Tank is gone…so is part of me…
Yesterday, despite his continued efforts to carry on, we set Tank free.
We were so very lucky to be able to see our happy Tank once again after the amputation. We got to play ball with him, he got to play with his little dog. We had precious time that we knew was fleeting, but appreciated and valued every day to it’s fullest. There are no regrets, but the loss is huge. I don’t need to explain it, you all know how it feels. The silence, the void that activity once filled, the whole world changed yesterday.
Tank joined Velvet, our Lab that passed away in August, and I know she is showing him how to enjoy the freedom he has regained.
When my children were in school, my son had a project to write a structured poem, pure torture to him. I tried to help him by writing a poem myself. I wrote it about Tank. I feel it serves my farewell to him.
Tank, My Black and Tan Buddy
You stand there, waiting and watching my every move.
Your black and tan fur shines in the morning sun, there on the grass of the back yard you wait.
Ears straight up and listening, carefully, legs stiff and ready to go.
Like a stone you wait, not moving, but your eyes watching my every move.
You wait for me, I tease you. moving quickly from side to side I go.
Back and forth following my every move like a shadow you go.
Locked in a friendly battle.
Your collar, metal, shining in the sun, swings with your movements.
I wish I could know what you’re thinking.
Tippy, our little dog, your best friend, barks continually at my feet.
Yip, yip, yip she barks, happy to be outside with us.
I raise my arm, the ball at my finger tips, you ready, Tippy barking.
The smell of the freshly cut, green grass.
As I release the ball, you take off after it, following the ball as if you both were launched from the same gun.
Will you catch the ball?
Catching the ball, you return to me for more, my black and tan buddy.
I will forever miss my black and tan buddy.
I love you Tank!
Lisa
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I’m so sorry. Can’t read the poem or I will cry. Hope you are doing as well as can be – 2 in less than a year, how hard.
Lisa, I’m so sorry that your family has lost Tank. You are right–people here do know what it’s like so you know you can be open and we’ll get it.
I so wish Tank could have had more time, more pain-free time. You loved him so very much and he was a lucky dog, just as you were lucky to have him in your life. Thank you for putting him first, as hard as it was.
Shari
Bless you for the wonderful time you gave Tank, and thank you for sharing his story. May he forever be by your side in spirit and run free of pain at the Rainbow Bridge until you meet again.
Peace.
we’re sorry tank’s time with you has ended. sounds like you sqeezed the best out of each and every moment you were given, tank taught you well. love your poem, it reminds me so much of our own pups that have passed. love never ends.
charon & spirit gayle
So very sorry to hear about Tank. Your love for him is apparent in your words, and I know his memory will remain with you forever.
Rio’s momma, Micki
We are so sorry. May you find comfort in your fond memories of Tank. Sending you hugs.
Sorry to hear about Tank. Thank you for sharing his story and your love for him shines through in the poem. Sending warm thoughts your way.
Oh, I’m so sorry that Tank’s journey has come to an end. Run free Tank!
Marla and Daisy
Lisa, I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Please know that our thoughts are with your family. May you have peace and strength at this difficult time.
Lisa
I’m so sorry to hear of Tank’s passing. I had been thinking about him lately, wondering how he was doing. I’m so glad you two found each other so long ago. Sending healing thoughts your way tonight.
thanks for sharing your love and experiences with tank. may the memories bring you comfort..and knowing you did so much to care for him and showed him such love.
I’m so very sorry to hear of you losing Tank. I have made a Condolence page for him on the forums.
We are sending you peace and comfort during this terrible time.
http://tripawds.com/forums/coping-with-loss/doggie-heaven-got-a-handsome-gsd-today-goodbye-tank/#p76675
Tank, you will always be remembered and loved. We are so sorry that your journey here is over, but I know your spirit will shine brightly forever. xoxo
So sorry that Tank’s journey has come to an end. Thank you for sharing your poem, your love for him showed through it.
Jenna & Spirit Chili Dawg
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of Tank. Thinking of you in this difficult time and wishing you all the best.
Kathy & Tasha