In Loving Memory...

On Saturday, April 12, Kristi had to say goodbye to her dog, Luther. He was just 2 months short of his 12th birthday. Kristi got Luther when he was 6 weeks old. It didn't take long for people to realize that Luther was not just an ordinary dog. I know a lot of people say this about their pets...but those who knew Luther, knew he was full of personality. Luther had the most gentle spirit, Kristi never once heard Luther growl or bark in anger at anyone or anything. But, he was also a fighter. In the fall of 2004, Luther was diagnosed with bone cancer and had to have his back right leg amputated. At that time, Kristi was told Luther would only live about 6 months. Luther surprised everyone, including every vet who worked with him...living 3 1/2 years longer...getting along on 3 legs as if he was born that way!

Last week Monday, April 7, Luther went to vet because he had gotten sick a few times over the past few days. He was sent from the vet to the 24 hour emergency clinic with a bladder/kidney infection. Kristi brought Luther home on Wednesday, all seemed to be OK...but, when she came home from work on Thursday, she found that Luther had gotten sick again and he could not stand on his remaining back leg.

She rushed him back to the emergency clinic, only to learn that his prognosis was not good and there was no hope of him regaining the used of his back leg again. Luther spent the night at the clinic, and on Friday, Kristi picked him up and brought him home after work. Kristi spent the night giving him all the love and attention Luther deserved. Her best friend, Connie, just happened to have had plans to be in town that weekend. Connie spent the night on the couch, while Kristi sat with Luther on the floor. He certainly enjoyed his last night...eating his favorite snacks: carrots, puppy treats, bones and other yummy snacks which included popcorn and a his own bowl of ice cream! Saturday morning, when Kristi & Connie got Luther to the vet, Luther enjoyed his own package of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups!!! It was ironically appropriate for Connie to be present with Kristi on this weekend as she was with Kristi when Luther 1st came home as a puppy!

Kristi is thankful for each day with Luther...he was a great dog, but also a companion and friend. People often commented that they'd like to come back as Luther because he was treated so well. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered. She is grateful to her family and friends as well as Dr. Reiter and his staff at Bentley Animal Hospital in Fenton, MO. She is also especially grateful for John's support and love throughout the past few weeks.