Alex 2000-2013

Our dear dog, Alex went to the Rainbow Bridge today (see below). After giving us nearly thirteen years of joy, laughter and happiness Alex grew into old age and lived his life very happily. Alex was born June 4, 2000. Our family of Ed, Kim, Kayla and Kelsey ventured to Alexandria, MN for a surprise purchase of a puppy in August of 2000. We looked at two pet stores and narrowed it down to a Dachsund at one store or possibly one of two Bischon-Poodles at another store--one black and one cream colored. We went and sat in the mall hallway on a bench, Kayla, 7 and Kelsey, 5 and Kim and Ed and had a little puppy meeting. We decided the cream poodle was the one for us--the look on his face said 'take me.' As we drove home from Alexandria we discussed various names--and came up with Alex--because we bought him in Alexandria.

Alex enjoyed running in the back yard. When we first moved to the country he sprinted in the back yard, hit a hole, and did a somersault, got back up and continued running--we all laughed. He enjoyed jumping in piles of leaves and finding his way back out. He enjoyed walks and new people. His back end would wiggle when he met new people and when he knew it was time for a walk. And he loved to lick!! He licked your hands, the fridge, the floor--he was a licker. Alex didn't run, he was more of a hopper like a bunny. When you watched him from behind he looked like a rabbit when he ran. He loved his toys, snack time, and his family. 

In 2008 we adopted Alex a brother. Joey came into Alex's life in September of 2008. Alex was not sure about this new hairy creature in his life. But soon adapted and enjoyed Joey chasing him around the living room nipping at his legs while Alex growled in fun. They soon became good friends. They enjoyed walks together, sharing each other foods (of course without permission), and family. 

Alex was a dedicated dog that will be deeply missed. Our hearts are heavy with grief.  A good quote from Dr. Seuss that may help us a bit:

Don't cry because it's over, Smile because it happened. -Dr. Seuss

Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.

When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.
There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together.
There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.

All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.

They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.

You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart.

Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together....

Author unknown...