NEENO 7/3/04

At 11:30 this morning, Neeno was sent to the Rainbow Bridge.  Dave held
him close and I held his sweet face in my hands with my face next to
his the whole time.  Neeno is buried on our property next to Mugsy. 
Now I know he will never again feel abuse, neglect, or disrespect.

Neeno was with us for seven weeks and we loved him dearly.  During his
stay with us it was obvious that Neeno did not receive the
socialization necessary to survive in today?s world.  If he accepted
you, he would love you until the end.  If he didn?t, you could never
trust him.

Neeno would have needed a home in the country, without children, male
dogs, old women, bicycles, motorcycles, cats, birds, and visitors.  And
although that ?perfect? home might be out there somewhere, it was
unfair to Neeno for him to wait months or years.  I think this has been
even more difficult for us because Neeno showered Dave and I with love.
The many nights that he would come over to my side of the bed and
place his warm chops on my cheeks just to make sure I was still there.

A family adopted Neeno and it was apparent within the first few days
that Neeno was a danger.  They did everything they could to make it
work but feared for their daughter?s safety.  Unknown objects or
situations caused Neeno to react aggressively.  I could never forgive
myself if Neeno hurt someone and it was bound to happen.

The last seven weeks were probably the best Neeno had in his short two
years of life.  I am happy to have provided at least that much to him. 
Ironically, we went to a different vet today and it was the same one
used by his previous owner.  His records showed that he had a severe
case of parvo as a puppy.  I don?t understand why someone would pay for
a pure breed dog, nurse it to health, have him neutered and then abuse
him.  The vet observed the many scars Neeno bore and said that he had
all the classic signs of abuse.  He had no doubt that we were making
the correct decision.

Dear sweet Neeno ? God speed.  You will no longer feel neglect, pain,
or fear.  Instead, you died in my arms hearing how much you are loved. 
Now, you are buried next to Mugsy so you will never be alone.  I will
see you again someday, my friend.  Our candle is lit to help you find
your way to the bridge.