I am continually overwhelmed at how much the Traipawds community loves and cares for its companions. Calpurnia was blessed with an amazing family, and I can say what I've said to others here before: If I were a dog, I'd want to be in this pack.

Shari

Another leader has left to lead the rest when time comes. My heart cries with you. Thank you for all your wisdom.

Thank you all for your very kind words and thoughts. I am humbled by the love I feel from the Tripawds community.  Calpurnia has met so many people in her life, it is so wonderful to hear that she had such an affect on some of them. 

As much as my heart aches and misses my girl, I have absolutely no regrets about decisions we have made along this journey, and more than anything, I feel so very blessed for having been a part of Cali's life and making her golden years the best they could be. 

Kami- I am so sorry for your loss.  Each time I read through the forums and find another tripawd has crossed the bridge, I feel such sadness.  So many wonderful dogs have blessed the humans that haunt these forums.  It is a wonderful gift from Jerry, Rene and Jim to have created a community where we can support each other and share our experiences.  And to celebrate the gifts our canine family members bring us.  I hope you find peace in your heart.  Your experiences with Mackenzie will keep her close to you, and will surface to help you in times to come when you least expect them.  When you think of her unexpectedly, smile – she is right there with you.

I am sad, but I am at peace.  I am so blessed to have been able to witness Cali's aging from a vibrant head-strong Princess, to a teacher, to a Coach, and into her old age that many dogs (tripawd and otherwise) don't get to experience.  Cali traveled thousands of miles of trails doing what she loved, had a fanatastic winter filled with adventures in Alaska, and had a pack that adored her.  I could not possibly want anything more for her, and I will cherish those memories of the adventures we had together, and the quiet mornings just hanging out listening to the world wake up together forever.

And I know that the next time I have to face the end-of-life with a loved one, Cali will be there, along with my Angel Pack (Bizzy, Turbo, Trout, LilBit, Sunshine, and the rest) to help guide us with our decisions and eagerly reunite with their friends.

Hugs to all of you.  My thoughts are with those of you moving through this process.