IN LOVING MEMORY OF ....

BILL FERN

A very generous donation was made by Dale Anne Shaffchick (former ABRL coordinator for PA) with this note:


“In Memory of Bill” What can I say, but that he was a very good friend and an ambassador for the Bouvier des Flandres breed. I got to know Bill & Jan through doing Bouvier rescue for the past thirteen years. He loved the Bouvs just as much as I did. And even though I worked for ABRL and Bill worked for Second Chance Bouvier Rescue, there was never a time that when I picked up the phone and called that Bill didn’t drop everything and get in his vehicle and go get the Bouvier that needed our help. We helped each other out all the time. He even helped me with the Bouvier mixes. THANKS BILL!!! You will be definitely missed. I hope God has you in charge of the kennel “up in the sky”.

NANCY OUSNAMER

Feb 23rd, 1948 - Oct 2nd, 2006
Memorial Service 10/21/06 at St Pauls Episcopal Church - Romeo, MI

On February 23rd, 1948 God decided to bless us all with the birth of Nancy Ousnamer. Nancy was destined to be the guardian and protector of God’s little friends. She grew up loving and taking care of all animals large and small. She was the voice and advocate for those that could not talk and could not defend themselves against the cruelties of mankind. Nancy used to tell everyone how blessed she was to have met and fallen in love with her husband, Paul. How many men do you know of that would allow their bride to take a Bouvier on their honeymoon - well, Nancy did. She always told everyone that without Paul, she could never have accomplished her dreams.

I met Nancy about twelve years ago. She was already doing Bouvier rescue and had been boarding and caring for dogs for about thirty years. Nancy’s husband, children, family, friends and dogs always came first - Nancy always took care of herself last. Nancy was my best friend, my confident, my mentor, my “adopted” sister. I felt like I had known her all of my life from the first moment I met her. Nancy, Paul, my husband and myself decided to start our own rescue on August 1st, 2000. This was the turning point of my life. Nancy had a zest for life, and did everything in her power to try and make everyone else’s life better. When it came to an animal in need, Nancy wore her heart on her shoulder. She had the wisdom and the compassion to make a difference - and what a difference she has made. Everyone that knew Nancy, or knew of Nancy loved her. When some of her boarding clients passed away or were permanently hospitalized, Nancy and Paul took in their animals and gave them love and a home for as long as they were blessed to have them. On many occasions and at all hours Nancy and Paul would get calls from people that needed to have their dog transported to the vets office because they were sick or dieing and needed immediate attention or had to be euthanized and the people were not able to do it on their own. Many people made arrangements that when their pets passed away that they would be buried at WarBar Farms, their home away from home, a place they loved to visit and the place they wanted to be their final resting place.

I can remember vividly one whole month that Nancy and I had spent trying to catch a Bouvier in one of the worst neighborhoods in Downriver Detroit. We spent every weekend and every evening following this Bouvier trying to catch and save her. We ran around in the middle of the night trying to live- trap, bait, coax, catch her with a net, but to no avail. We even tried sedatives mixed with cooked liver. The only thing that happened is that the seagulls swooped down and gobbled up the “drugged” food - and Xena the Warrier (so we named her) eluded us again. We always laughed about the poor seagulls flying around in a stupor wondering what had happened to them. As bad as the neighborhood was we were not afraid because we were on a “mission”. There were so many midnight rendezvous - too numerous to mention but all very special because we did them together.

As tragic as Nancy’s leaving us is, we all have nothing but wonderful memories to look back on. There will never be another person able to even come close to filling Nancy’s shoes. She will be greatly missed, but never forgotten.

For her family and friends, my deepest sympathy. For myself my heartfelt gratitude to have been allowed her friendship, company and all the wonderful memories for what little time we actually got to spend together.

On October 2nd, 2006 when we all looked up into the night sky we thought we saw the stars, what we didn’t realize is that God had turned on all his porch lights to welcome Nancy home.

Rest in peace Nancy, you deserve so much more.

Your Friend Forever, Jan .

A donation has been made to our rescue in memory of Karlene Wacyk by Linda & Jay Taylor, Richmond, VA. Everyone at Second Chance Bouvier Rescue would like to extend our sincere condolences to her husband George Wacyk in Attleboro, MA.

A donation has been made to our rescue in memory of Karlene Wacyk (she was the ultimate animal lover) by Roxanne & Steve Sheppard, in Mechanicsville, VA. Everyone at Second Chance Bouvier Rescue would like to extend our sincere condolences to her husband George Wacyk in Attleboro, MA.

A donation was made by Elaine & James Brock in memory of the passing of Barleduc in October of 2008.

A donation has been sent by the Hamlin family in memory of Hogan, also a rescued Bouvier, who was very much loved by his family and their friend, the Rice family.

We would like to sincerely thank the Blue Water Bouvier Club for their very generous donation to our rescue in memory of the passing of one of their members Mother. In lieu of flowers, Darcie Livingston was compassionate enough to request that a memorium contribution be made in memory of her Mother, Betty Kerst. Please keep Darcie and her family in your prayers.

We received a very generous donation in memory of Patricia Saunders (Nancy Ousnamer's Mother, who passed away 10/30/05) from LuAnn & David Warren, Walled Lake, MI.

There has been a very generous donation made In memory of Paul Atkinson, a very valued and long-time customer of Paul & Nancy Ousnamer at WarBar Farm. Paul and his wife Chris adopted their first Bouvier Rescue from Edith Buck back in the 80's, her name was Coco. Coco only had one eye but due to the undying love and attention she received from Paul and Chris - still lived to be fourteen years old. After Coco's passing they adopted another Rescue, Brandy, from Maryanne Harvey in the 90's. We all called Brandy the "banana lady" because she had ironically enticed a whole bunch of bananas off of their counter and into her stomach. Since Paul and his wife, Chris, have both picked up their beloved Coco at the Rainbow Bridge, their daughter Laurie will continue to care for Brandy until she can join her Mom, Dad and Sister in heaven. Thank you Paul and Chris for loving and making a difference in the lives of our Bouvier rescues - and every heart you have touched. Nancy and Paul Ousnamer, WarBar Farm

A very generous donation was made by Maryanne Harvey in loving memory of Christine Paquette. Christine will always be remembered for how much she did for the Bouviers and for her kindness to all animals. We would all like to extend our sincere condolences to Elaine and Louise Paquette on their unfortunate loss.

"ANNIE FERN" (06/04/1998 - 01/26/2012) Her cremains will be laid to rest at Garden of our Little Friends - Westland, MI We rescued Annie from the Toronto Humane Society on 6/4/2001 where she was scheduled to be euthanized due to her behavior problems. Annie came with a tremendous amount of baggage. She had been beaten, burned with cattle prods, starved, had cigarettes put out on her belly and back and was just terrified of everyone and everything. Annie was a “fear biter” and as badly as she wanted to be loved and to cuddle, it had to be on her terms only. She did not demand attention and would just sit off in the corner watching everyone else get loved on and whimper because she was so starved for affection but didn‘t know how to accept it. We put Annie into an animal behavioral institute for an eight week program. The only way we could get her in was if we adopted her so that we could be trained with her. To everyone’s surprise, she made a fantastic turn-around, but only with us - she was still very leery of any strangers or strange dogs. Because of the extent of her prior abuse, Annie, would go absolutely berserk if you had a training collar on her or used any electrical appliances around her. We tried to desensitize her to electric clippers very unsuccessfully. When we took her in to be spayed they had given her enough sedative to knock out a dog ten times her weight and as soon as she heard the clippers running so they could shave her she came off the table like she was shot out of a cannon. Needless to say, I had to scissor cut her from that day forward. Annie was small for a Bouvier, she walked softly but carried a big stick. She was our matriarch, she decided she was the alpha female and there wasn’t a dog alive that was ever going to make her budge from that position. Annie used to run like the wind when she was in the yard, and was like the energizer bunny as far as her determination and resilience. Annie only feared two things: firecrackers and thunder. She could hear a thunderstorm twenty miles away and would pace and cry and drool and practically tear the door down so she could go into the utility room and hide behind the furnace until the storm was over. You didn’t want to be in her way when she was in route to her hiding spot because she would either go over you or thru you to get there as quickly as possible. Up until a year ago Annie was unstoppable, until her arthritis really kicked in. She took a nasty tumble down the stairs and hurt her neck and her back. For the past year Annie would not go up or down stairs unless she was carried. She had to be picked up and put on and off the couch or the bed because she was afraid of falling off. Annie just loved her Dad, Bill, to death. She was the only dog that ever slept in bed with him - she wouldn’t allow anyone else on her Dad’s bed. After Bill’s horrific motorcycle accident six years ago she would spend the entire day and night laying in bed with him and comforting him. When Bill went to the hospital for the last time and never returned Annie took a real turn for the worse. She would lay by the front door waiting for her Dad to come home, but he never did. For a month she couldn’t get up from a laying position without being helped and was in such pain that she would bite whoever was trying to help her. It got to the point that she couldn’t even stand long enough to go to the bathroom without falling down. So on 1/26/12, almost a month after losing her Dad, I had to make the heart-wrenching decision to let her go. I couldn’t let her suffer any longer - I owed it to her to let her go be with her Dad and all her rescued brothers and sisters that had gone to the rainbow bridge ahead of her. I held Annie as she took her final breath, as I have done for all my babies. She went quietly and quickly like the true lady that she always was. The many tears I have shed for Annie are tears of joy - that she is finally at peace and in a wonderful place with her Dad, where she will never be hurt again or misunderstood. Sleep peacefully my sweet girl, until we meet again. You will be in my heart forever. Love always, Mom, Mollie, Jake, Cody & Captain.

"BEAU FERN" 6-24-07 to 9-6-11 Buried at Garden of our Little Friends Beau was surrendered to our rescue on 7/2/11. Beau had never been socialized with other people or children, but got along fantastic with other dogs. The day I picked him up I had his former owner put him in my van because he didn’t want anything to do with me. When I got him home - he wouldn’t come out of the van, so I just pulled it into the yard, closed the gate and left the doors open so he could come out when he was ready. It took about an hour and a half - but Beau finally decided to come out of the van and check me out. Once he realized I was trustworthy he turned into my “Velcro Bouv”. I introduced him to my four Bouvier rescues that I adopted and everyone got along like they had known each other forever. Beau had a growth on his chest and he favored his left rear leg. When I took him in to be vaccinated and heartworm tested I had the lump aspirated to make sure it was a cyst as I had been told by the former owner. The aspiration came back showing “suspicious cells”, and we decided to have it removed to be safe. They had to do x-rays prior to surgery to make sure it hadn’t metastasized anywhere and I also had his left rear leg x-rayed at the same time. Come to find out, Beau only had three toes on his left rear foot. Supposedly the breeder accidentally removed one of his toes instead of his dew claw, at least that is what they were told. The x-rays showed that his entire left rear leg was deformed from the knee down. I found a toe nail growing out of the top of his foot so we decided to have that removed during the surgery thinking that was the reason he was lame. Beau came thru the surgery with flying colors and was actually using his left rear leg even though now he only had two toes. Three days after his surgery he only wanted to eat part of his breakfast and didn’t want his dinner at all, but continued to drink water and go outside. When I went to work the next morning I arranged for someone that Beau loved and trusted to check on him while I was at work. He was fine around noon but just wanted to lay in his crate and rest. An hour later I received a call letting me know that Beau had passed away. In shock, I rushed home from work, called our vet and brought him in immediately to see what had happened. My first thought was bloat because he went so quickly. Evidently the autopsy found that he had perforations and ulcers in his duodenum and it had ruptured. The poor baby had been suffering with ulcers and the perforations for some time before we rescued him. Thankfully the vet thinks he went quickly and with little to no pain in the end. We only had Beau for two months and four days but it seemed like he had been here forever. We decided not to adopt him out because we could not trust him around strangers and children and did not want to put him in a no-win situation. Beau found the toy box immediately upon entering our home and had the time of his life playing. All he wanted to do was to play, run, eat and most of all be loved. He was a great kisser and snuggler. As shocking as it was, I know in my heart that the short amount of time that he had with us was very special. We had him cremated and his urn will be buried at the pet cemetery along with all the other rescues that we adopted, loved and lost. I just wish we had known of his problems earlier and we would have gone to the ends of the earth to have prolonged his short life. Rest in Peace Beau - you were dearly loved and will be greatly missed. You will be forever in our hearts. Mom, Dad and your Bouvier brothers and sisters.

"CAPTAIN FERN" (09/16/2006 - 05/02/2019) Captain was surrendered to us because he was so obese and had a horrendous skin condition that made him smell so bad that you couldn’t be in the same room with him. I adopted Captain on 7/29/11, due to his medical problems he would have been deemed unadoptable and due to the extensive and expensive medical care and treatment that he would require. Captain went to a skin specialist and was put on a strict diet and was also diagnosed with hypothyroidism. Within a year he was down from 135# to a svelt 90#, was on thyroid meds, skin condition cleared up and good to go. Captain was the love of my life. Not a mean bone in his body. Loved everyone he met, two and four legged, and everyone loved him. You couldn’t have asked for a more devoted, even-tempered and spirited dog, than Captain. He was obedient, loving, compassionate, but could be stubborn when he wanted to be. Captain was my shadow and loved sleeping with me on my bed with my other two Bouviers, needless to say it was a tight squeeze. Ever since Stella passed away last September Captain started to act very needy and didn’t want me out of his sight. He could no longer jump up on the bed because of his arthritis, so I put his bed up next to my bed and that’s where he would sleep every night. Then it got to the point that if he was on his futon I would have to go and sit with him or he would cry, groan and grumble. Captain was never a needy dog and I found his new actions alarming. When I shaved him down I noticed how skeletal he looked, so I took him to the vet. He had gone from 90# down to 78# in one year. The vet ran all types of tests, x-rays, blood work, ultrasounds, etc. They found a mass on his spleen. I had an appointment made for him to see a specialist. Captain got even needier than he had been, it was almost like he was afraid to be alone. I suspected he might have been in pain, so I humored him and would go sit next to him and he would lay his head on my lap or snuggle up next to me and go to sleep. The evening of 5/1/19 Captain seemed to be very stressed. He was panting and anxious and just couldn’t seem to get comfortable. Because I had previously lost two other Bouviers to bloat I immediately brought him to the emergency clinic, just in case. They ruled out bloat, but said he was in a lot of pain and gave him pain shots and pain meds and told me to take him home and bring him to my vet in the morning. Captain cried and panted and groaned all thru the night. He was now unable to walk and would just drag his hind quarter around behind him. He didn’t want to eat, he just wanted to lay and be petted. The pain meds didn’t seem to help him. I sat up with him all night and called the vet first thing in the morning and brought him in. I noticed there was blood on my pant leg and shirt and didn’t know if it was from his nose or mouth. We had to bring him in to the vet on a stretcher, he couldn’t even walk. The vet checked him over and felt that possibly the mass on his spleen had ruptured because the blood was coming out of his nose and was more profuse now. Captain was definitely in a lot of pain and I had to once again make the heartbreaking decision to let him go. They gave him a pain shot while I was trying to decide and it was the first time in 24 hours that Captain seemed to be at rest. It tore my heart out having to let him go, but I did not want him to suffer any more than he already had. Captain had his head on my lap and never even flinched when they administered the final shot. I kept looking into his eyes and telling him I loved him but had to let him go. He looked back into mine and I swear he was saying “thank you, Mom”. I brought his ashes back home and put them next to Stella’s on the back of my bed. They both loved sleeping in my bed, but had been unable to for the last six months that they were alive. Captain is the 19th companion that I have had to help to the Rainbow Bridge. This is the first time in my life that I only have one dog in my house. It is very lonely but I do have hundreds of special and wonderful memories to keep me going. Rest in peace my beloved Captain, you are forever in my heart.

"CINDER FERN" (1978 - 1996) Cinder was found running loose, chasing a garbage truck. He was only a couple of months old and was so small he could have fit in the palm of your hand. He was the best babysitter. He would hop up next to a baby and the babies would run their fingers through his hair and they would both go sound asleep. Cinder went deaf and blind the last year he was with us. He finally developed vestibular degeneration and we couldn't let him suffer so we had to let him go.

"CODY FERN" (September 16th, 2002 – October 12th,)His cremains will be laid to rest at Garden of our Little Friends - Westland, MI. Cody was surrendered to us in April of 2006 and we adopted him to a family within weeks. Six months later we received a call from another Bouvier Rescue in Texas because they had taken him in and he had our rescue tag on him. We had no idea that he had moved and began making arrangements to get him transported back to us in Michigan. Cody hitched a ride in an RV of one of our friends and safely made the trip back to us. Even though I already had four rescued Bouviers of my own, I decided I would adopt Cody also. Cody was the love of my life. He blended in as if he had been here all along. He was a big boy, 120#, but as gentle as a lamb. Cody was the picture of health until March of 2013, when he just didn’t seem to be quite himself. I took Cody to a specialist and had a battery of tests and blood work done. Cody was finally diagnosed with Cushings Disease and was put on some very expensive medication. The medication seemed to do the trick for a couple of months. I brought my Dad up from Florida to live with us. He had Macular Degeneration and was unable to care for himself properly. Cody adored my Dad and my Dad loved him to death. My Dad was diagnosed with Pancreatic Cancer about the same time Cody was diagnosed with Cushings Disease. Cody gave my Dad a reason to keep living. Cody almost looked forward to me going to work so he could have my Dad all to himself. My Dad loved the other dogs but Cody stole my Dad’s heart. My Dad passed away in August of 2013, and Cody went downhill rapidly after losing my Dad. He kept sitting in his spot on the sofa just watching the door and hoping my Dad would come in. Cody would search the house trying to find him, but never did. It tore my heart out because there was no way I could comfort Cody or explain to him that my Dad didn’t abandon him, but he wasn’t ever coming back. Cody started acting out by eating things i.e. leather wallet, a cell phone in a leather case, a leather checkbook cover, shredding newspapers. Cody had never been destructive before, it was like he was trying to punish everyone for taking my Dad away from him. It was almost like he knew that my Dad was terminally ill and because he was also ill they could console each other in a way that no one else could. They both lit up the room with their eyes whenever they saw each other. Suddenly on Oct. 12th, 2013 Cody didn’t want to get up any more. He couldn’t seem to get comfortable and his breathing became labored. Thinking that he was possibly bloating we carried him out to the car and was going to rush him to the emergency vet. As soon as we got him in the car, he took his final breath, and went to be with my Dad. Cody had experienced so much grief in the last year of his life. He had lost Beau, two months later my husband passed away, a month after that we lost Annie, the next month we lost Molly, a couple months later we lost Jake, and the final loss was my Dad. Cody was the “perfect Bouvier”. Protective, dedicated, loving, stoic, never demanding of anything. Everyone loved Cody, and he loved everyone back. Cody was my friend, my confidante, my shoulder to cry on. He was always there for me. When we walked down the street he looked so regal and grand. People would stop their cars to inquire about him. The perfect gentleman and one of the best ambassadors for the Rescue. Sleep peacefully my sweet baby and take care of all your brothers and sisters that went before you. I am sure you are up in heaven sitting next to my Dad and taking care of him. Love always, Mom, Captain, Stevie and Stella.

"ELMO FERN" (01/10/1994 - 02/19/1997) Laid to rest! 02/24/1997 Garden of our Little Friends - Westland, MI Your stay with us was brief, but your memory will be with us forever. We were blessed with your companionship for only five months – but you left a major void in the hearts of all that had come to love you. It seems like only yesterday that we found you running loose in a waste water treatment plant. We rescued you with the intention of giving you a long, safe and loving home. We regretfully could only give you the safety and the love. We thought you only had a broken leg, and were horrified to find it to be osteosarcoma. You fought a very painful but valiant battle. With all the surgeries, chemotherapy, poking and prodding, you were an inspiration as far as your display of bravery and stamina. You amazed everyone when you were up and walking the day after amputating your rear leg and hip. We did everything humanly and financially possible to try to give you quality of life for the short time that we knew we would have together. You were worth every minute and every penny spent trying to save you. You were the "Gentle Giant" that we all loved and will cherish. You opened our eyes and hearts to rescue. Because of you we decided to start our own Bouvier Rescue and try to save as many unfortunate dogs as humanly possible. Your memory will live on through all of them. Now you can be with Tonya, Missy, Cinder and Sarah in a much happier place. Rest in peace. Love, Mom and Dad

"FRECKLES FERN" (07/04/1988 - 11/29/2002) Laid to rest 12/01/2002 Garden of our Little Friends - Westland, MI It seems like only yesterday during the midst of a terrible thunderstom that we heard a terrified wimper outside our back fence. Huddled in the corner on a pile of wet leaves was a drenched, cold and muddy ball of fur quivering in fear. Your color was unrecognizable – who knows how long you had been running loose. We took you in, bathed you and much to our surprise found out that you were the most gorgeous auburn and white Border Collie puppy we had ever laid eyes on. You had the cutest "freckles" on all four legs and we thought it was only fitting that we should name you Freckles. Just a little angel in need of a "forever" home and for someone to share his love with. We kept you with the intention of finding your owners, never imagining anyone could sleep had they lost you. Once you were in our house – you captured our hearts. You grew up to be one of the greatest of companions and love of our life. You welcomed every new rescue into your house, no questions asked. We loved you dearly and you will forever be missed by everyone who’s heart you have ever touched. With dread we always knew this day would come, but were never really prepared to lose you. You mystified all the vets, because you passed all the tests with flying colors, evidentally you were just too tired to fight it any longer. You were always our little tazmanian devil, always on the go. You never slowed down for a second, you just all of a sudden stopped. We tried everything to help you and would have continued forever, but you showed us that it was time to let you go. The last trip to the vet was the hardest. You were just too tired, and we just knew you did not want anymore tests. We couldn’t let you suffer any longer, so we decided to help open the gates to the Rainbow Bridge for you. We want to thank you for thirteen glorious and loving years. As hard as the decision was, you were very special to let us down gently. Now you can join Tonya, Missy, Cinder, Sarah and Elmo, who also loved you and are waiting for you in a much better place. You will be in our hearts forever – and we will be eternally grateful for all the wonderful memories and years that you let us share with you. We couldn’t have asked for anything more – you gave us everything you had, plus. Sleep peacefully, "Freckle Puss", we will love and miss you forever. Love, Mom and Dad

"GENTLE BEN FERN" February 24th, 1994 - January 8th, 2003 Laid to rest January 10th, 2003 Garden of Our Little Friends - Westland, Michigan February 24th, 1997 started off as a very sad, cold and gloomy day. We had just left the cemetery after the funeral services for our beloved Elmo. We went from the cemetery straight to Dr. Platz's to once again meet with Maryanne Harvey because she "just happened" to have a "big boy" that needed a home and that would hopefully mend our hearts after just losing Elmo. When we called to tell her that Elmo did not survive the cancer, even after the amputation and chemo treatments, she said "I know this is a bad time to bring it up, but we have this big boy in rescue that needs you as much as you need him, his name is "Knucklehead Ned". Once you came bounding out of the truck - we just knew that you were just what the doctor ordered. We signed the papers and took you home. For as sad as the day started, you turned it into one of the brightest and happiest days of our lives. During our ride home we decided that as stubborn as you were, that the name you had was definitely not "you". You looked like a big bear and were suitably named, "Gentle Ben". You turned out to be the best ambassador for your breed and for the rescue. We took you to all the functions and everyone fell madly in love with you. There wasn't a mean bone in your whole body. You loved everything and everyone and were equally loved in return. You were truly the love of our life and gave us so much pleasure. You were the biggest Bouvier anyone had ever seen and we used to laughing say that you had to be that big because your body had to try to accommodate the size of your loving heart. Your final day was very routine. We took you to the vet to have two fatty tumors removed and your teeth cleaned. You came through the procedure without any complications, or so we thought. We are still in disbelief that within a couple of hours of your return you developed bloat and after rushing you to the emergency vet, we lost you on the x-ray table. They tried everything they could to bring you back - but were unsuccessful. It was the worst case they had ever seen. No one knows why this happened and can only assume that the trauma of being sedated was the cause. We are still numb and heartbroken, and cannot believe that you have left us. We never even got to say goodbye. We would have gone to the ends of the earth and spared no expense to have you with us - but you were evidently needed at the Rainbow Bridge. Probably to lovingly welcome all the newcomers and calm their fears and protect them. How can we possibly thank you for the six glorious, loving years that we were so blessed to have you. Your loving memory will always be in our hearts and a day will not pass that we won't miss you terribly. We will be eternally grateful for every precious moment we were blessed to have you with us. We can only hope that we made as much of a difference in your life as you have in ours. You were our friend, companion, our love and we will never forget you. You brought smiles to our face when we were down and tears to our eyes with your "big wet kisses". We love you Benny - please remember that always. Now you can join Tonya, Missy, Cinder, Sarah, Elmo, Harley and Freckles who all loved you dearly and are waiting for you in a much better place. You have left us with so many wonderful memories, too numerous to mention - but we will always remember. Everything you had, you gave lovingly, willingly and abundantly - no questions asked. Sleep peacefully our sweet and gentle giant, Ben, we will love and miss you forever. Love always, Mom and Dad, Annie, Sam, Tuekah, Jake and Mollie

"GRETA FERN" (8/26/2010 - 1/24/2024) On 5/13/13 we picked up five Bouvier puppies, 3 boys and two girls (4 months old) and a 2yro female, all intact, all natural ears and tails. The breeder met us at our friends’ house because she didn’t want us to come out to her house. We didn’t understand why until we saw the puppies. They were all crammed into a crate, in the back of her pick-up truck, with no covering or shelter. When they arrived after their two hour trip in the blistering heat they all had heat exhaustion. They had dry feces and vomit all over their little bodies. The stench was horrific. We had to take the crates out and let them sit in the shade on the cool grass for a few minutes until their quivering little bodies could regulate their temperatures. We had to dump them out of the crates in order to give them a bath. They were terrified of the grass and squealed like little piglets when they touched it. Needless to say, we had to give them all a couple of baths before we could even attempt to transport them back to Michigan. As furious as I was with the woman, I had to bite my tongue and play nice because I knew she had a couple other Bouviers that I wanted to get her to surrender to us while they were still alive. It’s a good thing we did, because a month and a half later I got a call from her to see if we would be interested in four more Bouviers. Arrangements were made that a breeder that she knew in Indiana would bring me these four Bouviers. So on June 30th, 2013 we drove back to my friends’ home in Ft. Wayne, IN to meet the transporter and pick up our second batch of Bouviers from the breeder in Indiana that had gone rogue. We really hoped they would be in a little better condition – WRONG!!!! When the transporter exited her vehicle she was almost gagging. Thank goodness she had them in her crates because she had to stop on her way home to get her van detailed and crates washed before she got home. Evidently none of these Bouviers had ever seen the light of day. They were kept in an old garage with a dirt floor. The food was just thrown on the floor, whoever got there first ate, and the ones that couldn’t fight their way in - had to hope they had better luck the next time. They were emaciated, full of worms, dehydrated, of course unvaccinated or heartworm tested, filthy, matted messes. After bathing them a couple of times and loading them up in my van we were forced to stop at the nearest gas station and buy a bunch of car deodorizers, the smell was bad enough to bring tears to your eyes. We had to give them a little to eat and drink, but didn’t want to overdo it just in case they had Montezuma’s revenge on the ride home. As with the pups we picked up earlier, we had to dump them out of their crates again, to get them in their kennel runs. The foster Mom worked miracles with them. They had no idea how to eat or drink out of bowls. They would scratch the food or water out of the bowls and try to drink or eat it off the floor. Greta danced to the beat of her own drum and was extremely unsocialized. Greta’s first big break came in October of 2013 when she was adopted by a wonderful former “repeat offender” adopter of ours that also had a Labradoodle about the same age as Greta. They got along great. Regretfully, I received a call from the woman’s son letting me know that his Mother was taken to the hospital two months after Greta was adopted. Him and his wife had been going over to the house and taking care of Greta but could no longer do it. Regretfully Greta’s new Mom would never be coming home from the hospital. They kept the Labradoodle, but wanted us to take Greta back. Since it was a couple days before Memorial weekend, I told them they could bring her to my house and I would get her out to our facility as soon as there was an opening. Greta got along great with my other three Bouviers, it was just people she didn’t trust. Needless to say, Greta walked around my house all day with her leash still attached to her collar because she wouldn’t let me get close enough to take it off of her. Thankfully, when she was getting a drink I got close enough to step on the leash handle and could gradually work my way up to unsnap it. Greta was always skittish of everyone and everything, except other dogs. It only took her two days to learn how to climb my stairs. Once she realized that my other Bouviers went upstairs and slept on my bed with me, she was the first one up to get the best spot. Before she came, I had gone from six adopted Bouvier rescues down to three in less than two years. All were lost from cancer. I vowed I would not take on another for quite a while. Well, after a lot of soul-searching I realized that Greta needed me as much as I needed her. Greta was just a wild and crazy girl up until 2022. Surprisingly, she just dropped to the ground and had no control of her rear legs. Thinking she had a stroke I immediately took her to a specialist. They kept Greta for five days. They ran every test imaginable and could not find anything. They did a brain scan, EKG, x-rays, ultrasound, you name it – it was done. All the specialists were baffled. I brought her home with a Help Me Up harness. Greta was still unable to walk. For two weeks Greta was carried outside with the harness, held in the grass until she eliminated and then carried back in the house. When the weather was nice I would let her just lay in the cool grass and watch the world pass her by. Miraculously, one morning while lying in the grass, she got up on her own. She staggered over to the privacy fence and proceeded to walk the length of the yard using the fence as a support. She would have to lay down and turn around in the grass in order to stand back up and come back to where I was standing. A couple of days later she ventured away from the fence for support and was staggering around without any support. About a month later she was running around the yard with the other dogs like nothing had ever been wrong with her. Greta got very clingy after that. She would panic every time I was out of her sight. The only thing that I could think was that Greta had a blood clot that caused her paralysis. The vet agreed and she was put on Clopidogrel to prevent future blood clots. All went well until January of 2024. Once again Greta could not get up. I took her to the vets and they did all kinds of tests, bloodwork and x-rays. I brought her home to wait for the results of the tests. On January 23rd I received a call from the vet. They found two masses on her spine. A smaller one up by her neck and a really large one in her mid to lower back. They had an oncologist look at the x-rays and tests and it was decided that it was a very aggressive and non-operable cancerous tumor. They said she was probably in a lot of excruciating pain. This kind of explained why all of a sudden she had trouble going up and down the stairs and getting into my bed. I just figured it was arthritis or something. I had my choice of letting her suffer or doing the right thing. The next morning I gave her all her favorite treats, as many as she wanted, and put her on her stretcher and took her for the last time to the vets. Everyone at the vet’s office was in tears when I got there. I tried, unsuccessfully, not to cry because I didn’t want to upset Greta. I sat on the floor and cradled her in my arms and told her what a joy she had been to me, and how much I loved her and would miss her eternally. Greta was ready, she closed her eyes and went quickly. Almost too quickly because I wasn’t ready yet to let her go. It has taken me over two months to write this eulogy for my sweet Greta. She looked like and acted like a puppy up until a couple days before we said goodbye. That is the way I will always remember her. Greta was my 20th rescue that I adopted. I usually adopted the ones that had medical, physical or mental issues. So many of them were lost to cancer, one form or another. I have Greta’s cremains and paw print in my “Memory Cabinet” along with fifteen of my other babies that came and went before her. Greta was one in a million and I consider myself the luckiest person in the world to have been Greta’s Forever Mom.

"HARLEY FERN" (05/23/1987 - 06/19/2000) Laid to rest 06/21/2000 Garden of our Little Friends - Westland, MIIt seems like only yesterday that there was a knock at the door and someone had a little six pound Black Lab puppy that they rescued from his chains in an abandoned garage. Just a whisper of an angel in need of a "forever" home and for someone to share his love with. We kept you with the intention of finding you a home – but once you were in our house – you captured our hearts. You grew up to be the and the love of our life. You willingly welcomed every new rescue into your house and welcomed them with open paws. We loved you deeply and you will be forever missed by everyone who’s heart you have ever touched. With dread we knew this day was coming. You gave us a couple of good scares, but always bounced back. Thank you for letting us know that it was time to let you go. As hard as the decision was, you were very special to let us down gently. Many dogs have come and gone – there will always be a special place in our heart that only you could fill. Now you can join Tonya, Missy, Cinder, Sarah and Elmo, who also loved you and are waiting for you in a much better place. You will be in our hearts forever – and we will be eternally grateful for all the wonderful memories and years that you blessed us with your presence. We couldn’t have asked anything more of you – you gave us everything you had, plus. Sleep peacefully, "Booger Bear", we will love and miss you forever. Love, Mom and Dad

"JAKE" FERN (1/10/00 - 3/13/13) His cremains will be laid to rest at Garden of our Little Friends - Westland, MI We rescued Jake from Detroit Animal Control where he had been for quite a while with little hope of finding his owners or being adopted. We brought him into our rescue and put him up for adoption. We brought him from the farm out to Westland, MI to meet his possible new family. They took him for a walk and fell madly in love with him but decided he was bigger than what they were looking for and decided not to adopt him. For the short amount of time that he was at our home and with our other adopted rescues, we decided that he would remain with us. He looked so sad when the people he was trying so hard to impress left without him. I'm sure he thought he would be going back to the shelter. We loving nicknamed him "Jake - the happy humper". For some reason he would get so excited when he was around strange men that he would immediately "fall in love" with their leg. He never did that to women only men and inanimate objects. You couldn't have asked for a gentler soul. Jake was so loving and gentle to everyone. He gracefully welcomed every new rescue that we adopted and took them under his wing. He gave the softest kisses and just wanted to be close to you. Genetically Jake was not a purebred Bouvier - but we never told him that. Most likely he was a Bearded Collie on the outside - but a Bouvier on the inside. Jake had the most luxurious coat. He used to love to get bathed, combed out and blow dried and stand outside on the deck and let the breeze flow through his soft flowing hair. He would look around at everyone as if to say "eat your hearts out". Medically Jake never had any issues. He outlived four much younger rescues that we had adopted after him. The last six months that we were blessed with his presence he did have trouble getting up and sitting down. He had to be assisted when he got up until he was able to stand on his own and walk. Up until the day before I had to let him go his appetite for food, water and treats never missed a beat. When I went to bed I would carry him up the stairs and put him in his dog bed in my room and carry him downstairs in the morning so he could go out. If he was left downstairs when I went to bed he would wake up and cry until I came down to get him - he just didn't want to be alone. I knew his days were numbered but felt that until he showed signs of pain I didn't mind the extra care he required. The night before we said goodbye was just like any other night. He laid down in his bed and went right to sleep only to wake up a couple hours later showing he was confused and in pain. He could no longer stand up and just wanted to be comforted. I gave him some pain medication so he wouldn't suffer until the vet opened and I could bring him in. I vowed I would never let him suffer - he deserved to go peacefully. I held him on my lap just loving and comforting him for about four hours. As long as I was touching and talking to him he seemed to be at peace and not in any pain. I held him in my arms as the vet administered the final injection. Jake was ready - he never even flinched when they put the needle in. He gave a couple of deep relaxed breaths, closed his eyes, and peacefully joined his brothers and sisters that had departed before him. I will always miss and remember his warm loving brown eyes, his gentle kisses and his warm cuddles. Sleep peacefully, my sweet angel - until we meet again. Love, Mom

"KOKO FERN" 05/27/2002 - 02/02/2009 Was cremated and will be laid to rest at Garden of our Little Friends - Westland, Michigan We rescued Koko from the Huron Valley Humane Society on January 31st, 2002. Koko was an exceptionally tall girl weighing in at 70# and looking like she hadn’t eaten in a week. Normally we made it a point to adopt the Bouviers that we took into rescue that we didn’t think anyone else would want to adopt like the old, injured, sickly or unsocialized ones, but we bent the rules because Koko, for some reason, looked at us like she really needed to stay with us. Koko was all legs, and just full of herself, but there was just something about her that made us decide to go ahead and personally adopt her and add her to our rescue pack. She fit in beautifully - and even though she was our youngest Bouvier, decided to be every one else’s mother. After a couple months had gone by, we found out why Koko was meant to stay with us. Koko had a major medical problem and we had her in intensive care and on IV’s for a month. She had somehow gotten fungal pneumonia, causing her spleen to enlarge and engulf her other major organs. It was touch and go for the entire month. The specialists couldn’t figure out what had happened or why. Her auto-immune system was severely compromised and we had her on cancer fighting meds for the next four months. Somehow, she pulled through and we got her from the 53# that she went down to - up to her final weight of 132#. We had spent thousands of dollars - and she was worth every single penny. Everything was wonderful until Christmas of 2008 when we noticed that her neck was very swollen on both sides. I rushed her to emergency, they suggested I take her immediately to an oncologist, they feared she had lymphoma. Regretfully they were correct and chemotherapy was started that day. After the first two treatments miraculously we found out she was already in remission. Although she didn’t want to eat a couple days after each treatment - Koko was doing fantastic and was acting like her old self. After her fourth treatment, she didn’t want to eat and we took her back to the specialists and they put her on IV’s and gave her fluids. The next day she started to have nosebleeds so we rushed her back to the oncologist. Except for her nose bleeding she was active, alert and very loving when I left her at the oncologists. They were going to give her plasma the next day and I was hoping to bring her home. Koko had a major set back the next morning. The oncologist called and said Koko was going down-hill fast and it would be a good idea if I wanted to see her to come immediately. I broke all the speed records and when I got there I could not believe it was Koko. They had her propped up on pillows, packed in ice packs, on a heart monitor and on oxygen. Evidentally her auto immune system had completely failed and she was bleeding-out internally. I had to make the heart wrenching decision to let her go. I just couldn’t put her through anymore pain and suffering. I crawled into the cage with her and held her and told her how much I loved her, and because I did love her so much that I couldn’t bear to have her suffer any longer. Even though she was practically comatose I know she knew I was there because she gave me one of her soft little groans like she used to give me when I tried to get her to move over and make room for me to get into bed too. Koko went quickly and peacefully. We were blessed with Koko for six short but loving years. Everyone was always so impressed by her gentleness and loving personality even though she was such a big girl. Even the specialists remarked that she was one of the gentlest and most trusting dogs that they had ever worked with. Koko has left a tremendous hole in everyone’s heart that knew her and loved her. She was our friend, our companion, the love of our lives and we will never forget her. We are left with many, many loving memories I just wish there could have been more. Sleep peacefully our loving and gentle girl, we will love and miss you forever. Mom, Dad, Annie, Jake, Mollie and Cody.

"MISSY FERN" (1963 - 1986) We found Missy running down the middle of the highway during a blinding thunderstorm. We opened our truck door and she hopped right in. The poor thing was scared to death. We took her to the vet and found that she had been beaten half to death and had pinched nerves in her back and her teeth were all loose from being overbred and malnourished. Missy became blind and deaf about eight years prior to going to the rainbow bridge. Our Norwegian Elkhound, Tonya, was her eyes and ears for those eight years. When Missy went outside, Tonya went with her. When they were done, Tonya would bring her back to the door to come in. Missy had a stroke the day before we had to have Tonya put to sleep. They were put to sleep together and buried together.

"MOLLIE FERN" (06/01/2002) Her cremains will be laid to rest at Garden of our Little Friends - Westland,MI Mollie was found running loose in an apartment complex in the bitter cold of winter. She was taken in by a good Samaritan - who in turn called us to see if we were interested in rescuing her. Mollie was only about six months old when she was found. We received the call the same day we lost our beloved “Gentle Ben” to bloat, 1/8/02. When we got her she was just a bundle of excitement, a regular “energizer bouvier”. We took her to the vet because she limped terribly. Evidently both of her hip sockets were deformed and the only way to correct it would be with a double hip replacement. Because of the expense, we decided to keep Mollie as our own because we didn’t think anyone would want to adopt her. As long as we kept her weight down, her hips didn’t present a problem. Mollie was a small Bouvier but what she lacked in size she more than made up for in demeanor. Mollie thought she was a guard dog and would take on anyone or anything. She was an absolute love to the people and dogs she knew, but was an “in-your-face” dog to anyone else until she accepted you. She had a ravenous appetite and would eat anything that didn’t eat her first. On 12/21/11 Mollie decided she didn’t want to eat anything and was breathing rapidly. I knew something was wrong when she stopped eating. I took her to our vet and they did x-rays and it was recommended that we take her to Michigan Vet Specialists for an ultrasound - which I did immediately. Regretfully we found out that Mollie had histiocytosis (a rare form of lymphoma/cancer) and it was inoperable and incureable. We decided to put her on chemo pills because other than her loss of appetite and rapid breathing she was the picture of health. We knew we were not going to have her for long but wanted her to have quality of life for as long as we could give it to her. Mollie regained her appetite and her breathing slowed down and she was back to her old self with the help of the antibiotics and medication. Mollie did great until the day before her fourth chemo pill when she decided she didn’t want to eat again and her breathing was rapid again. I took her back to see the oncologist and it was decided that she had given it her best - but the cancer had won - she had masses in her lungs, spleen, liver and kidneys and her lungs were filled with fluid. As hard as she tried and as much as I loved her I had to make the unselfish decision not to let her suffer any longer. Mollie was almost ten years old but still looked like and acted like a puppy. It was a very tough two months for all of us. The day after Mollie was diagnosed my husband was taken to the hospital and put on life-support for a week - we had to say goodbye to him on 12/28/11. Then on 1/26/12 we had to say goodbye to our old girl, Annie. Now just short of a month since losing Annie I had to say goodbye to Mollie. I owed it to Mollie to let her go be with her Dad and other rescued brothers and sisters that had gone to the rainbow bridge ahead of her. As I have with all my babies, I held Mollie in my arms and lovingly talked to her until she took her final breath. Thankfully she went to sleep quickly and quietly - she was ready - I was not. As a very dear friend told me, “Whenever she thinks of the Rainbow Bridge she envisions a creek flowing under the bridge that is overflowing with the tears shed for the companions we have lost”. How true. Sleep peacefully my sweet Mollie, until we meet again You will be in my heart forever. Love always, Mom, Jake, Cody & Captain.

"SAM SAMMY FERN" (1992 - 2004) Laid to rest April 1st, 2004 Garden of Our Little Friends - Westland, Michigan On March 28th, 2004, we lost a big part of our heart having to say good-bye to our very special angel - Sammy. Sammy was a victim of years of abuse. A seven year old Bouvier that was locked in a metal shed without food or water, because his previous owner was incarcerated. When rescued - Sammy had maggots growing in his ears to the extent that he required two surgeries just to remove the decay and remaining maggots. His bottom front teeth were worn down to the point of constant bleeding from trying to chew his way out of the metal shed. Sammy was on deaths doorstep when he was rescued - he was skin and bones. He lived off the condensation he could lick off the metal walls and the rain that leaked into the shed. Sammy had been adopted out four times, only to be returned because they couldn't deal with his only imperfection - he was deaf due to the surgeries. The last adopter had him for a mere six hours and called us to come and get him. It was in the middle of a snow storm and we couldn't risk bringing him back to the farm, so we decided to take him home with us for the night, not knowing how he would get along with our four adopted rescue dogs. He was so heart broken from being abandoned so many times, we didn't want to traumatize him further by subjecting him to a two hour drive in a blizzard. When we brought him into the house, after being thoroughly checked out by our "pack", he immediately ran over to the couch, laid down and fell sound asleep. We didn't have the heart to relocate him again. Needless to say, Sammy adopted US on 2/6/99. Sammy was FINALLY home and we never regretted the decision for one second. Sammy was prone to ear infections, and a year ago he had a malignant tumor removed from his ear, knowing there was a possibility of it growing back - and it did. A week ago he underwent another surgery to remove this tumor, and everything went downhill from there. Sammy never fully recovered from the surgery or anesthetic. We had to keep him on tranquilizers in order for him to get any sleep at all. Sammy had lost his equilibrium and required assistance to walk. Just when we thought he was getting better he began having grand maul seizures. Not even the medication afforded him any rest or comfort. There was nothing that anyone could do to comfort him or take away his pain. We made the heart-wrenching decision to let him go and end his suffering. A mobile vet was called to the house to free Sammy from his suffering. It was as if Sammy knew he was leaving us, because ten minutes before the vet arrived, Sammy crawled as close to me as he could on his bed, nestled his head on my lap in my arms and finally drifted off to sleep. He was resting so peacefully that he never even stirred when the vet gave the injection. Such a noble and loving companion. He fought so hard to overcome the senseless abuse and neglect that he was previously forced to endure. Sammy was such a love and although he was deaf he could clearly hear all the love and fondness by gazing into your eyes with his big beautiful brown eyes. He held on as long as he could, never complaining about the lousy hand that life had dealt him. No matter what obstacle was put in front of him, he was determined to make the best of it. He was so grateful for any sign of affection and just wanted a family to call his own. We will be eternally grateful for the five short years that we were blessed with Sammy's presence - and can only hope that they were as happy for him as they were for us. Now there will be no more pain, no more abuse, only peace and tranquility for eternity. You can now run through the fields and romp and play and let the wind blow through your hair with your previous rescued brothers and sisters: Tonya, Missy, Cinder, Sarah, Harley, Freckles, Ben and Elmo. Sleep peacefully, my beloved Sammy, we will love, cherish and miss you forever. Mom & Dad, Molly, Jake, Annie, Koko & Tuekah Fern

"SARAH FERN" (1984 - 1996) Laid to rest 11/09/96 Garden of our Little Friends - Westland, MI We acquired Sarah by accident when we went to visit a co-worker on our motorcycle. While visiting his upstairs neighbor began beating his dog senseless. We told our friends that if they could get the puppy away from the neighbor that we would be more than happy to come and get her. After arriving home we received a call from our friends, they had little Sarah and were bringing her to our house if we still wanted her. After taking her to the vet we found out that she had every worm imaginable and she had nothing but kitty litter in her stomach. Evidentally she forged for what ever food she could get in her little mouth - and the kitty litter pan happened to have looked inviting. She was so shy and afraid that no one even knew we had her for the first six months. She turned out to be the most loving dog you could ever imagine. One evening she had a seizure and went into a coma. We rushed her to the vet and she was still alive, but there were no brain functions. After keeping her on IV's all night we had to make the decision to let her go. She wasn't aware of anything that had happend the last twelve hours of her life. She went very peacefully because they injected her while she was still in a coma.

"STEVIE FERN" (April 19th, 2009 – April 14th,2014)His cremains will be laid to rest at Garden of our Little Friends - Westland, MI. Stevie was surrendered to us along with his sister Stella on 9/6/12 (my birthday). While grooming Stevie I noticed a huge growth (the size of a grape) on the top of his left rear paw. I immediately took him to the vet and found out it was a basil cell tumor and had it removed. Because of the size of the tumor they had to make expansion-slits on both sides of his foot so they could safely close the incision with sutures. I’ll never forget the terror in his eyes when the vet first took him from me to be hospitalized. We ended up having to carry him into the back room because he was NOT going to let me leave him behind without a fight. He was so glad to see me when I came back for him after his surgery that he physically jumped up into my arms, wrapped his paws around my neck and held on to me for dear life, all trembling 88# of him. He sat on my lap, trembling and vocalizing all the way home. Such a loving and caring dog, not a mean bone in his body, but I could not leave his side. A few months later I found another basil cell tumor by his shoulder. Once again he had to go in for surgery and he reacted the same as he did the first time I left him. As friendly as he was with everyone he would not let anyone else take him anywhere on his leash. He would sit or lay down and he would have to be physically picked up and carried by the vet. After realizing how terrified he was of being abandoned again I made the decision that I would adopt him and his sister myself. I just couldn’t bring myself to putting him thru that experience of being abandoned ever again. Stevie was the picture of health until a couple of days before he was to go in for his heartworm test and vaccinations. He began to cough very deeply (like a goose) so I had the vet do x-rays suspecting the possible onset of pneumonia or some sort of obstruction in his throat. The x-rays did not look good, his right lung was completely clouded and I was referred to a specialist. Once again Stevie had to be left at the specialist’s office so they could run a battery of tests – he was not a happy camper. I picked him up three days later and they thought he had pneumonia, so I took him home with medication. For almost a week Stevie would hardly eat anything and his coughing continued to get worse. Now he was coughing up blood, sounded very congested and occasionally would have blood running from his nose. Back we went to the specialist and they put him on oxygen, took more x-rays, did needle aspirates of his lung and ultrasounds and kept him three more days. They said they had him off oxygen for two days, he was finally eating and was even going outside to eliminate, so I could come pick him up again. When I picked him up they said they suspected either lung worm (highly unlikely), severe respiratory infection, lung disease or lung cancer – but didn’t know for sure, so they ran more tests and put him on another medication. I brought him home again, he was eating like a horse, very active but the congestion, coughing and bleeding came back. I was beside myself because after paying the specialist over ten thousand dollars in three weeks, they still had no answers. The evening of the 14th, Stevie began acting very terrified. He was having a very difficult time breathing and just wanted to be touching me. I couldn’t leave his sight. I was so afraid he was going to strangle on his own blood or due to the stress he would bloat. I couldn’t put him thru anymore poking, prodding, going back and forth to the specialist. He had gone thru so much and still no answers. The specialist’s only answer was they still had no idea so if he got worse to euthanize him. I had to make the dreaded decision to let Stevie go, I couldn’t bear the thought of him choking to death or me not being with him in his final minutes. He willingly walked out to the van, jumped in and we headed for the emergency clinic. He was having such a hard time breathing he didn’t want to sit or lay down so my sister held on to him while I drove. He willingly got out of the van and walked into the clinic, still coughing and gasping for air. He just kept looking at me with those beautiful big brown eyes of his as if he was pleading with me to please help him. My heart was breaking but I knew that he didn’t deserve to suffer any longer. None of the medications were working and there were no definitive answers. When they took him back to prepare him they had to sedate him first because he was struggling so hard to breathe. When they brought him in for our final goodbye he was so confused and scared, but settled right down as I cradled him in my arms, kissed, hugged and petted him and told him how much I loved him as he took his final breaths. Just five days short of his fifth birthday and he was gone. Stevie was such a clown, so affectionate. He was always into something, but you couldn’t be mad at him because he always gave you such a “soulful look”. He was so bonded with his sister. They had to be touching each other or laying on each other whether they were awake or asleep. He was so inquisitive of any strange sound or movement, he was just amazed with life and wanted to live it to the fullest. He was such a joy to be around. Stevie brought sunlight and happiness to the gloomiest of times. Sleep peacefully my sweet angel. You will never be in pain or afraid of being alone again. You will be in my heart forever. Love always, Mom, Stella & Captain.

"STELLA FERN" (04/19/2009 - 09/25/2018) Stella was surrendered along with her brother Stevie in September of 2012. They were inseparable, always had to be touching each other. Because Stevie had a large basal cell tumor on his paw which required extensive surgeries I decided to adopt both of them – rather than break their hearts by separating them. Sadly Stella lost her beloved brother two years later from cancer. Stella was the “perfect” lady. She welcomed all the newcomers with open paws. She was my “little mother hen”. You couldn’t have dreamt of a better dog with a more perfect personality and demeanor. Stella never complained, never seemed to have a bad day – she just loved life to the fullest. In July of 2018 when she was going up the stairs I noticed an abnormal swelling on the inside of her right rear leg. I took her into her vet and had all kinds of test run and found out she had a soft cell sarcoma. Because of the location they felt that if she had her right rear leg amputated there was a 95% chance they could get all the cancer and she would live to be a ripe old age. The amputation was performed on 7/24/18, she healed quickly and she bounced right back to her normal self. On 9/23/18 , while giving her a bath, I felt a lump on the inside of her left leg in her groin area. I immediately contacted her vet and they did a biopsy and the cancer had come back. I was devastated and decided to bring her home and love her as long as I could keep her pain-free. Stella was up all that night and the following morning, obviously in pain. I was forced to make the dreaded decision not to let her suffer any longer and took her into the vet that morning and helped her to the Rainbow Bridge. She was so stoic, as if she didn’t want to let me know how much pain she was in, but once I learned the truth she just couldn’t mask it any longer. She walked into the vet’s office on her own, laid on the blanket with her head on my lap, looked at me with her soulful eyes and went very peacefully to sleep. There will never be another Bouvier like Stella. She comforted me thru the loss of my husband, father and three other Bouviers that I lost since I had adopted her. Had I even had an inkling that the cancer would have come back, I never would have put her through the pain or the amputation and recovery only to lose her two months later. Rest in peace my sweet angel. You are now with your beloved brother, Stevie, and all my other dogs that preceded you to the Rainbow Bridge. You are gone, but will never be forgotten.

"TONYA FERN" (1969 - 1986) We received a call in the middle of the night from a friend whose neighbor had a male and female Norwegian Elkhound and two puppies. Evidentally the owner got drunk and decided to shoot the dogs because they were barking outside. He shot the parents and the brother, but Tonya was smart enough to run under the man's brand new truck and hide. Our friends went over and got her when they heard her crying and gave us a call to please come and get her. Tonya was sent to us from heaven. You couldn't have asked for a more loving dog. She played "little mother" to every dog we took in. Out of the blue, Tonya started to stumble and look disoriented, so we took her to the vet and found out that she had an inoperable brain tumor. We made arrangements to bring her home and return the next day to have her put to rest. She was put to sleep and buried with her best friend, Missy.

ABBY (formerly Ursula) Born 1993? Reborn by adoption 2001 Final Journey to the Rainbow Bridge May 1st, 2003 It is with deepest regrets that we all have to bid our final good-bye to Abby. She was originally abandoned at a shelter in Cleveland, OH 11/00. Abby was adopted by a wonderful and loving family in March 2001. Here is a brief memorial (as written) by her grieving owner: "I miss her so much, but have to be strong and deal with losing her. Trigger (her companion) is laying at my feet and insisting that I stop and pet him. He has been staying very close to me, more than usual. The other night he brought me a biscuit and set it at my feet, trying to console me. Abby's vet said that she and I were a match made in heaven. She would not let anyone get near her, except Warner, and loved Trigger dearly too. She was with me for two years and five months. I sat on the floor with her, with her head in my lap until her rapid and labored breathing finally stopped. Maybe she is with Warner now. She gave me much happiness and unconditional love." Joann lost her loving husband, Warner, last year. This year she lost her beloved Abby. Our hearts go out to Joann because of her tragic losses. Hopefully the loving and endearing memories of her lost loves will see her through this.

Betsy (2002) Our sincerest condolences to Diane & Ron Hopp (and Jake) on the loss of their beloved Betsy. Betsy was our very first rescue since forming this group and will always have a special place in our hearts. We received an email from Dianne and Ron a couple of weeks ago letting us know that Betsy was diagnosed with inflammatory mammary carcinoma, a very agressive form of cancer. The only humane option they were afforded was to love her as much as they could for what little time she had left - which they did. I received a call from Dianne 1/25/02 letting me know that Betsy had a very rough time the day before and they couldn't bear to let her suffer any longer - and decided to put her to rest. They could not thank us enough for giving them the opportunity to have Betsy in their life for the short time that they did. We in turn can never thank them enough for giving Betsy the love, devotion and companionship that she so justly deserved. She has now crossed the Rainbow Bridge and will loyally await the arrival of her beloved "savior" family.

Boomer II Born 1993? Adopted 10/23/2003 Final Journey to the Rainbow Bridge Dec. 24 2006

BUBBA HUGGER 1993 - Sept 2006 We adopted Bubba in 1995 from Maryanne when he was two, maybe. He had been found wandering in Oakland County, filthy and starving. No one knew his history. It took a hot dog to lure him out of the backseat of our Civic when we brought him home. But, he soon sized up the situation and took advantage of us for the next ten years. He took a walk or two everyday until the very end. Very painful arthritis in his back leg finally slowed him down. Bubba ate well until he was diagnosed with pancreatitis two years ago. We got him at 68 pounds, but he put weight back on and spent most of his life around 82-84 pounds. After the diagnosis, we switched to a strict rabbit and potato diet that suited his digestive system better. My wife and I do not have children, so Bubba was our baby. And he knew it. Not a day passed where he didn't have his way with us. It's been a week now; we are lost without him. Thank you, Maryanne, for saving Bubba. Our lives were much better lives because of him. Mark Hugger and Jennifer Martin

In Memory of Buddy Adopted 8/31/03 - Laid to rest 4/26/2006 When I saw Buddy on your website I was instantly drawn to him. I thought he was just the cutest "little" thing. When my husband and I drove to Michigan to adopt him I was very surprised to see that my Buddy was a much bigger dog than I had thought. I had reservations for a second. We had never owned a dog weighing more than 20 pounds and standing over ankle high. But as we led him to the car and he wouldn't ride any where but in my lap all the 200 miles home any reservations I had were just a memory. I will never forget when we pulled into our driveway my neighbor stood back and said, is that Buddy? I thought he was a small dog. I am still teased about my little dog from Michigan. We will always remember Buddy for his love of food, that at times had us falling over him in the kitchen while preparing a meal and our inability to open the refrigerator door because he would block it in his excitement to eat. He wouldn't stop barking until "he" thought he had enough to eat. Buddy loved his evening walks. They probably saved him from weighing 150 pounds. He loved his rug in the family room where he slept during the day and his matching rug outside our bedroom door where he slept at night. But most of all Buddy loved his family. He was a gentle, loving and uncomplicated dog who brought us much joy. The last three months of Buddy's life was filled with much physical pain. He fought a good fight. Sadly he lost in the end. Good-bye our good loyal friend. Rest in peace. We love you! Thank you for brightening our lives! Tom, Sue & your faithful brother, Daffy

Buster Beau Mason (April 8th, 1989 - Feb 10th, 2000) In loving memory of Buster Beau Mason His size in stature did not come close to the size of his heart! Dearly missed by family and most of all his master!!! Born April 8th, 1989 Passed on February 10th, 2000

CASEY Adopted 7/8/07 - Passed away 9/26/10 (approx. 8 years young) Casey passed away 9/26/10 while in surgery for bloat. The family is very grief stricken and hart broken, but they really appreciated every day they had with Casey. He was a special dog and a joy to have around. Here is the poem that Casey's Mom wrote for his eulogy: ONE MORE DAY If I had one wish it would be for one more day. One more day to see your face, To pet and hug you and to watch You and Dad running all over the place. You left us too soon And we mourn over the loss, You were bigger than life And knew you were the boss. You were in a Memorial Day parade With balloons tied to your head. Children were smiling and laughing, "Look Mom, it's Beethoven" they said. You were in a mutt march And featured on the local news, Your picture was in the paper, You were famous and had paid your dues. Although our grief is enormous We want to remember the fun and the joy, We love you Casey, You'll always be our big, good, boy. Tina Johnson (Mom) 9/28/10

Clifford (1987? - Jan 2000) A bouv/irish wolfhound mix, was one of our first "pilot" rescues from "death row" at the Genessee County Humane Society. The vet estimated he was 12+ years old, had tumors all over his body and a massive tumor on the left side of his head that wrapped around and down the bridge of his nose. Clifford was a very loving and affectionate dog and probably devoted the best years of his life to his prior owner. It was such a shame they never bothered to look for him. Once the Ousnamer's heard of his plight they, once again, opened up their loving hearts with the sole intention of making his last days on earth his best days. They gave him four months of love, he gave them wonderful memories that will last forever. They did not want him to suffer and when his time came they had him put to rest. Clifford touched every heart that knew him and will be long remembered.

"DUFFY" MacTavish Dec 2006 - June 2007 We bid our fond farewells to this precious little puppy. In the very brief amount of time that we were all blessed with his presence on earth - he touched so many lives. Duffy will be especially missed by Sandy (his Mom) and Archie (his Dad). What Duffy lacked in size he more than made up for it in stamina and energy. Duffy was a breath of fresh air, his energy and excitement were contagious. You could not be depressed when Duffy was around because he was always such a joy to watch. He was like the little ball in a pinball machine, everyone he touched would just light up and the bells and whistles would go off. Duffy went everywhere with his Dad, even to work. Duffy will be sadly missed, but always fondly remembered.

DUTCHESS 11/21/99 - 11/26/10 It seems like only yesterday that we picked Dutchess and her sister Schmay up in Grand Rapids, MI. Her original owner moved and left them behind. Much to our surprise when we brought them into the vet we found out that Dutchess was going to be a Momma. On 1/21/03 Dutchess blessed us with eleven of the most beautiful puppies you could ever imagine. Prior to her giving birth to the puppies a very loving and compassionate family in Warren, MI decided they wanted to adopt both Dutchess and her sister Schmay. They took Schmay home, but left Dutchess in our care until after she had her puppies weaned. This fantastic family would bring Schmay out every weekend to visit her sister until she finally got to go home with everyone. Dutchess lived a wonderful life with her sister Schmay, brother Boy (Lab), and the newest family member Kia (Rottie), who to this day still go out in the yard to look for her. Dutchess was the perfect lady and mother to everyone. In her lifetime she not only blessed the loving family that adopted her, but also touched the hearts of eleven other families that were blessed to adopt each of her puppies. Dutchess will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved her and will be welcomed with open arms at the Rainbow Bridge.

Dolly Beloved and devoted best friend of JoAnne and Warner Hoffmeyer - thanks for the wonderful memories - you will be in our hearts forever.

FLANDERS II 1999 - 5/3/05 Flanders was rescued from the Harbor Humane Society in West Olive, MI on 2/7/04. She was a wonderful loving girl, and as you can tell was in desperate need of a bath and grooming when we picked her up. She was housetrained and just begging for some warm arms to hold her. Regretfully, Flanders tested heartworm positive, but we had her successfully treated. When we took her back to the vet for her check-up they found a hard tumor in her groin area which was diagnosed as cancer and was determined inoperable. Flanders was made a permanent resident at the rescue farm. We could not put her up for adoption because we knew she was not going to be with us very long. The tumor grew, and so did our love and fondness towards this sweet girl. After all she had been through it was such a shame that she was again dealt a deadly blow. Flanders ate well this morning and when it came time for her second feeding and she didn't come we went to look for her. She was found curled up on her blanket, never to wake up again. Flanders will be buried at the rescue cemetery on the farm that she loved so well and knew as home. She is gone - but will never be forgotten. We only had her for a mere 15 months but gave her a lifetime of love and affection as she justly deserved.

"Getty" (U-Getta) passed away in her sleep 1/1/03. There were no indications of discomfort or pain, she just went to sleep and never woke up. She will be laid to rest at our rescue cemetery along with the other animals that have preceeded her to the Rainbow Bridge.

GILLIGAN 2000 - August 14th, 2006 Laid to rest at WarBar Farms/Second Chance Bouvier Rescue Cemetary We rescued Gilligan on 3/21/05 from the Oakland County Animal Control. Gilligan was found as a stray and tested positive for heartworm. Because of everything that Gilligan has gone thru, the very painful heartworm treatment, the tumor surgery, and the expectation of being adopted by two different families that changed their minds and never bothered to let us know, we decided to make Gilligan a permanent resident of Second Chance Bouvier Rescue. He was such a wonderful and loving boy and would have made anyone a perfect companion. We could not see his heart being broken again by another family coming out and letting him think he was being adopted only to have them change their mind and go home without him again. Gilligan never really recovered from the tumor surgery and we suspect his cancer had progressed. We found him this morning, curled up on his blanket, in a very deep sleep. After trying to arouse him, we realized that he had peacefully passed away in his sleep during the night. Considering all the pain this stoic gentleman had gone through, thankfully he was taken to the Rainbow Bridge painlessly.

Ginger (formerly Gretchen) Adopted 8/27/00 - Went to the Rainbow Bridge 3/17/06 In September 2000, My husband and I adopted your first bouvier Ginger (Gretchen). We remember the day we brought her home. She was quite thin and reserved, but she came out of her shell within a few days of being with us and fattened up quickly. She blended quite well with our other 2 dogs - Smokey and Percy. We gave her much love and attention, which she deserved and never took for granted. She was gentle and loved children. She was protective of her family, including Smokey and Percy. She loved to go for car rides and walks (perferably car rides - too much exercise in walking) and always wanted to be with us. Well, with deep sadness, I am here to tell you she passed away on Friday, March 17, 2006. She went to the vet for surgery to remove cancer from her toe and she died under anesthesia. We miss her so much!!!! She brought more joy to our family than you can imagine. Ginger was a unique dog with many special qualities. She will be missed by many. There won't be another Ginger ever. Sincerely, Regina and Jeff Rastello

Harwood's "Jefferson" Dudley Born 1/11/1996 Went to the Rainbow Bridge September 2008 A donation has been made in memory of Jefferson by a very dear friend of his. Jefferson was the love of his Dad's life. He was his Dad's life, love, beloved companion and best friend. Jefferson blessed his Dad with twelve unforgetable years of love and devotion. Twelve years seems like a long time when you are looking forward but is just a fleeting moment when you are forced to look back on it. Thankfully there are many, many wonderful and loving memories of Jefferson to help Keith move forward. There will always be a void left in his heart, that will never be able to be filled by anyone or anything. Second Chance Bouvier Rescue offers our sincere condolences on Keith's loss of his best friend.

Hobie Hi, my name is Hobie, and I am a very good boy. I am a ten year old rescue - and I desperately need your help. My Mom & Dad have already spent over $9000 on my medical care. I was treated for Lymphoma and have been in remission until last month. Everyone thought I was doing fine, running, playing, just being my normal lovable self - until I passed out for no explained reason. My Mom and Dad rushed me to the Emergency Vet and were told that a large mass showed up on my x-ray. I went to an oncologist, and the good news is that there is no large mass. The bad news, is that I have an enlarged spleen due to the return of the lymphoma, and I require at least five more chemotherapy treatments. These treatments will cost about $2100 more. The best news, is that there is a very good chance these treatments will put me back into remission. My parents called Second Chance Bouvier Rescue asking for their help, or any suggestions as to how they could get assistance towards my medical bills. Mom and Dad are financially tapped (and still owe) due to my previous medical bills. They love me so much, they can't bear the thought of calling it quits now, or the thought of losing me after all I have already overcome. UPDATE: Our condolences to the Scott family. Hobie lost his courageous battle to cancer. We would like to extend our gratitude to everyone that sent donations and prayers on Hobies behalf. Hobie gave it his best, right up until his final days.

We received this letter along with a generous donation in Memory of Huey: "I appreciate your spending the time to tell me about your group's efforts to protect and place needy Bouviers into new loving homes. As we discussed I am enclosing a donation on behalf of my friends, Debbie & Vince Mamone, in memory of their wonderful and dearly loved Bouvier, Huey. I knew him from when he was a little puppy, although I should say young puppy, because he was a very big bouncing baby boy, who grew into a huge and awesome adult, and I can tell you that he was all heart. Huey was a cherished member of the Mamone family and they slept in the palm of God's hand with Huey watching over them for all of his 12 years. I would appreciate your putting some information about Huey on your In Memorial web page, and by copy of this letter, will let Debbie & Vince know where to send a photo of Huey, if they would like to do so. I know your members and visitors, all who love Bouviers, would appreciate hearing about him. It is good to know that in Huey's name, his needy relatives will benefit from your kindness. Sincerey, Mary Alice Moran - Walton Hills, OH"

IZZIE Adopted 9/29/01 – Passed on 9/5/14 Here is the note I received from Izzy’s Mom: “Jan, this was published in our little mountain newspaper – thank you for making it possible for Izzie and I to be best loves for 13 years. The pic was taken soon after Iz arrived here to me in Colorado with Bill & Nancy.” THINKING OUT LOUD My Mom says she doesn’t know what she’ll do without me. I guess because I’m fourteen and she knows our time grows short. Like all Bouviers, I’m big, and big dogs are on borrowed time after ten. Mornings, she wakes when I get up from my plaid bed and shake my head, flap my ears. I kiss the palm of her hand outside the down cover. She invites me for a hug and tell me what a good girl I am. Because I need to go out, she must rise. When I come in, I let her feel my nose. If she laughs and says, “ice cube nose”, she takes a sweater when we go out. I keep her on track as her work used to do. I cue her to eat – to go to bed – to go for the mail. I bark at our deer and other creatures – just for a minute – and whenever the neighbors bark. I bark at thunder and other threats like men in ball caps and figments. I keep her safe. I bring the outside in: pine needles in my beard, golden aspen on my coat. And, warmed by the sun, the scent of the forest clings to me. I lie close to her chair. She pets my head and tells me I am the best ever. My Mom says I am a good girl, how much she loves me. I don’t know what she will do without Me. © Kathleen VanDeVeere 2013

JACQUES June 1998(?) - May 2011 You gave me nearly nine years of your friendship and companionship. We would play in the house and yard together and also walk the neighborhood. The people would always comment on how well behaved you were. I am deeply grieved at how the end had to come, but I could not see you suffer longer than necessary. I know you are up in "Dog Heaven" with your predecessors: Snoopy, Happy, Buck and Spencer. Take care and some day we will be re-united forever at the "Rainbow Bridge". Your loving friend and "Forever Dad", David Overly

JACQUES XVIII TODD (aka Mr. Attitude) Age - 12yrs 8months Jacques was a faithful, loving dog and companion. Jacques went to the Rainbow Bridge on Friday, May 16th, 2008. Jacques was adopted on 1/23/01 by a very loving family. His faithful teddy bear, Starburst, and Mom & Dad (Angie & Curt) were there for his last moments. This is a picture of Jacques in "his" beautiful garden not long after he was adopted. There were numerous pictures to chose from, but we felt that this is the way we would all like to remember him: happy, healthy, exhuberent, full of curiosity and loving life.

Our "beloved" baby JAKE Born 3/1991- Crossed the Rainbow Bridge on 12/1/2002 You know, there are some pets who are so special, that you know your paths were meant to be together....Jake was one of them. Here is to our beloved Jake: Jake came into our lives as such a curious boy, at the young age of ten weeks....and ready to explore the world! No one was ever alone in the house after that, Jake made certain to follow you wherever you went. He had a habit of winning everyone's heart that he met. When we learned of his tumor and that he only had a short time left with us, he gave it his all to stay with us through Thanksgiving. That was his favorite holiday because, you see, as a herder, he always needed EVERYONE in the same room. His wish came true, as all our friends and relatives gathered, just to be with the boy one last time. He was allowed to stay under the table during Thanksgiving dinner, so he could watch everyone's feet all in a tight little circle, all together (a blissful moment for my boy)!!! Mom was the hospice giver for the last three weeks, and Jake never complained about the medications, shots or constant need to go outside. It was only the last 15 minutes that he was uncomfortable, and he left this world in his Mom's arms with his family, Nick (his human brother), his Mom & Dad and his companion dog Molly Brown, at his side. We need to give a BIG thanks to everyone at the Cross Plains, WI - Pet Care Clinic for all their effort and loving help with Jakes' last days. "Jake you will be missed and loved forever!" Your loving family, Lisa, Tom, Nick, Andy and Molly Brown (the Lab/Chow girl).

"JAKE" HOPP 1995 - August 10th, 2004 Here are pictures of our beloved Jake, Jake was our first rescue dog. He was so special that he led us to rescue another dog, Betsy, who was also a love. (Betsy is already listed above). Jake became our "Doctor" Dog. He knew Betsy was ill before anyone else did. He would try to alert me by whining and coming to sit near me until I (Diane) understood that something was wrong. He was a very mellow dog, quiet until he needed something and then he would annoy you until you listened to him. Although Jake started out as Ron's dog, he always came to me to get his needs met. I have the ability to communicate with my animals. It is a special gift I value. Jake would bark at everything that moved outside our windows, yet he would respond to my verbal command of quiet. He was friendly with most other dogs and especially loved my daughter's dog, Starr and our beloved Betsy. After Betsy went to the Rainbow Bridge, Jake was unconsolable. We eventually took him with us to purchase another Bouvier puppy, Lizzy. He was very snobby at the breeders and would not interact with those wild little puppies. He tolerated Lizzy when we brought her home and then began to teach her how to behave. He potty trained her and kept her pinned down with his paw when she was too wild. After grandchildren came, Jake would lie down a small distance from them and make sure no stranger touched them. He would growl slightly to ward off unknown strangers. Jake liked babies, and older children. Babies that crawled and toddlers were not his favorite. He would quietly go into his open crate to avoid them when they approached him. He never hurt anyone. We did not know that Jake was the alpha dog until he was gone. The change in Lizzy is quite remarkable. She looks to Ron for constant approval and instructions now that "her" Jake is no longer here to guide her. Thank you for allowing us the special years we had with this very special dog. There may be many more dogs in our lives, but none will be as special as Jake. Warmly, Diane and Ron Hopp (TOP) This is a picture of Jake & Betsy after walking with their Dad, Ron. Jake has the blue collar (CENTER) Jake in his crate where he loved to lay - we never locked the crate door - we didn't need to (BOTTOM) Jake (on your left) with his adopted "sister" Betsy (on your right)

Janie Crossed the Rainbow Bridge on 11/13/2003 (Estimated to be 7-8 years old) We rescued Janie on 2/18/03 from the Oakland County Animal Control. She was picked up as a stray. Janie was such a sweetheart from day one which was amazing since she had such major problems going on within her loving body. When we took her to our vet to be examined, thinking that she was very pregnant, the x-ray showed a huge mass on her spleen. Due to the basketball sized hematoma engulfing her entire spleen, she was very anemic. The hematoma and spleen had to be removed and she was spayed at the same time. It took two blood transfusions to save her - and we almost lost her twice. At the same time we found out that Janie had cataracts and needed a mammary nodule removed - which we decided to do after she had recovered from the first surgery. Janie bounced back slowly. When we took her in to have the mammary nodule removed the vet suggested that we take her instead to a cancer specialist because it appeared highly suspicious. A couple of days later we took her to the specialist, had the tumor removed and biopsied. The tumor was malignant, and the cat scan showed that the cancer was spreading to other parts of her body. Neither chemo or surgery were an option. We could only hope to keep her as comfortable as possible for as long as we were blessed with her company. Because of her medical problems and terminal prognosis she was adopted by the president of our group and she remained on the rescue farm and was loved and cherished for another eight months. Such a gorgeous, loving girl that deserved so much more than what life had given her. She never complained, appreciated everthing that had been done for her and on her final day she decided it was time for us to let her go. Janie was buried on the compound where all of the other rescues and personal pets have been buried. A true lady to the very end.

JUDY 1995 - August 1st, 2006 Laid to rest at WarBar Farms/Second Chance Bouvier Rescue Cemetary Dear sweet Judy. All she ever wanted was someone to love her in her senior years. She was found tied to the front of the animal shelter in Ohio. No collar, no note, not even a name tag. At first glance they didn't know what she was because of the deplorable condition that she was in. Thankfully her guardian angel (who we named her after) did. Judy was a perfect example of our "throw away society". As you can see from the pictures, she was a definite "diamond in the rough". You couldn't have wanted for a more loving dog and companion. Judy got along with everyone and everything. We were really hoping to find her a "special family" that she could spend her golden years with. Judy waited patiently, watching the rescues come and go - but her turn never came up. Finally Judy was adopted by the president of Second Chance Bouvier Rescue. Because Judy took so long to come out of her shell when we first rescued her and to realize that she was put on this earth to love, we just didn't have the heart to confuse or stress her anymore by putting her through an adoption. Judy adapted very well to the rescue farm and that's what she knew as her home. We never knew for sure exactly how old she was, but could only go by what the vets thought. Judy was a grand ole' girl and will be missed tremendously by all of us as well as the other "permanent resdents" on the rescue farm. We loved her for as long as we were able to and she loved everyone in return. She may have had a lousey beginning but she was not alone or unloved for a second while in our care.

Kercheval In loving memory of Sir "Kercheval" Musial. On December 5th, 1993, William and Cheri Musial rescued Kercheval from an abandoned life on the streets. Kercheval lived a life many dogs only dream of, he spent his days as Cheri's co-worker at Pointe Pet Supply, Grosse Pointe Park, Michigan. He was the offical tester of all treats, foods, and toys. On weekends he would go for long walks at East China Park, his absolute favorite past time. So as Kercheval will be dearly missed, please keep William and Cheri in your kind thoughts as "Kerch" has left his heaven on earth to join the heavens above. Donation made by: Tom, Bonnie, & Morgan Jones, Bill, Cheryl, Cole & Zach Musial, Sony, Saki and Mai Tai too!

We received a generous donation in memory of Kona Bendure with the following note: "In memory of Kona Bendure, you enriched the lives of the humans and dogs who you touched. Max & Casey Bendure"

Levi Alexander Szedenits 1991 or 1992 - Aug 14, 2005 We adopted Levi from MaryAnne Harvey in August 1995. He had been running on his own, leaving the poor boy emaciated and not very trusting. As he filled out he realized that we were his forever home and gave us so much love over the last ten years. Levi had some health struggles in the last few years. We were happy to drive him up to Michigan State and multiple area clinics to help him feel better. Levi did enjoy life with puppyish enthusiasm after all his various treatments until last month. He let us know when he was ready to go. Lovingly, Margaret & Gene Szedenits, Jr. **UPDATE: A generous donation was made by Pam Wheelock with the following note: "Levi Szedenits was a great and beautiful soul. His friens and family will miss him".

Lily 1996-April 1st, 2007 Laid to Rest at WarBar Farms Lily finally made it home to the Rainbow Bridge this evening. She was born and raised in Canada. She was most likely given up by her breeder because she had mammary tumors and was no longer considered "breedable". We had her tumors removed and she was just waiting at the farm for someone to take her into their loving home for what little time she had left. Her wait is now over - she passed away at the farm - the only place she could call home - and where she was loved.

MAGGIE (formerly known as Chewy) Adopted 1/29/05 - Passed away March 2008 We feel very fortunate to have provided Maggie three wonderful years in a loving home where she learned to feel safe, comfortable and protected. She was such a well behaved and trained dog that Doreen and I cannot fathom why she was ever abandoned. We both suspect the owner released her in the woods to die from her cancer rather than pay a vet to humanely prevent any unneedful suffering. When we first brought Maggie home, she would not leave the living room unless Doreen called to her. When she did come out of the living room, she always kept a wary eye on me. If I approached her, she would keep the coffee table in between us until I sat on the couch; then she would edge around and lean against my leg waiting for a neck rub or scratch behind the ears. She was leary of men and was a real "Mom's Girl". Over the last year fear and caution were totally absent from her eyes. She knew that she was home. Maggie had a lot of quirks that we loved. Those quirks were the endearing traits for Doreen. She was our family's fifth dog, but was Doreen's "first" dog. Doreen deeply felt the unconditiional love that only a bouvier can give. Her quirks...like the 90 lb kitty. You know how a cat will come up and rub their head and body on your leg? Imagine a 90lb dog bouncing along at a half speed aiming at your leg! Maggie's head butting and full body rub was just one of her ways of expressing her happiness. What she really liked were big bear hugs! That was one of my favorite quirks. I liked to wrap my arms around her and give her a nice squeeze. Twice I happened to hug her in front of a mirror and saw her expression change. Both times, her face lit up and a broad smile appeared. We had cancerous tumors removed from Maggie twice. We had no idea she had bone cancer. She never complained or whined. A few times she let us know that she didn't really want to go for a walk, but we never knew it was because her leg was sore. Her spirit was always pleasant and loving. Thanks for rescuing Maggie and allowing us to provide a few year's of comfort to one of God's creatures. We loved her and will miss her so much. Chris Vanslager and family

Maxine They only had her for a brief time when they unexpectedly lost her to bloat. (eulogy to follow shortly)

Merlin Adopted 10/30/01 (2-3yro) - July 24th, 2007 Merlin had been going downhill for several months; aunable to climb the stairs and less and less able to walk the usual distance on his walks. He developed mysterious siezures and was put on medication, but it did not help. He was given a wonderful life and loved for almost six years. Merlin had beat the odds he had cancer twice and bounced right back. His Mom wrote in her email "I have concluded that one of the things Merlin taught us was the importance of rescue, so before too long, we will want to take in another rescue dog." "We feel blessed that he was in our lives - if only it had been longer". Merlin's Mom and Dad will be adopting Charlie on 7/24/07

MOOSE Dec 25th, 1989 - Sept 24th, 2000 THE JOY OF MY LIFE When I count my blessings - I count you twice. I will keep you forever in my heart. (Email received with memorial): Jan & Bill: Where do I begin? How do I begin to tell you how I feel today? To quote my 81 year old mother, she said she has never in all her years met people like you. She had her doubts about my giving my birthday money to "strangers" before she met you. That was one of the reasons I brought her with me. Now she is praying she wins the lottery so she can share it with your rescue. I hope she does too. When we got back to her house she went on and on to my Dad. My husband came over and she continued on with him, and me. I just smiled, because I knew that I found the right people before I even met you. Meeting you was an absolute pleasure. The time flew by. You just made us feel so much "at home" that we could have overstayed our welcome. Throughout this past year I have really grieved over my beloved Moose and have done things that I just had to do to make myself feel better. Nothing really worked. Some helped a little. By the time my birthday rolled around, I knew that you were my cause. And what a gift I received. That money was from my husband, son and parents. Last night after meeting you, I felt different than I have all year. I felt at peace, finally. All the things that I had to do all year never really did give me that feeling. That is what I needed. Peace. I got to meet some really great people and help some really great dogs. Quite a legacy for my Moose, too. He gave me so much while he was alive and gave me something really special yesterday too. YOU!! We will definitely see you again. God Bless you and thank you. I wrote most of this through tears, but for once, the tears weren't over Moose. I will be in touch. Love from Kathy and family.

How do you say "good-bye" to your best friend? Husbands, of course, not included. I'm talking about my 70+# Bouvier/Bearded Collie, Sandie (aka Sandy, aka "Thunderfoot") who somewhat suddenly lost it all in our front hall. Sandie was a Michigan Anti-Cruelty dog that we adopted after seeing her on TV 2 with Mike Killian and in an instant we were in love. This wonderful dog visited St. Joan of Arc School in St Clair Shores, MI, touching the hearts of over 500 students. On September 18th, 1997, Sandi made the cover page of the Grosse Pte News, walking in the MAC Pooch Prance at the Edsel & Eleanor Ford Estate. She visited many folks at Georgian East Heartland Senior Facility in Grosse Pte Woods. Her favorite "time-out" spot was Starbucks in Grosse Pte Woods & Grosse Pte Park. Any here small groups gathered out doors, Sandi was there; including her bank trip, once a week where the outside teller provided a friendly bone. Sandi even made a final appearance at the Memorial Day Service in Grosse Pte Woods, paying tribute to the soldiers for the eleventh time. Sandi touched the lives of so many in a six to ten mile radius, it was amazing. Sandi occupied the attention of a walk-away 3yro child in Grosse Pte Woods until the police arrived to return the child some two blocks away (with the help of local children). Sandi was just that kind of dog, and yes, we miss her ------BADLY!!!!! Regretfully, Sandi missed the Mutt March on June 3rd, 2007, due to her unexpected enrollment into Doggie Heaven on June 1st, 2007. Margherita Wiszowaty - St Clair Shores, MI (her loving Mom)

SARA Born 1991 Laid to rest at WarBar Farms 4/21/03 For the very breif time that we were blessed with her presence - she will leave nothing but endearing and loving memories for us all. Such a gentle soul that will be missed by everyone that was fortunate to have known her.

SAVANNAH November 27, 1989 - June 9,2003 Your ashes will be worked into your favorite garden out back My Dearest and Beloved Savannah: When I first met you, you didn't even look like a dog. You were so very thin with no hair and clouded, depressed eyes. You were so full of fears and phobias. The huge scabs that covered your body held many untold stories. People thought that I rescued you from that horrendously abusive situation that tormented you for the first two years of your life. We know that is was you who rescued me and gave me warm and unconditional love. You always accepted me, no matter what. My lonely weekends and holidays turned into times of joy and fun with you. You taught me forgiveness and to live in the present. You taught me what genuine friendship is all about. You didn't care what we did, as long as we were together. So, if you weren't welcome somewhere, I didn't go. You were always there for me and you communicated all your needs and wants; then you were able to perceive my needs and wants and met them like a true friend. You even saved me from what would have been the worst decision of my life...when to let you go back to your Creator. The doctor said that you went so quickly and peacefully because you were ready. When Jesus comes to greet me in Heaven, He will bring you with Him so that I won't be afraid. Until then, you will live in my heart. Your human Mom, Melanie

SHILOH (formerly Snoopy) - Adopted 06-08-05 Went to Rainbow Bridge 12-05-09 We would of never found Shiloh if it wasn't for this wonderful rescue group. They found him wondering on the streets and a policeman brought him to the rescue, his owners never looked for him and when we went to meet him it was a match made in heaven. My other adopted dogs took to Shiloh like they knew each other all their lives. In Shiloh's life he became a canine good citizen, learned to sing when asked too, knew many tricks. And most of all was my best friend. Whenever I had a bad day or needed a shoulder to cry on, Shiloh was there, and never complained. At night before going to bed we would cuddle up on the couch together for hours and watch TV together. He loved a blankie and many times would get under it and go to sleep. We would always go places together, anywhere that pets were allowed we were there, and he was always on his best behavior, he loved meeting people and other pets, his favorite toy was a nylon dinabone which he would chew on for hours. We would like to thank everyone at the Bouvier rescue for helping me find my best friend. Even though Shiloh's life was short, I think he had a good life and until we meet again, We will truly miss him. Carol & Kathy Tomlinson

Spencer (? - May 2003) Although we were only together five years, you proved yourself to be a worthy successor to Buck, Happy and Snoopy. You were a protector and a playmate that was not afraid to make yourself included in whatever you wanted. You had a personality that was, to say the least, unique: If you wanted attention, you would merely take it upon yourself to become a 100# lap-dog/puppy. Sometimes the lap you wanted was smaller than you, which the sight and experience was one for the ages to behold. Now, you are in heaven...out of pain...able to run and play like you wanted to, but could not in your final days here. You are among those that preceded you in the Overly family and hopefully showing off your many traits and personality. I miss you MY FRIEND.... There will always only be one "SPENCER" in my life. Your loving Dad, David Overly

Tawney Tawney was adopted 1/20/02 and went to the Rainbow Bridge on 7/3/04. The top picture is of Tawney after she had been completely shaved down prior to being adopted. The bottom picture was taken with Tawney's Mom's grandson just this past June. What a difference love can make! Note from her Mom: I can not understand why someone would ever abandon such a great dog. I would like to put her in memory. I'm doing better now, but will always miss her. She was a perfect lady, we loved her a lot, and loved us in return. WE will never forget her. Love, Tawney's Mom, Emma

Bella (Tinkerbell) What a beautiful, funny, sweet girl she was. She brought so much joy and laughter into my life, she will be greatly missed forever. All My Love, Mom (Pattie)

Titan Adopted 2/2/02 - Passed away 8/15/07 Titan (nicknamed "Square Pantts" and just recently "Chobbers") passed away at home. Here is part of the email that accompanied the sad news: When we got home on Monday morning, Pants (or Chobbers Bear as he'd been called for the last several years) had passed on. We came to get Chobbies on 2/2/02. I thought we were really doing great with him when 2/2/03 rolled around and he was still here. I never would have guessed that he would have enriched our lives for over five and a half years. He never met anyone that he didn't like and I never met anyone who didn't like him. Despite his arthritis and being deaf, he was the absolute HAPPIEST dog I've ever met. There is a little less bounce in our house and our hears are heavy, but we are thankful for the quality that Chobbers brought to our lives. I check your website often and as soon as our numbers get a little lower, we would be honored to be able to adopt another one of your kids

Tundra (2002) Anchorage Alaska SPCA confiscated Tundra along with dozens of other animals from a collector in Sterling AK. He was flown into Metro Airport from Alaska in December 2001 along with Juneau (already adopted). He was mentally and physically abused, deprived of food, water, exercise, affection and medical attention from his previous owner. But he faired better than dozens of his buddies that were found frozen to death on the end of a short chain without food or water in sight. We gave him six months of love, attention, being fed and watered and being allowed to just "chill out" at his own pace. He had done a complete 360 with regard to his attitude, behaviour and disposition. Tundra had been adoption pending for the last couple of months, his new Dad was waiting for his current dog to cross the rainbow bridge prior to bringing Tundra home. Tundra has always been terrified of loud noises, storms, etc. since he arrived in our care. Last night (8/16/02) we had a terrible thunder storm and it was just too much for Tundra to withstand. He was evidentally so terrified that his heart stopped. We do not know if he had cardio myopathy or not we only know that he left us quickly and without any warning. We will all miss him terribly - and are grateful for the short time we were blessed with his presence.

Thurber (formerly Scruffy I) 1997 - 8/31/06 I adopted Thurber, aka Scruffy, from your organization about five - six years ago. I thought I would send you the message I wrote to friends and family members who knew him. I had to have him put down Thursday evening. I had thought his advancing arthritis would be his undoing; my vet thought it would be his heart (he had a grade six murmur!) It was neither of these things. At about 5:30 p.m. Thurber let me know he wanted to go out into the yard. (I have a big fenced in yard behind the house that I built three years ago.) Usually he came right back inside, but this time he didn't. From the back porch I watched him and noticed that he was walking unsteadily. Then he started to moan. Every now and then he heaved, as if trying to throw up, which made me think he must have eaten something that upset his stomach. As I continued to watch him, not sure what to do, he kept walking around the perimeter of the yard. The moans became louder. I decided to take his temperature, and when I saw that it was 104 (a dog's normal temperature is 101) I immediately called my vet. Though it was almost seven, the clinic luckily was still open. I wasn't sure Thurber would be able to jump into the back of my car, but with a boost from me, he made it. Driving to the clinic, I wondered what I'd do if the vet told me that tests would have to be done to find out what was wrong. However, when he palpated Thurber's abdomen, he found a big lump. It was either a tumor or a tortion of the spleen, he said. I think it must have been the latter, which my vet said can develop very suddenly. He recommended against putting Thurber through surgery, and I agreed. Thurber's death was very peaceful; I had my face against his, and as he sank slowly down from a standing position, I felt my vet's hand cover mine. Knowing Thurber was nearing the end of his life, I had already dug his grave. (I remember that when I'd finished it, he went and stood in it and looked out at me over the rim.) As the light left the sky, I buried him in it. He was an absolutely impossible dog: he drooled, he shed massive amounts of hair; he was insecure, restless, obsessed with food, and aggressive toward other dogs. Still, I am thankful for the almost six years that he was part of my life, and I will miss him keenly. Gloria Stevenson, Kingston, NY.

CAM ,Our Beloved 10/10/10 - 10/26/10 (CAMION 2/7/99-10/26/10) Sixteen days, such a short time. But for sixteen days we were unbelievably blessed by the huge heart and gentle spirit of Cam. He came to us saddened, puzzled at being abandoned by his other family. Happily, the sadness didn’t last long. Cam found acceptance, love and freedom with us. We were privileged to see him blossom. There was a spark in his eyes and an emerging sense of humor. We watched as he rolled in the grass and growled at the sensations he was experiencing. We saw his doggie grin as he sniffed the air, poised as still as a statue. The pure bliss at being outside. And oh how he enjoyed his water bowl! No more waiting for permission to drink. In went his face, muzzle completely submerged and then flinging himself on his bed to wipe his face and start all over again. This happy boy was OUR Cam, and we loved him with all our hearts. Then one night our Cam wasn’t well. He stayed on his bed and his glow wasn’t quite as bright. At the University the vets couldn’t decide what the exact problem was, but whatever it was, it wasn’t good. They couldn’t guarantee anything, because they didn’t know what they were trying to treat. They wanted to run more tests with the possibility of still not finding out what was wrong. I had to make the heart wrenching decision to either put Cam through more agonizing tests, or let our Cam go. I couldn’t bear the thought of him suffering any longer. I held the sweetest dog I’ve ever known and talked to him until he could no longer hear me. As the tears flowed, I told him to look for Bear, Kaela, Beau, Max, Sonny and all my cats at the Rainbow Bridge. They’d be there waiting. I promised that one day I would be there to share in all the wonderful things we didn’t get time for here. But, I’m not quite sure my beloved Cam is gone. There are unexplained ripples in the water bowl that I haven’t had the heart to move and the click of nails on the floor….. You will be in our hearts forever - Love, Mom, Dad & Christopher

TRIGGER (aka Biscuit) 1998 - 1/29/12 I bid a very sad farewell to my beloved friend & companion Trigger. We never know how much pain our babies are in until they can't hide it anymore. They try not to show it & keep right on loving us. Trigger's pain became unbearable for him despite the very strong medications he had been taking. He knew when to comfort me after my husband Warner passed away. When Abby left this world, he would bring me biscuits & put them at my feet as if to say "we'll be ok Mom". I could go on & on about Trigger's awesome intuition. We aged & became physically challenged together & understood each other completely. The only comfort I get from losing him is knowing his pain & suffering is over. .

WINSTON Adopted Aug 2004 Final Journey to the Rainbow Bridge May 30th, 2014 I wanted to let you know that if you would like, you may update Winston's story. Winston had a seizure or stroke last Thursday (May 29) and was not able to come out of it. We had to say good bye on Friday (May 30, 2014). Andie and I are just heartbroken as Winston was such a loyal dog and a HUGE part of our family and our lives. He was the most loving and compassionate dog to all who came in contact with him. He was silly and very interactive and loved his home and structure as he liked the way things rolled the same each day. He LOVED the small peeled carrots as treats and went through a 5 lb bag every week and a half. We moved 2 years ago to Oakland Township and he quickly adjusted to the property and loved the wildlife as he was very respectful and chose to watch them instead of run after them. Our Grandchildren who live in Grand Rapids love the dickens out of him and Winston made the trips with us when we would go to visit. He was a happy soul who loved his Mommy and Daddy. Thank you for all you folks do for these animals and thank you for connecting Andie and Winston (Winnie) as it was a match made by God. They were inseparable right to the end. Although we are very sad to have lost him, we are blessed to have had him for almost 10 years. You will be forever in our hearts, Kevin & Andie (Mom & Dad)