memories of Zac

a very special friend - Jan 12 2009

I lost a special friend today
the kind you can't replace,
and looking at his empty bed
I still can see his happy face.

I see the endless energy
the sparkling puppy eyes,
Not the tired, fragile friend
I had to bid goodbye.

I know he's in a special place
our Lord has for such friends,
Where meadows, fields & flowers
help make them strong and whole again.

I remember how he'd run to me
to play his favorite puppy game,
And how his ears would perk right up
When he heard me call his name.

But as those precious years went by
And we both aged and grew,
I'd find him often slowing down
But-we had still so much to do.

He did his guard dog duty well
Each time the doorbell rang,
Strangers surely couldn't see
My gentle friend--behind those fangs.

I've noticed in the recent times
His ears were not as sharp,
Where is that running ball of fur
The years have shown their mark.

He started sleeping next to me
Was this his special clue,
Because he felt the end was near
I only wish I knew.

My Zacariah was a special dog
I know he gave his best,
But as I looked deep into his eyes
I knew it was time, for him to rest.

It will truly be a struggle
I don't know how I'll face each day,
I have to let him go--I know
But in my heart he'll always stay.

This special place our Lord has made
Health and strength, wait for him there,
So with my very special friend
I'm sending all my prayers.

I know he's watching over me
he'll be with me when I cry,
So with one more kiss on his beloved head
I told my Zacariah goodbye.

our favorite photo of Janine and Zac taken February 9 2007:



On Monday January 12 2009, our daughter (Janine) had her beloved dog 'put to sleep'. He was the most wonderful pet anyone could have had, he was loved by us all. For such a large dog (shepherd/mastiff cross) at aged 15 years he was considered 'very old'. But up until we last saw him (late November) he still had some 'puppy' in him ..... not much, as by that stage he really was in a lot of pain, but he tried.

We knew we would not see him again.

To us he was known by many names, Zakkers, Boofhead, Zacariah, "our Big Boy", or just plain ZAC. He was so gentle and totally devoted to Janine. As can be seen in many photos of them both.

Janine had adopted him from the RSPCA as a two year old - that is after being dumped by the side of the road by the previous owners - and he was a loyal companion to Janine right up till the end.

We knew the end was near, but when we heard that he had gone, never to be able to give him another scritch or cuddle again ........ we just fell apart. Never did we think we would mourn or grieve a pet so much. It was devastating to both of us, but it must have been a hundred times worse for Janine.

so many loving memories of the boofhead.