Saturday, August 13, 2011

A Tribute to Our Girl Rudi

Today was the day I'd been dreading for the last 56 days.  Today I held Rudi one last time, and sent her to the Rainbow Bridge. It was a hard decision, but was one made out of my love for her and compassion...

Rudi came to us from the rescue in September of 2003.  A homeless woman who lived in her car, had seen her in a shelter in North Carolina.   Rules were different at the time, and the shelter released the one year old Golden named Sandy to her. She had been returned to the shelter 3 times for her wild and uncontrollable behavior and was considered 'un-adoptable.'  She was renamed Rudi and in a car full of other dogs, she came to Virginia.  Not knowing her history, I agreed to foster Rudi because I thought that she'd be an easy placement.  She turned out to be anything but that.
~Rudi enjoying the cat-food~
There is so much I could say about the first months we spent together.  Rudi was an insecure dog with very high energy and never seemed to be able to focus on anything.  It didn't take long to figure out that others had not been as patient, and had mistreated her.  There were times that I doubted that I would be able to help her find her way or teach her anything.  There were days that I felt pushed to the edge by the seemingly uncontrollable dog that barked all the time who would jump up and nip me in the face.  She was always into everything.  Nothing left on a counter was out of her reach, the cat food was her favorite.  Medications seemed to have the opposite effect on her.  She couldn't be crated alone because she'd break out of them.  When many were telling me to 'give up' I just couldn't.  It was only because in my mind I had a vision of what she could become if given the chance. 
I have no idea when things started to change and come together.  I guess it was me that changed.  I stopped trying to fit her into a mold and just let her be herself.  Rudi had such a big personality, was very bright and was so eager to please.  She was very sensitive and was 'in tune' with my moods.  Rudi was a dog with great character. If dogs have a sense of humor, she had one and she loved to 'show off.'  She could always make me laugh.  When you asked her to do things, she would start barking at you or ramble on in high-pitched short barks like she was questioning you.  She always seemed to have an opinion of anything you did.  Her tail was always wagging and her eyes always sparkled with mischief and she would look at you like she had a secret that she wanted you to guess.
~Rudi (left) and Kasey--October 2009~
Rudi found mentors in Kasey and Wendy. When Kasey passed a few years ago, Rudi became the top dog in the pack. She took Kasey's place on the bed that first night and never slept anywhere else.  Her passion was the frisbee.  She was wildly crazy about it!!  From the start it was the perfect outlet that allowed her to get rid of all her energy and just be herself.
Rudi was more to me than 'just a dog.'  If I had to tell you all the things that she taught me, it would be hard to give you a complete answer.  She made me become a better person and a more understanding and patient dog owner.  To me, she was the essence of friendship, trust and pure unbridled joy and enthusiasm.  Life with Rudi wasn't ordinary, but then Rudi wasn't ordinary.  She was an affectionate dog that was my constant companion for 8 years.  I am going to miss her more than I've ever missed any dog.  Walks won't be the same.  Games of frisbee won't be as much fun.  Mealtimes will be quieter.  Life will be quieter.
God speed 'my little fruitcake.'  You will have quite a welcome when you reach the Rainbow Bridge...Waiting for you there are a three Goldens, Tod, Ben and Cougar that left us before you came.  But Kasey will be there and I know she'll be happy to see you.  Also there are Scout, Tosh, Tucker, Logan, Cubby, Cowboy, Maguire, Tanner, and Hamlet.  Give them our message and know that we look forward to the day when we'll see you all again.  I just hope there will be a frisbee there too.

114 comments:

  1. Oh, Kim, I was just wondering about her, when your post came up. I'm sure your life will be different for quite some time, and I am so sorry. I'm glad you had that extra time with her, that was such a blessing and I think she did it for you.
    Big Hug,
    Sharon

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  2. Rest in peace, sweet Rudi.

    Kim, our thoughts and prayers are with you and the golden pines gang.


    AROOOF!
    Boondocks and The Love Shack Pack
    www.theloveshackpack.com

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  3. What a great story and a nice tribute!! She was loved and very Happy!! We will all see our loved animals someday!! Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.

    Love
    Diana, Jazzi and Addy

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  4. Farewell, dear Rudi. When we take these animals into our hearts, we know that, someday, they will leave us. But, we take them anyway, and are richer for the gifts that they give us. Sweet Rudi, she gave you more than most, and received the love that she had always craved, in return. I'm sorry for your grief, dear Kim, but glad that you had her in your life for so many years.

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  5. O no !!!..what a terrible news darling...my thoughts and blessings are with you darling....big hug love from me...xxx..

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  6. What a beautiful tribute. I have had dogs with a sense of humor. I know exactly what you're talking about.

    I'm so sorry for your loss, but so happy that you and Rudi came into each other's lives.

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  7. i am SOBBING !!!!! kim, i am so sorry to hear about it...and even though you know it is coming...you are never, ever ready for it...oh...i have been down this path as well, my sweet friend...it just about did me in...literally. i felt dead...until teddy came into my life...this was a beautiful tribute to a very special dog...

    my blog friends have seen me through some very dark and sad days.. please know i am here for you anytime...you gave rudi a wonderful life...and rudi loves you for it...god bless you for giving this beautiful girl such a lovely life...for giving her a chance...

    please know i am thinking about your and send my deepest sympathy...

    sending love to you and everybody at golden pines...

    kary and teddy
    xx

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  8. What a terrible time for you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Rudi.

    You wrote a wonderful tribute to her. You gave her the things that rescue dogs need most, love, stability, time to adjust and understanding. And a few treats from time to time, we bet!

    Thanks for making her life so special for all of us that read your blog. We love you Rudi!

    Bella, Beth, Nala, Roxie and Mogley G. Retriever

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  9. We'll light our khandle later -

    AND will dedikhate tomorrow's leg to Rudi -

    My Golden Khousins insist upon it -

    And since the transport will khome through NC and VA, it is soooo fitting -

    Hugz&Khysses,
    Khyra and The Golden Khousins
    PeeEssWoo: One of the passengers is a pregnant momma - paws khrossed she waits 'til NJ Sunday night but the milk is flowing AND the Saturday drivers have seen the puppies moving!

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  10. Wow...Rudi looks like, and her personality sounds like, our Golden. Not trying to fit the dog into a mold -- a good thing for all of us to learn. Your post is a beautiful tribute to her.....so sorry for your loss.

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  11. Ooh, Kim I wasn't prepared for this post today, and my heart sank as I read the title.
    Rudi, a special, special girl, you'll be met at Rainbow Bridge by all of your fur friends and will continue to run and play pain free, with your beloved frisbee.
    Godspeed.
    {Hugs} Kim,
    ~Jo

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  12. Ever since you lost Hamlet and the vet told you to let Rudi go, I have been checking at least on a daily basis, just hoping that each time was not the time I would see a tribute to Rudi.
    I am so sorry. I know she was a very special heart dog to you. her personality was a little different than the average golden. Thankfully she had you to appreciate that uniqueness and allow her to be Rudi.
    So glad you had 8 weeks {to the day} of grace with her.. for both of you. I love the picture with her frisbee. I know that is how you will always remember her. I will miss her also.

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  13. This is our first visit to your blog. I was sad to here about the dog that was gotten rid of because of the bubble addition and accidentally scratching the little girl...it was an accident for goodness sake! Such a silly reason.

    I am so sorry for your loss. Rudi sounds like the joy of your life. I hope you find comfort in your many wonderful memories of time spent with her.

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  14. Oh Kim..I recently found your blog and so was very sad to hear about Rudi's passing! I remember you talking about her! :) I told my boys and hubby the story but said, see it is wonderful really because Rudi spent her days w/Kim and Carl at this great home! I can't help but cry when I think about how much you'll miss her! So very sorry she had to go! Love & Hugs, Robin
    Midey Roo and Athena too!

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  15. oh dear sweet rudi. may your spirit continue to shine. you found the perfect home here on Earth and you will find your perfect spot in heaven. you have loved and were loved - there is nothing more fulfilling that any of us could aspire to... peace, dear girl...

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  16. I know your heart is breaking right now for the loss of your crazy, sweet friend.Rest in peace Rudi.

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  17. That was a beautiful eulogy. Just from reading it, Rudi reminds me so much of Delilah. I always said Delilah was sent to us to teach me patience. :-)

    Our hearts are with you.

    God Speed Rudi.

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  18. Kim, an amazing tribute to a truly special girl. With so many Goldens sharing your life, its difficult for us to get to know each one as deeply as you. Thanks so much for sharing the story about just how unique Rudi was. Even though I am very sad for your loss, I smile at all those little quirk stories you shared with us about Rudi. Run free sweet girl.
    Say HI to Lady for me.

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  19. Kim, I don't know how you do it! You have such a huge heart for these dogs and you care for them and go through losing them ~ the hardest part ~ over and over and over again... But you carry on... continuing to love them and give unselfishly of yourself... You are a gem!
    Rudi, sweet Rudi.. are you the one that always took the dip in the pond? For some reason I think of the water when I hear your name.
    Kim, this is a beautiful tribute. I know so much more about Rudi now. What a sweet character she was! My prayers and thoughts are with you Kim.. I'm so glad the rest are there to comfort you and especially the young, playful Todd.
    (((HUGS)))) & Love from me and Gracie...

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  20. No time is good for something like this. I'm so glad Rudi was with you...enjoying the best life she could have had. Your tribute was perfect. I can't tell you how much I appreciate your respect and compassion.

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  21. I have no adequate words right now Kim to express what I am feeling but you know me well enough to know what is in my heart.
    You were Rudi's angel here on earth...you have been an earth angel to so many sweet "loved ones". There will be a veritable stampede across that Rainbow Bridge someday when your beloved ones see you coming!
    God bless you.
    Tina xo

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  22. Peace and comfort be upon you, Kim, and on yours during your loss of Rudi. I know that big, wonderful hunk of dog is laughing, grin widely evident, as she runs and cavorts with all her buddies over the Rainbow Bridge. I can only imagine her face when she meets my crazy sweet little Zoie Monga.

    Xoxoxoxox

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  23. God Bless, Kim! So sorry for the loss of Rudi! You wrote such a wonderful post full of love and I could only read half of it through teary eyes. Be strong and you are so right she will have quite a welcome at the rainbow bridge!

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  24. So sorry to hear about Rudi. I know she will be missed by all of us.

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  25. Kim, I am so sorry. Like everyone, we hoped for longer, but as you said, it was 56 days longer than we expected. Rudi certainly found a loving friend in you - who let her express herself in her own way.

    And rest assured, there are hundreds of Frizbee's at the bridge.

    My thoughts and prayers are with you.

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  26. Such a beautiful tribute to a special dog! You embody the true meaning of loving dogs, of seeing these amazing souls that bring so much to our lives! Rudi was truly a blessed dog, who lived her life loving you.....godspeed sweet Rudi, an angel in golden fur...
    xoxo

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  27. my deepest sympathies to you and your whole pack. i was hoping for more "days of grace" for you and rudie. please know that your sharing your story including recognizing and sharing those days - as painful as it was - was in invaluable tool to others to take the time to cherish each and every moment we have w/ our pups and others. at least it was for me.
    hugs and licks to you all.

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  28. My heart aches for you! Even when we know we're doing the right thing, it's still so hard to let them go. Rudi sounds like a one of a kind dog. I had one I had an amazing connection with, too, and sometimes I still miss her. You and Rudi were so lucky to have found each other and shared life's journey together. Our prayers are with you!

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  29. Oh, Kim ... my heart breaks for your loss of Rudi's love, affection and humor! What a joy for both of you to have had so much love!
    Hugs...

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  30. Thank you, Kim, for introducing us to Rudi with that beautiful tribute. We wouldn't have known him, but we are so glad you helped us to understand your life with him.

    My thoughts and prayers will be with you in the coming weeks.

    Kisses,
    Stella

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  31. So sorry Kim for the loss of your fur companion. I know how tough it is. There's no way to escape the tug at your heart. What a great tribute of words you gave to her. I can tell she was very special to you. Thinking of you tonight.

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  32. Our sweetest Kim and Carl
    With tears spilling from our eyes, we feel your sadness.
    As you lovingly said goodbye bye to sweet Rudi today, there now remains a hole in your heart.
    I wish there was some way to help with this pain.
    Kim I cannot express enough how beautifully you wrote Rudi's tribute.
    We felt like we sharred the Rudi moments as you shared her story.
    What a unique girl she was,,
    Your soul and Rudi's met half way, and the two of you meshed into one.
    Rudi was a "one in a lifetime girl", special is so many ways.
    You unselfishly gave Rudi the chance to be the "golden" that she was so deserving of. You gave her the love she deserved. You never gave up.
    Rudi is met by so many at the Bridge,, yes,, Kim,, its so true.
    I believe it with all my heart.
    She is running free,, and I know she is thanking you for listening and acknowledging - when she told you the time had come. You listened.. and unselfishly you said God speed.
    Your heart is hurting. We are with you Kim,,
    Once again,, I will say,.,, even Angels cry.
    We love you
    Tweedles and moms

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  33. I WAS JUST CHECKING BACK....I CAN NOT STOP THINKING ABOUT YOU....

    I SEND LOVE AND HOPE FOR A PEACEFUL HEART....


    KARY AND TEDDY
    XX

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  34. Oh Kim, I have tears in my eyes as I write this. God speed Rudi and I'm sending you a big hug Kim, I know you need as many as you can get right now.

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  35. I'm so sorry. I'm also so glad that you had this special time with her. I know how much it meant to both of you. There must be a fantastic frisbee game going on across the bridge. It's a little late tonight, but we'll have a howl for her tomorrow.
    Sue

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  36. Love you, Kim. It's a difficult decision to do the right thing and let a pup go when it's time. Rudi sounds like the perfect dog to me and was lucky she found someone like you to just let her be who she wanted to be.

    Sending a big old hug your way tonite.

    Di

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  37. Kim,
    We are very sorry to hear the news about Rudi.
    She had a wonderful life in your care and we know she knew that.God's speed Rudi, until we all meet again, and what a glorius day that will be.


    Sheila, Bob
    Hamish & Sophie

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  38. That was a wonderful tribute to a beautiful golden.
    Our deepest sympathies.

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  39. Ah Heck you guys, so much loss, so much pain. so much love.

    We don't know what to say.

    Just know that we are thinking of you and Rudi and peace and joy and hearts full of love

    Bert and My Vickie

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  40. I didn't know you for long, dear Rudi but you captured a piece of my heart. I shall miss your sweet face.

    Kim: I am deeply saddened by this news. My love and prayers are with you. You gave Rudi a beautiful and loving send off.

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  41. What a beautiful tribute to a loved member of the family. And what a testament to your love for her that you stopped trying to mold her and instead let her be who she was. You are truly a special woman, Kim.

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  42. Rudi was a very specil companion . She'll be missed in all sorts of places .

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  43. What a beautiful tribute. What a wonderful life you gave her, just by not giving up. We know how much she'll be missed.

    XXXOOO Daisy, Kendra & Bella

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  44. What a story, what a character, and what a great life Rudi had with you. She was a once-in-a-lifetime golden and you were her once-in-a-lifetime Mom. Thank goodness you found each other!

    Her last days of grace have been so special, with those extra games of frisbee and extra love and cuddles.

    Godspeed Rudi. Love and hugs to you, Kim.

    xxx

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  45. We read about Rudi on Khyra's blog an anted to stop by and pay our respects. What a beautiful tribute to a dog who was clearly very precious to you.

    Woofs, Purrs and Neighs,
    The Poupounette Gang

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  46. I know your pain, and I am sending you my condolence.

    Trudi, mommie Lady(senior), Sandy Paws and Oliver

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  47. "...Grieve not, nor speak of me with tears...laugh and speak of me as if I were beside you...I loved you so...'twas Heaven here with you." JP

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  48. I am so sorry. Even when we know That Day is looming, it is still so hard when they must go on, leaving us behind.

    What a lucky girl she was, to find her way to you!

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  49. I am sooo sorry about Rudi. Losing one is never easy, and having to make the decision to help them along is so hard. Rudi was so very lucky to have had you!

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  50. Woof! Woof! Oh KIM so sorry to hear about the passing of Rudi. Glad Carl was back home. Rudi had a wonderful life with you and such a wonderful gift with all the things you've mentioned. Lots of precious memories that Rudi will be remembered. Sending everyone Lots of Golden LOVE and Golden Thoughts. Lots of Golden Woofs, Sugar

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  51. We PURRomise that there will be a never-ending supply of frisbees for Rudy and for every-doggy who wants to play with one. I am so very, very sorry about your losing Rudy. There just aren't enough years to spend with someone you love.

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  52. Beautiful post and tribute to Rudi!
    Sounds like she was your "heart dog".
    There always one that seems to find a hidden place in your heart.

    You're an angel, Kim!

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  53. reading this thru streaming tears but couldn't not say... love to you and thoughts of comfort straight to your heart.
    i had to do the same for my zeke who died last sept of cancer. he was hemorraghing inside. he looked just like wilf.
    someone actually said to me,"well he was just a dog."
    he was not. he owned half my heart. the other half is still sad and misses him daily.
    god bless you kim and your kindness to these magnificent fur people.
    tammy j

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  54. We helped our little Sally Mae cross the rainbow bridge exactly one year ago. Reading about dear Rudy broke my heart. It was her time to go dear Kim, and you were brave and kind enough to be with her to the very end. So difficult - so heartbreaking. *Hugs*

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  56. We are so sorry that we didn't get to know Rudi. She sounds like she was a real character. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you. Godspeed Rudi!

    Love ya lots,
    Maggie, Mitch and Sue

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  57. What a great remembrance! Rudi was certainly a special girl and clearly won her place in your heart. Thanks for telling us more about her!

    Godspeed, Rudi.

    - Anne

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  58. What a lovely story about yours and Rudi's time together. Best Wishes from someone with fond memories of a special Golden.

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  59. Dear Kim, I've read this tribute several times and finally decided to leave you a note. Such a wonderful story of Rudi's life with you, Iknow you both grew from eachother. I know you will see her one day at the bridge.
    Reading all the comments brought tears to my eyes, there is so much love surrounding you right now because of the love you have given to each of your dogs and to each of us. Wrapping my arms around you dear friend.
    Hugs, Noreen & Reggie

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  60. Dearest Kim, so sorry that this day had to come. Sending you warm wishes and big hugs. Such a fitting tribute, to a faithful friend. RIP Rudi. Sue x x x

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  61. Dearest Kim
    I am so, so sorry for your loss. I have come to understand how much Rudi has meant to the Golden Doggie Angel (You). It must be heartbreaking for you. Then again, I think of all those special souls over that Rainbow bridge - Maxdog included - and we know she is not alone.
    You too are not alone - we love you and share your sorrow.
    Sending lots and lots of love from across the waters...
    There is another beautiful star in the heavens tonight.
    With love
    MAXMOM IN SA

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  62. Dear Kim,

    That was a wonderful tribute to Rudi. She really was a special dog. Thank you for sharing her with us through your blog. We will miss her too, but know she is in good company over the rainbow bridge.

    Thinking of you and your family,
    Riley (and his mum)

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  63. I am so sorry for your loss. Some dogs are just unforgetable, all in their own unique way. Rudi was very lucky to have you as a mom.

    Cindee and Golden 'Roxie'

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  64. there is alot of love here for you and sweet rudi...i hope it helps..it did for me...

    thinking about you today...and i wanted you to know it...

    sending love and comfort..God bless you for all you do...

    kary and teddy
    xx

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  65. I'm so sorry to hear about Rudi. She was so, so lucky to have you in her life. Now she's watching over you and hoping you continue to smile so she can see it. :)

    Lotsa woofs, hugs, and love for all of you. <3

    ~Bailey (Yep, I'm a girl!)

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  66. This brought tears to my eyes, Kim, and I'm not one to cry easily.

    Sweet dreams, Rudi. Say hello to Hamlet for me. :)

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  67. Really sorry to hear this, Kim. *Hugs*

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  68. You have our deepest sympathy on Rudi's loss. She sounds like a very special dog, who was much loved.

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  69. I am so sorry to hear that, Kim. I lack words to express my feelings right now. It hurts.

    If I could, I would give you a hug!
    Love you!

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  70. So sorry for the loss of your beautiful Rudi.

    We will miss her too even though we just got to know her.

    the 2 brown dawgs

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  71. I read about your loss at Khyra's, and I'm so sorry! Take comfort in knowing Rudi is running free at the bridge and playing patiently with all the others there, waiting to meet up with you again one day.

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  72. I am very sorry for your friend's passing. Rest in peace.

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  73. I know first hand how hard it is to have to let a good dog go.
    Take care

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  74. Miss Kim,

    Mom and I have no words to add that haven't already been said here. How wonderful it must have been to have loved so deeply, and to have felt that love returned to you.

    We know the night sky will be brighter having such a brilliant star added to it.

    We send our thoughts and our love to you and your family.

    xoxo
    ~sh~

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  75. Oh, man. I'm just reading this tonight. I'm so sorry, Kim. I really expected her to keep on a bit longer....

    Wonderful tribute to a wonderful dog. It brought tears to my eyes.

    Godspeed, Rudi.

    Take care Kim.

    -C

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  76. So sorry...I hate these awful decisions which have to be made. She'll always be with you.

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  77. Oh Kim
    We're so sorry to read about Rudi's passing. May her memories be with you always. With tears in our eyes and with heavy hearts, wishing you our deepest sympathy.

    Run free sweet Rudi...

    Soft woofs,
    Nadine & birthday girl Neeli

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  78. Hi Y'all,

    Our dear friend Mogley told me that Rudi had taken the walk over the Rainbow Bridge.

    I was going to gallop up there and put my big head in your lap to comfort you, but you have lots of real Golden heads around you and you'll always be missing that piece of heart Rudi took with her. I decided you didn't need my big Chessie head, so you're safe from invasion.

    Know, however, my paws are crossed and my Human is keeping you in her thoughts and prayers.

    Rooos and woofs,
    Hawk aka BrownDog

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  79. What a beautiful tribute to Rudi. Thank you from our hearts for all the loving patience you showed her, and the lfe you then shared with her. Bless you.

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  80. My thoughts are with you, Kim. It's always hard to help them cross the bridge, but, when you've worked with a rescue to come so far and bond so well, it's just plain hard.

    When I took Shane to cross the bridge back in March, I noticed when I got back in the car and composed myself a little that the leash I had used was the leash from the last dog I took to cross. At first, it made me cry, but, after sitting there holding that leash for a bit I realized that a lot of love had been exchanged between us and that his "last ride" was one of dignity and respect. I started to feel immediatley better and I even composed a slow air for all my dogs that I've had to take on that "last ride" as a tribute to them for all the love they have shared with me through my lifetime.

    When I tell someone the title of the tune that I just played, most tell me that it sad and a horrible title. I tell them it's about love, respect, and dignity.

    They obviously have never had the priviledge of a dogs unconditional love. It's them I feel sorry for.

    So Rudi, cross in love and peace.

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  81. So sorry for your loss of Rudi. She sounds like a terrific companion once you adjusted to each other.

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  82. What a truly wonderful dog, I wish I had met Rudi - I would have loved her.

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  83. What a moving tribute to Rudi. I like to think Fate sent her to you and I know how much you will miss her. I'm glad that you had such a treasured time to say goodbye. Knowing that this time is coming doesn't make it one bit easier. I'll be thinking of you.

    And yes, I'm positive there is frisbee for Rudi.

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  84. Checking in ton see how you're doing...

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  85. I can hardly write through the tears, what a wonderful tribute to a special dog. Just like kids the ones that give us the most trouble are closest to our hearts

    Carol

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  86. RIP Rudi. Your best buddy Kim, introduced me to you. Showed me and told me a lot about you. She's pretty special isn't she my friend. Yes, they do have frisbees there. You will have unlimited energy and can play a day long. Cya...

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  87. So saddened to hear about Rudi. She looks so lively and vibrant in her early pictures. I can see how she really declined with her health. Blessings to you and the rest of the goldens, also to our newest little guy, Todd.

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  88. There are no words to express my sorrow for you & the loss of your beloved Rudi.I am still not over the loss of my collie due to lung cancer back in 2007,but he always still makes me smile when I think of his curious spirit.May God wrap His arms around you tightly,phyllis

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  89. sob sob...cry cry
    oh to love an animal and to be loved back so largely
    8 wonderful years....what a blessing
    here's a big big hug

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  90. Kim, I am so very sorry to hear this sad news. But what an amazing blessing and gift you had in Rudi. You are such an amazing person for having given Rudi the home she deserved in life - I love people who do not give up on seemingly difficult animals because there's always a cry behind.
    Blessings and thinking of you,
    Joan

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  91. Kim - I am so sorry for your loss. Rudi sounds like she was quite the funny and loving character! I'm certain she's watching over you from Rainbow Bridge.

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  92. hugs to you all at this time....

    Gill in Canada

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  93. such a loving tribute and a wonderful life that you cave Rudi~
    Big hugs to you all!!!!!

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  94. Sending you and all your sweet pups extra big hugs Kim! You gave Rudi a very good life. xo Catherine

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  95. Tears running down my cheeks, Kim. So sorry. You are a great dog momma and for that I'm sure Rudi et al will always be grateful!!

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  96. Kim, we just wanted to add our condolences to the many you have received. We're so glad that you and Rudi found each other and gave so much to each other. She had a rough start, but she ended her life the way we all want to - loved and cherished and appreciated and remembered forever. Hugs to all.

    Jed & Abby

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  97. Kim, I dropped by to see how Rudi was doing. I only read half your post and had to go and get some tissues, that has to be one of the most moving tributes I have ever read. I think we all have special dogs, but once in a lifetime we have an extra special dog, and Rudi sounds like she was yours. I lost my Piper 10 years ago now and have loved every dog since but he holds a special place and will never be forgotten, Rudi sounds so much like him so if she runs into a big ole flatcoat being very naughty up at the Bridge I'm sure they'll get on like a house on fire. Big hugs to you, run free at the Bridge Rudi, Di xxxx

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  98. I'm so very, very sorry about Rudi. What a good dog she was. I know you will miss her a lot. My eyes fill with tears. How we love our animals and how we hate to give them up. My thoughts are with you.

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  99. Kim, I am just catching up with reading blogs. I am so sorry to read this. I am so very sorry.....

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  100. Dropping off some woofs & hugs!!

    ~Bailey (Yep, I'm a girl!) <3

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  101. All your friends in bloggy land are surrounding you in love.....
    we are right there too.
    we are thinking of you... we hold you close
    love
    tweedles

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  102. love your story about Rudi!

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  103. What a wonderful story you and Rudi have had. I am so sorry for your loss Kim and I know how much you will miss your friend. Your kindness to your wonderful dogs always warms my heart as I read your blog. You are in my thoughts.

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  104. Hi Kim,
    I'm so sorry to hear about Rudi. What a beautiful tribute about a beautiful life. The extra time you had with her was a blessing. I loved the part where you said she always had something to 'say' about everything. My two collie girl pups are the same way, like a pair of mouthy teenagers at this point. Take care of yourself, I know losing one that was close to your heart is not easy.
    Tammy

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  105. Dear Kim,

    Your deep and profound love of Rudi, for being the lovable fruitcake of your pack, shines through like a beacon in your tribute. I'm so sorry that you had to say goodbye to her but I'm comforted by the fact that you and she had each other as best friends for 8 years.

    I can imagine how your heart aches for I've had a dog like Rudi go to the Rainbow Bridge. Please know that I (and many others) am thinking of you and trying to send you healing strength.

    Take care and hug all your other dogs, including your new generation, Todd.

    KB

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  106. So sorry to read this - amongst all of our beloved pets, sometimes one sits just that little bit closer to our heart than the others. Sending you healing hugs xxx

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  107. Kim,
    I'm so sorry to hear about Rudi's passing.
    She always seemed like the leader of the pack so to speak.
    Your tribute was beautiful as she was to you.
    My sincere condolences.
    Sending hugs to a very special and caring person.

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  108. It is always the ones who everyone else gives up on or thinks you should give up on that become the shining star of what dog is and who we as humans can become.
    Ben and the Fellas

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  109. So sorry, what a wonderful tribute to Rudi.

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Speak--I really enjoy your comments! Thanks for stopping by today!!