In loving memory of Koa

Our precious little Koa went to heaven today.  For the short time we had her, we showed her how much she was loved and let her know that she wasn't alone.  I know it was hard for her when she was separated by her mother and her 8 other siblings but we had plenty of kids (aka animals) to keep her company.  She was rowdy and loud on her first 2 nights of being here, but that's pretty common for most puppies being in their new home.  All she wanted to do when she was out of her crate was to climb onto our couch and be snuggled, which we allowed.  She was diagnosed with Canine Distemper but it didn't make any sense, seeing as her symptoms did not match.  She initially decreased in her appetite, then was vomiting, and had diarrhea.  We spoke with another vet and he believes that it was parvo, even though she tested negative for it.  With distemper, it's more common to see upper respiratory symptoms first rather than GI problems.  While she was hospitalized, she developed pneumonia which she really couldn't fight off even with the treatment she was receiving.  Although she got her first vaccination, we know that it's doesn't 100% protect her from the virus.  She was the runt of the litter and she unfortunately couldn't win this fight.  We are just glad that she is no longer suffering and that we were there for her till the end.  We miss her dearly and wish we could have done more for her.  Rest In Peace little Koa.  You will be forever loved.

The Rainbow Bridge Poem

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.

There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.

There is plenty of food, water, and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.

The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance.

His bright eyes are intent; his eager body quivers.

Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again.  The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together...

Author unknown