Comments on: calling all angels — updated 3x

By: Neil.

Neil. — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 18:30:36 +0000

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.

By: Mary Walley

Mary Walley — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 14:06:59 +0000

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.

By: The Oddy Family

The Oddy Family — Sun, 25 Oct 2009 00:30:28 +0000

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.

By: Judith

Judith — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 19:55:10 +0000

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…………

By: Sue Hinkie

Sue Hinkie — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 18:46:37 +0000

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.

By: Tish

Tish — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 23:54:40 +0000

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.

By: Criss

Criss — Sun, 16 Aug 2009 20:10:03 +0000

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

By: Teresa Lane

Teresa Lane — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 21:17:50 +0000

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.

By: Chris

Chris — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 10:00:41 +0000

I’m sorry for your loss.. Rest in peace Rookie.

By: Jennifer

Jennifer — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 21:34:27 +0000

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

By: Carol

Carol — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 03:12:36 +0000

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

By: JT

JT — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 19:34:40 +0000

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…

By: Gretchen Loy

Gretchen Loy — Sat, 04 Jul 2009 02:50:22 +0000

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

By: Remy

Remy — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 23:35:34 +0000

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.

By: Wayne King

Wayne King — Wed, 20 May 2009 22:11:21 +0000

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

By: Lora

Lora — Tue, 19 May 2009 10:07:57 +0000

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.

By: Howard Taylor

Howard Taylor — Tue, 12 May 2009 21:27:00 +0000

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

By: Gail Bajda

Gail Bajda — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 21:54:43 +0000

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.

By: Shawn

Shawn — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 15:03:33 +0000

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!

By: Lori

Lori — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 05:59:42 +0000

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

By: Lorraine

Lorraine — Sat, 04 Apr 2009 23:07:26 +0000

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

By: Lynda

Lynda — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 02:05:22 +0000

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

By: Cory

Cory — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 01:39:01 +0000

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

By: vanessa

vanessa — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 02:17:01 +0000

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!

By: Liz

Liz — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 01:57:21 +0000

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)

By: DIANA

DIANA — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 06:06:52 +0000

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

By: Frances Henshaw

Frances Henshaw — Mon, 09 Feb 2009 02:14:58 +0000

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

By: Kathy O.

Kathy O. — Sun, 08 Feb 2009 17:12:33 +0000

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.

By: Joshua Ludlow

Joshua Ludlow — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 19:38:32 +0000

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)

By: PatW

PatW — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 00:58:39 +0000

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

By: Bonnie

Bonnie — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 04:51:04 +0000

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.

By: Brenna S.

Brenna S. — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 23:53:07 +0000

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.

By: Carla

Carla — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 01:00:10 +0000

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.

By: Alexandra Ortiz

Alexandra Ortiz — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 21:24:08 +0000

I forgot the link. Here it is: http://www.indigo.org/rainbowbridge_ver2.html

By: Alexandra Ortiz

Alexandra Ortiz — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 21:22:55 +0000

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

By: 3hungrydogs

3hungrydogs — Thu, 25 Dec 2008 14:30:30 +0000

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.

By: Beth

Beth — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 20:31:51 +0000

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…

By: Angie Koenig

Angie Koenig — Sun, 21 Dec 2008 05:55:52 +0000

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.

By: Pamela Fraser

Pamela Fraser — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 05:15:17 +0000

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

By: Elizabeth

Elizabeth — Fri, 19 Dec 2008 22:35:08 +0000

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

By: ALEX

ALEX — Thu, 18 Dec 2008 14:15:11 +0000

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.

By: Linda

Linda — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 04:35:46 +0000

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.

By: Debra

Debra — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 20:41:11 +0000

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.

By: annette

annette — Sun, 14 Dec 2008 21:38:36 +0000

My Heart is breaking …I can’t see the keyboard to type.. God Bless You….I will never forget this…. never

By: Dena Abrams

Dena Abrams — Thu, 11 Dec 2008 19:59:31 +0000

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.

By: Mary Walley

Mary Walley — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 07:21:25 +0000

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.

By: Carra & the Oakwind Corgis

Carra & the Oakwind Corgis — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 17:29:35 +0000

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

By: Mim Aiken

Mim Aiken — Fri, 28 Nov 2008 04:43:54 +0000

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

By: R Weston

R Weston — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 03:30:39 +0000

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.

By: Pam

Pam — Sat, 15 Nov 2008 17:07:35 +0000

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!!!