Born: March 2, 1989
Joined the Spirit Dogs: May 2, 2002
Kudo came into our life when he picked us out while we were passing through a pet store. Bruce and I met him in a small greeting area. I was carrying a shopping bag from Hudson’s, which he quickly and playfully tore into. It was love at first site. As a pup he was already about 20 inches tall at the shoulder. His coat was a shiny dark brindle. He had four white paws and white on his chest. His feet were as big as my fist, feet he would quickly grow into. I never thought I would buy a pet store dog, but it turns out that was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
He was a happy pup that loved to chase Bruce’s remote controlled cars. He loved to play with his cat-mates Tootsie and Snickers. Kudo excelled in puppy class, he moved well through 3 levels and the instructors were encouraging us to take him through obedience.
Kudo entered our life when we had no children and we were not yet married. He taught us about responsibility. We knew we had to be home each evening to be with our “first child.”
Kudo went everywhere with us, flea markets, craft shows, sporting events, and holiday family events.
Along came Don and Darren and life changed for our Kudo at a time when it was right for him. He no longer was our center of attention and he could not travel with us as much. He always watched us leave with that “Where are you going” look wondering why he was left behind. It was difficult for us all, but I think after we left he would be sleeping until we would return home. He adjusted well to the boys. As they grew, he would chase them around the house up and down the stairs, and up on top of the sofa! The only danger he posed to them was the body slam! He would love to throw his weight into you when roughhousing.
Kudo became my exercise partner; we would walk about 60 minutes a day during his best years. He was a great dog with a great disposition. I once met a man I only knew as someone who lived down the street. He approached me saying, “I have heard about your dog…I have heard he is well behaved and gentle.” That was so true, he was a gentle giant. But for those not known to him he stood strong. He was always by my side when I answered the door. I always felt safe when my husband traveled because I knew my Kudo was in the house.
Kudo’s dear friend Del, his vet, always had a special place in Kudo’s heart. He always enjoyed going to the office to visit Del. He was so well behaved in the office; he took his shots and medicine well.
Now at 13, his vision is clouded and his hips are weak from arthritic pain. A normally quiet dog, who only barked when absolutely necessary, he is now barking at the “Spirit Dogs.” He is loosing control of his body and is tired. It is time for us to let him go. He has lived a wonderful life and we are so lucky to have him be a part of ours.
I do hope that as the saying goes, “All dogs do go to Heaven” I do hope this is true, because as a young girl I used to pray to God for dogs and that they would indeed go to Heaven.
Kudo leaves behind his family, Bruce, Jenny, Don, and Darren, and his loving grandma Vera. We will always have him in our memory. My silly Puddy.
Such love! I'm truly sorry for your loss. I can't imagine losing our pup (and we've only had him 2 years). You and your family have my deepest sympathy.
Oh Jenny, I'm so sorry. It's very difficult to lose a beloved pet, but you must find comfort in knowing he is no longer in pain.
Remember he is waiting for you at the Rainbow Bridge.
I know how you feel, the grief is deep, but it will get better. You will look back with a smile on your face when you think about the love your pup gave you.
Jenny, sorry to hear about Kudo, its never an easy thing because they are truly a part of the "FAMILY." I've been there many times because as far back as I can remember we've always had a pup or two in the house.
Oh Jenny, I'm so sorry for you and your family. I also know the loss of a beloved and cherished pet but you must all remember the good times you had with Kudo and give yourselves time to grieve. Best wishes to all of you.
Jenny~ Please know that warm thoughts, prayers and hugs going out to you and your family. I hope that your boys will handle the news better than we expect at this time.
It's so wonderful to see how Kudo was such a part of your life. And will live on in your life with such great memories.
Do you think the boys may want a new puppy? Not to ever attempt to replace the part that Kudos played in your life, but perhaps an extension of that love?
Oh Jenny, I'm so sorry for your loss. Losing a pet is that you're so close to is devastating, but it sounds like you and your family provided a great life for Kudo. My thoughts are with you all.
Chickadee
so sorry that your first baby is gone. they make such a home in our hearts and they leave such a huge hole when they go. and we never have such warm and loving friends like pets.
you will see each other in heaven. if my pets aren't there, i don't want to go!!!!
I've been MIA lately - I really know what you and your family are feeling now. It is so hard to say good bye to our 'firstborns', isn't it?
I truely feel that dogs are gifts from God to us so that we can know the wonder of unconditional everlasting love. I am so glad that you had that with your sweetie, Kudo.
in memory
