This past Friday, with heavy hearts, we said good-bye to our Koda-bug.
In my head I’ve written this post a hundred times over the past year since we received her diagnosis of canine lymphoma. I thought about how I’d focus on the good times, remember how grateful we were to get extra time with her and how much joy she brought to our lives over the past 8 1/2 years. I felt fortunate to know we had time to prepare. We knew this was coming for the past year, and that it was creeping closer over the last couple of months. Yet somehow, when I got the news on Thursday of just how severe her condition had become and that there was nothing more they could do for her, it still rocked my world.
It turns out you just can’t prepare, no matter how much time you have, to say goodbye to a being that is so intricately woven into every minute of your life.
David and I got Koda when she was a just a puppy of about 8 weeks old. From the start we loved her crazy energy combined with the sweetest soul. She was bred to be a hunting dog, but shook in fear of the sound of gun shots and fireworks her entire life. She was a ‘Velcro vizsla’ through and through. It took some getting used to, but soon it felt like second nature to have her curled up on the bath mat outside of the shower.
We got her before we were married and she seemed to solidify our status as a young family. So many memories flood over me when I think of her. How we took her camping when she was just a pup and how she shivered so much that David zipped her into his sleeping bag halfway through the night after we vowed we wouldn’t baby our dog.
She loved hiking, camping, the beach; being outside was always her happy place.
While inside, she wanted nothing more than to curl up into cinnamon roll position right on top of us, which she did quite often when we were first married and our only piece of furniture was a giant bean bag.
When Hailey was born I didn’t have to worry for even a second. Koda had the kindest heart and was always so gentle with the girls.
I can remember when Hailey was a toddler, playing with Koda, and I looked over and her finger was in Koda’s eye up to the second knuckle. I freaked out, but Koda never so much as jerked away. She didn’t have an aggressive bone in her body.
The last few days I’ve immersed myself in message boards about saying goodbye to pets. I know it’s not something everyone can understand the difficulty of, so they’ve been comforting. Honestly though, I’ve struggled a lot with the mixture of sadness and guilt. And more than that, even with two little kids at home, the house seems so quiet without the shaking of her ears, the pitter-patter of her paws on the wood floor, her pawing at her metal water bowl for a refill and her soft, and sometimes not so soft, snoring.
On Friday morning we took her to her favorite trail at the state park. She couldn’t run it like she once could, but it was clear she was happy to just be there. She waded in the lake while we sat watching her, reminiscing. At home we cooked her up steak, gave her soup bones to chew on and let her finish off peanut butter jars that weren’t quite near empty, her favorite. We loved on her the best we could. And we cried. That evening, she curled up on her blanket in front of the fire and gave out a heavy sigh. I tried to convince my heart this was her way of saying I’m ready now.
If I’m being honest, I’m still struggling a bit with sadness, guilt and the loneliness. She’s been with us since before we were married. She snuggled my belly when I carried my babies. She would come into the nursery every night and curl up by the glider while I nursed. She covered us with kisses constantly and wanted nothing more than to just be with us, her pack.
Looking back with a little more clarity now, I can see that near the end, she was only fighting so hard for us. She wasn’t getting the same joy out of life, she certainly didn’t have the energy she once did and she was hurting. The cancer was manifesting itself in new, aggressive ways, and our vet told us from the beginning that we would be the ones that would have to make the call to do away with her pain and let her go in peace. It’s one of the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do in my life. Though the experience was at home, curled up in front of the fire and incredibly peaceful, there is no other way I can describe it other than gut-wrenching.
Today is the first morning I’ve woken up early with my alarm and haven’t heard her ears shake as she followed me to her food bowl. It’s the first of, which I’m sure is many, small reminders of how the house will be more quiet now. I’m just hoping that with each day my mind focuses in on all our sweet memories and less of the pain we felt at the end saying goodbye to a big piece of our hearts.
I’m trying to focus on the extra year of incredible life we were able to give her, of how fortunate we were to be able to have the weekend together to be with just us and start to adjust, but the truth it I miss her so much. I know time eases all pain but right now it still feels fresh. She was my first dog and I’m convinced there will never be another quite like her. We love you, Koda. Thank you for all the love you gave us.
And we’ll see you on the rainbow bridge.
Jaci says
That was a beautiful tribute to Koda. Thank you for sharing her with us. Hugging my little boxer tight. You are a beautiful writer and had me crying immediately-Koda is proud of you!
Marisa says
I’m so sorry for your loss. She was such a beautiful dog. Hugs to you and your family xo
Erin says
So sorry! Losing a dog is a special kind of sadness.
Heather @Fit n Cookies says
Aww hugs to all of you! I know how a pet can be like a baby in your family. You guys did everything you could have and made her feel so loved. She went with a full belly of yummy food, lots of love in her heart, and is finally at peace. She’s running around full of energy with all the other dogs now! You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Michaela says
Oh no!!!! I hoped this post would not appear in my feed for another year…
I’m so sorry for your loss.
I cried while reading, thinking about our dog and that I hope she’ll never die.
Unless you own or have owned a dog, I don’t think you can understand the love you have for them, and the love they give you.
It’ll be a terribly hard time adjusting to life without Koda, and the pain will probably never go away – but one day you’ll be able to just look back at how happy you were with her.
Hugs for you
sherry says
Beautifully written tribute to Koda. Had tears running down my face. No doubt she knew how much she was loved–loved enough to let her go in peace, even though your hearts were breaking. When I think of Koda I think of how much she loved sticks of all sizes–some could even pass for small trees.She was such a sweet family member! Love and hugs to you all!
Kate says
I’m really sorry for your loss. It must be tough losing a companion that has been there this long! Your love for Koda is so evident and I hope that it will help you through this tough time!
Erin @ Her Heartland Soul says
My heart aches for you. I’m sending so much love your way!
Brittany says
This was such a beautiful tribute. Sending you so much extra love and hugs today as you start to adjust to your “new normal.” Koda was so obviously a very loved, integral part of your family, and she gave you so much love in return. I am also a doggy mommy, and my heart aches for you… I wish they could live as long as we do <3
Kristy Burgess says
Hi Brittany-
I wanted to express how sorry I am to hear about Koda. I, too, lost my best buddy Dexter to lymphoma in June of last year. Please find comfort in all the great memories you had with Koda. I have two small kids and it was a really tough thing to try and make them understand. When it first happened, I told the kids about the “pink clouds.” Every time we saw pink clouds, that was Dexter saying hi to us from the sky. Now, when we see pink clouds, we literally stop in our tracks and talk about all the awesome memories we had with him. Please know that you gave Koda such an awesome life and she was such a lucky dog…….I am sure you guys feel the same way about how lucky you were to have her. “Dogs lives’ are too short. Their only fault, really.” (Agnes Sligh Turnbull) My heart aches for you and I am so very sorry.
Whitney says
Tears Brittany! As I am sitting here with my dogs right beside me I pray that you find peace in knowing that Koda was spoiled rotten and she is having a blast in heaven right now! As cliche as it sounds time will heal the pain! Will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers!
John J. says
A beautiful tribute from a very loving woman. Truly sorry for your painful loss. Your resilience will continue to be shown as you move forward.
EmilyS says
What a beautiful and touching post! It’s incredible the amount of joy animals bring to life. My heart is heavy for you!
Lesley says
My thoughts are with you guys – losing a pet is one of the hardest things in the world. This quote helped me when I lost my childhood dog growing up. Nobody will replace him (or Koda), but hopefully you will find room in your heart for another pet one day and you’ll feel connected with her once again.
“Humans live longer because they need to learn a lot of things like being nice to others, being loyal and being a good friend. Dogs already know all of those so they don’t need to live that long.”
Ali says
Love that quote Lesley!
Kate @ Baking In Yoga Pants says
Tears are streaming down my face as I read this. I’m so sorry for your loss and can appreciate and relate to the place in your heart that Koda holds. A couple years ago, we said goodbye to our family dog that we’d had for 13 years. We were especially attached to him as he had been my brother’s companion and my brother, Jason, had passed away years earlier. In a sense, our dog had become one of our strongest links to Jason. The day we had to say goodbye to our dog, my parents, my sister, and I all separately saw white butterflies which has forever been our sign that Jason is with us, and it completely provided validation in my heart that our pets are forever with us as well. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers and I hope for comfort and peace for you during this time. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Ali says
Xoxo
Jennifer says
My heart truly aches for you. I don’t personally know you or Koda but I cried with you this morning. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Hilary says
That is such a wonderful tribute to Koda. I know I enjoyed hearing about her! I had to say goodbye to my cat a couple months ago who I’ve had since I was 4 so I know exactly what you are going through and your right another dog will never be the same but it will bring you joy in another way!
Morgan says
So sorry for your loss.
Kelsey says
I am tearing up reading this post. So, so very sorry Brittany for your loss of dear, sweet Koda. Pets hold a special place in our hearts that nothing else can fill. Sending you prayers!
Kelli H (Made in Sonoma) says
I’m so sorry to read this, Brittany. I’ve been loving the updates on Koda as her and my Lexi girl were diagnosed the same month last year. Koda was a beautiful girl, and always seemed like she was the perfect fit for your sweet family. It will take a while for you to be okay, but like you mentioned time heals all wounds. I’m just so sorry it’s so painful right now. We’re all here for you and I’m sending a virtual hug your way!
Sonya says
I teared up seeing the title. Hugs & prayers.
Kelly says
My heart is breaking for you. I had pit in my stomach reading your sweet tribute to Koda. My heart almost can’t go to that place but having a ‘senior’ dog I know that one day it will happen. I will say a special prayer for you today. Losing a pet is hard. Much love!
Lee says
I’m really sorry Brittany. This just made me tear up a bit. I know Kona will be missed.
Nadine says
I’m so sorry for your loss. We lost our Dachshund Flash in June. Seven months later, it is better, but we still miss him all the time. Hugs to you.
Haley says
So much love! Losing a dog is never easy but they will forever leave a paw print on your heart. Sending love and many thoughts your way
Jess Mathias says
Brit – I’m so incredibly sorry. That is one of the hardest decisions to make. What a beautifully written tribute and i felt the love you have for her poured into your words. My thoughts and prayers for you. A fur baby is a member of the family and that first one you have together is so super special. As you said, you’ll see her again at the Rainbow Bridge. Sending lots of love.
Christina says
Big virtual hug to you and your family, Brittany!
Marci Gilbert says
I am so sorry to hear. I know she was such a special dog to your family! I know your girls will always remember their first pup!
Brynn says
My heart is breaking for you and your loss. Sending you prayers.
Clara says
This made me cry! I’m thinking of all of you! You gave her the perfect last day!
Kate says
I don’t usually feel sentimental over animals, but honestly having a dog this past year has softened my heart. I never thought I’d cry over someone else’s dog loss. Koda was so lucky to have you guys as a family!
Claire says
Sending so much to you and your family. My dog died two years ago, aged 15 and we knew it was coming but it hurt so much. Dogs are such special members of the family and are each so unique, they stay with us through many transitions and my dog was a real constant through many changes. The only advice I can give is to try and focus on the wonderful memories you had with her and how well looked after she was, that you did the very best for her.
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss, you’re very much in my thoughts and prayers.
Monica says
Oh Brittany, I’m so sorry. I know Koda was truly a part of your family, and having a weim of my own (who is slowing down himself at 12yo) I can hear that ear shake in my head and wonder myself what it will be like when he’s gone. She was so loved, and clearly had a beautiful life. Hang in there! Hugs.
Toni says
Awe. I cried reading this post. Dogs hold such a special place in our hearts. I’m so so sorry for your loss.
Mary Beth Smith says
My heart aches for you. I am so sorry for your loss. You said it so well. Been keeping up with you on here, loved seeing pictures of Koda and the girls. She was so beautiful and I truly understand the love. Hope the pain eases soon. She was blessed to have your sweet family.
Rebecca says
Hi Brittany,
It’s my first time posting to you. I immediately let out a big oh no when I read your title of your post. I knew I would have to reach out to to you to say I’m sorry to hear that she had to leave you and your family. You shared such beautiful words from your heart about how you felt about Koda. I know the times will be extremely hard for awhile since she was such a huge part of your life and brought so much to everyone. Please know all of the feelings you have a valid and normal. What a wonderful gift she has given your family. All of those memories that you will carry forever. I will be praying for you and your family. That the pain will subside each day. Peace and love to you.
erin says
I was actually thinking about Koda this weekend because I was remembering a year ago when we were driving to an event and I was reading your blog post about Koda being sick. I am so sorry to hear that she is now gone. But sounds like she had a great life and was well loved right up until the end.
Hannah @CleanEatingVeggieGirl says
Oh goodness, I am literally crying like a baby at work right now. I’m so, so sorry for your loss, Brittany. Losing a puppy dog is truly awful 🙁
Lauren says
I’m so sorry for your loss, this brought tears to my eyes thinking of our dog that we had to put down 3 years ago now. It does get easier but you’ll still miss her. It sounds like she had a great life and a wonderful weekend of contentment and comfort.
Parita @ myinnershakti says
I’m so sorry for your loss, B. I can’t even imagine what you guys are going through. I’ve never had a dog of my own but I know that the bond is deep and strong. Thinking of you.
Millie Jones says
Sitting here in tears hurting for you and your sweet family. I know how hard this is first hand and nothing makes it easier right now other than time passing. Such sweet memories and pictures you have to look back on!
Karlee says
I’m so very sorry for your loss. Koda was obviously very loved and had a great life. Big hugs to you.
Laura @ FitMamaLove says
I’m so so sorry to hear this! Knowing it was coming doesn’t make it any less sad. Hugs to you!
Kim says
I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. I couldn’t read that and keep a dry eye. She was so lucky to have a wonderful life with your family.
Alex says
I am so very sorry. Losing an animal never ever gets easier. Y’all were so wonderful to her. She will see y’all on the other side.
Noa says
I am so sorry for your loss! It sounds like she was happy till the end and that is wonderful to hear. My dog had a similar diagnosis and he did well initially after his surgery but then his health declined 1.5 years later and it was so hard to see him so miserable. We’re fortunate to have had our pups for so long and so many wonderful memories.
Kathy says
So sorry for all of you to lose Koda. I know it is not easy. My you find comfort in your memories of her.
Karen says
I am so sorry. What a beautiful tribute and you gave her a great weekend. I am so sad, I feel as though I knew her through your blog and I will miss her too. I just kissed my 11 year old greyhound extra kisses.
Rebecca @ Strength and Sunshine says
All the love <3 xoxoxo
Jill says
My heart broke reading this. I’m so sorry for your loss, but what a lucky pup Koda was to be so cherished and loved. Thank you for sharing. Hugging my fur babies a litter tighter this morning.
Katy Mc says
Brittany, my sincerest thoughts go out to you, Koda and your sweet family. I wish I had the words to help heal your pain. Please know that you all will be in my deepest thoughts and prayers over the coming months. And remember that all doggies go to heaven.
xoxo
Jennifer Woodall says
I am so extremely sorry for this Brittany!! When I came to your site this morning this is not what I was expecting. My prayers are with you and your family. Pets are family just like our babies! I have my sweet Chloe who I adore. My heart aches for you. What a beautiful tribute you have written about Koda. She was such a special pup!
Heather says
I’m so very sorry for your loss. Your tribute was beautiful and Koda was so very loved.
Kaylee says
Oh I am so so sorry for your family’s loss. Koda knew just how much you all loved her, and I know she’s smiling down on you guys everday.
Jenn says
I’m so sorry for your loss. We just had to say goodbye to our sweet old man dog last weekend so I understand the pain…and the quiet. You gave him a great life while he was here. Take peace in that.
Lizzy says
What as sweet write up. I cried reading through it because there is just no way to describe how hard it is to say goodbye to a pet. I’m so sorry for you guys.
Jessica says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Losing a dog is the hardest thing to go through. Your tribute to her was beautiful and I cried while reading it.
Lynn Thow says
I truly believe that dogs are one of Gods greatest gifts. There love is pure and unconditional. I’m so sorry for your loss. Treasure your memories of sweet Koda!!
Sarah S says
And I’m crying at work. I am so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful tribute to her, sending much love and hugs to you and your family.
Maria says
It is so incredibly heartbreaking to lose a pet, especially since they are your loyal, patient and always forgiving friend. I think we can learn a lot from our faithful little dogs when we think about those personality traits they all share. When we lost my family dog a couple years ago and had to make that awful decision, I was stricken with guilty and betrayal (and it makes cry to this day), but I she knew we loved her and Koda knows that too. I’m so sorry Brittany and will be thinking of you and your family.
Molly says
I am so, so sorry, Brittany. We had the same with Billy’s childhood dog a few years after we were married and it was gut wrenching. I can only imagine how hard it must be for you. Y’all are in my prayers!
Michelle B says
Oh Brittany, I’m so very sorry for your loss. I know how hard it is. We said goodbye to our dog just a year ago. He didn’t have cancer but he did have Addison’s disease and the long term steroid use wreaked havoc on his body. We knew it was time as well but the guilt is still lingering just a bit even a year later. Sometimes I swear I can still hear his howl when I open the front door. I have to tell myself that we did all that we could and with us he knew a great life. You can certainly say the same for Koda. She’s knows that she was loved and had a great life. It will be a while but it will get better eventually <3
christina says
so sorry for your loss brittany. i read this whole thing, and though i’ve never had a pet as an adult, i feel for ya. sending you lots of big hugs. xo
Donna says
Dear Brittany,
I have no words and I completely understand how your heart is hurting. Please know I am sending you my deepest and heart felt condolences. Koda will live in your heart forever and a day……
Caity says
Brittany,
My heart is aching for you and your family. I can only imagine the hole you feel in your heart at this moment and how difficult this moving post was to write.
Koda was as lucky to have you as you were to have her. You loved her up to the very, very end and that’s all any of us can do.
You will be in my thoughts.
Caity
Katie says
So sorry to hear about your loss, Koda was such a sweet dog! Our yellow lab, Paisley, is 9 and we dread the day when we have to let her go. We have so many of the same memories as your family. Dogs really are family members and it’s so hard to say goodbye. Virtual hugs!
Danielle says
As I sat here and read your post, tears started streaming down my face. Anyone who has ever been lucky enough to have a dog love them understands your pain right now and that there are no words that can make that pain go away. I’m so, so very sorry for your loss. You gave her a wonderful life, and she was very blessed to have you all as her family.
I would encourage you to read Rudyard Kipling’s poem, “The Power of the Dog.” I always wonder why we do this to ourselves- invite a dog into our lives knowing how temporary their lives will be in ours and how much it hurts when they go. But then you remember all the good times and you know without a doubt it was all worth it, even the pain of letting them go.
My thoughts are with you and your family.
Elena says
I’m so sorry to read about the loss of Koda, Brittany. All I can say is that I’m sure your beautiful smile warmed her heart every day and that she definitely knew she was loved. She had a wonderful life with you and your family. May she rest in peace.
Kelli says
I’m bawling we put our baby down 15 months ago it still hurts 😢 I’m so so sorry
Jenn says
I’m so sorry Brittany! Losing a dog is the worst and I think even more so when you have to make the decision to say goodbye! I had to do this with my dog who was 10 years old in November and I cried most of the day for about a week. I still cry each week especially when we get a UPS package on our doorstep with a dog treat on top. I’ve heard of the book called “Goodbye Friend” is really great to read during this time. I bought myself a copy but can’t stand to open it yet. Even reading your post brought back so much of the emotions of that day in November. Hugs to you and your family!
Maggie says
I always recommend ‘Dog Heaven’ to friends dealing with the loss of such a beloved part of their family. I’m so sorry. What a beautiful tribute to her.
Kelli says
Bless you and your family Brittany in this painful time in your lives! That was such a sweet tribute to such a sweet member of your family. That was one lucky and well loved pup! I’m off to give my dogs extra love right now. Thanks for reminding me that our four legged family members deserve so much of our love too!
Alissa says
I’m so sorry for your loss.
Heather says
What a beautiful tribute to your first baby. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Teagan says
My heart is with you and I feel your pain so strongly because it is my future pain. I have a “Koda” of my own right now. Mine and hubby’s first dog, hiking and camping adventure buddy, follows me around the house shaking those ears, and cinnamon rolls everywhere I am. He is the absolute best and I am so incredibly aware that it’s not going to last forever. It’s so hard and I hurt that you’re there right now. That is such a gut-wrenching decision and I hope you find peace and can fill that void with the great life you gave each other! Soooooo many hugs from Texas. Plus I love that you made him a steak because we always joke that’s what we’ll do for our dog’s last meal. Though he might get it tonight because this has me wanting to spoil him extra hard…
Danielle says
I am so sorry to hear this. You wrote a beautiful tribute to sweet Koda. It’s hard for people without dogs to understand just how much a part of the family they become. Our pup came into our lives at a time of terrible pain and loss as part of infertility. I swear he saved me from entering a dark and lonely place. It sounds like Koda said goodbye in the most perfect way. My thoughts are with you and your family.
Erin says
I’m so very sorry for your loss. You’re right – there will never be another dog like her. I hope the girls are doing ok…
Samantha says
Brittany, I rarely (if ever) comment, but I couldn’t not respond after reading this. Your words have brought tears to my eyes despite never having met you or Koda. It’s obvious how much you loved her, and this post is a beautiful tribute to a special dog. I’ll be thinking of you all and am very sorry for your loss.
Erin says
Sending hugs and love to you and your family. Losing a furry family member is so tough. When we lost my golden we made a picture book for my then 5 year old to keep by his bed and look at whenever he wanted which seemed to help him. It’s never easy. Lots of love xoxo
Lauren Brennan says
Oh Brittany, I’m so sorry. That is absolutely heartbreaking, but what a beautiful tribute you have written. Thank you for letting us get to know Koda through your blog. Much love to you and the family!
Brianna says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Making the decision of “when” is incredibly hard, even when you know it is the right thing to do for your pet. My heart goes out to you and your family.
Chandra says
I am so so sorry for your loss. Losing a pet is beyond heartbreaking, and my heart breaks for you. When I was going through the loss of a pet recently my mother said to me “you chose to suffer so that they didn’t have to” and I think that really sums up the love we have for our pets. I truly believe we will see them all again some day.
Lauren @ Oh Hey! I Like That! says
Hugs hugs hugs and more hugs for you! Losing a pet is so heartbreaking, but you and Koda were lucky to be in each other’s lives for as long as you could be.
Lynne says
I am so sorry to hear of Koda’s passing. 🙁
You gave her the best shot of beating back that wretched disease and she was allowed more quality time with you. I’ve lost two dogs to lymphoma and I hope I don’t have to go through that ever again. Nasty nasty disease.
Letting go is never easy, nor does it get any easier with another beloved pet. We just have to keep those who have left us in our hearts in a special place. Bring out the memories and laugh and cry often. She will always be with you.
Hugs to the whole family.
teri |a foodie stays fit says
Sending prayers your way. This absolutely broke my heart.
Samantha says
Beautiful tribute to Koda. This brought tears to my eyes! So sorry.
Kris says
My heart breaks for you and your family! You gave Koda the only thing she ever wanted, love and a family (well, perhaps food was in there too). And ultimately you made the heartbreaking but most loving decision to let her go so she wouldn’t suffer anymore. Think of her with joy for the wonderful life she had and the love she experienced with you every day. Best gentle with yourself and hugs to you!!
BTW, when we lost our last dog, it really helped to me memorialize her (we don’t have kids and I was crushed). I had a folk painting done of her with a miniature placed in a necklace so I could keep her close to my heart. There are lots of great options on Etsy for remembering our beloved furry friends.
Ella says
Thinking about you and your family!!! My husband and I got out chocolate lab, Maggie, before we were married. We have had her since she was five weeks and there are so many similarities between her and Koda. I can’t imagine the sadness this brings to your family! Thinking of you.
Jerrica says
So very sorry for your loss. Pets truly are a part of the family and I can’t imagine how much it hurts to lose them. The day is coming though, as I have a senior cat that I have had since birth, and I hope to be able to express as beautifully as you did how much he means to me. I hope you can find comfort and peace in all of your wonderful memories together.
Emily L says
I’m so sorry. Koda was so fortunate to have such a loving family. Thanks for sharing this lovely tribute.
Jenny says
Brittany, my heart broke for you this morning. In reading your post I felt how much you and your family love Koda. I know she felt it too. You are an amazing mom, to all three girls. She was as lucky to have you as you were to have her. I know you’ll wonder if you made the right call. I’m sure you did. You did a selfless thing, loving Koda enough that you didn’t want her to suffer. I dealt with this too about a year ago and I still smile when I think of mine and sometimes I can look outside and see my boys running in the yard. Focus on the good times. Hang in there! Wine sees us through many things (silly joke so you smile).
Sara says
So many tears right now. I have a dog that I love like my child so I can’t imagine. This is a beautiful tribute. Hugs!!
Belinda says
Oh my goodness, my face is a mess with tears. I’ve been reading your blog since before you had kids. I’m truly sorry for your loss. I got my first dog a year ago and I know what a unique bond it is. Your first dog can never be replaced. May Koda rest peacefully xo
Lauren says
Brittany, I am so sorry. Praying for peace and comfort for you and your family.
Michelle says
Oh, I am so sorry. My dog passed away 4 years ago and I was just talking to my dad about how much both of us missed her still. Pets are just apart of the family and will always be missed and loved. I hope your family finds peace and comfort very soon
xo, Michelle
http://rosetolife.com
Carolyn says
So sorry for your loss. It is so hard to lose a pet!
Caitlin says
I’m so sorry for your loss Brittany.
Victoria says
I am a bit late posting, but wanted to tell you that those feelings you are having are so raw and difficult to get through, but it does get easier. I lost my sweet family golden retriever close to 2 years ago and it was honestly one of the most devastating times of my life. But over time you start to focus on the good memories and look back fondly without crying.
I’m now at the point where I feel very ready to raise another dog. This time, with my boyfriend. We also have plans for marriage in the not distant future (and eventually a family). I know that a dog brings so much joy and positivity, contributing to memories over the years. Your photos and description over time reaffirms that even though the later years get hard, a dog is just such a wonderful part of life.
Kelly says
Oh Brittany, I’m reading this with tears streaming for you guys. As a follower of yours, I know how much you loved your pup. They are so part of the family and it has to be gut wrenching. I’m so sorry to hear this and will send positive vibes to you and your family. It’s so hard to loose a pet. 🙁
Kelly says
I am so, so sorry! She was a beautiful doggie. My condolences during this difficult time. 🙁
Christine says
Brittany and family,
I am so very sorry for your loss – my stomach is in knots knowing the pain you are going through. *Holding back tears at the office* I don’t think we can ever really prepare for the loss of a pet. We try to enjoy and soak up every moment but eventually those moments turn into memories. I don’t think Koda could have found a more perfect family for her. She had an amazing life and it shows that you and your family loved her to pieces. Thinking of you guys during this difficult time.
The Stahleys
Brittany Greer says
Brittany,
I was reading this on our drive back from Ohio yesterday and started BALLING! I couldn’t even finish the whole post at once because I was crying too hard. Granted I’m extra emotional because of the pregnancy hormones, but your words really hit me. There were so many similarities to Greg and my dog – everything from you and your husband getting your pup at 8 weeks, before you were married, to the “cinnamon roll” curl, to the love of peanut butter jars…it just broke my heart because I know I’m going to be in the same situation someday with our Zoey. Thankfully she was riding in the car with us, so I could turn around and give her some extra pets to help ease the tears.
I can’t believe Koda was only 8. Great Danes have short lives and while Zoey is only 3 now, I know it’s going to go way too fast. It sounds like you guys gave Koda the absolute perfect last day a dog could ask for! I hope you continue to feel lots of comfort and peace knowing she’s out of pain. Thinking of you and your family.
Julie says
I’m so sorry, Brittany! Our pets are truly members of our family. Sending thoughts & prayers to you, David & the girls.
Catherine @ foodiecology says
Oh, I am so sorry for your loss. Our pets are truly a part of our families. This post was a heartbreaking yet beautiful reminder of their unconditional love and the joy they bring us. RIP, Koda <3
Marjorie @APinchOfHealthy says
So sorry to hear about Koda. Unfortunately, I know exactly how you feel since we just went through it a month ago with our Maddie. Hugs to you!
Irina says
I am so sorry for your loss… this is so so sad… I hope you can find some comfort in the wonderful memories, although it is never enough.
Shana says
I’m so sorry for your loss. We recently and suddenly lost our 7.5 year old boxer and she was the most amazing dog. You said it all so well. It’s the hardest thing we’ve ever had to go through and the pain and guilt are still constant but we try and focus on how blessed we were to have her. Thinking about you and your family!
Aparna B. says
First time visit your blog, and I’m a big mad at myself for picking such a sad, yet heartwarming post to read. I am truly sorry for your loss. Dogs are a big part of any family and they ARE family. Your tribute and memories are absolutely beautiful. Thank you fro sharing. I love viszla’s! My best friend has a friend who at one point had 7 of them on a giant farm. They’re so silly and the ultimate lap dogs. <3
Melissa says
My deepest sympathies! I found you several years ago while researching how to get rid of a sore throat. I read your blog and was hooked because of Koda. I have two vizslas myself. They are a beautiful breed. I have felt connected to your blog ever since.
Ruth Meaney says
I’m so sorry for your loss. Such a beautiful dog xxx
Anne Riley says
Our Bailey went to Rainbow Bridge at the end of August passed. I read that the grief is proportionate to the love we shared.
We are truly broken.
The pain does not go away. It just gets easier to deal with each new day.