In memory of Sammy

Thank you for finding us in the park that day so many years ago. We will always love and think of you."

Kelly, Bruce, Bea and Cowboy

After having been blessed with having Duke in my life for four years and nine months, he passed away peacefully in my arms at 12:34 this afternoon.  I feel completely lost without him. 

He was my constant faithful support through oh so many changes...  Words cannot express the loss - I just want him back.  But, he has gone to a better place.

Maybe one day If I am worthy enough, we could be together again for eternity... I will miss and love my friend Dukie until the end of time.

Brian & Punky

Our hearts go out to Bassethound Rescue of Quebec on the loss of their  CHARLOT, a rescued Bassethound who had been assigned a job as a guard dog on a property, and consequently spent his time all seasons, not in the joyful company of a family, but alone, cold, and without love.  He was saved by the rescue group and found a happy place to recuperate and learn just to be a dog again, in the company of other dogs, at Chez Sandra Chalet et SPA. 

Charlot slowly learned to trust people again and enjoyed the company of fellow dogs.  His horrible heavy coat began to look better and better. Sadly, his years of outside living took their toll on his health, and he was in a pain that could not be helped, his life shortened by a purpose totally unsuited to his short hair and tender heart.

At the end of his life, he found friends who cared for him who did their best to make up for the terrible neglect he had suffered, and it was a pleasure to go over to speak to Charlot, who stood expectantly waiting for his words of praise which were music to his ears.  We will never forget how happy he became knowing people cared about him beyond belief. 

His life was a hard one but he reveled in the time he had at the end.  Charlot is a reminder to us all that no animal should be living like this in Quebec in this day and age, to suffer alone year around, in a job he was not born to do. Dogs are not a replacement for electronic security systems, and a cold doghouse is not a home in our winters.

Rest well, Charlot, the ache in your body and bones gone, your heart strong for the chase, your face filled with the eager joy of play, and run the hills of Heaven with boundless energy—live there, Friend, the life you missed on earth and deserved to have.  Your pawprints are on our hearts forever.

Cindy was my baby who I loved for 14 precious years.  She came into my life at 2 years of age, abused, and needing all my attention and love.  She was a sweet Lhasa Apso.

The ache in my heart is great, but I would not have missed the wonderful years we shared together. 

Remembered forever, Joyce

My dearest Gentle Ben,

I hope you knew that I loved you so completely.  I hope you knew that in my eyes and so many others, that you had the biggest heart that ever existed.  I hope you knew that you were my life and that of your human sister Lia.  We love you now as we did then – nothing has changed except I wish you were still here so that I could tell you again, again and again.

It was a year ago since I last touched you, kissed you, held you tightly and smelt your neck.  Since your passing things have changed a little Ben.  There has been a tremendous void in my life and I wanted so much to find someone just like you.  I have not found anyone to date, so I know that you would approve of what’s been going on in my life.  Firstly, I realize that it will be impossible to find another just like you – it would just not be fair to expect that. 

I feel foolish now for wanting you back this way so I found a way that would make me feel a little more useful and a lot less selfish.  I now try to help any animal that is in need of a safe place until a family could be found – after all, this is how we met.  So this past year there have been many animals that I have cared for.  I have seen them flourish and then find great new beginnings.  It has been hard, because there have been occasions where I wanted to keep them, but I knew the timing was wrong.  I think you would have approved of them all.

Interestingly enough there have been similar characteristics that you possessed – so I found comfort in that.   One day, when I am stronger I will find maybe not a Ben, but maybe a Bentley, Boris or Betty – who knows.  I can promise you one thing though my friend there will only be one Ben…only one.

Thinking of you always my dearest friend, and loving you with the same intensity.  Love Mom, Lia, Nana, Grandpa, Auntie Jewel, Uncle Craig, Amber and Zak!  Big, Big, hug and kiss, until we meet again.  RIP

In loving memory of our GOLDIE

She lived a wonderful life and was loved and spoiled to the very end when she suddenly and unexpectedly passed away due to Renal Failure. 

Goldie was 16 years old and was loved by everyone who met her and she gave as much love back in return.  She will always be in our hearts.
 
Anni

In Memory of Kitana

A beautiful cat who enchanted the whole family for over 10 wonderful years. We will all miss you.

With Love,

The Farkas, Bolla and Howard family

August 31, 1995 - February 17, 2008

Dear Friends,

The house is empty - the silence deafening. He's not at the door to  greet us- tail wagging and so proudly carrying around a shoe or two. He's not here to wake us up at the crack of dawn - grunting with joy, tail beating happily against the side of the bed. "Wake up, wake up - Mom - it's a brand new day - isn't it wonderful".

I can't dwell on the last few days - my heart hurts too much. The memories come flooding back through the tears for a wonderful friend who made us smile from the very first moment. There he was all of  6 weeks old - so chubby his big paws seemed to sprout from his chest. Those beautiful brown eyes lit with joy, his ears as soft as velvet and that wonderful puppy smell. It  was love at first sight.

From the very first he was self assured. There was Bacardi's way - then there was Bacardi's way!!!! I'd say "come" - he'd go. I'd say "goodbye" - he'd bloody well come when he pleased. The louder I was the less he seemed to notice- nose to the ground he run on oblivious to my "queenly commands". But just let me whisper the word "cookie" - he was after all a "Lab" - four legs, an empty  stomach, and heart as big as the great outdoors filled with love to spare.

There was Bacardi's routine; breakfast by 7:30am, lunch 12:30pm, dinner (not one second later than) 6:00pm, bedtime snack (a carrot) by 9:00pm. We always knew what time it was.

One didn't take Bacardi (or Nummy Nuts as he was affectionately known to his friends) for a walk - he took you and for him it was an adventure of the senses. That beautiful brown nose worked it's magic. He never seemed to look where he was going - head down and going as fast as those little brown legs could carry him - why he didn't run into a tree I'll never know. We absolutely had to be in the woods by 10:00am - his friends; Washington (yellow Lab) and Sunny (Belgium Shepard) were waiting. Greetings all around (especially the nether regions) and off we'd go. Three happy friends off into whatever Adventure their noses would take them, and every mud puddle they could find.

Bacardi had more than a little affection for blonds. "Canelle" (a yellow Lab mix) was his heart's desire. Mind you a good looking "Golden" could turn his head too. Actually when I come to think of it - white is sort of  blond ....but then again so is beige!!!! Let's put it this way - if it  looked sort of blond - Bacardi was more than willing to accommodate her every  wish and then a desire or two of his own! He didn't bark until he was more than a year old. Nonetheless - he had his own very personal greeting for each and everyone who came to our door. One simply couldn't have avoided it. Sooner or later he was sure to say "hi". That cold, wet, brown nose never missed an opportunity! In fact his cats just gave up after  awhile and figured he was just doing them a favour!

Bacardi loved the water - he was in before the ice was off the lake in the Spring and last out in the Fall before the ice took hold for the Winter.
Whatever the reason - it was good enough for a quickie swim. He felt compelled  to save his "Mom" whenever she was stupid enough to venture into the water. He'd run around the edge of the pool trying desperately to get closer - when that failed he'd simply jump in. For the sake of preservation - I learned to duck and  swim under water really well!  But I wasn't getting off the hook that easily and once back on dry land he'd wrap his legs around mine and nibble me -as though he'd found a flea. All the time his tail wagging, body wriggling and  making little grunting noise for the utter joy he was feeling because we were  playing one of his favourite games.

Bacardi's heart was big and generous - there wasn't a jealous or mean bone in his beautiful square body. 70 pounds of wriggling happiness.  He made friends where ever he went and even brought a few home.  "Summer" was only a kitten when he appeared at our back door. "Misha" &  "Nana" came from an abusive home. "Oh Sama Bin" & "Friend" just needed a  home. Bacardi even welcomed "Beau Boule" (a husky mix) whose owner had  died. He shared his home, his bed and even his kibble with his buddies. Like people - animals are givers and takers - Bacardi was a giver. He simply only ever stole our hearts.

Our wonderful, brown puppy has gone off on a new adventure. What joy, what a lust for life and what happiness he brought us. We are heart broken but we are so glad to have had the privilege of having had him in our  lives.

Honoured Caregivers - Dan & Heather

1987 - 2008

My noble redcat, who passed away in January, at age 21 years.  He was a fine fella and a noble spirit, he will always be remembered.

Ellen Jacobs

It is with great sadness that Gerdy’s Rescue announces that dear Nikita, Compassionate Placement to Josee, has passed away. 

Josee plans to write us about her experiences with Nikita, who though elderly, was a wonderful companion to her and her children.  See Nikita’s rescue story in Tales to Tell. 

Josee took on an old dog knowing this day would come.  But Josee never thought about the end of Nikita’s life, only day to day which she made so happy for Nikita.  We are grateful to Josee for
her generosity of spirit because she never once regretted taking on Nikita, but did everything to make Nikita happy, safe, and loved.  What dog could ask for more.

We received this message from Josee and we wish her and her children comfort at this difficult time:

"It is now one week after the passing of my dear friend Nikita. I wanted to thank you for your support and thoughts. Each time I washed the dishes at the kitchen sink, I was reminded of Nikita's faithfulness and friendship.

Out in the snow, there remained two sets of prints, my own and those of Nikita who followed me around on one of her last days here on earth. I will be forever grateful to Carol for contacting you regarding these 2 beautiful souls and to you Gerdy and Judy for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of their lives. Your support and guidance went well beyond your "call of duty".

I truly beleive that blessings will be returned to you ten fold for the work you continue to devote yourselves to.

Thanks again,"

Josee

TOM, the little black kitten,  son of Little Mama that's currently up for Adoption, passed away peacefully in his sleep.  He was not sick, just called over the Rainbow Bridge early. Now a little angel, he has his Happy Home at last.

Very missed by all of us at Gerdy’s Rescues, and Dina who fostered him for us. 

“There is a place that kittens go, to play and run in a golden glow.  ‘Tis Heaven there, you see, where they all play eternally.”

"In memory of Milly my little girl and my best friend, you are always in my heart."

Mike

On July 3rd 2007, my beloved dog, Zaira, was killed after being run over by a car twice before the woman drove away. Zaira was such a loved dog in my neighbourhood, adored by children and adults alike.  She was gentle and kind and was my best friend.  There is a cross now on Delmar in Pointe Claire, QC that has become a memorial for her, children who knew her bring flowers every day and remember their canine friend. A 14 year old girl named Ashley like me, wrote these beautiful words and placed it on her cross, what Zaira would have said had she been able at the end of her life.

Zaira's words of comfort

From the day we met, there was no doubt we both knew what it was all about.  Love and joy with trust were there, and day after day the best of care. I hope you know how much I cared for you and the life we daily shared.  No more of you could I expect or ask, but sadly for you there was one more task.  The day has come when we must part, a time I knew would break your heart.  If I could, I'd help you decide, but your love for me will be your guide.  Please don't let me linger when my time has come and there's nothing more that can be done.  Let me go to my final rest, knowing as always you've done your best.

Zaira has crossed the Rainbow Bridge to Heaven, if ever a dog deserved to be there it was her. But it was too soon for me for her to be an angel.  Ever loved, missed, and remembered by her soulmate,

Ashley

At age 17,  Denis left this life peacefully.  He was an elderly  Bichon/Poodle mix found wandering on a street downtown, his coat so filthy it looked black.  Gerdy was called and took him over.  He was cared for by Jocelyne very lovingly during his last year, still enjoying life but on a much slower pace.  Jocelyne tended him faithfully and Denis loved the attention and affection he received. 

He will always be remembered by Lorie who was his devoted friend, and Gerdy who was always there for him when he needed help.  Denis was found alone, but he left his doggie footprints on the hearts of all who met him.  Across the Rainbow Bridge, Denis runs happily looking with a clear vision at the companions by his side with joy in his heart.  Rest in peace, dear friend.

Molly was a little poodle mix when she came to us 3 years ago, a worn-out producer of puppies at a backyard puppy mill til age 8 years. She was so auto-immune that she was allergic to all dog foods as well as a bevy of environmental allergies. She was deaf from not having her ears treated years ago when they were swollen with allergy symptoms. Molly was covered in age warts.  She was old and worn out before her time. 

But Molly had an interest in life still. She wanted to do the things other dogs took for granted. She never had walked on grass. She never had doggy treats or slept on a cosy bed. She never had space to run and enjoy herself. She had never had anyone play with her. Molly had never experienced love. 

That is until a wonderful foster mum came into Molly's life, wanting to bring her as normal a life as possible for the short time she had left of her life. Betty Cowan cooked for Molly's special requirements in food, diligently administered medications as needed, and was just there for Molly in every way. 

Not far from the end of Molly's life, Betty adopted her so that Molly would know she at last had a real home. Betty has fond memories of Molly in the fenced in big back yard chasing squirrels to her heart's content, her ears flapping happily as she bounded hopefully after them. She only caught them in her dreams, but that was enough for Betty; that Molly had the freedom at the end of her life that she never had before.

Molly enjoyed her walks with Betty near the lake. Molly had litter after litter of pups almost her whole life, and what Betty gave to her was the feeling of  a safe and secure retirement after her years of misery serving the pet shops profits. 

Betty was with her at the beginning of her freedom and was with Molly as she left this life. Molly knew she had been loved before she crossed the Bridge. Gerdy's Rescues wishes to publicly thank Betty for her dedicated foster care to Molly.

The world needs more people like Betty, it would be a much better place. The Compassionate Care that Betty gave Molly was truly from the heart.

Rest in peace at last, Molly, we won't forget you and we pray for the day there will be no more puppy mill prisoners like you were.

Mon petit Boudha, tu seras toujours dans nos coeurs. Nos vies etaient meilleures avec toi.

Avec amour et tendresse,

Ane et Felix

 

What can one say about a most wonderful little doggy, except that she was all those things. She was the little girl with the big heart – in more ways than one! We were so blessed to have had her with us for 12 wonderful years. She was good with all people, children and animals and will never be forgotten.

How lucky we were to have her and she will always be incredibly missed. Until we meet again.

Valerie A.

 

A very special cat who is greatly missed.

Rita

A much loved friend and loyal companion.

Marjorie

In memory of a saucy, but loving, feline who came to us through Gerdy's Rescues at the age of 7. Even though we only had three years together, her spirit and presence will long be remembered and missed.

Valerie A.

 

"Despite everyone's best efforts, we could not save Tiger from the diabetes that ravaged him this past summer. He went on to join my mother in heaven. I took care of Tiger for three years, after he and I both lost my mother, Rose.

Now they are back together..."

Pearl

 

 

A kind black Lab mix who never met a food he didn't like, who welcomed foster dogs and cats into his home with generosity of spirit and who blissfully failed obedience classes but got his certificate for good attendance. He was master of all comfortable spots and a friend to all. Missed by Betty and all who knew him.

In memory of Carrie, a sweet, gentle and loving dog. Hers was a long happy life, lived graciously and serenely. I would like to think that she is now fishing with Kip, who generously shared his abundant confidence and love of life with her !

Patricia L.

In memory of Rory, who had come so far in the two short years I was privileged to have him. Each day was an adventure for him and a challenge willingly met by me. I only wish there could have been many more.

Patricia L.

Ginger (Spunky) died where he was happiest, in the country. He purred often and loudly, insisted I take afternoon naps with him, and put up with his brother Cedric's constant licking and cuddling. Though not yet two, he got to enjoy the last nine months of his life in a loving home with his brother and their master, as well as weekends running and racing around free in nature.

John

He was a beautiful black cat that one day walked into my life.  I found him at my front door one cold January evening.  He was there for almost the whole night, until I welcomed him in.  He stayed with us ever since.  He passed away not long ago, but he still lives in our hearts and memories.  He was very much loved!

Peter and Janice

"Gorgeous George" the Goldfish.

Survivor of the Ice Storm '98. Enjoyed providing cat TV in our household for seven years.

Roger and Judy C.

In memory of my beloved dogs, Lucy and Degas.

Margot

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À la mémoire de Lucy et Degas.

Margot

In memory of my beloved cat Toby, 18 wonderful years together.

Josie

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À la douce mémoire de mon chat bien-aimé Toby, 18 années merveilleuses passées ensemble.

Josie

 

We named the kitten Valentina, meaning "strong, vigorous, healthy", because we hoped it would give her the strength to survive and to be well again. She was in distress from the last stages of a difficult labour when found and rescued from a cold back lane – one of so many left to fend for themselves. Sadly, despite every effort to save her, she and her unborn kittens died. We would like to honour her short life, and have found comfort in knowing that she died in the arms of someone who cared.

Gerdy

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Nous avons surnommé la petite chatte Valentina, qui signifie « forte, vigoureuse et en santé », car nous espérions que ce nom lui donnerait la force de survivre et de retrouver la santé. Elle était en détresse depuis les derniers stades d’un travail pénible lorsque nous l’avons trouvée et secourue dans une ruelle sombre et froide, ¾ une pauvre chatte parmi tant d’autres qui sont abandonnées à leur triste sort. Malheureusement, malgré tous les efforts que nous avons mis pour la sauver, Valentina et ses chattons pas encore nés sont décédés. Nous souhaitons rendre hommage à sa courte vie. Et nous nous consolons en pensant qu’elle est décédée dans les bras d’une personne aimante et qui lui a voulu du bien.

Gerdy

You were a very special soul. Your gentle spirit touched us deeply. We so much wanted to give you a chance to be cared for and loved. But it was not to be. Your heart began to fail and, sadly, it was time to let you go. We are grateful that you did not die alone and abandoned.

From all of us at Gerdy's Rescues