My beloved Sunshine was happy and active three days ago. Then he began throwing up day and night, not even keeping water down. Vehicles passing by elicited no response, a behavior not typical of vocal shelties. He kept getting weaker until he was barely able to walk.
Sunshine laying in the sun yesterday.
Unaware he is awaiting a vet visit.
Bless his loving heart.
No success finding a vet until today when his groomer recommended an “old school” vet. Called, and was told to immediately bring him in. As I awaited the results of his blood work, saw him peacefully lying on the table fervently asking if it was best to let him cross. He shuddered several times and I knew it was his time. His blood work showed his organs shutting down confirming the decision.
Called a friend to make this journey with me, but she had made other plans so was unavailable. So, had to walk that lonesome valley by myself. The aloneness engulfed me with an overwhelming desire to walk by his side as he travelled over the Rainbow Bridge. But, alas, Moonbeam waited at home for my return. Sunshine followed me wherever I went warming me with his gentle, loving presence. Moonbeam is independent and comes to me only when he wants attention. I dearly love him, but that lonesome valley stretches before me as I deal with the loss.
Sunshine is lovingly looking up at me.
Moonbeam is looking at the camera.
My beloved Sunshine, you are now radiantly healthy romping with Cotie, Sarra, and Vensee, awaiting the time when we all will be reunited. Moonbeam and I miss you!
Tribute to all my four-legged angels that have crossed the Rainbow Bridge.
Wish I had the power to keep all of you by my side.
But, the only power I have is to just love you.
MEMORIES
Devotion / Ears Tell Story / Belly Scratch / Sunbeam
Update due to a heartfelt call from Sunshine’s vet today.
Sunshine was healthy, barking at passing vehicles and asking for treats. Then he suddenly stopped eating over the weekend, throwing up night and day. Called his vet clinic Monday (9/14/26) telling them I needed an emergency appointment for Sunshine. Was told there were no openings, and his doctor’s next available appointment wasn’t until October. Called other clinics in the area with the same response. Sunshine was dying – shame on you!
The next day I was prepared to sit in the office until I saw his doctor. Contacted his groomer about the situation. She gave me a list of all the vets within an hour’s drive. An “old school” vet responded telling me to bring him in. When I arrived, he was treated immediately. Even though they were booked solid, they didn’t hesitate to take care of him. On Tuesday (9/15/26) in the care of the vet and me by his side, he crossed the Rainbow Bridge. That day I retrieved all of Sunshine’s and Moonbeam’s records from the clinic informing them they were no longer needed.
Today (9/17/26), I received an unexpected call from his vet, Dr. Jenny Dahar, with heartfelt condolences on Sunshine’s passing. Even the cautious Moonbeam took to her immediately, attesting to her love of those entrusted to her care. She was mortified that she was not contacted regarding the situation, saying she would have immediately cared for him had she known, even coming in if it was her day off.
That miracle of compassion prompted me to call my BFF Barb. She would have immediately been by our side if there were not miles of distance between us. If ever I am blessed with a financial windfall, will follow through on her idea. Open another vet clinic that would always make room for sick and dying companions. Who to run that clinic? Dr. Jenny Dahar, of course!
He will surely be greatly missed. Best boy ever.
My heart goes out to you knowing that losing a furry family member is devastating. I pray God will ease your pain and loss giving you peace and comfort. Take care. Love you Cuz. 🙏🙏❤️❤️
So sad to learn about Sunshine passing over today. My heart is broken that you
were alone today of all days. Having been in that situation on 2 occasions myself I know how hard this is to do. Sorry I was unable to go with you today but the person he loved and followed everywhere was with him till the end a faithful and loving owner that loved him dearly. He will be missed every day and remembered with lots of love.
There’s a song line: “You are the sunshine of my life.” Your Sunshine embodied that his entire life. It’s so hard to lose someone you love, but he’s not really lost, he’s having fun and waiting (PATIENTLY!) to join your welcoming celebration.
Thank you for your text message…
“Your song really takes the personal feeling of the post up another notch. Audible warm hug.”
This is a song Mom taught Joey, Margo and me when we were young kids attending the Hungarian Church.
It is just the chorus:
————-
“So let the Sunshine in
Face it with a grin
Smilers never lose
And frowners never win
So let the Sunshine in
Face it with a grin
Open up your hearts and let the Sunshine in.
Sunshine lived up to his name and was full of love and kisses. No words can express the grief one feel’s and thought time may pass the loss remains, creeping in when you least expect it. We miss those loving eyes, tail wags, the companion who follows us wherever we go. But the joy is still there as well- the warm snuggles, clowning attitudes, and happy walks in the sun must be remembered and celebrated- our eyes may be still tear up but out of our love and gratitude to know such joy. Hold onto the happiness until we meet again.