, actually even bringing soldiers in Iraq to tears.
Learn about our nonprofit foundation’s documentary film that is based on this special union.The film celebrates the human-canine bond and how it was critical in their overcoming adversity, given Carolyn’s polio and more. It is being produced for fundraising purposes by the Land of PureGold Foundation, a 501c3 nonprofit providing cancer treatment grants for working dogs and funding research in comparative oncology, the study of cancers that occur similarly in people and companion animals.
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UPDATE 2: JULY 23, 2008
To Rookie,
The only pain or sadness you ever brought me…..was the day you left me.I miss you.
Carolyn
Because You Loved Me by Celine Dion
For all those times you stood by me
For all the truth that you made me see
For all the joy you brought to my life
For all the wrong that you made right
For every dream you made come true
For all the love I found in you
I’ll be forever thankful baby
You’re the one who held me up
Never let me fall
You’re the one who saw me through through it all
You were my strength when I was weak
You were my voice when I couldn’t speak
You were my eyes when I couldn’t see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn’t reach
You gave me faith ‘coz you believed
I’m everything I am
Because you loved me
You gave me wings and made me fly
You touched my hand I could touch the sky
I lost my faith, you gave it back to me
You said no star was out of reach
You stood by me and I stood tall
I had your love I had it all
I’m grateful for each day you gave me
Maybe I don’t know that much
But I know this much is true
I was blessed because I was loved by you
You were my strength when I was weak
You were my voice when I couldn’t speak
You were my eyes when I couldn’t see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn’t reach
You gave me faith ‘coz you believed
I’m everything I am
Because you loved me
You were always there for me
The tender wind that carried me
A light in the dark shining your love into my life
You’ve been my inspiration
Through the lies you were the truth
My world is a better place because of you
You were my strength when I was weak
You were my voice when I couldn’t speak
You were my eyes when I couldn’t see
You saw the best there was in me
Lifted me up when I couldn’t reach
You gave me faith ‘coz you believed
I’m everything I am
Because you loved me
I’m everything I am
Because you loved me
________________________________________________________________
UPDATE 3: AUGUST 1, 2008
I want to thank each of you that sent cards, gifts, emails and called with words of sympathy and support for me and my family during this very difficult time. I especially hold dear your individual stories of how Rookie touched your life.
The pain of his loss persists but the thought of how special Rookie was to each of you continues to bring me comfort.
Land of PureGold Foundation 
The world is missing a very very special dog today with this news. My thoughts are with Carolyn and her family in their time of grief. They brought such happiness to so many people. Rookie will live on in the memories of thousands who enjoyed seeing him.
I will give my 15 yr old golden oldie some extra hugs and kisses tonight.
You must know how many people you blessed by sharing all the love you two had together and showed mankind…there is a golden connection to us with our dogs.
After losing two last year and adopting two this year….I only know that god gave us these wonderful animals to show us there is always room for love.
prayers and tears ..Emma
I am so sad to hear about Rookie. He was such a beautiful soul and you could tell he loved Carolyn so much. Our thoughts are with Carolyn and her family.
How terribly sad for Golden Retriever lovers the world wide. My heartfelt condolenses to Carolyn and Randy. You were so blessed to have such a wonderful spirit in your lives and in your heart. Rookie will be with you always and will be your savior when it’s your time to cross over. He will show you the way!
Tears, hugs and love,
Deb Baile in Sierra Vista Arizona
Rookie will forever dance in my thoughts and heart – he touched my soul, as has Carolyn. Thank you for sharing your life’s adventure with me. Blessings to you…
Carolyn and family,
Please know we send our deepest sympathy out to you and your family. I understand some of the extreme sadness you are feeling having lost two Goldens of my own. Please know others care and hope in time your tears will be filled with the warm memories of your beloved Rookie… what a blessing to have had him for 15+ years. A real blessing.
Teresa in Southern Illinois
Cinnamon and Ginger always in my heart and forever on my mind.
My thoughts and prayers are with Caroline and Randy during this very difficult time.
Godspeed sweet Rookie…Dance with the angels….
Carolyn and Family, You all are deeply in our hearts and prayers for your loss is truely a loss for all. I lost my Golden and watching Rookie dance brought so much joy to me and I could feel his love for Carolyn as he followed her to the music. No one we love is truly ever gone, they live in our hearts and memories. Rookie will always be an inspiration in courage and love. Your strength will be in knowing that he is free from pain and illness. I share your pain as one who suffered the same and will pray for your healing at this time.
Carolyn and Family, You all are deeply in our hearts and prayers. Rookie was a great dog and his story is an inspiration to all. He showed so much love for Caroyln as he followed her in dance. No one we truly love is ever really gone, they live in our hearts and memories.
Carolyn and Family
Our hearts and souls and thoughts and prayers are with you all. Please know that we wish we could lift the sadness you all feel right now. Even knowing this saddest day eventually comes in all of our lives when we give a puppy a forever home, the journey we travel together is so one of the most rewarding one in our lives. That last day is definitely the most difficult one to live and the hardest one to endure. Thank you for sharing your dreams and your lives with so many, because you’ve made our bond one of the richest deepest ones I’ve ever experienced.
Our deepest sympathy….
Sandy and Creeker in Western New York
My sincere condolences to you both. Thank you for the love and inspiration you gave to the world when you and Rookie performed together. I too am at this moment in the depths of grief over the sudden and unexpected death of my 4 year old airedale Brady. And, as you shall read, I have no doubt that it was more than coincidence that I was sent here to read about Rookie’s passing and hear the song “Calling All Angels.”
My Brady’s registered name was Am. Can. CH. Monterra Misguided Angel. I knew when I named her that it would fit. It was the “misguided” part that was her undoing. She had the strongest drive to escape from the yard. Last Wednesday, July 9, she made her final escape and was killed on the hiway.
She was the dearest, sweetest, most loving girl I’ve known.
I just wanted you to know (and to take nothing from your grief, but hoping to somehow ease your grief by knowing you are not alone) that your sharing this life and death and this song have truly been a blessing for me in this time of trying to deal with what has happened to my Brady without going totally insane.
Love,
Judy and the Monterradales (and Angel Brady)
Judy, I am so, so sorry for your loss. It is so tragic when our beloved furkids do not understand we only do what we do to protect them. I know that Brady was very much loved and I am sure that she is with the angels and only wanting for you to be able to survive her no longer being at your side.
Thank you Rookie and goodbye.
Deepest commiserations, Carolyn.
Cyberhugs coming your way.
Barbara B
I am so sorry for your loss. I enjoyed watching the amazing bond between you too and can only imagine the pain your feeling. You are all in my thoughts and prayers as you get through this difficult time.
Thank you for sharing a little piece of Rookie with us.
Stella and Kevin Cooper
Carolyn, my heart is heavy for you …to say goodbye to such a special pal is so hard to do…I too said goodbye to my Harry 2 months ago as spindle cell took him too just short of his 3rd birthday. Goldens are special and I feel like I know them by seeing their spirit in their faces….peace to you and your family….I always so enjoyed seeing you dance…and I sincerely hope you and your family can dance once again…I know Rookie has many fans waiting to dance with him at the bridge….I close my eyes and can see it so well….
Carolyn and Family, I am so sorry to hear about Rookie, he was one SPECIAL boy. I remember the first time I ever saw one of your videos, the Grease performance, It made me laugh and cry at the same time seeing how much fun you were both having, the bond was truly amazing. It was a beautiful routine!! You could see the love he has for you. I also was rooting for you both on the performances on PetStar. You have some amazing memories to hold in your hearts forever. Be comforted in knowing that he will always be with you in your hearts and that those of us who enjoyed Rookie performances will never forget him, he will be greatly missed!
I had the pleasure of meeting Carolyn & Rookie when they first started out in Canine Freestyle. I’ll never forget watching them perform together. What a magnificent team. Rookie was a favorite of mine & he will be sorely missed.
My heart goes out to you, Carolyn. May you find peace with your loss. Just think — Rookie, Taxi and Jaga are now playing together.
MY HEART IS BREAKING ON HEARING THE SAD NEWS ABOUT YOUR LOSS OF ROOKIE….WANT YOU TO KNOW THAT YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ….. HE HAS CROSSED OVER THE RAINBOW BRIDGE…AND WILL BE WAITING FOR YOU, AND AGAIN YOU WILL DANCE…..TAKE CARE….
It is such sad new to hear that Rookie went to the Bridge yesterday but at least we know that he will wait for the day that Carolyn comes to greet him. I am sure he will have even come up with a few dance steps in the meantime. The relationship between Carolyn and Rookie was magical and simply entrancing. I am blessed with a beautiful Golden Gabe who is my son Christopher’s CCI Service Dog and I couldn’t imagine life without him. I have had dogs before and have three others now but there is just nothing like a Golden. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this sad and heart searing time. Just know how much you touched so many of our lives and how you will keep doing so. I was proud to be in on supporting the documentary early on. Once anyone sees the dance they can’t help but smile from the inside out…that kind of smile where the corners of your mouth are looped behind your ears smile.
With love and support,
Liz, Christopher and CCI Golden Service Dog Gabe 7 yrs old
This is the day i was afraid was soon to come-we are so very sorry about the loss of Rookie. Carolyn, we love you and Rookie so very much and hope Adams song will help you in the days to come. We can never thank you enough for all the joy from the videos and TV performances. I lost my golden Boxley 13 yrs ago July and it still hangs heavy in my heart. They are so very special!!!! We will be praying for you and your family!!
My heart is breaking for Carolyn and Randy … our beloved Goldens come into our lives for such a short time and once they are gone, we are never the same again. Rookie was such a special dog, and the bond he had with Carolyn was amazing. I know that Rookie is watching over Carolyn from the bridge and will help her be strong until it is her time to join him someday, when they will dance together for eternity.
Carolyn-I am so saddened at hearing Rookie has passed on. If I am this upset, I can only try to imagine your sadness and I can’t because the pain is so devastating. I love my own strong willed boy so deeply and the thought of losing him is beyond my ability to grasp. I wish they could live as long as we do. Rookie in 15 short years brought such joy to so many. He truly was a special angel. My prayers are with you. I pray your pain lessens as you remember fondly the life you shared together. He is in your heart and waiting for the day you will be together again.
“ ‘Dogs’ lives are short, too short, but you know that going in. You know pain is coming, you are going to lose a dog, and there’s going to be a great anguish, so you live fully in the moment with him, never fail to share his joy or delight in his innocence, because you can’t support the illusion that a dog can be your lifelong companion. There’s such beauty in the hard honesty of that, in accepting and giving love while always aware it comes with an unbearable price. Maybe loving dogs is a way we do penance for all the other illusions we allow ourselves and for the mistakes we make because of those illusions.” (Koontz, The Darkest Evening Of The Year, Bantam/Dell Books 2007)
All My best,
Barbra & (7 year old) Therapy Dog “Cody”
California
I can’t even remember how many times I have watched the Grease video with tears in my eyes. It always makes me go give a big hug to my sweet golden and appreciate her even more. Rookie will live on for so many people in that one video making them smile and tear up in awe at the same time. Not many dogs get to do that. I’m sure he has danced across the Rainbow bridge, and will maybe even teach others some of his moves on the other side. What a wonderful picture that is in my mind. I know the pain you are feeling Carolyn, but I hope knowing how much Rookie was loved by so many helps.
My heart is broken to hear of Rookies passing. My deepest sympathy to Carolyn and family. Thank you for sharing your ‘special’ boy with the world. He has left an indelible mark that the sands of time will not erode away.
My prayers are with you – we know your pain all too well having lost our baby girl Halo in November. We now have a new baby to love, her name is Gracie. While we will never forget our beloved Halo – the love and happiness she gave us gave us the strength again to love another beautiful Golden. Peace to you.
Carolyn and Family,
My deepest condolences for the tragic loss of Rookie, he was loved by so many people across the world. My heart aches for you and I hope time can heel a bit the terrible pain. My thoughts and prayers go for you.
We have read the beautiful tributes to you and Rookie. How kind you were to share your wonderful Golden with the rest of us. What joy you have brought! Now we share your sadness and loss. Our special Golden crossed the bridge eight years ago and the sadness we have is still there. But he taught us that we can love again, and we have a new best friend Golden now. Our prayers are with you and your family. And our eternal thanks to you for all the joy. God Bless.
I am so terribly sorry for your loss. It seems God only lends us the most important things in life. Your relationship was long and full and committed. I believe you valued each other to a highest degree for the full course of a glorious run. So much that so many learned about that kind of bond from the two of you. What a lesson and a legacy. Thank you for sharing that with us.
I can only say the same things that have been said above. I feel as if I have lost a friend myself. I first saw you on Animal Planet and fell in love with both of you. In January of this year I had to help my half chow/ half shepard over the rainbow bridge at 14 yrs of age. After that I started watching your videos again on the internet and decided that I must have a golden retriever. I wanted another dog and it had to be a golden. I saw the sad news yesterday and my heart is broken, and I know how lost you are at this moment. I loved you and Rowdy and will continue to watch you two together every chance I get. You have brought much joy to me after the loss of my dog in January with the great bond you and Rowdy had. My prayers are with you.
Rookie cannot be gone, he’s just watching us from “somewhere”. Thank you is such a small word for all you gave us. I hope that sometime, somewhere I’ll come to join you and we will have a chance to do a little dance together.
A great spirit has passed on.
Rookie was an amazing Golden who brought joy to everyone who watched him. I would cry and laugh every time I saw the video of him. Carolyn, I know your heart is breaking right now. I lost my Golden to cancer almost 2 years ago and it was the saddest day of my life. Our sweet Goldens are here for such a short time and we must be able to say goodbye to them when they cross the bridge. Rookie had an amazing life with you and he knew how much he was loved – he was a very lucky guy to have you for a mom. My thoughts are with you and your family.
“ ‘Dogs’ lives are short, too short, but you know that going in. You know pain is coming, you are going to lose a dog, and there’s going to be a great anguish, so you live fully in the moment with him, never fail to share his joy or delight in his innocence, because you can’t support the illusion that a dog can be your lifelong companion. There’s such beauty in the hard honesty of that, in accepting and giving love while always aware it comes with an unbearable price. Maybe loving dogs is a way we do penance for all the other illusions we allow ourselves and for the mistakes we make because of those illusions.” (Koontz, The Darkest Evening Of The Year, Bantam/Dell Books 2007)
You are in my thoughts and prayers-I can only imagine your sadness. You lived in the moment with your wonderful “Rookie.” Keep those moments alive in your heart and they will lead you out of despair.
Warm thoughts,
Barbra & Therapy Dog “Cody”
California
Deepest sympathies to you on the loss of Rookie. Golden Retreivers have a special spirit that makes it impossible not to give your heart to them completely! I thank God everyday for bringing mine into my life! Rookie was obviously well loved and loved you in return, one only needs to watch all the videos to see that!
God Bless You!
Diane & Golden “Annie”…
I never could get through watching a performance by you two without getting emotional. I would actually cry. The tears I shed now are over your loss… Our loss… Everyone’s loss…
Thank you for sharing Rookie with all of us…
Oh no! This is so devastating. I can’t believe he’s gone. Rookie, we love you so much & you know that. You are the world’s famous dancing GR & you still are eventhough you’re no longer here. Carolyn, my deepest condolences to you & your family. I’m so very proud of you both. I’ve said this before & I will say it again. You both were the ones who made me want to start training my Amber to dance just like Rookie. Just last week, we were in Penang for a dog trial, we performed your Grease routine again as a demo. Everybody loved it & we announced to everyone that the Grease routine was originally done by you both. You both ARE our inspiration! We will continue to perform your Grease routine as a tribute to you both. I’m in tears right now writing this. Rookie will be forever dancing in our hearts. We miss you & Carolyn, please take care & be strong.
War regards,
Melissa, Amber-Mae & Family
Malaysia
I am so very very sorry that Rookie is gone. I have watched the “Grease” performance so many times on YouTube and laughed with joy every single time. Now it will be with sorrow that such a wonderful creature is no longer with us. Even though I didn’t know Carolyn or Rookie personally, I sit here with tears in my eyes and my throat aches with sorrow for Carolyn. You will always be in my thoughts.
i was crying watching videos. I had seen Carolyn & Rookie on tv and utube before. I am an animal person and treasure the relationships I have had with my animals over the years. When they pass, they leave a very big hole in your heart. I’m sure you are hurting Carolyn. You were privleged as was Rookie to enjoy such a long and happy and exciting relationship. Jus t watching this video makes me sit here and cry.
You are still young/healthy. I hope in Rookie’s memory you save a dog who might otherwise not have a wonderful home and life. In fact, everyone who reads this think of rescuing another animal. Think of being a responsible owner and spaying/neutering and forever being responsible for a pet since to me they are not “disposable”
Make a difference in an animal’s life. Adopt/Rescue & spay & neuter. Carolyn gave of her time, her love and soul in her relationship to Rookie. Carolyn & Rookie made each other who they were. Help another animal be loved, treasured and protected.
My life has been changed by the animals that entered my life. I love and respect each one of them. My chihuahua, The Punk, who is my service dog and I have a very special relationship.
Hugs Carolyn… hope the Rainbow Bridge Poem is true and someday you will be reunited with Rookie.
Nonnie & The Punk
I am so saddened to hear about Rookie. We have truly enjoyed all the videos of him. Rookie will be truly missed.
He was a real gem here on earth and now he is a diamond
in our night sky.
With Nonnie, I also hope that Rainbow Bridge is true and you will be able to be reunited with Rookie once again.
May god bless.
Joyce Z.
Carolyn….I hope all of these kind tributes will help you through this most difficult time. You and Rookie made the world smile. He was such a special Golden and will be missed very much, by so very many.
We never forget our Goldens smiling faces and wagging tails. We try to endure the pain that comes from losing them and hope that we can honor their memory in some special way.
Please accept my deepest sympathy.
Carolyn, I was so sorry to hear about Rookie’s passing! What an extraordinary gift to have had him with you so long, but it’s never, ever enough, is it? Having just lost my own wonderful and talented dog Taz a few short weeks ago, I know only too well the grief and pain you are probably going through and you and in my thoughts and prayers. You certainly both left your mark on this world and will always be remembered, and Rookie will certainly live on forever on YouTube! 😉
God speed, Rookie, hope you are having fun with all the other wonderful freestyle dogs that have passed on before you!
Mary Jo
Another Angel, another star in the night sky.
Dance fast and free at the Bridge dear Rookie and watch over Carolyn and Randy. They need you now.
Many times you brought me happiness and smiles to my face from the other side of the world.
Samantha
Australia
I am so sorry for your loss. What a connection you had with your dog – he looked like he lived for you when you danced together. What a blessing to have had him in your life – he was an angel sent from God to you. What a gift you had been given and to utilize that gift like you did is remarkable – I hope in the future you can continue with your good works. God bless you.
Lori Petty
Holiday Florida
I have had a copy of Rookie and Carolyn’s “You’re the one that I Want” on my computer desktop for many years. Any time I needed cheering up that was what I watched. The pure joy that Rookie conveyed always made me get new perspective on my problems. I was so sorry to hear of his passing. I hope that the pain of this loss will lessen with time. He will never be forgotten.
I am sorry for Rookie’s passing, yet I believe he had a wonderful life. He would not have had such a life but for you. He gave so much and will always be a joy in memory; thank you for sharing your relationship and your talents. I know what it’s like to have a very special dog; my Angel was a natural short-stop and singer. I miss her everyday, but thank God everyday that she was in my life. I have Kierke and Leda now and couldn’t do without them. You know Rookie’s love is always with you…Bless you for helping him over. I asked Angel to meet him…
JS from Alaska
There are no words to express how sorry I am to hear of your loss. What a beautiful boy…there will never be another like him. I lost my 11 year old golden Max april 25th and miss him every day. I hope you can find peace in knowing that Rookie will see you and dance with you again. Thank you so much for sharing him with us.
Carolyn. I have three cats now (they all found me), but have had two special dogs in my life. I have received so much joy watching both you and Rookie on the videos. You both were so dedicated to bringing joy to everyone who had the opportunity to see you live or online. I can’t imagine the grief you are feeling. My prayers are with you. Now the angels will be happy to have Rookie entertain them in Heaven. God bless you for loving him so profoundly.
Jeri
Hello, Carolyn,
You and Rookie gave me endless hours of pleasure watching your dance to Grease. That clip is one of my happy places, a place I went to when I lost my animals and other sad or anxious times. It never ceased to bring a smile to my face.
I am so sorry for your loss and I am certain that Rookie will be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge with the music all queued up and ready to go and both of you will be able to dance again.
As someone who has lost many pets, I know that they are not replaceable. But time goes by and the memories become sweeter and the pain a little less.
In the words of a famous country song, “I hope you dance”. May G-d bless you both.
Irene
I can’t think of anything more painful than losing a beloved pet. My deepest sympathy to Carolyn and her husband.
Rookie lives on in his contribution to canine freestyle, and I pray too he is there waiting for you, Carolyn at Rainbow Bridge for the greatest encore ever.
My prayers are with you, Carolyn in your grief. You and Rookie have delighted, and been an inspiration to many. I will think of you both as I am teaching my new pup freestyle.
My heartfelt sympathy goes out to you & you have my prayers.
I am so very sorry to hear you & the world has lost such a beautiful soul. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers. I will cry and grieve with you. I have tried to keep up with Rookie’s progress.
He was such a wonderful soul.
I will give all my furbabies a long hug and remember how lucky we are to have them in our lives.
Carolyn
Six years ago before I got my standard poodle, BJ, I would have never possibly known how you must feel.
Last week BJ became very ill and it was only yesterday that she is well again and back to her old self.
I now have some small understanding of how you must feel and my deapest sympathy goes out to you.
My beautiful dog is my friend and like you I try to share her.
I volunteer at a local hospital and BJ makes folks laugh and feel better as well as she loves agility and beginning K9 Freestyle. Your beautiful dog made people feel good and it looks like he had a great life. You can always feel good about that as I do, as you gave that gift to Rookie, the best life he could have possibly had.
Sue B.
Carmel, Indiana
God needed Rookie up in heaven to help teach the angels how to dance.
I’m so sorry Carolyn.
Marcie
Dear Carolyn. Please accept my sincere condolences on the loss of your wonderful dance companion and I’m sure the love of your life. May he dance at the Rainbow Bridge and teach the Seawind Keeshonden a few steps. God speed Rookie.
Sadly, The world become one less bark quieter…
but… Heaven just become one star brighter!
Rookie will always shine.
In our hearts always,
Cheryl and Tanner
How sad to hear of the loss of such a beloved friend. We lost Ollie, our precious, precious Keeshond last November. This brings back the tears, we loved her so.
Peace to your family, and I’ll wish upon a star tonight for wonderful Rookie.
Carolyn,
Our hearts and prayers are with you. You and Rookie have inspired so many with the pure joy and great bond you had.So sorry for your loss. We are with you in every dog dancing step we take. Alice and Morgan
Rookie will continue to live in the hearts of all of those who watched you perform and witnessed the great love you had for each other.
May your memories ease the pain of your grief.
Thank you for sharing him with all of us. We were truly blessed by you.
He’ll be waiting for you at The Bridge, young and healthy again. I’m sure he’s teaching all of those that wait with him how to put on their groove!
Dear Carolyn, Randy and Family:
I am so deeply, deeply saddened over the passing of Rookie. In all honesty right now, I’m crying crocodile tears because I myself as well as all animal lovers unfortunately know the pain of loss that inevitably comes with the sheer joy of having a beloved pet.
I’m crying over my losses and over your loss as a family and the loss that the community surely feels personally and on your behalf because Rookie brought so many smiles to so many people. I have shown the online video clips to so many people and they just loved the canine dance.
I believe that all those we loved and lost will be found again when it is our time to leave this world. Rookie will always live on here one earth because so many people will remember him, the impact that he had (and too, with Rochelle bringing the fun and joy of Rookie’s teamwork to people throug the website), and Carolyn, you are a truly special person who through your teaching showed others that we can live, love and laugh and not take ourselves so seriously – live in the moment and enjoy your pet in any way you please. What a gift you and Rookie gave to people…miles of smiles.
And though I am tearful right now, I know I’ll return to those gleeful videos and get such a chuckle and maybe try and copy a step or two with my dorky Golden.
Everybody is thinking of you all and praying that Rookie is well looked after until it’s time to put on those dancing shoes again. As I stated in a personal email (and a poem I sent also), that my Rainbow Bridge babies are hopefully making friends with Rookie and learning a dance step or two.
Let your heart be filled with beautiful memories, and let your sorrow run its course, so that you can fully know what a remarkable team that Carolyn and Rookie were and are – making our hearts dance with a giggle and a smile.
Sincere sympathies, Lori and Bello in Vancouver Canada
My deepest sympathyies to you, you were an absolutely wonderful team, I so enjoyed watching the pair of you when I saw you in person 5 yers ago. I am sure Heaven will be a llittle brighter with Rookie as he does his rouitine waiting for you.
What a wonderful, wonderful life he had and all he gave you and his fans with his lovely expression and smile! And it’s on your heart his life is engraved.
Carolyn,
I am SO very sorry. I have no magic words to take away the terribly intense pain and sorrow-there simply are none.
But there is one thing I’ve learned in the last 6 months since losing my special girl to cancer-even tho I’ve lost many others in my life; we had that bond that no one could explain.
Unconditional love, and “that bond”; such as what you and Rookie share, transcends space and time-it knows no boundaries…and while it’s terribly painful that his earthly body is no longer near you-his Spirit is still right there alongside you.
Rookie will let you know this too-I promise. When he feels you are ready, he will make it known in no uncertain terms that he is still with you, even tho you can’t see him…you will know.
Keeping you always in my heart and prayers.
Carolyn,
Rookie was a gift from God and he was chosen for you. He gave everyone such happiness and especially to his family.
And now you had to return your gift back to God…..but
Rookie is still giving. He is just across the bridge dancing
for God, Angels and everyone and waiting for you.
You have inspired me so much. I have been teaching my
goldens dance steps for along time. I have applied this
to my volunteer project-Pet Therapy. My girls make a lot
of old people to young people with mental problems smile
when no one else could make them smile.
Jerri and her golden girls Aimee and Just Peachy, my best
friends
Dear Carolyn,
Rookie is not gone, he will always be with you in spirit with wonderful memories of times shared together to recall when things get to painful for you… He is now pain free, happily romping around at the Rainbow Bridge with his old and new friends, happily running and playing with all of them. He will spend his time doing fun things while he awaits your time to join him there so that the two of you can play together once again.
Having the option of letting our fur babes go when life becomes to painful and difficult for them, is the kindest although the most difficult thing for us to have to do. Letting go is one of the hardest things I have ever experienced but know deep down it was the only option for some of the fur babes I have loved and lost. If only they could live out a longer life span with us but sadly this is not to be… They give us their all while with us so that when their time comes the memories we made together remain and never leave us.
Rookie was a wonderful companion and friend for 15 wonderful years and gave you everything he had to share Carolyn. You loved each other totally creating one very, very special bond together! You and Rookie will always be remembered with your free style routines for the world to see and the talent you both possessed.
God speed dear Rookie….
Deborah, Tyson, Bud & Raven
Dear Carolyn,
I feel as though I have lost a friend…
Last year I suffered through some very serious medical problems nearly dying twice. If it were not for my Golden Granite I would have never made it. He always watched after me. He even slept with his nose right beneath mine so he knew if I was still breathing.
I can’t tell you the number of times when things were getting really bad that I popped onto youtube and watched you and Rookie dance. It always made me smile and brightened otherwise traumatic situations.
THANK YOU! A bond like your’s and Rookie’s is so personal yet never shared with others. Your ability to share with the world the wonderful world of pets and the love they offer and the smiles they bring us is greatly appreciated.
I know words can never explain the loss you feel nor can they express the world’s sadness about Rookie having left us.
I remember certain parts of the story about the Rainbow Bridge and one I remember is that on the other side there is no sickness or pain.
God Bless You and God Speed Rookie.
Steve, Granite & Czar
I lost my Omar to to Cancer about to years a go, just known that Rookie is waiting for you all healthy and happy at the Rainbow Bridge and when the time comes he’ll know you when you get there and you’ll cross over together. It will be you Rockie and your other beloved pets.
I have found my Max and he will never be my Omar but he is my love and in time he Omar and I will meet and be together.
It will ease but never fad.
My heart is breaking for you and your family. Know that I understand the grief you feel.
May soon the many memories of Rookie’s life with you bring smiles to your heart, and heal it.
Godspeed, Rookie; you were so loved!
Kathy, Lady Skeiter, CGC, TDI and GR Midwest Morgan, CD, CGC, TDI
What a wonderful companion and friend.
Dogs love us so completely, and always leave too soon.
He will always be with you, until you meet.
God Bless
How hard it is to try to convey sympathy to someone who you have never met. But myself, and thousands- have met a very special pair. A one in a million, and like so many wonderful things, in times of trials and sadness, it was a pleasure to see two souls in such touch with each other.
As a Celine Dion song goes’ Life just keeps on rolling” and it does, and always will, but the memory remains.
Thank you.
I have a Golden “Oldie” and though he isn’t as obviously talented as Rookie, they do share the same talent of bringing joy and laughter to my life daily. I watch Rookie’s video often and it brings tears of shear joy to my eyes to see the love and devotion to Carolyn and hearing the crowd react to that bond. We bring pets into our lives knowing they will leave us long before we are ready for them to go, but we wouldn’t trade a second of the time we have with them to avoid the pain of saying goodbye.
Carolyn and Rookie are part of so many lives. I used their Grease routine to motivate my PE students during their floor exercise unit.
I grieve with and for them.
Here are two more songs that have helped me grieve: Into the West (Annie Lomax from Lord of the Rings) and The Other Side (Conoscienti).
Carolyn, you have so many sweet memories to give you strength during this time. My prayers are with you and yours…and for all those working on treatments and cures for these diseases.
My heart goes out to you, Carolyn! It was so plain to see that Rookie was a very happy dog. My Honeybear is my best friend. All dogs go to Heaven because they are without guile. May we be good enough to join them, in time.
My condolences.
Carolyn, my heart is broken. Rookie left this earth the same day as my Mother. She died one hour earlier.
Rookie and You changed my life forever showing us a life together that I never dreamed could be possible. As my Golden and I dance together I feel so very fortunate to be able to share this beautiful bond with him.
As Rookie begins a new adventure, let us wish him well and send him on his way with lots of love.
Goodbye Rookie, we all loved you so much.
My prayers are with you Carolyn.
I will miss you Rookie
Rookie will be greatly missed by all that knew of him. He and of course you, were a great inspiration. I hope to see you dance again with a golden partner while you wait to dance again with Rookie.
Dear Carolyn and Randy,
My deepest, heartfelt condolences to you both.
The first time I saw the Grease routine, and then the other
videos, I could see the absolute adoration and love in
Rookie’s eyes as he looked at you. What a special bond
you shared. How blessed you were to have each other.
I know you are broken hearted now, but may the love and
prayers of so many people sustain you. Thanks for sharing
Rookie with us. He will be in our hearts forever.
Linda
goodbye dear Rookie
WOW!
Not one, but TWO songs – “Because You Loved Me” and “Calling All Angels” – that I love so much and remind me of my own animals I have loved throughout the years of my life.
Please know my heart is with you tonight.
Those of us who are lucky enough to know the overpowering LOVE of – and for – our Animals are also lucky enough to have souls that cry and mourn tonight for people we may never even meet.
Rookie was and is a miracle, and you were chosen just for him.
Special breeds Special. Love breeds Love.
love ya.
I’ll be hugging my “Fab Five” (soon to be Six) extra hard tonight.
I know what you are going through and I am so sorry. I lost Bonnie , my 12 yr old rotti, May 21 2008. The tears still come regularly when thinking of her, but some are beginning to be replaced with smiles. In time, yours will also. My heart goes out to you and your family.
I’m writing from Germany with tears in my eyes! Please apologize for my English!
Just today I started viewing all Rookie-videos I got – like always from time to time! I really fell in love with him and since I got a Golden of my one named Charly (almost 11 years young) I always was touched by seeing Rookie and Carolyn! What a bond of loving between them! Just like the one between my Charly and me!
And what a great loss now!
I deeply feel sorry for Carolyn and her family and I know that there are no words to minor the pain.
Carolyn, but just let me say: you and your beloved Rookie touched my heart – each and every time I saw him in video clips, TV-Shows or individual web pages. He was an encouragement for all of us!
Thank you, especially, Carolyn – that all of us had the chance to meet your wonderful Rookie! He changed Retriever’s and Human World a lot!!!
Rest in peace, buddy, charming Rookie! One day we all meet again!
Sylvia & Charly
Dearest Carolyn and Family,
I wept when I heard of Rookie’s passing. I have cried tears of Joy numerous times watching you and Rookie dance. Your bond was a pure reflection of Love. Rookie was a special gift from God. Carolyn you were chosen to share this gift with the world. Thank You!!! Rookie is an angel with fur. Thank you Rookie for bringing a little bit of heaven to earth.
Carolyn you and your family are in my prayers,
Cathy Sachlueter
There are no words to adequately expess what you and Rookie have given us,Caroyln. Please know what a difference you two have made for us. God bless you and keep you in His care.
Dear Carolyn,
I can’t believe I stumbled across this website and then read that Rookie passed away. I am so sorry! I have a tape of you and Rookie on the Live with Regis Philbin. I think it was pet week or something. What I was searching for was the best help for my 11 year old Golden named Jasmine. Too long of a story,but I’ll just say we sign papers tomorrow to refinance the house to give Jasmine all we can to help her continue living until she’s ready to go. They always let us know. Right now she’s her sweet little Diva self and we’ve stopped the kidney failure from progressing,blood pressure in check,Adequan injections,massage,tramodol,Dasuquin and whatever it takes to keep her happy and comfortable. It’s just so weird to here about Rookie. In my mind he’s still a two year old, but then again since that video I taped of you and Rookie, I lost my oldest Golden Daisy to cancer on her spleen. Jasmine is 11 and Sassy is 10. Our “girls” wiil forever be our pack of three. It’s so hard to lose them. The Celine Dion song is the one my husband and I always think of when we lost a golden puppy in heart surgery. It was the song that was playing when we took Thumbelina to get surgery out of state. She almost made it…..then woke up and had a heart attack. We were and still are crushed. I’ve had so many different dogs my whole life but there is just something so different about a golden. They are so unique. It makes it so hard to lose them. It makes me sick to my stomach. So now I read this about Rookie and it makes soooooo sad. I feel like I lost a friend too..
Take care and remember the blessing Rookie was,
Tina,Jasmine,Sassy in Elko, Nevada
I’ve watched your dance video a hundred times and it gets me choked up to tears everytime!!
You and that beautiful dog are so in unison. It’s amazing to me. Thanks for sharing Rookie with us.
I’ve watched your video with you dancing with him about over 100 times he looked so full of life and i’m sorry about your lost i lost my rottie the 27th of july she suffer on her way out She got sick that saturday morning then we tooked her to the vet and he give her 3 shots and sent us he sent us home and then about 4am sunday morning she was breathing heavy took her back to the vet then she just went she was gone 24 hours of getting sick…But this is what i tell my mom everytime she gets sad about luna “She is gone but FOREVER in ours hearts”Just like Rookie will be in yours ..He touched so very many people and thanks for sharing him with the world..And Best wishes to you and your family
R.I.P Rookie^^
Fly free with the angels^^
Carolyn,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family! God really wasn’t paying attention the day he decided that would the life span of our best friends. My job requires that I leave my 2 year old golden ‘Tripper’ at the cottage with my husband for 2 or 3 days at a time. Even though all my screensavers are of his beautiful face I still get lonely for him (and my husband LOL). I started surfing the GR videos on Youtube and I stumbled across your winning performance in Greece. The love on Rookies face as he watched your every move and expression was so strong it jumped off my monitor. I could feel his joy with every spin! Though your grief must seem insurmountable and the pain a constant ache, you are still one of the most blessed women in the world to have had that love for 15 wonderful years!
We will never forget him or your generosity in sharing his special joy. He will always spin with angels, Godspeed Rookie!
Cyd Vandenberg
I was sorry to hear about Rookie’s passing. Although it has been months since I heard it, I happened to catch the show of Pet Star that you and he were on, and I just loved the routine you 2 did. It was obvious that you and he loved each other very much, and that the only thing that he loved as much was dancing. The dog world has lost a wonderful Golden, but I’m sure that he is teaching other dogs at the Bridge how to dance so that they can dance with their loved ones when they are joined again.
God Speed, wonderful Rookie.
Carolyn you, no doubt, realize how many thousands (if not more) lives you have touched through your relationship with Rookie. I have saved and forwarded ‘You’re the One That I Love” to many friends, and have saved it so that I too, can watch it whenever I need a boost…or simply a smile. What a gift you both have given to the world.
Godspeed, Rookie. …and God love you, Carolyn
Maureen, and her two golden loves, Bailey and Mara
Carolyn,
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. Rookie and you have made me smile and cry so often that I just feel as if I know you two. I have watched your video “You’re The One That I Love” probably close to 100 times and everytime I have felt the magic, the closeness, the love and the bond that lived between you and Rookie. I watch your video whenever I need love, a smile or a reason.
I am sure that Rookie is presently dancing with the angels on the other side of the bridge and I sure hope that he teaches all of my beloved friends that had to leave me, how to dance so that they can all dance with me when I join them. Rookie was a special gift from God and you Carolyn were chosen to share this gift with all of us and I thank you very much. I will never forget Carolyn and Rookie.
My heart is with you and my prayers are for you. May God bless you and Godspeed Rookie…fly with the angels dear Rookie, we love you very much and the world will never forget you.
Love Francine and my 2 best friends, Cybelle and Gemma…
Dear Caroline:
I have watched you and Rookie and all the wonderful smiles that you both have brought to people over the years with your special bond and dancing.
I am sure that your heart will be broken forever with your loss of Roookie but rejoice knowing that God’s special Angels have a place with Him where they run free and from all discomfort.
Even though that doesn’t ease our pain here it does give some comfort to know that our special angels are looked after.
I have a 3 1/2 year old golden (my first) and I know the bond that we have and I can’t even imagine a day without her but I do know that my time with her now will be unbelieveable and after reading your story with Rookie I am going to even treasure her more.
God bless you for the work that you do and will continue to do to help others become close to their golden angels.
Angel hugs
Janice & Angel (my golden)
After loosing my last Golden, Kenny, to cancer several months ago I am in the process of adopting a new one… I think I’m finally ready. So, I’m wandering around on the web and decide to click on my very favorite video clip and its not there. I search some more to find that Rookie is recently gone to the rainbow bridge. He has good company though, they are all playing up there and swimming their hearts out.
So now I sit here in tears… Watching Carolyn and Rookie dance was something I did when I was down and it would ALWAYS make me smile. I kept the link in the bottom of my inbox to go to whenever I needed a lift.
I don’t know who my new golden pal will be but I feel very alone without one right now. I understand the pain. I understand giving everything you can at the end, even though you know the time will come. It hurts so bad, no matter how much you prepare yourself.
But Rookie made it to 15 which is a very long and very wonderful, dancing life! I had a Keeshound that loved to dance, so Rookie grabbed me right away. AND he was a golden. He made people smile. Always. I only hope I can still find the video somewhere now to cheer me up!
Kathy,
In memory of McKenlee and Harvest
May they all Dance together
Kathy, I am so sorry for your loss. No, you cannot prepare yourself. If only it were that easy. If you go to http://gottadance.landofpuregold.com you will see the links to all of the Rookie videos.
We are a big protection of animals group in Germany. Unfortunately, we might get to know Rookie only now by youtube. He is the most wonderful dog we have ever seen, from all Dogdancern and generally. No other dog can show this trust and this joy. To us the tears if we run constantly again and again day by day his great appearance as John Travolta with Olivia see. Even more, since we had to read now, the Rookie also under the rainbow bridge stays. This hurts so terribly! Even if one himself had unusual animals, but Rookie excelled everybody! He will accompany me, in any case, also now every day and every night, in tears and also thankfully, thank you Rookie that there has been something so miraculous like you you will remain unforgettable! Biggi and all friends
Dear Rookie
You are truly an icon for your breed and an inspiration to many. You will be deeply missed. I know you now run the fields of heaven with zeal and vigor, and you dance before the Lord. My prayers go out to your friends and caretaker Carolyn and Randy. Please note(Carolyn) you are in my thoughts and you are not walking threw this alone, my heart goes out to you. And as I think of you, I will continue to pray. Take Care.
You and Rookie were “in step” with each other in a way that I understand because of my love of another partner that I lost last year. It helped me to share Winnie with so many others who loved her during our 12 years together. And, it helped to share my grief as well. It feels like all the clocks should stop and the world should wait when they lean into you in rest.
Thank you for sharing Rookie and your wonderful memories.
Annette
I just heard about Rookie’s passing and I want to extend my heartfelt sympathy. I loved your video of you and him dancing to Grease. I lost my beloved dog in January and I know how difficult it is. He will forever be in your heart and in the hearts of all of us who watched you dance with him
Rookie brought a smile to my face everytime I saw he and Carolyn dance. I think he is absolutely amazing.
I just heard about Rookie and wanted to say how sorry I am. I know just how hard it is to loose your special friend. I lost my first golden girl in December 2005 and it is devasting.
Rookie was a phenomenal golden and he will always be with you in your heart and he will continue to bring smiles to all who watch him dance.
You and Rookie were a phenomenal team, and I hope that you recall all the fond memories that you have. Everyone’s thoughts and wishes are with you at this sad time.
Carolyn I have loved watching you and Rookie dance for years. I am so sorry for your loss. I just stumbled upon this site and read that Rookie had gone to the Bridge. He will be missed but luckily we will always have the videos to watch Rookie dance his little heart out. As much as you are hurting now please know that Rookie is waiting for you at the Bridge. It does get a little easier with time, you’ll be able to remember the good times without so many tears.
Much love to you and your family.
Dianna
Carolyn and family,
How you were blessed with the joy that was Rookie.
When one is so indelibly intertwined in our hearts, there remains a big empty spot when they must leave for that special spot at the Bridge, promising to be there tail-a wagging…to welcome us when we too take that special journey.
Thank you for sharing him with the world, for I believe there can be nothing but joy and hope in watching you and Rookie together, sharing joy, trust and love.
Thank you for inspiring us all in ways you probably can’t even imagine.
I don’t know you and yet consider you friend.
Blessings, Judy in N GA.
I only just discovered the video and story of Carolyn and Rookie a couple of weeks ago. As I searched the Internet to learn more, I have been both inspired by what I have read of this remarkable woman and wonderful dog and deeply saddened to hear that she has lost Rookie. What an amazing story they have had…and what a beautiful story it will remain. I truly believe that Carolyn’s love for Rookie will continue to result in postive things for many people and dogs, as they see the bond that is possible and are moved to create bonds of their own with dogs that might otherwise never have known that kind of devotion and love.
Carolyn,
So sorry to hear your lost of Rookie. I watched your dance with Rookie many times and I see the sweetest love ever in you and Rookie. Thanks for sharing and showing how beautiful a golden love could be. Rookie is truly special. I hope you feel a little comfort knowing we all love Rookie.
Take care.
One day we will meet in that Place where there is no pain, no sadness, no fear, no illness and I will tell you how much I love you and I’m sure you will understand me.
Good bye my sweet Amy
Ilaria
Thankyou Carolyn
Dearest Carolyn,
I first heard of Rookie when someone sent me the video of “You’re the one that I want”. What an awesome friend he must be, still. I was sad to hear of his passing. I visit this sight often, read the stories over and over, watch the videos,(the dances give me joy each time I see them), and cry. He is a soul dearly missed. I have linked to this page from our website because I find the story to be most inspirational.
We lost our Rusty last year and it is still sad to not see him at the gate when we come home. It is easier, but still sad.
Our prayers are with you. God bless you.
Carolyn
Dear Carolyn and Rookie: For all the times I turned to your videos when my days needed sunshine. And for every time I saw the limitless joy that was Rookies heart. For sharing the soundless communication of love between you two. For all that, and for helping so many of us to remember what is really important in every day of this life, thank you both. I hope all the tears, and all the thanks, and all the love that comes to you at this time will, somehow, help you to find peace in the knowledge that Rookie is surely waiting to dance with you again someday.
Dear Carolyn, I must have watched your video “you’re the one that I want” a hundred plus times. Then searched your sites just to see you and Rookie together over and over again. It brought me such joy Especially after I lost my Golden. Now knowing that Rookie, too, is gone, I cried and feel your pain! Hope you are doing better as time heals.
Dear Carolyn,
I just discovered you and Rookie and have been watching the videos of you both dancing. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Rookie loved you so much, it is truly evident in the videos and pictures of the two of you together. I just lost my Golden Boy Houston in June of this year, I had to help him to rainbow bridge as well. I miss him so much and watching you and Rookie made me laugh and cry, I truly believe that once you love a golden you are never the same again, they are such special souls. Always remember how much joy you and Rookie brought to the world and that he will be waiting for you to dance again….Love and prayers
Dear Carolyn,
I would like to say only 1 thing, by all of the informations,pictures,videos etc that i saw here are supernatural (you and Rookie) and give us the best example about humanity and love. This was great advice to me and maybe rest of “dog lovers”.
Thanks to you and Rookie !
There is nothing I can say that will ever help the hurt, but there are so many who hurt with you.
Love never dies.
Thank you for allowing the shared love between you and Rookie to touch so many lives.
Dear Carolyn,
Only recently have I learned of you and Rookie. What a joy to watch the two of you dance together…absolutely amazing!!! I lift you up in my prayers for your loss. I too had to help my beloved 14 l/2 year old golden “Sassy” cross the rainbow bridge just one week prior to Rookie’s journey. The heartbreak feels, still, like it was only yesterday as I miss her so. My husband bought a book for me called “Cold Noses at the Pearly Gates” by Gary Kurz. In this book the author proves biblically, without a doubt, that all of my beloved pets that I have had and those yet to come will spend eternity in Heaven with me. God loves His creatures even more than we do and He has made a place for them in Heaven. For you and your loved ones I pray that you will read Romans 10:9-10 so that, if you do not already know it, you can be assured that you too will once again see Rookie and all of your precious pets and we’ll all spend eternity together. May God continue to comfort and bless you in your heart and health and make your way prosperous.
Sincerely – Pamela
Carolyn, I have only just found this site, i feel for your loss, my Golden Rosie was put to sleep on the same day as Rookie passed after a short battle with Melanoma. It still hurts so much, i look for her everyday expecting her to be by my side. it is good to know that she will be in the company of so many other special Goldens waiting at the bridge.
becky x
Thank you for letting the world get to know Rookie. What a special place he has in all of our hearts. I just learned that my dog has cancer and I am just beginning to deal with the journey ahead. You are in my prayers; I wish you all the best. May God bless you and please remember how lucky Rookie was to have shared his life with YOU!!!
Thank you, Carolyn for sharing Rookie with so many. The word special seems inappropriate. He was much more then that..this beautiful dog, who simply showed how much he loved you every time he danced; and we cried for it.
You and Rookie created something wonderful in your dances. Every time I watch the dance videos, I smile and feel good inside. I hope, Carolyn, that when you think of Rookie now, the sadness has lessened and the smiles are back with all the loving memories of your life together.
I just went to your site and was sent here to learn you lost Rookie. I grieve with you as I too have lost dogs this year. My nearly 12 year old Rottie, Tyler was taken by Cancer in February. Then I lost my 5 year old Toy Fox Terrier, Timmy October 1. The pain is horrible but I have other dogs who depend on me so I must go on.
You need to go on too. There are other dogs who need you.
When I lost Py my SAR partner when she was almost 14 I was sent this poem. I hope it helps you as much as it helped me then.
OLD DOG IN A LOCKET
Old dog in a locket
That lays next to my heart
I will always love you
As I did right from the start.
You were right beside me
Through the darkest of my days
It was your kind and gentle nature
That made me want to stay.
Now I hold you in my arms
Your breath still warm against my hand
Our hearts still beat together
And I wonder if you understand.
Through the hours that I held you
Before the light did leave your soul
I knew a way to keep you
Forever in my hold.
I snipped the hair from around your eyes
So I would always see
The beauty that surrounds me
Even in times of need.
I snipped the hair from around your ears
So I would always hear
Music in the distance
To quiet any fears.
I snipped the hair from across your back
To bring me strength in time of need
And that the power of your essence
Would always be with me.
I snipped the hair from around your heart
That beat in time with mine
So love would know to find me
At some other distant time.
And so, your life slipped out of mine
On a quiet October day
But I knew that a part of you
Was always here to stay.
Old dog in a locket
That lays next to my heart
I will always love you
Even though we had to part.
– -Author Unknown
Mim
Carolyn,
I was very sorry to hear of Rookie’s passing. He was and still is an inspiration to dog lovers everywhere. The legecy he left is all over the internet. I never tire of watching your “Grease” routine.
I held my 14 yo Liberty as she started her journey to the Rainbow Bridge this past April. She had been diagnosed with Inflammatory Mammory Carcinoma only a month before I had to let her go.
I wish you all the best and know the bond you shared with Rookie was Very Special. You will see him again one day and provide joy to everyone in heaven as you dance your special dance.
Carra & the Oakwind Corgis
I feel so fortunate to have witnessed on several videos the pure joy that was Rookie. I feel especially fortunate that this wonderful dog came into the care of a person so motivated and equipped to help him to become the incredible talent he was. The two of you have, over and over again, made me shed tears of joy, just to watch you.
This is what life should be about.
Thank you, and may the memories of the years you had be a comfort in your loss.
The rain falls, I sit with tears streaming down my cheeks….reading about a beautiful dog and amazing woman I have never met! I do not have Goldens, but I do understand the bond between a human and a dog … When I was going through my journey with Breast Cancer, my Great Dane Blaze stayed by my side day and night watching over me. He was my constant comfort, my “blankie”. He was there with out jugement and always with unconditional love. Little did I know that he would be diagnosed with cancer as well. He never showed any signs of pain until I was strong enough to care for him. He was the most wonderful caring soul.. I will always love and miss him… I hope that your pain will ease with time. You are a very special person.
My Heart is breaking …I can’t see the keyboard to type.. God Bless You….I will never forget this…. never
I just found this and my heart is breaking for your loss as well as my own of my beloved Bo my black lab who needed help going to the Bridge on Oct 7 2008 at 7 yrs and very suddenly. I’m sorry for your loss but you blessed the world you and Rookie you blessed the world and showed the world how brave, smart and talented our dogs really are. How deep the bond is between a dog and their human parent. Bless you.
I have just found this out & was so saddened to hear of Rookie’s passing. What a great team the two of you were. I have watched the video many times & every time found it UNBELIEVABLE. We too lost out golden in June; they are a remarkable dog & we just loved her to pieces from the day that we got her. They only want to please their master & always at your side & showing their unconditional love. Believe me, I share your pain and may you find comfort in knowing how much we all loved Rookie and thank you for sharing with us all the memories that you will forever hold dear; they may be gone but will NEVER BE FORGOTTEN! What a joy that you and Rookie brought to so many!! Rooke too, was one special golden. My heartfelt tears are with you during these difficult times.
To the Scott Family,
Please know that you are all in my prayers as you try to cope with the loss of your , our beloved Rookie. He and Carolyn brought joy to millions all over the world. The famous “Grease” routine is stored on hard drives all over the world and I would guess is viewed by millions each day.
I can only hope you find the strength to replace the grief of his passing with the joy of the many great memories of his amazing life.
Hello Carolyn,
My heart goes out to you at the loss of your beloved Rookie. There is nothing in the world like the love and bond between a Golden and his/her person. My beloved golden is named Chelsea and I can’t imagine life without her. May you find comfort both in the many years you spent together, as well as in the joy the two of you brought to so many people.
God Bless,
Elizabeth
We lost our baby, Shadow Nov 13, 2008, after 14 1/2 yrs and I miss him every minute. I know I can never replace his true love but
I am looking at all the recues and Golden sites and know I can’t live without another friend. My true wish is to work with dogs and I will keep searching till it comes TRUE!
Love Pam, Toronto, Canada
I am so very sorry for your loss. Your love and beauty for Rookie was shown through Rookies eyes. And through Rookies eyes you could see his adoration for you. You were both very blessed. We lost our precious golden Ivan just three weeks ago and I miss him so much it hurts. Your video has helped me through this hard time. I showed this video to my husband and son and they were also very touched. We will pray to St. Francis of Assisi for courage and strength for you.
God bless.
You and Rookie were a gift to each other and together you were a gift to the world. What a legacy you have created! My heart goes out to you as I know what it’s like to lose our golden babies. I’m so sorry.
God bless…
Love,Love, Love that video and that dog is amazing! I have a golden retriever and I have difficulty getting him to come, thats why I am amazed. They can be very temperamental but fun and loving too. We love our puppy thats why we love your video. I am sooo sory that your dog passed away. Thank God for the memories.
Only yesterday did I learn of Rookie’s passing. My heart breaks for you and Randy. I first saw the video of you and Rookie almost 7 years ago and was blown away by the amazing bond between you two. It was so beautiful and continues to touch my heart to this day. Now in the age of YouTube and Facebook, I am able to share this beauty with my other animal loving friends. I would love to start a tribute group on Facebook to Rookie, but only with your blessing of course. In the meantime, I continue to post your videos on my wall for all to enjoy.
Maybe you have seen this, but I’ll post it anyway. This helped me tremendously when I lost my beloved JoJo. I hope it brings you some peace as well. God bless. I know Rookie is still dancing in Heaven.
Alexandra,
Stamford, CT
I forgot the link. Here it is: http://www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html
Carolyn,
I am so sorry for your loss of Rookie. I teach high school science and am fortunate to use my goldens in the classroom. My students and I have watched videos of you and Rookie and were amazed not only by the performance, but by the beautiful relationship you shared. Thank you for touching our lives and for sharing him with so many who are truly inspired by his joy and devotion. I will continue to show the videos for as long as I am a teacher. May you find peace in your wonderful memories.
Okay, I’ll admit it–I’m a “cat person” by nature, but I’m definitely in love with our first dog, a Cairn/Poodle mix named Weetabix. She’s such a spunky little girl and even though we’ve only had her less than a year, I can’t imagine what it would be like without her. I was so touched by your “Grease” routine and am amazed at how intelligent Rookie was, and how in sync the two of you were. I’m terribly sorry for your loss, and I know that you will continue to inspire others even during this time of grief. God bless your family.
Sp sorry for your loss Carolyn of such a special dog as Rookie was. What a wonderful thing to see thew two of you performing. I am glad you had so many wonderful years with Rookie….a true, loyal companion and that is something to remember I am sure. I wish your family well and pray you get through this very difficult time in your lives. A special dog and a pleaure to watch the two of you damnce. I thoroughly enjoyed your videos.
Here I am sitting here crying again over the whole in our world Rookie left when he left us all here without him.
I know no one misses him like Carolyn. But this one special dog had a place in this world that affected everyone who ever saw him.
Peace and dance At the Rainbow Bridge
Pat&furfriends
Carolyn, im only 15, i get brought to my knees at the thought of loosing my collie, i feel everything for you.
You were my voice when i couldnt speak(L)
I am so saddened by the loss of Rookie… I fell in love with him when a friend sent me the clip of him well over two years ago. I can’t even begin to imagine how devastated you are even to this day.
My prayers will be with you and your family and beautiful Rookie. He more than likely romps and plays along Rainbow Bridge with my little ones who have gone on to wait for me. In fact, I am sure he has opened his own dance studio.
My heartfelt sympathies to you Carolyn. Both you and Rookie touched my soul and my spirit.
Peace
Kathy O.
I am so sorry for the loss of Rookie. I have danced in my heart everytime I saw him twirl around you. He loved every minute of dancing with you.
I recently lost the love of my life. She was only 6 years old. I always wanted to dance with her. You and Rookie inspired me to think that Jodi and I could someday be one on the dance floor.
My heart goes out to you and your family.
In Deepest Sympathy,
Fran Henshaw
my deepest sympathy, i myself lost my 14 yr campanion,just 2 wks ago. i just came up on the video.it brought me to tears. i have her ashes next to me as i am typing this.she always sat next to me in her own chiar when i was on the computor. the healing process is going to be hard.but i know someday i will see her again and we can be together again. some people laugh at me and say it is only a dog, they don’t understand she was my best friend,and my little daughter. i know she is at peace now and crossing over to rainbowbridge. she was a little westie and her name is CODY (codabear).
GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY,
DIANA
Carolyn: I just found out about Rookie, and understand your pain.
It never gets easier– 35 animals (28 dogs) and the heart still breaks and the tears still flow. EAch one has a special gift brought to you for a special reason.
My tears still flow (now for your loss in addition to my loss )
The heart is still tender and the tears still come 2 years after my Mun’s death.
The heart can take a lot..The pain will subside and your memories will be painted with solid “gold”.
Deepest sympathy.
Liz and ” Michael Francis” (my golden)
I just read about Rookie, My deepest sympathy for you and your family. The pain of losing a member of the family is so overwhelming, my heart goes out to you as I suffered the loss of my beloved Alex Jan 15 2008, he was 20 years old and I still miss him. Rookie will be missed!
you know here in the philippine you and Rookie are legend since 2008 were hoping you could visit the philippine and preform 🙂 but sandly rookie was gone 😦 i know its hard to accept it..but he will always be with you no mater what happen ..rookie will be still dancing in the rainbow 🙂
I want you to know that my heart goes out to you. Having had Goldens in my life, and the last one who died of cancer, I can relate to your pain. We will never forget these dear family members who came, and gave us so much love…Rookie is still dancing in that big dancehall in the sky, waiting, and one day you will dance again.
My deepest sympathy
Lynda
Carolyn and family,
I’m so sorry for your loss of Rookie. Your video makes me smile everytime I watch it.
I’ve been blessed with a lovely blonde cocker mix named Dulcie, who at this very moment is lying on my foot. When people ask me what breed she is, I tell them “cockleshell” (we know she had a cocker mother, and I’d bet my best hat dad was a Sheltie). Since they didn’t dock her tail, she looks like a miniature golden retriever, and has the same sweet, loving personality.
Dulcie and I became a Delta Society Pet Partner team 4 years ago, and we qualified as a Reading Education Assistance Dog (trademarked) team shortly thereafter. We volunteer for a couple of hours once a week with a first grade class, and although it’s challenging at times, we both love it!
If you would like to “meet” Miss Dulcie, she has her own blog:
readwithdulcie.blogspot.com.
Thanks for sharing Rookie with the world. He is missed.
Lorraine & Dulcie
Carolyn and family, Sorry to here about your beloved family member passing..He was a great canine talent.. And soooo adorable! You were so lucky to have Rookie with you for 15 wonderful years.I know he is deeply missed. Thanks for sharing Rookie with the world.. Lori
Thank you for the many blessed moments that you and Rookie shared with everyone over the past 15 years…
A faithful dog will play with you
And laugh with you and cry.
He will gladly starve to stay with you
And no one really knows the reason why.
And when your feeling out of sorts,
somehow he will understand.
He’ll watch you with his sparkling eyes
And try to lick your hand
His blind implicit faith in you
Is matched by his great love.
The kind that all of us should have
In the Master up above.
When everything is said and done
I guess this isn’t odd.
For when you spell “Dog” backwards
You get the name of God!
I just learned of Rookie’s passing today and my heart is breaking. I have not logged on to the site in quite sometime and happened across the news. The world has lost a great boy. I have three goldens myself. Each one of them is special and cannot imagine the pain of this great loss. My heart goes out to Carolyn and her family during such a rough time. Until you see him again, across that bridge, he will live in your heart. All my prayers to you.
Carolyn,
I just learned of Rookie’s passing. Yesterday, I spoke with another canine lover at a dog shelter where I volunteer. I mentioned to her about the Carolyn and Rookie Video ” Your The One That I Want.” I was sadden today when I did additional research and learned of your sad day.
Regards,
Howard T
Dear Carolyn,
Yours in an enduring love story. I accidentally came upon it this morning and will treasure it.
I, too, have a golden. I adopted her three years ago from a wonderful rescue organization and wish like crazy that she could dance. However, she’s a three-legged girl and had lost one of her back legs, probably in an animal trap, when she was a puppy. When her owners moved out of state and left her at a shelter, she was rescued into a foster home. I thought I was going to be a foster parent, too, but she was too much like a very well behaved house guest to pass her on to someone else who might have treated her like a dog. She has impecable house manners and that classic “heart of gold.” She’d share a chewie with anyone without the first growl.
Like Rookie, Chrissy loves her people and never met a stranger. I know it must give you pride and comfort to know how many people you and she have touched and made smile. I know, too, that eventually, Chrissy will move towards the bridge, and it’s going to so hard to let her go. However, if it’s true that all dogs go to heaven, I know that she’ll have that leg and I hope Rookie’s there to teach her to dance.
Thanks again for sharing such a lovely part of your life.
Dear Carolyn,
I just happened on the news of Rookie’s passing after having watched you and him for a number of years on TV shows, etc. I think one has to have lived with a Golden to really understand how special they are. I am living with my 3rd one now, Aspen, but I never forget her predecessors. Rookie was truly one of the great ones. Perhaps Aspen will meet Rookie one day in the special place reserved for Goldens. I wish you the best.
Regards,
Wayne K
Dear Carolyn —
— Your devotion to Rookie was something that was unbearably touching and inspiring. Thank you for being an image of strength and courage to all of us, and not giving up on Rookie even through his time of pain, until it became clear it was his time to go dance on the rainbows and show Fred and Ginger what it was really about.
I will miss seeing the videos of him jumping up into your arms – it’s obvious he loved you, and he’s dancing for you right now, waiting for you to come renew your partnership.
Please, keep dancing.
Condolences,
Remy B, West Hollywood.
Oh, my, I had just pulled up some of the dance routines and then read through to the current status and my heart was broken and tears just flowed. I am so sorry for your loss. My American Eskimo, Abby, is 12 years old and I almost lost her this past year due to some undiagnosed condition. I took her to Cornell University Vet School and they helped immensely and she is stable now with some inflammatory bowel disease and protein losing enteropathy usually seen in small terriers. She is on some meds and I pray every day to God to thank Him for her. She is so smart and can read me so well. She would have enjoyed learning routines but I “collected” many stray cats and a few other smaller dogs and we never took the time. She still enjoys her rides in the car with me — our special time together.
God bless your family and Rookie. You had a special love and relationship.
Gretchen Loy; Milton PA
OHHH ,,ROOKIE WHAT A GUY YOU WERE…I STILL WATCH YOU AND CAROLYN DANCE ANY TIME I NEED CHEERING UP..I ONLY WISH HE COULD HAVE LIVED OUT HIS ENTIRE LIFE NATURALLY..WITHOUT BEING “HELPED TO DIE”..WHY NOT LET HIM LAY IN A NICE BED WITH S0ME DOGGIE MEDICINE AND LET HIM GO NATURALLY? WE DONT KILL OLD PEOPLE WHEN THEY GET DOWN AND HURT…WHY ROOKIE!! HE DESERVED TO LIVE EVERY DAY TILL GOD CALLED HIM HOME…
Carolyn and family,
A few minutes ago I learned of Rookie crossing over on the Rainbow Bridge. I can’t stop crying for you and your family but know he is in a better place. My Caty girl “left” me on June 30th and Jake February 25th and I miss them every day. I truly believe I wouldn’t be alive today without the love and trust of all my wonderful dogs. My husband died 16 years ago and our Musky stayed by my side night and day and even being able to hear her snore comforted me. Thank you for sharing your special Golden with the world and how lucky we are you will both live forever in the wonderful videos. You were so brave to help Rookie and end his suffering. We can be humane to our pets but not ourselves when we are in pain and have NO HOPE of recovering. Just doesn’t make any sense to me or most folks I know. JT hasn’t got a clue!! Bless you for being such a good mom to Rookie.
With love and understanding, Carol Menke-Clark
Carolyn,
I just learned today of Rookie’s passing, although I knew that he was approaching that time.
Through the years, when I felt down & discouraged, I would watch you and Rookie in your incredibly rich relationship, and my spirits would be lifted. I couldn’t get enough of watching the bond & joy Rookie felt for you.
I found it especially moving because of the ever so special support and encouragement that the two gave to each other; The two of you each made it possible for the other to grow to undreamed of heights of accomplishment. To have had such a fulfilling relationship inspires me.
I am currently in a relationship with my very first dog ever [I’ve always had cats and have had very close relationships with them]. When I first met Jesse, my rescued English Setter, he had very deep insecurities from his feelings of loss and abandonment [he had been left behind in a very rural and–to him–terrifying place where he had to fend for himself and defend himself against a hostile world]. I became his rock, and he in turn was there to help me thru the most emotionally devastating years of my life. English Setters are by nature very sensitive and Jesse is on the high end of that. We have a deep connection; he has been there for me when no-one else was.
Your handling of Rookie’s last months was so deeply sensitive and caring. To recognize the fine balance there is at the end of a life; to do what is needed to make it fulfilling and facing when it’s time to let them go takes great personal courage.
With deep admiration,
Jennifer; Ada, MI
I’m sorry for your loss.. Rest in peace Rookie.
Carolyn, You and Rookie were beautiful beyond belief when you danced. I thank you for making my world a more magical place. I’m sorry for your loss and I’m still in awe at how beautiful you both were in motion.
and… i just want to say thank you for every fun happy georgeus and amazing moment that you and rookie let us in our memories. i see you and i see a family for the rest of the eternity. thank for let us see every especial moment with this amazing dog.
Bless you and your family.
Dancing with the angels rookie 🙂
I just saw today for the first time, the video of you and Rookie dancing. And then I read the updates that he had passed. I cannot stop crying. What a beautiful soul he is. I have lost dogs/cats myself, and KNOW I will see them again one day in heaven. My sympathy to you and your husband. I know how painful it is to loose an animal that you love so much. But know that you will be together again one day. May Rookie rest in peace.
I am so sorry for your loss. I just lost my cocker spaniel last May. The pain is still great. I am a second grade teacher and have done so for 35 years. I always used my dogs in my teachings because it brings in real life experiences that children can identify with. I have showed you and Rookie dancing to “You’re the One that I Want” so many, many times. They, as well as I, still enjoy the wonderful grace, charm, and beauty you both showed. My prayers to with you each time I watch the video “Trubute to Rookie” The love is so evident for all of us who love our dogs as family. God bless you and Rookie for bringing such joy into my life.
This past weekend was the one year anniversary of the passing of our almost 16-year old Golden girl, Nika, an event which just devastated my husband, Greg, my mother, Emma, and me. We had 15+ remarkable years with Nika who loved to hike, swim and snowshoe with us in the Rockies, where she spent much of her life. She also lived with us in Mexico and became fluent in Spanish!!! She didn’t really dance, but she liked to leap and twirl to the Beatles!
Anyway, I thought of you and Rookie and found the landof puregold website in my favorites and took a moment to laugh and cry at you and Rookie celebrating your remarkable relationship through dance. When I discovered that he had crossed the Rainbow bridge a few months before Nika, I wanted to offer my empathy and my thanks to you and Rookie for touching the hearts and minds of so many people.
We now have Gaby, a one-year old Golden girl, who is showing the signs of being a wonderful companion. She will never replace Nika, but, in becoming her special self, she is helping our hearts heal through love.
Thank you again, Carolyn, for showing the world the special joy and heart that Goldens bring to us…………
May I please offer some simple words that brought me comfort after the loss of the many beloved critters , some with feathers, or finned, & also all of our many furry faced friends, both large & small, we loved them all & do believe
” LOVE IS ETERNAL,
THE ASPECT MAY CHANGE,
BUT NOT THE ESSENCE. ”
Memories are the pictures we will always carry in a special place deep in our hearts.
They have all left paw prints, hoof prints, footprints forever on our hearts.
With thoughts of Rookie and his lovely attitude toward life, I, this week adopted a 1 year old Golden Retriever, Baxter, a cruelty seizure, from the local Humane Society.
He is dreadfully thin, heartworm positive, and has a healing wound from an imbedded collar. Despite this, that wonderful, happy, trusting nature characteristic of the breed shines through. I almost named him “Rookie” but the shelter had already given him a name, and Baxter somehow fits.
I would never have known how special Goldens are had it not been for the Rookie videos. His joy shines through in every one of them.
I just wanted you to know that Rookie continues to have an effect in this world, and still inspires others to do good where we can in his memory.
I watch your video of you and Rookie almost daily.I love it.It is the most beautiful illustration of the bond between two Special species.I know the pleasure you must have experienced,and I am so sorry at your loss.
It is just one year since I lost my beloved Goldie,Zaki,also at 15 years.
Zaki was the nicest living being I will ever meet.It was my greatest privilege to share 15 1/2 years with him.It did not matter what type of animal,bird or whatever he met,Zaki knew how to play THEIR games.His/my pet Aylesbury duck was almost “joined at the hip” with him.They were a laugh a minute,rolling about together.Fortunately I have some video to remember them by.
Even 15 minutes before Zaki “crossed the Rainbow Bridge”,as he lay on his side,and in pain,he was still mouthing my other Golden Retriever,Riley, in play,it was so moving.
Thank you for sharing your moments and reminding me of mine,it helps the loss.
I have watched the video of you two dancing fools so many times and each time is more special than the last. I just today learned of Rookie’s trek over the Rainbow Bridge. My sincerest sympathy goes out to you. Having had two wonderful dogs, one a Cockapoo/Wirehair mix and the other a Tiny Toy Poodle, for over 30 years, I am comforted to know that they are together with Rookie, a true Golden oldie. My only sadness is that we outlive out wonderful friends.
Leslie Sease
Aurora, CO
I would like to dedicate this song to Carolyn Scott and Rookie…
“The Dance”
Looking back on the memory of
The dance we shared beneath the stars above
For a moment all the world was right
How could I have known you’d ever say goodbye
And now I’m glad I didn’t know
The way it all would end the way it all would go
Our lives are better left to chance I could have missed the pain
But I’d of had to miss the dance
Holding you I held everything
For a moment wasn’t I the king
But if I’d only known how the king would fall
Hey who’s to say you know I might have changed it all
And now I’m glad I didn’t know
The way it all would end the way it all would go
Our lives are better left to chance I could have missed the pain
But I’d of had to miss the dance
Yes my life is better left to chance
I could have missed the pain but I’d of had to miss the dance
— Garth Brooks
R.I.P. Rookie…Thanks for bringing us happiness!
Dear Carolyn and Family,
I just now read that Rookie went to the Bridge. I am so very sorry for your loss! The tears won’t stop. I have watched you and Rookie dance so many times and my heart would just burst with pride. You two were amazing!
I know you are hurting. I have lost a Golden to cancer several years ago and now have two, Maggie and Cubbie.
Please know I will pray for you to find peace and know that Rookie is teaching all the other dogs at the Rainbow Bridge all those dance moves that you taught him.
Much love and many prayers,
Barb Galovic
Carolyn and Family,
Although I never got to see you perform in person, I always shared a video of you and Rookie performing together. I was saddened to see that Rookie passed over the Bridge. Maybe my three waiting there have learned those dance moves. I understand your pain, as all of us who have lost a partner does. I lost 3 goldens within a 6-month period and will probably never get over it.
Comfort and Peace.
Angela
Starting a New Year, 2010 and we gotta keep Rookie in our Golden Loop of Angels!
dw
carolyn
i knew rookie had crossed the bridge some time before but this is the first website that i have found where i can post something….i still feel the loss of my boy who crossed the bridge in dec of 07….i know you must feel that void as everyone who has ever seen that famous grease video has seen animal lover or not it was so obvious the bond that you both shared the love that he has for you….just wanted to say thank you so much for having shared a small piece of rookie with the rest of the world and im sure that you and rookie have given strength to those that needed it as well….
carolyn, rookie again thank you so much for your inspiration! i know that you have touched so many lives….
andrea and tila
Oh, Dear Carolyn…it is only yesterday that I learned of Rookie’s passing and am sobbing as I read these posts and gaze at my wonderful 8 year old boy Tucker snoozing on the floor by my side. So many, many times I’ve shared the Grease video with friends, every time laughing while shedding tears, and yesterday I noticed some older posts of condolence. That was the first that I knew.
I lost my Golden Lulu over 10 years ago, and to quote a friend at the time, “no, the pain never ends, it just gets different.” I still grieve for Lulu, even though the spirits brought me Tuck, a guy who, beyond all expectation, is even a more special pal than Lulu was. I lost Lulu at 9, and now Tuck is 8-1/2 and I don’t know what I will do when he is no longer here.
The joy you’ve brought to us all, and visibly to Rookie! The adoration on his face as he dances with you, or in the tribute video…it’s a look only a Golden can seem to truly muster. He obviously shared a great, great love with you, and you with him.
I am saving the Old Dog poem for that hideous day I may need to remember what to do. Oh, Carolyn…I know the searing pain has subsided a little, but don’t ever wonder when it will go away…it will just get different. Thank you for your wonderful heart and your wonderful boy. I’m gonna have Tuck look him up on the other side when I can no longer have him. Say, think Rookie could find Lulu and teach her to dance?
Thanks again and God Bless
lin & tucker gentry
Carolyn,
I just learned of Rookie’s “Golden Wing” passage. He truely was and still is a “Very Golden Angel”!!!!
I hope your heart has somewhat recovered from having been broken soooo very hard!!!
I too have Goldens and have lost one at a very young age.
The hurt of losing them will fade with time. But they are forever in your heart and the memories live on.
Your boy was VERY VERY Special!!!! I had tears in my eyes just watching the video of a 15 year partnership before I had read of his passing.
Thank You for sharing your boy Rookie and your special partnership.
Sue Sinden
ps. Max and Ellie send “Golden” hugs and sloppy kisses!
Dear Carolyn and family….
I must say first….how your beloved Rookie touched my heart so DEEPLY. I had been watching the various videos of the two of you over the many years, over and over and over again. The beauty of the connection between human and canine, set my eyes to tears many time over and over again, just watching your videos.
I’ve had several golden retrievers, my past mommy “Prancer”, her son “Goldleaves Brilliant Comet” (did obedience and show with him), and now my present canine son, “Pilot”. There is no match for the eyes of golden retriever. At times I sit and look at my picture memorial of my past mommy and her son, and miss them dearly…..but, what immediately makes me smile are those memories of their lives being fulfilled with joy, romping, happiness, lots of love and attention. I feel joy in my heart over it.
Rookie stole my heart more times than you can imagine. I would sit and watch him dance (as I call it), repetatively, and sometimes 12 times in one night. I save that video from years back, and still have it. Occasionally, I would jump on line just to get updates on him. You never knew this, but I did….many times. Tonight, I was thinking about him, and made time to search for updates that I had missed doing well over a year ago. I now see your beloved canine son is in pure peace, comfort, and rest. Just wanted to pass on my recognizing his passing, and to thank him and you for the many happy and enjoyable moments I got to view Rookie via my laptop. Carolyn, he will forever be in my heart, in memory. I’ve shared those wonderful videos with my doggie friends and groups more than twice!
Warmly, from just another doggie lover & protector,
Lorre and :oPilot
Dear Carolyn,
I have seen your video before but was reminded of it just today. I found out yesterday that my mom has stage four ovarian cancer. It is of course completely unexpected and I don’t really know what to even feel or think at this moment. There have been family coming in and out of the house all day. I was showing my mom some funny videos on youtube when my cousins came over. She was laughing and then she told me she wanted them to see something. She said “show them that video with the lady dancing with her dog.” I out it on and everybody was amazed and in awe of not only your performance but of the great love and affection you and your dog shared for each other. My mom said she has cried and laughed several times while watching that video. My mom has been a HUGE animal lover since very young. She’s has always shared a great love for all animals. I don’t know what the near future holds for her but whatever it is I want it to be filled with love and laughter. The joy you and Rookie brought to the world is something very special and I just wanted to thank you for putting a smile on my mom’s face.
With warmest thanks,
Jordan
Dear Carolyn,
This morning, I saw Rookie on Pet Star. I immediately wanted to see your documentary, sadly I saw that Rookie had passed in July 2008. My thoughts and prayers continue to be with you as the grieving never ends when you lose your best friend of over 15 years. Remember though, he is running in the Rainbow Bridge.
Warm Regards,
Renee, Nick, Checkers, Spud, and Cinder Rister
Midland, Texas
Carolyn
I just learned of Rookies passing. Your “Grease” video is my all time favorite. What a talented and special dog. Hopefully my Travis and Sam have signed up for dance lessons across the rainbow bridge.
Kindest regards
Adam
Dear Carolyn,
I was so heartbroken to hear that you lost your best friend, Rookie. Your Grease video is still my all time favorite. I lost my 2 precious goldens Josh and Chrissy 17 and 18 years ago. My heart was completely crushed – I never knew I could feel such sorrow. I have never been able to have another golden because although they brought me more joy than anything in my life; losing them was unbearable and I just don’t think I could ever go through it again.
I hope that they have met Rookie on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge and that they are all playing and dancing through fields of flowers in the bright sunshine.
My heart still hurts all these years later. As you know, there is just no love that can compare with the unconditional love of a golden.
I hope that you and your family are doing better as time passes. You were so blessed that Rookie lived to be 15 – when you feel sad just remember that someday we will cross that Rainbow Bridge and they will all be there waiting for us.
With love and sincere sympathy,
Pam
I just saw your youtube vidieo today while I was drinking my morning coffee……. my heart was filled with so much joy and laughter………. then I read your best friend was no longer with you…I am sure he is dancing with the angles and our Lord and Savior has him waiting for you when you get there. May God comfort your heart and bring you joy in the memories.
Thank you for bringing me such a smile to my heart this morning.
God bless you
Ms. Scott,
The ministry that you and Rookie had will forever live on through film and through the many people who loved you both and the land of pure gold foundation. I just watched you on Pet Star and was deeply moved by Rookie’s love for people, entertainment and you.
God be with you always.
I am touched deeply by you, Rookie, and your bond…and understand your feelings. It is unbeleivable how many you did and continue to touch. Because of you and Rookie, a standard poodle here Cole, will begin his career in canine freestyle in Dec!!!!! Thanks to you and Rookie!
I don’t know if you check this website anymore, but I know how you feel about losing Rookie. I lost my Abby on June 27, 2009 and I still cry for her. I put the poem about the Rainbow Bridge next to her memorial and I read it every day. She was the only true person that loved me no matter what and I will never forget her. I lived with a man who was a terrible drunk and an abuser and she gave me the courage to finally leave him. I still wonder how anyone can get over losing someone like Abby and Rookie. How do you handle that?
Still hurting,
Sharon
You and Rookie continue to inspire us. I first tried Freestyle with my Border Collie, Isabella. She had epilepsy so we didn’t compete but she loved dancing in the yard. She died just months before your boy. I have a new girl – we’ve been doing Freestyle for a year. Cait loves it – we have a long way to go…but continue to watch the videos of you and Rookie to learn.
Best to you…
Kat
There is no friend really that is anywhere near to the bond between dogs and people. That kind of bond is evident in wolves as well. They are both group group oriented animals. Since we all love our dogs so much, please get involved in stopping the slaughter of our wolves in the wild. Too many people, I think, read Little Red Riding Hood too often. They do not attack people. If a rancher has a dog to tend his animals, they will not challenge that dog or the herd. Killing is the easy way out for people who cherish their gun more than life.
How lucky we all are that we have the wolve’s cousins to love and take care of.
Sandy Adams
I had the extreme pleasure and honor of presenting Carolyn & Rookie to the pet grooming industry at Intergroom’s International Grooming Convention at the Garden State Exhibit & Convention in Somerset, New Jersey many years ago. Although I had seen other “dancing with dogs” competitors, Carolyn and Rookie were special in many ways. When they did their “special dance” together it was the high point of our annual awards banquet and left not a dry eye in the audience. I would be interested in any documentary film work she is doing – or learning about any other projects as well.
I, too, often go to “you tube” to watch their routine again and again.
Please tell Carolyn that I said hello and hope she is well.
Sincerely,
Christine DeFilippo
Producer, Intergroom, Inc.
Carolyn
Today I needed some cheering up so I went to YouTube to watch you and Rookie do your dance routine to the song from Grease. That is how I learned that Rookie had passed away. I first saw the video a few years ago, and now realize it was right about the time Rookie passed over Rainbow Bridge.
Our dog, SuzyQ, is not a Golden, but an Australian Shepherd mix. She doesn’t dance, just plays with her ball, offers me the other end of her rope when she wants to play tug of war, and takes me for walks. She tries to “herd” my wife (who doesn’t weigh much more than her), and asks for belly rubs several times a day. She’s a happy girl who likes everyone she meets.
I know Rookie brought you many years of love and happiness, and our girl will do the same for us. That’s what our canine buddies do, unconditionally.
All the best to you and yours.
Jim, Wendy and SuzyQ