Ode to Ava

Ava was a very special dog from the moment my wife brought her home from the pound. This 3 month old “stray” black lab was hand picked by my wife. She said Ava come right up to her, kissed her and told her she loved her. Ava came home with us and as soon as she figured out she had a new home she tore around the house and proceeded to jump into the couch and cuddle down. It was love at first sight. My wife said ” were going to spoil this one”.
Ava never once made in the house until her last day
Ava was the best boat dog.
Ava loved crappies best, she would gently pick crappies out of the livewell over other species and lick them.
Ava was our best friend
Our third daughter.
We love you.
One day we will be together again.

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So sorry for your loss. It’s a sad day when you loose a loved one. I know what you’re going through. Remember all the good times.

So sad. Sorry for your loss.

Very sad to lose such a wonderful friend.

Sorry to hear that bigpike. I’ve got no way to back this up, but I really think that pets that were strays can form a different bond. I like to tell myself that they remember “the streets” and know how good they have it with the family that took them in.

our hearts go out to you bigpike,we know exactly what you are going through and it gets tougher each time.
dont know if you have ever read it,but there is a story titled the rainbow bridge,it tells how our pets are waiting for us on the other side.

Good girl Ava. Other good dog joins the great Ido dog park in the sky.

Sorry for your loss bigpike. Ava sounds like she was a great member of the family. Strays make great pets, you can feel their joy when they know they are now in a loving home.

– Lend Me A Pup –

I will lend to you for a while
a puppy, God said,
For you to love her while she lives
and to mourn for her when she is gone.
Maybe for twelve or fourteen years,
or maybe for two or three
But will you, ‘till I call her back
take care of her for me?

She’ll bring her charms to gladden you
and should her stay be brief
you’ll always have her memories
as solace for your grief.
I cannot promise that she will stay,
since all from earth return,
But there are lessons taught below
I want this pup to learn.

I’ve looked the whole world over
in search of teachers true
And from the folk that crowd life’s land
I have chosen you.
Now will you give her all your love
Nor think the labor vain
Nor hate me when I come to take my pup back again.

I fancied that I heard them say
“Dear Lord Thy Will Be Done,”
For all the joys this pup will bring,
the risk of grief you’ll run.
Will you shelter her with tenderness
Will you love her while you may
And for the happiness you’ll know, forever grateful stay.

But should I call her back
much sooner than you’ve planned
Please brave the bitter grief that comes
and try to understand.
If by your love, you’ve managed
my wishes to achieve,
In memory of her that you’ve loved,
cherish every moment with your faithful bundle,
and know she loved you too.

Author Unknown

Oh what a sweet looking face. And all those gray hairs. She looks like she lived a very happy life as part of your family. Sorry to hear of her passing. It’s hard to lose a remember of the family. Hugs.

Very nice tribute. Sounds like a great dog. Never easy to say goodby….

-J.

Jon Jordan wrote:

Very nice tribute. Sounds like a great dog. Never easy to say goodby….

X 2… Sorry to hear BP…

Mark

Thank you everyone for your nice comments and thoughts. I truly appreciate each and every one.

Oh, so sorry to hear that @bigpike! I met Ava last winter, she was my freezing buddy that day. Sweet and wonderful dog! My deepest condolences.

Our dogs are truly members of the family and it’s not easy when it’s time for them to leave us.

So sorry for your loss.Its a tough pill to swallow.I know it still is 9yrs later.Remember all the good times and she will always be by your side. RIP AVA

I am so sorry for your loss. RIP Ava.