Curt's Best Shots Slideshow

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

WITH A SEVERELY BROKEN HEART

At this moment, I feel as if my heart has been ripped from my chest.  It is with indescribable  sadness that I let you all know I lost my beautiful Shotsy this morning.  He was suffering from breathing difficulties and was really struggling.  I rushed him to his vet and it was determined that he had a disease called Laryngeal Paralysis which causes them to struggle with breathing.  Because of his age (12 +) and few options for him, I had to say good bye.  He died peacefully in my arms as I cradled his head against my chest and held his paw.

Shotsy was such an amazing dog and was so much a part of our lives.  He was so smart and was so helpful.  He would pick up things that Jay would drop and hand them to him, he would carry groceries into the house from the car, and would even carry in the mail for me each day.  He was always so ready to please and he was such a happy dog.  I don't know what I'm going to do without him.

As you might imagine, I am devastated and my heart is broken.  All I've been able to do is walk through the house sobbing.  I just can't believe that he is gone.  But I wanted you to know because so many of you shared my dogs with me through this blog and I wanted you to know.  I also want you to know that I won't be blogging for some time to come.  I'm going to need quite a bit of time before I am able to resume.  I know you all will understand.  I'll miss you, but know I will think about you all.

REST IN PEACE MY HANDSOME BOY

80 comments:

Jackie said...

Oh, Curt, my hearts breaks for you. There are no words, but please know that you are in my thoughts and in my heart.

downrightcrafty said...

My heart goes out to you hun, big hugs
Kate xx

Myrna said...

Dear friend there are no words to convey how sorry I am for your loss.
He was such a part of your lives and he will be missed sorely.
Please know that you all are in my heart, mind and prayers.
Take time to heal but most of all remember the wonderful times you had with him.
Hugs
Myrna

ursula Uphof said...

Curt, I don't have words to express my sorrow for you. I am so deeply, deeply sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and sending you lots of loving thoughts. Take care, hugs, Ursula

Anonymous said...

Curt, with fond memories of Shotsy, your handsome boy, I write in humble sympathetic heart as my heart mourns with yours (even after four years of no Brownee)for all the times your walk through the house, sit near a special backyard resting spot or drive with the intentions of a walk close to favorite loop jounts whisk by through flash memory. cherish them. One day, soom enough, they will bring smiles of warm memories to replace the now necessary grief, loving loss tears packed with fullest emotion. Bless you dear friend, this is an important time for you and all of us who loved your Shotsy because Shotsy made life just tons and tons sweeter. How goes Gunther? He will need some strokes and hugs to share the missing you, Shotsy, tears.
You are a wise and tender man to have forewarned us some time in the past that dear Shotsy was starting to have sufferings. Those realizations help us all. Thanks for sharing. We'll be thinking of you at all times of the day and night, Curt. This is a special time for which we may support memories shared.
Keep Looking UP! mt23stamper

abusybee - DoubleClick Connections said...

I'm so sorry, my heart is just breaking for you. My thoughts and prayers are with you during such a difficult. Hugs to you.Carri~Abusybee

Rita said...

Oh Curt, I am so sorry for your loss. I know how much he meant to you but remember you meant so much to him too & he loved you so much...you took great care of him & showered him with love. Take time to mourn & we will all be here when you return. BIG loving (((HUGS))) to you from me!!!

Sharli Schaitberger said...

Oh Curt, that is terrible news! I cannot imagine your grief as I know you loved him dearly!! Take all the time you need - I will wait right here. Hugs. Sharli

mudmaven said...

Oh Curt! I am so sorry for your loss. I can't stop crying either because even though I never had the privilege of meeting this wonderful creature, I loved him. You need to take all the time you need to grieve and heal, you know we are all here sending our good thoughts and prayers your way. Wish I was there to give you a gigantic hug!!!! ~chris

Diane said...

Oh Curt, I am crying myself as I write this, I am so, so very sorry to hear this. This is a never ending thought of something I have to face someday again myself, and I can understand how your heart has been ripped out, I could go and throw up right now just feeling your pain...I don't even have the right words for you, and understand as when my golden retriever died in my arms, I spent days in bed afterwards mourning her death..take all the time you need my dear friend, and I am here for you, as much as I can be....thinking of you!

Brenda in IN said...

I am so very, very sorry for your loss. Our dogs are part of our families and we love them so much. I share your pain and you have my thoughts and prayers for comfort. Come back when you can. We will be waiting.

Ted said...

Oh, my dear, dear friend. I'm so very sorry for the loss of your "son". The Shotsy video helping with groceries remains one of my favorites. What a sweetheart!

I have no doubt that he is now playing and romping around with Jesus and that they're having a wonderful time.

You have my sympathies and my prayers, Curt. Take all the time you need and I'm just an email away.

Unknown said...

My dear friend, my heart aches for you... Take care of you.... Hugs xx

Gail said...

Awwww, HUGS.

terriavidreader (IN-USA) said...

So sorry to hear. It's like losing a best friend, will take some time to deal with it all.

Sue from Oregon said...

Oh such sad sad news Curt. My heart goes out to you, Jay and Gunther. I know what it feels like to grieve a beloved pet...it takes forever to come to grips with their loss. In remembering back, the sadness is always fresh, but do know that those wonderful memories of Shotsy will help you heal my friend. Big Hugs.

Sue K

Sue said...

Oh Curt, my heart is breaking for you. You were such a comfort when we had to say goodbye to our sweet girl and I knew you knew how I was feeling. Our fur friends become part of the family and our daily lives, and their passing takes quite a toll on us. I am so sorry to hear this sad news. Please know I am thinking of you.

Big Hug
Sue Drees

Karenladd said...

So very sad to hear this Curt. I only recently discovered your blog and enjoyed reading about your dogs and watching the videos. As a long time animal lover I know how special our pets are to us and it is never easy to lose one of our sweet angels. Take as much time as you need to heal and know that we are sharing in your sadness.

Alli said...

There are now words.
{{{hugz}}} Curt...

Unknown said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers will be with you till you return. Big Hugs.

Lorraine A said...

Oh my goodness, I am so sorry to hear this sad news :-( I am crying with you as I type through tears. I also know what it feels like and share in your sorrow.
Sending a huge hug to you Jay and Gunther. It will take time to grieve, but just know that he had a happy life and was very much loved. Remember the good times xx
luv
Lols x x x

Jan Scholl said...

If we as humans could treat each other with the love and dignity that you have shown Shotsy, the world would be more peaceful and bright. I know this hurts,I have done this over 30 times in my adulthood. I feel like my children have gone because that is what they are. But you loved him enough to not let him suffer and like you said, it was peaceful. We should all be so lucky. Hugs of plenty to both of you.

Peggy in Mentone said...

The sad news of your loss has brought tears to my eyes and made fresh the memory of the loss of my dear companion. In time....those same memories will bring a smile to your heart and face, but I know for now you are broken open. My DIL just had to put down her companion of many years and I found this writing...written as if from her dear Arial and I want to share it with you.
...........................
If it should be that I grow frail and weak, And pain should keep me from my sleep. Then will you do what must be done, For this "the last battle" can't be won.

You will be sad I understand, but don't let grief then stay your hand. For on this day, more than the rest, your love and friendship must stand the test.

We have had so many happy years, you wouldn*t want me to suffer so. When the time comes, please, let me go. Take me to where to my needs they'll tend, only, stay with me till the end. And hold me firm and speak to me, until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time you will agree, it is a kindness you do to me. Although my tail its last has waved, from pain and suffering I have been saved. Don't grieve that it must be you. Who has to decide this thing to do. Don't let your heart hold any tears.

We've been so close "we two" these years..
Hold only the joy of our time dear.

................................

I do not have your mailing address so I can not send you a card, but I wanted you to know that my heart breaks for you and my tears flow in honor of your pain. Take the time you need to grieve, it looks different for each and every one of us, but know we are here to support you.

Blessings and love to you, Jay and Gunther. Gather strength from each other.

BIG HUGS,

Peggy in Mentone
jasonw1 on Splitcoast

Peggy in Mentone said...


Dear Curt,

As so many above, my heart breaks for you and your loss.

I wrote this out already and I always seem to have trouble with my Google Account so I have no idea if the words were posted or not. (I had to change my email account)If so maybe you can choose which of my comments to post. I am never very good with coming up with the exact same thing that I have already written, so my comments may be different but both are heartfelt.

The following is a writing I found when my DIL had to put her dear companion of 15 years down recently. It is written as if it is the words they would say to you if they could!
................................
If it should be that I grow frail and weak, And pain should keep me from my sleep.Then will you do what must be done, For this "the last battle" can't be won.

You will be sad I understand, But don't let grief then stay your hand. For on this day, more than the rest, your love and friendship must stand the test.

We have had so many happy years, you wouldn't want me to suffer so. When the time comes, please, let me go. Take me to where to my needs they*ll tend, only, stay with me till the end. And hold me firm and speak to me, until my eyes no longer see.

I know in time you will agree, it is a kindness you do to me. Although my tail its last has waved, from pain and suffering I have been saved.

Don't grieve that it must be you. Who has to decide this thing to do. Don't let your heart hold any tears. We've been so close "we two" these years..
Hold only the joy of our time dear.
................................

I send Blessing and Love to you and Jay and Gunther. Take the time you need to grieve. It is an important step towards finding a way to smile when you think of him. Remember we are all here to support you!

BIG HUGS,

Peggy in Mentone
jasonw1 on Splitcoast

Anonymous said...

Oh Curt I am so sorry for you and Jay and of course your other doggie.Please take care.I hope you can feel the love out here and the genuine sadness for your loss.I dont know what else to say to you but we feel for you.Take care dear lad.xxxx

Elaine M said...

Oh hon! I'm so sorry - I've heard that the greater the love, the greater the sorrow....and we all know how much you love your boys. Prayers and loving thoughts are sent your way. Wish I could give you all big hugs.

Lorraine said...

Such a sadness I feel for you. Sending a hug for your family. xxx
Jersey Channel Islands.

Beth Norman said...

I'm so sorry for your pain. Keeping you in my prayers and thoughts.

hugs,

Beth

Joan Fricker said...

Curt, I am so sorry. Our pets are such a huge part of our families and hurts like the dickens to have to let them go. Do take care of yourself.

tilly said...

so sorry for your sad loss...... loosing any family member is always a heat-break. he was loved and well cared for, you will have lots of happy memories in the coming years to remember him by. It will become easier with time. God bless
Tilly

Bonnie Weiss said...

With a heavy heart, I send you my love. You are in my thoughts, dear friend ... may your tears be replaced with sweet memories of your sweet boy.

Carolina Girl (Cely) said...

I'm so sorry Curt. As I read your blog this morning tears just streamed down my face for your tremendous lost. He gave so much love and devotion. The years you gave him and the years he gave you are to always be remembered and treasure. Take all the time you need to sob, remember, reflect and heal. You were strong and brave to allow him to sleep and not to endure any more pain. He deserved and earned that. You put his needs before yours. We will all be here ready for your return. You are in my thoughts.

Anonymous said...

Oh Curt, I truly understand your loss. But please take comfort in knowing that he is waiting for you at the Bridge. It's a special place where the animals wait for their love ones to meet as the cross the bridge into Heaven. While there he will make knew friend, teach them some tricks and wait patiently for you. And he will be able to romp with any pain. Love to you and remember to hug Gunther as he is grieving also. And I know Jay will really miss his devotion.

Anonymous said...

Curt I am so sorry to hear of the struggle of Shotzy and am sorry for your struggle now. When I lost my furry family member it literally took me 3 weeks to get off the couch. I know this will be difficult so be kind to yourself and allow it to wash over you. We'll be here when you return. Hugs~

Debbie said...

My heart goes out to you! Hugs and take care!

Mary Ann said...

My friend Iam so sorry to hear about your loss.I know the hurt and pain you are feeling,I lost one also.To me he was not a dog,he was a lil people.My heart hurts for you,I will keep you in my prayers,Have A Blessed Thanksgiving!!!!

Sande said...

Sorry for your loss as our pets are just as much a part of our family as our human's.

Take what time you need to heal, as well as Jay and we'll all be here when your ready to return.

Marianne H said...

Curt, I am so sorry for your loss. my heart just breaks. I'm sure that most of us at one time or another have lost a best friend and can understand the pain you and Jay must be feeling. take care of yourselves.

Lauri said...

our hearts are broken along with yours curt....this is so difficult but know that our prayers are with you and Jay...take whatever time you need, I know first hand just how long it does take and Shotsy will never be far from you in spirit...

Ann Schach said...

Oh, Curt! I am so, so sorry. Take comfort in the fact that he has not left you. He lives on forever in your heart, and will be ready to greet you at the Bridge. Know that he still watches over you. Slowly, your tears will be replaced with smiles, as you remember the joy he brought to your life. Big hugs, my friend, not only to you, but to you, Gunther, Jay, and all that are affected by his passing.

lisa808 said...

Curt,
I am so very, very sorry for your loss.
Hugs, Lisa

Mary said...

Curt, I'm so sorry to here about your fur baby. As a pet owner, I know all too well how you feel right now. They give us so much love and affection. Gunther will need you more now, as he grieves the lost of his best friend too. Hugs to you and Jay. We will see you when you are ready to return. Mary

Heartwarmers from Vicki said...

You have my complete understanding and sympathy!!! We have had two dogs during our marriage and each time we lost one, it was heartbreaking for me. I am an animal lover and pets to me are FAMILY! When you lose a family member you need time to grieve your loss. It sounds like Shotsy was a very good friend to both of you!

Anonymous said...

OH Curt, My heart breaks for you! I had to do that this summer and it is one of the most difficult things I've had to do. They are family, they love us unconditionally (warts and all,) and forgive us immediately, and entertain us daily. I know this will be hard but know there is someone in Georgia who has you in her thoughts and prayers.
lyn

Sue G said...

I am so sorry for your profound loss, dear Curt. You and Jay have had a tough year, and I hope and pray that God will wrap you in a loving embrace and carry you through the pain. Love and hugs, Sue from KS

Anonymous said...

Sorry for your loss.

Shirley

mauihumv@gmail.com said...

I am heartbroken for you. It is so hard to lose our furry family members...I think harder than some people. They always love us unconditionally ...even when we are grumpy, mad, ugly, etc they always have a wagging tail and kisses for us. Keeping you in my prayers!

Glittered Paws said...

I simply don't have any comforting words except I am so sorry and I truly do know how you feel - we lost our beautiful Stella in June and we still talk about her almost every day. CoCo has helped ease our pain and she knew she had great big paws to fill and she does bring us smiles every day too but you will never forget your great guy. Hugs.

Krissy said...

Oh Curt, I am so sorry for your loss, my friend. Losing a pet is definitely like losing a piece of your heart. May you find comfort in beautiful memories.
♥Krissy

Anonymous said...

Thinking of you, Curt, this day of pre-planning and preparation Thanksgiving. I am so very thankful for your years with Shotsy and then Shotsy and Gunther, now, Gunther. These memories are super strong stack to the stars and back with hugs and puppy kisses...with a paw print or two for grand effects. Thank you for sharing so many walks with us through your blog. How easy it is to visualize the thumping of furry feet across forest paths alert to the next discovery.
Happy memories.
Keep Looking UP!

Patti J said...

Curt, I can't even begin to tell you how sorry I am. I know that your sweet boys are such a huge part of your life, and that there's a hole in your heart that will be impossible to fully repair. I can't even imagine how lost Gunther is. Shotsy knew how much he was loved, and he loved you right back. My heart hurts, and I'm typing with tears running. Our furry friends really do leave footprints on our hearts. You will be in my thoughts and prayers. Take all the time you need.....we'll be here.

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry for your loss. Hugs! nise

Sonja said...

Curt, my heart is with you, there are no words to help ~ but we all love you in a special way thanks for letting us in to your private world... I do understand the best I can , but only you feel what is in your heart... Time will help, but I pray He is always remembered... as a part of you and Jay ... He was an amazing dog bur he was also blessed to be loved by you...

Take time, heal, and know we all are here... Take care of your self please

Nancy said...

Oh Curt, I am so sorry for the loss of your dear Shotsy! Thoughts and hugs to you!

Unknown said...

Oh Curt and Jay, I am just now seeing this post and my heart is breaking so bad for the two of you as well as Gunther. Curt, you were my rock when Harley and I lost Ollie 2 years ago! Harley couldn't believe that a total stranger could be so kind, compassionate and caring for him, a total stranger. You cried with me through our e-mails and I just want you to know, I am crying for you for your loss now. I know how hard it is hun, walking through your house and still smelling him and seeing him and remembering him. You and Jay gave him the best life ever and he will forever remain in your hearts. God bless you both during this very painful time. HUGS

Lori Barnett said...

Hey Curt...I'm so very sad to hear about Shotsy. I know how much you love your babies...and it breaks my heart. I just want you to know I'm thinking about you and you are in my prayers. Miss you too dude!!! <3 (((((hugs))))

Celeste said...

Checking back in on you. I hope all of you are starting to heal from the loss of Shotsy. You all are in my thoughts! Take care, take time to mourn. Celeste

Linda said...

OH I am so very sad for you! Tears are running down my cheeks. I just can't believe it. Your house must seem so empty. You know that he was suffering and you were the best persons he could have had here on earth. Cry all you want. Try to find comfort in your wonderful memories.
Sending you big hugs!
Linda

Anonymous said...

Curt -
You are the person that Shotsy thought you were. Peace.
PJ

Anonymous said...

Aloha Curt! You are in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time! Losing a "pup" is just as hard as losing a human loved one. . . Do take care of yourself, Jay and Gunther too!

Karen said...

I understand and my heart aches for you. We had to let our 14 yr old Moose go this past spring.

Mary Ann said...

Just checking to see how you are doing,My prayers go out to you!!!take care!!!

Anonymous said...

Curt I feel so emotional for you even though I dont know you personally, I have taken such pleasure from your blog with all your tales about your dogs that I feel your sadness. hugs and love to you all xx

Shirley said...

How very very sad, Curt. I am so sorry for you and Jay. Thank goodness you have one another to help with your loss. This must be hard for Gunther too. If there is anything I can do from here, please let me know. Big hugs to all of you.

Robin said...

I know this has been a very sad holiday season for you and I hope you are able to feel he is in a better place where he doesn't need to suffer anymore. He's on the other side giving you warm licks.

Unknown said...

Curt,
First I would love to thank you for you comment on my frog card!!! Great comment! I am SO sorry for the loss of your companion! They are our children. I have two Bengal cats. Although, I have had a total four pass from various illnesses. The two I have now are so smart and awesome. Of course, they will never replace my prior departed! Their spirits never pass on and they live with us always in our hearts! I wish you much peace that that the new year can bring! Swing by and let me know how you are doing or become a follower; because I love your work! Take Care.

Becky said...

Curt,
It has been awhile since I have blogged or checked up on my blogging friends. And
I am just devastated to hear of your loss. I felt like he was part of my family in how you shared him with us on your blog. I understand your pain. When I lost mine I grieved for a long time, I still cry if I think of her she was so precious and that was her name "Precious"
I am so sorry
Hugs

Brenda & Ian said...

Happy 2014.

Tie to come back to us.

Mary Ann said...

Wishing you a Happy New Year,take care

Papier Creatif said...

Dear Curt,

It's with a heavy heart to read the loss of your special, Shotsy boy. The decision, with or without options, is always difficult and draining. Both your boys are special because you are. All that love you give to your family, and the love you gave to Shotsy is a huge reason why he was so cool and loved by us all. You are a touchstone in our digital community. Always creating and blogging with a happy heart. I feel sad that you are sad. And with everything going on in your life, recovering from your surgery and now this, I know it's difficult. I wanted to check in to see how you were doing . . . I HOPE that you are feeling a lot better - and that your Heart and Smile are healing. Warmly, Juls~

downrightcrafty said...

hi hun, lovely to hear from you hope you are okay :)
Hugs Kate xx

Lori Barnett said...

Hey dude....just checkin' up on you. Hope all is ok. Drop a quick email if you have time (((hug)))

Brenda & Ian said...

Hi Curt

We are missing you, especially your wicked sense of humour. It's there. Drag it out. Somebody out here is waiting for it.

Margaret said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. I know how you feel as I've lost 2 of my sweet indoor kitties this past year plus 3 of my outside kitties. It's so hard to say goodbye to them after they have taken hold of our hearts. Just remember that you will be reunited with Shotsy again one day when you can frolic and play together once again. HUGS to you and Jay. I hope your heart will start the healing process soon.

Unknown said...

Hey sweetie, just popping by to say I and to let you know I've been thinking of you!!! HUGS

Kathlene said...

Hugs and prayers for you Curt on the loss of your beloved Shotsy. I know how dear and special he was and that he greatly blessed your life. Your heart needs time to heal, so take the time you need but try to concentrate on all the wonderful time you did have with him. Hugs, my friend.

Krissy said...

We miss you and your creativity, Curt! Hope your heart is starting to heal and that soon you'll feel drawn back to your craft table!

♥Krissy

Jocelyn aka JoBear2 said...

Oh Curt, have only just seen your post! I am so sorry about Shotsy. Sending many ((hugs)) as your heart aches.

Jocelyn xx

Unknown said...

I miss you my friend!!!! HUGS and HUGS

Gina Wrona said...

OMG Curt, I can't believe it. I am so sorry that I didn't find out until today and that I wasn't there to comfort you. I've been dealing with the death of my boss and his son who were killed in their plane on November 1st when they were flying on their annual hunting trip to South Dakota for pheasant hunting. It doesn't feel real and I'm still waiting for them to come walking thru the front door in the office. At this point all I can offer you is that Shotsy will be waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge until the day you are reunited.