I started my blog 7 years ago as a way to share with my customers all the things that were happening in my studio.
My fur baby Gypsy was my studio buddy and constant companion, so she often featured in my blog posts in those early days.
Today… it just felt right to share her final chapter in a blog post here…. I hope you don’t mind.
It was with great sadness on Thursday that we said farewell to our much loved old girl. For 12 years she was my shadow and most faithful friend.
For a lot of self employed people, working alone can be very lonely, but I never felt alone or lonely in the studio… because I had my studio buddy right there beside me.
Gypsy was just 6 months old when my youngest child, Aimee, went off to school. From that day on it was just the two of us hanging out in the studio. I talked to her all day and she listened and wagged her tail.
She either lay at my feet or sat at the table and watched me.
As you can see in this photo above, we got another sweet dog in 2011, but our poodle Milly never really became a studio buddy. She was unfortunately more intent on destroying the studio, so she hung outside doing doggie things while Gypsy came to work with me!!
Gypsy often attended my classes in Melbourne or sat outside with her face pressed up against the window. It was usually my students that felt sorry for her and asked could they bring her in.
We had some pretty fun adventures too…
Like the time local government decided that removing other people’s junk they put out for hard rubbish collection was in fact against the law.
That didn’t stop us from junkin’…
We just used a disguise…. ‘cause a dog in a trench coat, hat and sunnies was not at all obvious [wink].
I swear that Gypsy had no clue she was a dog.
She was totally a house dog and never ever spent a day or night outside on her own. She wouldn’t walk on wet grass or even go outside if the weather was cold or wet.
She didn’t like other dogs either… she was 100% a people dog.
Whatever we were doing… she just joined in too.
Her undying love and devotion for me became apparent when our family had what we refer to as our ‘Annus Horribilus’ in 2008/2009.
The very short version goes something like this… due to a bone disease my pelvis became unstable and a surgery to correct that resulted in a shattered pelvis.
For 18 months I underwent bone graft surgeries to harvest bone from my hips to use to build a new pelvis. Unfortunately, each graft takes 3 months to harden so all in all, I spent 4 months laying flat on my back, another 4 months confined to bed and/or wheel chair bound, then 4 months non-weight bearing on crutches.
The entire time I was bedridden my faithful studio buddy never left my side.
She was indeed my best friend and we spent almost every one of her 12 1/2 years together.
We knew a few month ago that her health was rapidly deteriorating and she was succumbing to kidney failure.
Then two weeks ago the vet had ‘that talk’ with me.
I hoped that she would still be around for mid month when my parents would be visiting and our eldest daughter would also be home from Uni for 3 days. I know that is kind of selfish, but it felt like it would be a blessing if all of us who loved her could say goodbye.
As it turned out, Gypsy kind of perked up when my parents arrived. She was back to her old self and was interested in what was going on. She even went and got her lead for a walk… which hadn’t happened for quite some time.
She made it through to Wednesday too when Jess arrived home and we had a fun family day together.
But then on Wednesday night she became ill and by Thursday morning was quite distressed. The time had come to let her go.
How do you say goodbye to your best friend… the one that has brought so much happiness to your life.
Letting her go in peace and allowing her to be pain free was perhaps the best and kindest gift we could give her…
But it has torn our hearts out and still hurts so much.
Our sweet Gypsy will never be forgotten or replaced.
She was one in a million and we are blessed to have called her ours.
My craft room door is closed for now…
it feels too empty and lonely to be there without her!
I have tears rolling down my face, such a lovely way to say goodbye to your beautiful Gypsy, she will leave a huge hole, but remember all the lovely times you have had with her. I dread this day happening to my constant companion.
I think it is something we all dread Sharon and even when you expect it, it still rips a giant hole in your heart when we have to say our final goodbyes. I hope yours is a long way off yet. Thank you for your support xx
My heart goes out to you xx
Oh sweet friend…..I can totally understand and can empathize with the sad ache in your heart and painful void in your soul. It hurts. Deeply. Sorrowfully. Heart-wrenching. But know that heaven has another little angel to watch over you – and that she is now playing with my sweet Tessa, Kodey, Shiloh, and Brandy in fields of flowers at the Rainbow Bridge. We will all meet up with our beloved furbabies one day…. Praying for peace and comfort for you, Kerryanne. xoxoxo laurie
Your beautiful message of support and comfort was greatly appreciate Laurie. Thank you xxx
Dear Kerryanne…..i know exactly how you are feeling…
sooty was my companion day in and day out …sitting next to me in his little basket whilst listing stuff on ebay..
we bought him for my youngest son’s 10th birthday pressie…
my original blog “the pink poodle” was originated because of him really…(even though he wasn’t pink or a girl)..
He was 15 yrs old when i had to euthanise him some 3 months ago…(after my weekend away of all things..)
was in two minds to go to Singapore anyway cos of leaving him…
He had never been sick in his life, but this chronic kidney failure seems to be the “thing” with older dogs….
ALL i can say is it will slowly get better….we NEVER forget them…I MISS my little buddy beyond belief…
I think about him all the time, but I take comfort in the fact that he was loved…lived inside…like your doggie…did not like other dogs..
I think he was a bit of an “aristocrat”!~~ hate walking…just wanted to be attached to my leg and he was happy!~~
it would have been my late brother’s 65th birthday today…he was killed at just 33 yrs old…
so i think we just HAVE to TRY to put it all into perspective…
Its all hard…i hate it…(my neighbours had to say goodbye to their little 11 yo caboodle yesterday)…so it is horrible…
BUT kerryanne…just try to think of the positives this gorgeous doggie brought to your life and in the end, we cannot let them suffer..
in fact, i think we are much kinder to our animals than some humans who have to endure terrible suffering…
sorry raving on…but i feel your pain gorgeous lady…xxxx andrea
Oh Andrea… I’m sorry. I didn’t know you had lost sweet little Sooty. These beautiful fur babies enrich our lives so much and ask for very little in return. We are lucky to have had them, that’s for sure. Thinking of you too sweetie. Hugs xxx
Gypsy sounds like she was a truly awesome dog and best mate. I know the feeling of saying Goodbye to a dear pet. It is gut wrenching and lonely. She sounds similar to my pup who is Maltese/foxy. She hates being outside too long and getting her feet wet. Follows me everywhere,even to the toilet and waits outside. Like having a toddler follow you everywhere. You don’t forget them and the friendship and loyalty they show you. Always happy to be with you. I hope you will soon be able to go back to your crafting. I imagine it will feel strange for awhile. Hugs. xo
Yes I agree Anne, it is like having a toddler in tow for a great many years… but fun just the same. Thanks for your thoughts lovely xx
I’m so sorry for your loss. They become so much a part of our families. Stay strong.
Hugs
Gabbi
We are the lucky ones Gabbi, that have know the great joy a much loved pet can bring to a family. Thanks for your support xx
I am so sorry for your loss
Thank you Gloria xx
So sorry for your loss Kerryanne. It is hard to say good bye to our furry family members when they are done on their journey here with us. I understand your heart break and sadness. We had to say good bye to our little Molly just a little over a year ago. It was painful and a sad you cannot describe to anyone. Time my friend will help that is what I can offer to you. Time does not take the pain and loss and sadness away but it has a way of making the sadness more tolerable so you can move on. I am so sorry you are going though great loss. Hugs.
Kris
Thank you my friend. Yes, I know it’s a time thing and eventually I will settle and enjoy my precious memories of Gypsy without the grief filled sadness. I constantly miss her presence around me, but know that she is in a better place now and that is what I would want for her. I’m sorry that you lost your Molly. xxx
I’m sorry, Kerryanne. What a cute little, faithful friend. You must have lots of special memories. I hope they comfort and cheer you during this sad time. How special that she could be there for the family gathering. Thoughts and prayers to your family.
<3 Tamara
Thank you Tamara. I’m sure she knew and hung on that little bit longer. I appreciate your special thoughts xx
Kerryanne,
I am so sorry for your loss. I know how close we get to our fur babies. My current one is Pippin a rabbit, and who knew that they have personalities and can get so attached to you and you to them. She was acting a little odd yesterday, which scared me, but today is back to herself again. The joy they give/gave us is worth the pain of loosing them, but it is hard to let them go.
I pray for strength for you to get through this loss.
Blessings
Thank you Shelly. I hope your Pippin is okay now. xx
Kerryanne, I feel your pain. we lost our gorgeous Labrador Rosie in May this year after her being a part of our family for the past 13 years. We had to make the heart breaking decision for Rosie’s well being wether to continue treatment for reoccurring tumors.
Like you Rosie had been my constant companion after my youngest started kinder then school, it took me weeks after letting Rosie go before I could even open my curtains and let the sunshine in, there is not a day that goes by when I look behind me and expect to see Rosie. I believe she is still here in spirit as your beautiful Gypsy will be for you. I hope my gorgeous Rosie is at Rainbow Bridge with your beautiful Gypsie playing together.
Big hugs, Sue Holland.x
I hope they are too Sue. Thank you my friend… I feel your pain. We are greater for having had the pleasure of sharing their love. Hugs K xx
I am so sorry for your loss. The true blessing of our furry friends is that they are willing to share their lives with us. It is such a horrible thing to have to let go. I am sending you lots of love and warm thoughts.
That’s so sweet of you Helen and I greatly appreciate it xx
It’s always hard to say good bye to our four legged friends. It is coming up a year since we said good bye to our Ginger. At least you know Gypsy is at peace. Sending you hugs, Kerryanne. Christine
They leave us with such sweet memories Christine, as you well know. Thank you for your support xx
Oh Kerryanne, thinking of you at this sad time. It hurts when you have to say goodbye to a fur baby but at least you have lots of wonderful memories and the knowledge that your fluffy little miss is pain-free.
Sending you (((hugs))) across the miles.
Toni xx
Thank you Toni. I appreciate your sweet words of support. xxx
So sorry, Kerryanne. With love, light and big hugs.
Thank you for your support and spiritual blessing Anne-Lise. Love and light xxx
It’s a sad day indeed when not even Tilda can lift your spirits 🙁 My heart goes out to you. xoxo
Thank you for your kind messages of support this week Mary. They were greatly appreciated. I’m sure you’ll help me get my crafting groove back on this week. xxx
I remember your sweet little dog from the early blog days! My little dog passed away a few years ago too. I have yet to get another dog she was such a big personality no other could match. Big hugs to you and your family, a lovely tribute to a special little soul. xx
I remember your little girl Alicia. I’m sorry that she has passed too. They truly impact our lives and leave a big hole when they go. Thank you for your love and hugs my friend xx
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. What truly wonderful memories you have of her and you can be reassured that she had the most amazing life with you.
She was definitely one spoilt and much loved pooch Kathryn… and we were blessed to have her. Thank you for your support xx
I am so sorry for your loss. It is terrible when you lose your best friend/furry family member. May all the happy memories keep her with you.
Thank you Carol. Memories of Gypsy will always have a special place in my heart. xx
so sorry for your loss, kerryanne. hugs to you and your family:)
Thank you Lynn. We appreciate it xx
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Thanks for your love and support Jen xx
So sorry you lost your companion. Our furbabies have a very special place in our hearts. I had tears in my eyes as I read your post. It reminded me of when I had to get Lestat, my cat, put to sleep last year. He was 13 and like your sweet little boy, my constant companion. Sending you hugs from across the pond.
They do have a special place in our hearts Sue. I’m sorry you lost your Lestat too. Thank you for your kind words xx
I am so sorry to hear about Gypsy – it’s so hard to say goodbye to a faithful and constant companion. I inherited my son’s cat when he left for college – I took care of her and talked to her when I was home, but I didn’t realize how attached to her I was until she became sick. She was 14 and I think she had a happy life – but I was heartbroken for days – took me quite by surprise, so I can only imagine how you are feeling. sending you and your family warm thoughts
Thank you Suz. They definitely become an important member of the family and leave a big hole when they leave. xx
I’m so sorry for the loss of your little friend. Aren’t our pets just wonderful ?
They truly are Eileen and we are blessed to have them in our lives…. even if it isn’t long enough.
Thank you xx
Aww sweetie,
Gypsy truly was one in a million, I fell in love with her as soon as I met her and it was a treat to have a little fuss of her when she popped in to say hello during your lessons. She was your girl, such a bond, you were both blessed to have each other xxxxx. Love you honey xxxx
Thank you Vik. She was a special dog that was incredibly faithful and loyal. My life has been enriched for having her.
I appreciate your kindness and understanding this past week. Thank you my friend ~ Love and hugs xxx
I know how sad it is because when our dog, Peppy, was ready to leave us, hubby couldn’t have her put down; I had to do it. I called the local pound and they came and got him and were so sweet and gentle with him I cried. He was hubby’s dog…and the kids. I wasn’t raised with animals so I wasn’t as close to him as the kids or hubby. When hubby got home that night he cried and cried for hours. He missed him so. I could never do that again. It was too hard for me. I told him we could get another dog when HE could have her put down; I wasn’t doing it again. So I know how sad you and your family must feel. My condolences to you for losing your family member. Your heart will ache for a long time but you will see him again in the next life. I have absolutely no doubt about that.
Love, hugs and kisses for you this sad day, sugar,
Connie…across the pond.
It’s a tough thing to have to do Connie. I’m pleased that I hugged and held my old girl until she passed. It was heart breaking, but my final act of kindness and love for her at the same time. I’m glad you did it for your hubby. Thank you for your encouraging words of support sweetie. xxx
My dear Kerryanne, I am so sorry you lost Gypsy. My heart aches for you. I know that pain and it really hurts. May God help you through this. Hugs to a wonderful woman. Pat.
Thank you Pat. I appreciate your kind words of support xx
Sending hugs and prayers, my friend. Such a beautiful, heartfelt post, about a true devoted friend.xoxo
Gratefully received Rosemary… thank you xx
Oh my dear Kerryanne, I am so sorry for your loss. Gypsy looked so much like our Lily. We are sending lots of love your way, Kerryanne!
Thank you Victoria… that’s sweet of you and much appreciated xx
Your memorial to Gypsy is filled with love, Kerryanne. We had a little dog like her once; actually they could be sisters. She was the best pet we ever had, and passed at about the same age. Your story of Gypsy sounded like our Schotzi. I still miss her almost 15 years later. Pets encrich our lives so much. Thank you for sharing this with us; I hope it was therapeutic for you. I know how much it hurts. Gentle hugs ~ Nancy
Thank you for your hugs and sweet words Nancy. I know you can relate and I’m sure you still miss Schotzi. These sweet dogs leave us with such treasured memories. xx
I’m so sorry for your loss. I know how our pets become members of our family and especially so for Gypsy, it seems ~ what a sweet, sweet dog! I can tell she couldn’t have been more loved or had a better life than what you gave her!
Ah yes, spoilt rotten JoAnne, but she rewarded us with such love and loyalty. I’ve had many dogs over the years, but Gypsy was quite possibly the sweetest natured dog I’ve ever owned. Thanks for your support xx
Although I am in America and have never met you I am so very saddened to hear of your loss. I have been through this 3 times spanning the past 33 years with my Golden Retrievers and my heart goes out to you in your season of grief.
Thank you Jan. You know the pain well, but I guess we are lucky to have had such joy from these faithful friends. I appreciate your support from across the ocean xx
So sorry, they are more than friends, what a wonderful gift she gave to you and you to her.
Gypsy left us with years of happy memories Pippa… and for that we are so grateful. xx
No words…. *sniff-sniff*,,,,,,,xxxxxxx’s
Thank you for your show of support Kim xx
So sorry for your loss…I know it is almost like losing a child. Animals are God’s special gift to us.
Yes they are a gift Jeanette and for many of us they become such an important part of our families.
Thank you for taking the time to leave a comment xx
I have tears running down my face knowing exactly how you feel. We had to do the same to our much loved poodle “brandy”. He was 18 and a half years old. He went everywhere we went. I am so sorry for your loss Kerryanne. I hibinated for a week after he was gone. He’s been gone a few years now, never replaced him and still miss him.Shirley N.Z.
Wow Shirley… 18 years. Gee those poodles can be long lived. I hope our Milly makes it that far.
Thank you for your kind words and support xx
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of your faithful friend, and my heart goes out to you.
Thank you Laurel… much appreciated xx
Oh my dear Kerry, just coming back from holidays, I’m so so sad for you. The only pain our so sweet four legged animals do is to leave us too much early. We never have to say goodbye, because they always live in our mind. May be I can say something about Milly, she could not find her place because Gipsy was there. You will be surprised about the changes she will occur now. I just have the case : I had two cats but so unfortunately I’ve lost one of them in June. They couldn’t love each other (I never had that case before) but now Pitou who was a little far away from us is now so so closed that’s heaven ! She wanted to be alone (I already knew that but I have the proof now). I always had poodles and I can say that they are so so intelligent that you will be surprised ! and poodles have a very long life too.
Many kisses and hugs from France
Joëlle
I am SO VERY SORRY for you loss Kerryanne!!! My thoughts and prayers go out to you during this time and I am heartbroken for you. I lost my little Molli last July and it still hurts. She also lived to 12 1/2 years and I too wondered how I could live in a world without her. l pray that your heart is comforted by the fact that she had the most amazing life with you and you were the best mommy to her. Sending you love, hugs and prayers from Texas!!
What a beautiful companion – she’s gorgoeus !
I’m living in absolute dread of this moment – my Soda Pup is getting older.- 14 years old………
So much so that I’m sick about going on a cruise in October – it’s only a week but I’m terrified
of not being here if something happens……….
She is also my constant companion – and I too have photos on the blog with her in disguise !!!
My heartfelt sympathies Kerry Anne –
Rest in Peace little Gypsy girl –
xoxoxo
Kerryanne,
My daughter has a little dog named Jimi who looks just like your little Gypsy. They could be twins. I call her dogs my grand dogs and could’t love them any more than if they were my own. I dread the day she has to make the sad decision you did, but know that sooner or later it must come. Pets are like family members and your Gypsy was definitely your family. I, too, am sitting here with tears running down my cheeks for you, and also for the day that sad time will come for Jimi.
Thoughts and love go out to you.
.
As I turned to your website for ideas, I read about your heartache and your loss.
Through the years I have had this same loss and I understand your broken heart. My nine year old Sheltie, Simba, was my last loss which was the most heartbreaking. My daughters were married by then and Simba came to me at seven months old after neglect and abuse. We instantly bonded and stayed that way until he had kidney failure. I held him in a hospice style room at her end at our wonderful vet’s. I was so blessed because Simba, who was also part puppy, took such good care of me and my soul. It took two years before I again took in a puppy of eight weeks old. Sheba, who is now 5, is my Alaskan Malamute, 125#, mostly black with a huge white tail and paws, and a face of a panda bear. We adore each other as you have with your puppy (they are always “puppies” to me), and I dread the thought of losing each other. Knowing the love of a puppy such as you have is a wonderful feeling to God. I believe our little ones play at the gate until they hear us come… then raise their ears, wag their tails, and run to meet us for eternity. I will pray for your loss and hope your wonderful memories bring you peach.
Dianne Meck, Lorain, Ohio
I was so grateful to read about your dear Gypsy. Just one week ago today, we took our sweet Linus – who looked a great deal like your Gypsy – to the vet for his final chapter. He was 14 and a half and also had kidney failure. Some dear friends sent us a condolence card which read, “In life, the best walks are always too brief.” I hope that brings you the same blessing that it brought us.
it broke my heart to read your blog. My Buddy looks exactly like your Gypsy. he is 11 1/2 years old and is my shadow. I love him so much I can’t think about what life will be like without him. He is laying at my feet as I type this. Please know that Gypsy is waiting for you somewhere. Your love made her life better too. As long as she lives in your memory, she’ll never be gone. with my understanding and deepest sympathy. cindy and buddy
Oh I’m so sorry for your loss, i’m in tears reading about your Buddy Gtpsy and I understand how you are feeling. I had to put my sweet girl Midnight of 15 yrs down 3 yrs ago and my heart still aches. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t think of her and miss her dearly. I know one day we will meet again… Here is a poem to share
A Loan From God
God promised at the birth of time,
A special friend to give,
Her time on earth is short, he said,
So love her while she lives.
It may be six or seven years,
Or twelve or then sixteen,
But will you, till I call her back,
Take care of her for me?
A wagging tail and cold wet nose,
And silken velvet ears,
A heart as big as all outdoors,
To love you through the years.
Her puppy ways will gladden you,
And antics bring a smile,
As guardian or friend she will,
Be loyal all the while.
She’ll bring her charms to grace your life,
And though her stay be brief,
When she’s gone the memories,
Are solace for your grief.
I cannot promise she will stay,
Since all from earth return,
But lessons only a dog can teach,
I want you each to learn.
Whatever love you give to her,
Returns in triple measure,
Follow her lead and gain a life,
Brim full of simple pleasure.
Enjoy each day as it comes,
Allow your heart to guide,
Be loyal and steadfast in love,
As the dog there by your side.
Now will you give her all your love,
Nor think the labor vain,
Nor hate me when I come to call,
To take her back again?
I fancy each of us would say,
“Dear Lord, thy will be done,
For all the joy this dog shall bring,
The risk of grief we’ll run.
“We’ll shelter her with tenderness,
We’ll love her while we may,
And for the happiness we’ve known,
Forever grateful stay.
“But shall the angels call for her,
Much sooner than we’ve planned,
We’ll brave the bitter grief that comes,
And try to understand.”
To you my heart goes out. You see we too Have lost not only our beloved cricket but also too our cat suki this month. As I sit here we now have our last and my dearest companion in surgery at the vets today. I truly understand and am in tears for you as I still am feeling our loss. I wish you love and blessed thoughts.
Oh KerryAnne, I’m so sorry for your loss. I have a Bichon, a Bichon-poo and a Maltese. I love them all but my Gracie is just the same as your Gypsy. She follows me everywhere and has been my best friend from day one. When you work from home it does get lonely and their companionship can mean the world. Gracie is now 9 and I get worried even thinking about ever losing her. I know your heart is breaking but at least she is no longer in pain. God gives us such blessings with dogs, it’s just so sad they are only with us for a short time. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.