Over the rainbow bridge

Born: March 11, 2005 | Over the rainbow bridge: March 26, 2020

There’s a whole mountain of hurt in our hearts as we process the fact that Maddie, our alpha dog of 15+ years, is no longer with us in the chestnut forest. The tumor (benign) in her bladder had finally grown to the point where it was interfering with normal bodily functions, giving her the sensation of constantly having to pee. She was always in discomfort due to the exertion of trying to relieve herself and therefore was prescribed pain medication by her vet. This helped her to sleep most of the day and night, but when she began refusing water and food, we knew that it was time to end her suffering.

As she was taking her last breaths, a lifetime of memories with our beloved Westie ran through my head. She has been with us on all vacations here in Italy and beyond its borders if it didn’t involve boarding a plane. She liked cats (even if they didn’t like her). She bossed Mister Bentley but if I went anywhere near him with the vacuum cleaner, she’d growl at me. She wasn’t just a pet even if I use the category of pets. She was a family member, a source of comfort and amusement, an absolutely willing travel partner, and above all a good ‘big sister’ to Mister B the dachshund.

I’m sure that after we’ve pulled through the current world crisis, another bouncy, four-legged and waggy-tail member will join our family. We would like the new addition to come from the local kennel. I think Miss Maddie would be rightfully pleased if we welcomed a friend in need to a furever home.

Poolside in Provence 2018

Let’s play ball!

Hugs with Mom

On a hiking trail

Snow day

With a Scottish friend

Barking at silly sheep

Westie cheese gourmand

Hiding in the lavender patch – 2007

Chatting with pizzeria dog

In the French metro

Baby Mister B – 2008

Just over a kilo and 1/2