Originally Posted by KimInMD (Post 4101195)

One year and ten months ago, I came to Yorkie Talk for the first time, as a sad newbie needing guidance about Lucy, a sweet senior dog I found running down a cold, snowy road, late one night. Lucy was deaf, had rotten teeth, dementia, cancerous mammary tumors, and kidney disease. In my eyes, she was perfect. I came here to ask questions, get advice, and learn what I needed to do to care for a senior Yorkie. Along the way, I made wonderful new friends, and grew to love the breed so much, that I became a foster mom for several Yorkies at our local rescue. My husband, (who didn't care for dogs at all), fell in love with Lucy, and the breed. We now have two additional Yorkies who have made their home in our hearts. One year and 10 months ago, my life changed forever because of that sweet little girl. She taught me to cherish every day we had together, and I did. She was patient, loyal and grateful for any kindness we showed her. She was my little princess, and I adored her. She brought so much joy to our lives and home. I never knew that I could love a little dog so much.
The vet said we did everything humanly possible to help her, and that her good care kept her going longer than most would have. I cooked all her meals, and hand fed her. She went out for walks 2x a day in her stroller. We traveled together, and she slept in bed next to me each night. We held her diseases at bay for as long as we could, but in the end, her kidneys failed her, and today I had to walk with her to the rainbow bridge. I feel as though my heart has been ripped to shreds. I thought I was ready for this day to come, but I know now, I was not. I am so grateful to God that He put Lucy in my life, and loaned her to me for 22 wonderful months. I think we had a longer time together because of all the wonderful information and advise I got here on Y.T. I know I did the right thing today, and I know she is at peace now, and pain free. I didn't know it would hurt this bad. I missed feeding her today at supper time. It felt so strange to walk without her in the stroller, with her harness and leash still lying in the basket by the door. Now it's hard to sleep without her here next to me in bed. I'm really hurting here.
Lucy, You have a family that loves you, and will cry for you and miss you. You were so special to us, and we were blessed to have you. Sleep peacefully, my sweet little princess.