Happy Endings In-Home Pet Euthanasia is proud to honor and memorialize some of the wonderful pets that have recently passed away.

I rescued Tracy, or rather, he chose me, in August of 2003. His previous family had surrendered him back to his breeder, and I kept his name of Troon Quarry Tracy. He was a sweet, kind, gentle dog, and a wonderful companion. I could never understand how someone could not want him. He was my best friend, and kept me company through the day, and slept with me every night under the covers. He loved to chase birds, and actually caught one one time, and brought it to me through the doggy door! When he started to get older and slow down, I made the - scary - decision to get a puppy to cheer him up and it worked! Tracy and Frankie were inseparable, and Frankie perked Tracy up, and watched out for him as his blindness and deafness and dementia increased. As it became obvious that Tracy was nearing the end of his stay on this earth, Frankie kept a vigil by his bed. The Saturday after Thanksgiving, it was clear that it was time to let him go, and Dr. Fixler came to our house that same day, and helped Tracy cross the Bridge. He was so kind and compassionate, and doing it this way helped Frankie to get closure.

Pork Chop (aka: Fatso) was my first dog. I won the money gambling in pool to pay for him. We didn’t like any ‘gambling’ names so we decided Pork Chop would be the perfect name since we ate so many and loved them so much! And that love GREW… Boy did he live up to his name, eating, snorting, grunting and even getting the largest doggie butt we or anyone had ever seen! It was truly J. Lo style and we loved patting it just like a baby’s bottom. He brought us years of good cheer, always by our side and quick to give fresh licks. One favorite memory (there are so many!) is when he made a running start from inside the house, out the patio door, to jump six feet into the air as our house guest was getting ready to take a bite of pizza. He literally grabbed the entire topping and left the only the crust behind! What a crazy wonderful personality he was! We were truly blessed to have him for nearly 13 years and could only wish for 13 more healthy ones. We miss and love you so very much, our favorite Pork Chop forever!

King Argus was as regal and dignified as any loving and caring royalty could be. He took the changes from New York City, to Connecticut, and Phoenix with all the style and elegance of a true benevolent monarch. He loved to eat snow as much as he loved to bask in the desert sun. Running in wide open fields was as effortless to him as swimming in a luxurious pool. When we adopted other pugs, he taught them his regal nature, as well as how to play fetch, tug-of-war, and alert the royal staff to the slightest unexpected sound. Argus will be sorely missed, he leaves a hole impossible to fill, but his kindhearted nature and personality will be long remembered by all who knew him. Farewell my King.

Buddy was one of the sweetest dogs ever. He loved to go for a walk every morning and he liked every person and dog he met and wanted a tummy rub from everyone. He slept in our laps or next to us in our chairs and followed us around the house and yard. He had to fight his way through health issues over the four and a half years of his life. He saw lots of his vets and chiropractor during that time. Even with everything he went through, he kept his sweet temperament. His issues finally became insurmountable and we finally had to let him go. He is gone but never forgotten. He was our precious boy. Rest in peace little Buddy.

Koda was simply the greatest dog that ever lived. I guess I shouldn’t say “greatest dog that ever lived,” because he was one of us. When our other dogs, Lucy and Chip, were off being dogs, Koda was hanging out with us. He loved us more than life itself and I hope we did enough to show him the same. He was the leader of the pack, and we didn't realize until after he left just how much we looked to him to lead us as well. Whenever there was a suspicious sound, Koda would run to be by our side to protect us, while Lucy and Chip went to investigate. A simple glance would have him jumping up from his resting spot to run up to you and get all up in your face, for everyone knows that eye contact means “Koda, hurry, come here.” He welcomed any opportunity to be close to us, in your lap, or directly underneath your feet. The house is not the same without him and our lives will be forever changed, but we are lucky to have known him, to have called him our family and to have been loved by him unconditionally.

He was the sweetest, kindest, most loving and gentle little guy. I will miss him more than words can express. Getting up every morning and having our breakfast together, following me everywhere tail wagging, greeting me when I returned home. We were happy to see each other! Laying beside me as we watched TV, always by my side. The nights were special, tucking him in his fluffy bed, seeing his love for me in his eyes, saying goodnight. This went on for 14 and 1/2 years. I'm so very sad but I know it was his time to go. The wonderful people at Happy Endings In-Home Pet Euthanasia made it as easy as possible for him. He passed away in his fluffy bed, in my arms, as it should be. Rest in Peace little Peanut. Oh, how you will be missed and never forgotten. I love you little Peanut.

Buddy came into my life at a time when I felt like giving up on the world and myself. He showed up at my front door and looked just as beat up as I was by life. I felt like I couldn't take care of him because I couldn't give him the love I didn't know was in me, but he showed me that I had much more love to give than I thought. He taught me how to love something other than myself again. That day he saved my life as I saved his. From then on we spent everyday together. I wouldn't go anywhere without him. He would ride in my truck with me anytime I left to run errands, he would be right there with me. We took trips to Colorado, Vegas, California, Sedona, Camping, off roading or just a day at the lake. He helped me loose weight to be healthier. We would go on walks all the time and go play at the park. He never wanted to be away from me, and I him. Truly the best friend I ever had, and even though he is gone from my life he will never leave my heart. I love you Buddy...

Hank came into our lives when we adopted him from an animal rescue in Tucson. He and our Shepherd mix Bindy, both 2 years old at the time got along and bonded instantly. From the day he came home and for the next 5 years they were inseparable. Hank was a dog that had suffered abuse, abandonment, neglect and we would also be his fifth home. After a year of working with him to trust again he became the most forgiving, loyal and protective dog. He was goofy, easy going, loved his life and loved Bindy. They never went anywhere without each other. A trip to the vet for one dog became a trip to the vet for both. If one was on the table afraid, the other had front paws on the table to show they were there. Hank touched many people and taught us that sometimes we all need second, third, fourth and fifth chances. We will always love and miss you Hank. You were such a good boy.

From the beginning, Jake taught me to love life, live life to the fullest, and most importantly to always Smile... until, and for your final moment. For 16 1/2 wonderful, action packed years Jake and I traveled for my business some 26 states together. We experienced the country more than most. Jake's extraordinary Spirit and Sense for Safety allowed me to go places I would not normally go alone. We hiked many canyons, we ventured many watering holes, from rivers to lakes to the pacific ocean. We camped in some of Gods most precious places, and our wild animal adventures are ones to tell stories about for years to come. Jake was loyal and devoted to my Safety, So caring of my spirit to always provide me with unconditional love. He will truly be missed by everyone who he has touched. Jake’s spirit and presence will live on forever as my spirit guide. He will forever be # 1 protector of our family!

Our beloved Buck came into our lives in April 2006. 8 weeks old and with feet large enough to carry a much larger dog as we would soon find out. It did not take long to win our hearts. His devotion to our family was steadfast. His first three years were spent in Michigan where he was born. His last 4 in AZ. He never showed any aggression, only love and devotion. My children grew up with this dog as he did with them. Buck loved to play fetch from day 1; any ball every ball. As I remember him I have to laugh thinking of all the guests through the years that would wake up at dawn just to throw the ball to Buck. This dog showed me the true meaning of selflessness. My home is very quiet and solemn without my brother. In closing I would like to thank Dr Fixler and staff for their diligence and genuine understanding of this difficult situation. Nothing will ever replace my wonderful boy. But I know he is at peace and hurts no more and I thank you for that.

10 years ago our lives changed forever. That's when our beloved Asia came into our lives. She captured our hearts at 6 weeks old and never stopped. Asia had many medical issues throughout her life, ranging from ACL surgery, pancreatitis, Addison's disease and finally degenerative disc disease. She always had a smile on her face and never let any of her ailments get her down. Asia loved her life so much. She loved running along side a mountain bike and going for car rides; she would get so excited that she would start "rooing", earning her the nickname "Roody". Asia was such a gentle giant and she loved everybody. She showed my husband and I what unconditional love is truly about. Asia left paw prints on our hearts that will never be erased. We miss her like crazy and she will always be our forever dog. We love you Roody, xoxo - Mommy & Daddy Sam & Jenny Bursell.

Sweet Kenny Valentine aka Kenny has been the light of our life for 13 years. He filled our hearts with joy and laughter and was truly a loyal friend. He came into our lives in February of 2000 to help us celebrate our first Valentine's Day in our new home. Our cute little "ewok" won us over with his perky "terrier" determination; wanting to be involved in everything. He loved taking walks and going for rides, sharing many trips by our side. He loved wearing bandanas and soaked up the compliments for being a pretty boy. He would get embarrassed and would smile and grin when he was overly excited. Being referred to as a little trooper by his Vet, Kenny had challenges in life that finally became too difficult and it was time for him to move on to a peaceful rest with his sister Ticky. Thanks for all the unconditional love and joy you brought to our lives BooBoo Bear.

Sophie was my first dog, my Italian girl, "Sophia Loren" with long curly brown ears, and big brown eyes! As we transitioned from NJ to AZ; she joined us as a pup just months after we moved. We moved again, several times, and she was with us always loyal and steadfast, and always "got the ball." She was a mama's girl for sure; never leaving my side. She provided so much unconditional love and companionship, and I was so lucky to have her for all these years. I miss her. Mornings are the hardest, she came to my bed and followed me to the bathroom and licked my face good morning every day without fail. Then we had our routine of sitting outside with coffee, and she would sit pressed hard against me. She could never get close enough! My favorite moment was when I would put my hand and say, "give me the puss face" and she would drop her head, without any resistance, in my hand and just let me hold her. And I would kiss her and tell her she was the best dog in the WHOLE world. And she was.

You picked us out on 7/10/04 and we brought you home seven days later. We didn't yet know how wonderful and special you would be. London, Mr. London, Big Red, Our Golden-Golden, London No-Toe, London Gold, Crazy little Goldfish; so many names for one very special dog. You were always such a bright and happy dog and made so many people smile. Always so gentle and eager to please. We are so proud of your volunteer work as a therapy dog. London, you were the special spirit in our lives from beginning to end. We miss your golden smile, your morning and afternoon greetings, your big brown eyes and forever wagging tail. Although we have all the wonderful memories, you can't imagine how sad we are to move along with out you. We loved you so much. You truly were and always will be the best.

Chip (aka Chip Eddie Dip, aka Chipster, aka Chipster Dipster, aka Dipster) was our baby boy. We joked that he was our little first grader because no matter how old he got he would prance around and play like he was a 6-year-old boy. He originally belonged to a roommate of ours who didn't take very good care of him. He was never home and didn't pay attention to him even when he was home. Chipster didn't notice though. He knew he was part of our family. He stopped answering to the name our roommate gave him and started coming to "Chip." He loved to sit on the couch with us and play with our other dogs, Koda and Lucy. He was the fastest runner I have ever seen and would just run lap after lap after lap. His best friend, Lucy, was not as fast and would just sit and wait for him to make another pass around. When he did, she would attack. Chipster loved it. He was a good boy and a beloved member of our family. He came into our life by accident, but we can't imagine our lives without him.

My baby girl was a beautiful, Australian Shepard mix I found at the human society. She was only 6 mo's old and was the cutest thing I had ever seen! From the beginning she was a tough lil drama queen! She survived kennel cough, pneumonia, Parvo, a torn AC ligament, and battled arthritis. We were told when she was 9 that she would not be able to use her hind right leg for longer than 6 months, but she sure showed them. For 15 years she showed me how strong, loving, and loyal a dog can really be. I had my lil Ginger girl since I was 9 years old. She was always there for me. When we moved she was my only friend, and she never let me down. No matter what was going on in my life I could always count on her to be at my side. I will never forget how she used to hide under the bed till I got home from school, or sometimes go find my shoe if I lost it. She would also cuddle every night in bed with me. My Ginger girl was the best thing to ever happen to me. I will never forget her. I am just so happy I was able to give her a long happy life and a happy ending. Dawn O'Brien

Jessie came into our lives as the successor to our Duchess who passed away in 2005. As my son said, we were destined to have Jessie with us as her birthday was one day after Duchess'. She was a loving, caring, sensitive companion who always seemed to know when a touch was needed and when companionship was important. She had a way of touching people's hearts. Jess also had a way of keeping Jake and Bailey in line, usually with just a look. Her presence caused folks to re-examine their perceptions of Dobermans. She was taken from us far too soon but even in the short time we had together our lives have been enriched by her presence. We are comforted by the knowledge that her passing was very peaceful, her pain has been removed and God now has a wonderful companion to help comfort the souls of the young men and women we lost in Iraq and Afghanistan. Virginia

On April 10th, 2011 I called Dr. Fixler. My best friend, Opie, a "splab" (spaniel-lab mix) was not going to make it to his 15th birthday. He couldn't walk anymore, and was suffering. Dr. Fixler arrived quickly, and Opie went to the Rainbow Bridge peacefully at home, surrounded by those that love him! The 14.5 years that I shared with Opie were the best years of my life. He taught me what true love, happiness, and friendship are. He was very special, and the bond that we shared was unbelievable. I will miss him forever. The only thing that has given me any comfort is the saying "Don't cry because it is over. Smile because it happened." I am so happy that I was blessed to get him when he was 8 weeks old, and to love him his entire life. Linda Neal

Our very first Dobie, and what a lovable companion she was! She immediately adopted Alan as "her boy" and he could not have asked for a better protector. Despite her size (29 inches at the shoulder and 80 pounds) she was a gentle soul who loved having her ears scratched and her belly rubbed. She was devoted to her boy and would sit patiently waiting for his return whenever he was gone from her view. Her passing created quite a void in our lives but we were comforted in knowing that she had been restored to full health. She would be able to watch over her boy as she wanted – fully devoted to him and pain free. Little did we know that she would let us know when the time was right to pick up the successor she herself had selected.

I can barely remember what life was like before Honey came into our lives. Honey was literally pure happiness. She used to wait for the school bus by the window to greet me when I walked in the door. If you left for five minutes, Honey would greet you like you had been gone for weeks. When I would cry, she would be sure to snuggle close to me. She was close with every single member of my family and absolutely a part of our family. I know she would do anything to protect us from any harm. I miss her every day and life is simply "weird" without her. Even though I know she is in a better place, I can't help but be selfish knowing I don't get to see her anymore. I know she won't be forgotten by my entire family and her presence is always going to be around us. I know we are so lucky and blessed to have been able to spend a decade with her. I am happy knowing she is without pain and free. But I will always remember that adorable smile, wagging tail and snoring that made life even more beautiful. We love you, Honey Bear. Thank you for the love. Megan Thompson

For those of you who had the opportunity to meet Smokey my Black Lab, he was laid to rest yesterday at the young age of 10. I found him as a pup in my neighborhood on a 115 degree day. He had a wonderful life, he and Snowie went with me more than once on my Cattle Drives, playing fetch, swimming in the lake, playing in the snow, trail riding, attending my barrel racing events, and spent time in Show Low at the cabin. You will be sadly missed, by now he has crossed over the Rainbow Bridge and his whole again. Deb Russell

A poem for D.O.G. written two years before she passed. How grateful I am that I had several more years filled with her love and essence after I wrote this poem. In loving memory of D.O.G. Marie. Good Run by Victoria McCune My soggy sandals and cold feet, stand in wet grass while I watch her run through a field blanketed in dew where sounds of children playing echo from yesterday. Tail wagging, leash dragging, she dashes around in zig zags and figure eights, like a mad bee collecting pollen from white daisies scattered. Sun slowly bats its golden eye lashes, over dark silhouetted houses warming the gray hue of morning air around us. My old girl stops to look back at me with a smile that only dog lovers recognize, she is happy today. I think of the silly little pup she used to be as I watch paw prints follow her like child's art drawn in the wet grass. This might just be her last, good run.

Amos was a gift from the Universe that was part of my life for 12 wonderful years. A 115 lb mixed breed with a large mastiff head. He brought smiles to the face of most people who met him. He came into my life from a lady who rescued Pit Bulls. She told me that she rescued him from the Humane Society after his owner brought him in to be "put down". According to her he was raised in a crate to be a fighting dog and, obviously, Amos had other ideas. The first time I met Amos he did that mastiff thing of standing on his hind legs, I was hooked immediately. When I first adopted Amos he was nervous about his environment, and had seizures when he got excited. I signed us up for an obedience class, It turned out he loved other animals and generally had a ball at class. I had a pool which Amos studiously avoided; however he rushed to the side as I came to the edge. When I was within reach Amos took my arm gently in his mouth and tried to pull me out. It took a few weeks before he understood I wasn't in any trouble. I will love and miss him the rest of my life.