With severe allergies and an exercise induced torn ACL (chasing her beloved Frisbee), we worked with her to get life under control so she could enjoy her favorite toys and foods that were 'ok' for her sensitive self, or as we referred to her 'the queen of dog-ness.' Carrots and apples were her favorite, so naturally lunch box packing was one of her favorite times of the day. If there was a car or truck door open in the driveway, she knew it was time for a ride! Every evening around 8 o'clock, it as time for a P.W. (poop walk). She even knew what those initials meant! Just the sound of a plastic pooper scooping bag was all she needed! What joy it was to give and get 'family dog love' whenever we came home. Everyone was down on the floor, patting and scratching until Maddie was done. Then she would sneeze once and walk away - as if to say 'you may leave me alone now'.

Now the house is too quiet. No more prancing for breakfast.

No Labbie kisses when we need it the most. No 'ramming the bed' when it is time to go out in the middle of the night. No more trips to the vet for those nail clippings and anal checks that you hated, but tolerated just to see Dr. Bob again. Just the happy memories of a good, sweet, gentle girl who is achingly missed.

Maddie started vomiting last Monday evening, but seemed better on Tuesday and Wednesday morning. Not so on Wednesday night when the vet said it was probably a gas bubble. By Thursday, she was in the specialty vet hospital in Buffalo Grove. She had a low platelet count and needed further ultrasound and evaluation. By Friday afternoon, her platelets were even lower, her liver was damaged, lymphatic system shut down and there was a perforation of her stomach. The specialty vet was kind as he allowed us precious time with her before we had to put her down. As he flushed her vein, she looked at me as if to say 'No more.' This happened so fast. Too fast. We didn't even have you in our lives for 2 years. But we always will have you in our hearts. Thank you Maddie - for the gentle ways you had. The laughter that you brought every time you found your blue racquetball or jumped on the bed before it could be made. The joy you shared each time we came home to you. The kisses and 'dog love pockets' you made with the kids before bed every night. Rest well in heaven until we can see you and dog hug you again.