My Gentle Giant

Bruce, our Newfoundland dog, had been limping and developed a lump on his leg. When we were able to take him into the vet we sadly found out that he had bone cancer. The tumor had eaten away a huge part of his leg bone and the vet told us there really wasn't much that could be done for him. She explained to us that the pain he felt would be like someone breaking or fracturing their leg without pain meds but ten times worse. So on December 29^th, 2014 at 2:30 pm we said our last goodbyes to our sweet boy.

From the time we first brought him home 7 ½ years ago he gave us nothing but joy. Bruce was definitely a Gentle Giant. He never bit anyone or even growled at anyone. A true gentleman he was, with not one mean bone in his body.

Bruce looked up to his sister Maggie who is five months older and would lie by her side whenever she wasn't feeling well. Maggie keeps looking for Bruce around the house in hopes I’m sure that she'll find him.

One time my hubby and I were wrestling on the bed and Bruce thought that Al was hurting me. He jumps up onto the bed and lies on top of my husband making himself very heavy, while staring into Al’s eyes. It was if he was saying, Knock it off buddy. He stayed there until he was convinced that everything was okay.

Always by my side, always greeting me with a big swooshes of his tail. Big sloppy kisses I will always miss.

So many times I'd be in the kitchen listening to music and dancing around. There would be Bruce dancing with me. I have to say he was the only 4 legged dance partner I've ever had.

So many good memories, so many good times. You'll be sadly missed by everyone’s life you touched Bruce.

Rest in Peace My Sweet Boy; you’ll always be in my heart.

You're giving me a special gift,
So sorrowfully endowed,
And through these last few cherished days,
Your courage makes me proud.
But really, love is knowing
When your bestfriend is in pain,
And understanding earthly acts
Will only be in vain.
So looking deep into your eyes,
Beyond, into your soul,
I see in you the magic, that will
Once more make me whole.
The strength that you possess,
Is why I look to you today,
To do this thing that must be done,
For it's the only way.
That strength is why I've followed you,
And chose you as my friend,
And why I've loved you all these years...
My partner 'til the end.
Please, understand just what this gift,
You're giving, means to me,
It gives me back the strength I've lost,
And all my dignity.
You take a stand on my behalf,
For that is what friends do.
And know that what you do is right,
For I believe it too.
So one last time, I breathe your scent,
And through your hand I feel,
The courage that's within you,
To now grant me this appeal.
Cut the leash that holds me here,
Dear friend, and let me run,
Once more a strong and steady dog,
My pain and struggle done.
And don't despair my passing,
For I won't be far away,
Forever here, within your heart,
And memory I'll stay.
I'll be there watching over you,
Your ever faithful friend,
And in your memories I'll run,
...a young dog once again.

Author Unknown