Animal Companion Remembrances

James

James

Just shy of his 15th birthday, sweet little James lost his brave fight against cancer and made his journey across the rainbow bridge. James came to Amy Sancetta as a rescue from a litter on an Amish farm.  In Amy’s words, “He has been the absolute light of my life. . . .  My best friend all these years, he followed me around like a little sheep. This summer we were able to take him on a bucket list trip to see family, friends and the ocean for the first time, and he had an absolutely wonderful time. We’ve been so blessed to have James in our lives, and right now it’s hard for me to picture life without him.  I won the animal lottery when James chose me and I brought him home all those years ago. He will be part of my heart forever. I’ll love you forever, little buddy.”  Remembrance donation by Judy Wolfe, September 2017.

Wendell

Wendell

In memory of April Rivkin’s wonderful 18 +/- year old cat Wendell. “About 15 years ago we wanted to adopt a second cat, and Stephen had a “thing” for Maine Coons. However when the County Shelter suggested we might like this Norwegian Forest Cat, we fell in love. Wendell was big, funny, and thrived being the center of attention. Until three weeks ago, Wendell literally greeted every person who came into the house; he was definitely the host with the most! If ignored, he would tap, tap, tap you with his right paw until petted. Sometimes a bully with the other felines, he always charming with humans. In his youth he was quite the handsome guy who loved to play fetch with a crumpled piece of paper, chase laser lights, sun himself on the porch, and EAT. What a personality!” Remembrance donation by Judy Wolfe, July 2017.

Sparkle Juice Rowe

Sparkle Juice Rowe

In memory of Sparkle Juice Rowe, constant companion and best buddy of Susan Rowe for 16 wonderful, loving years. “She remains in my heart forever with her two wonderful predecessors. The Rainbow Bridge must be a heavenly place to receive such beautiful doggy souls.” Remembrance donation by Judy Wolfe, July 2017.

Caledonia

Caledonia

In honor of Caledonia, Friend and companion of Linda Bickford for 22 years.  “You rescued me 22 years ago when you literally walked into my life at just 6 weeks old, and remained by my side through many ups and downs including two cross country moves homelessness and cancer.  You were always there for me with love and kisses through all our trials and accomplishments.You are now, and will ever be so missed….until we meet again my dear friend, rest in peace….” Remembrance donations by Linda Bickford, Jon and Jeanne Bickford and Peter & Mickey Bickford. June 2017.

Cassandra

Cassandra

In memory of Cassandra who at age 14 passed from her forever home to the Rainbow Bridge. She was Joan Scheier’s best friend and they shared many adventures together, many of which were documented in Cassandra’s yearly wall calendar.  Photos of her birthday parties, holiday celebrations, visits from friends and family, even a visit to the vet were documented for the lucky recipients of the calendar to enjoy every day, particularly by Joan. Of all of the photos taken of Cassandra over the years, Joan has chosen this one for her remembrance: “Found this photo in my files . . . reminder of her first day home . . . I of course will remember all the days.” Thanks for the memories, Cassandra. Your friends and family, all fans, will miss you. Remembrance donations by Joan Scheier, Blanche Visalli, Janet Miller and Mickey and Peter Bickford, June 2017.

Lucee

Lucee

Our sweet, funny, lovable little Lucee crossed the Rainbow Bridge on May 1st to join her brother, Max (see September 2016 below).  Lucee was such a special little girl, rescued from an abandoned house where she was left with no food or water.  We fell in love with her the minute we saw her and adopted her on the spot.  She loved everyone, especially her family, and we feel so blessed to have had her in our lives for 10+ years.  We miss playing with her, watching her chase squirrels around the yard, and snuggling with her at night.  We miss her somewhat naughty (always funny) little antics, and we know that our first trip this year will be bitter sweet without Lucee snuggled up in the backseat of the truck.  True to her lively spirit, she fought her cancer bravely, and saying goodbye was one of the most heart-wrenching things we have ever had to do.  While she is no longer physically with us, she will live in our hearts forever and we will do our best to honor the unconditional love and trust she placed in us from day one. Remembrance donations by Lucee’s parents, Jeanne and Jon Bickford, and by her aunt and uncle, Mickey and Peter Bickford.

Zippy

Zippy

Judy and Steve Bass found little Zippy dumped at a local park. “She was about six months old, loving and lovable, trusting, and adorable. She became a part of our lives and stayed with us for almost 17 years.  Zippy was a gracious dog. She’d jump into anyone (everyone’s) lap and share her kisses. When she was young and full of zip, Zippy would use her nose to push a tennis ball down a staircase, race down after it, and be back in a flash to do it again. She was also content spending the day in the yard, sniffing and exploring, searching for gifts from the raccoons she would savor. She had a favorite seat in the RV where with the door open, she could look out on the world, sniff the air, and take in a little sun, even if she was just looking out on the driveway. And that was her last happy view of the world. Our hearts ache with the emptiness.”  Remembrance donation by Judy Wolfe, March 2017.

Mocha

Mocha

In loving honor of our sweet kitty, Mocha. She will be missed so much by Jen, Lars and Justin. Mocha lived a great life and lasted 7 years with feline leukemia. She was playful, social and so snuggly. She was often called “Velcro Kitty” because she stayed attached to Jen whether sitting on her lap at the dinner table or sleeping in the crook of her arm every night. She worked out with Lars each morning and got “big tail” just from the shake of her food bag. Justin chased and hugged her constantly and in her own way she liked it! We will always love her and cherish the years that she blessed us with her purrrs. Remembrance donation by Lars, Jen and Justin Bickford, December 2016

Mr. Max

In loving memory of sweet Mr. Max, our beautiful, mild-mannered, lovable fur baby, who crossed the Rainbow Bridge at the age of 15 as he lay in our arms. Throughout his life Maxie loved romping in the backyard, chasing squirrels and birds, even trying to climb the backyard tree in his unsuccessful efforts to catch a squirrel. He loved to travel in “his” truck and “his” travel trailer. We could never set foot in the trailer without Mr. Max being right behind us. While he was never one to play with his sister Lucee, he loved her dearly and enjoyed snuggling with her at home, in the truck, and in the trailer. Maxie also formed a special bond with his Uncle Bob and his cousin, Lou, and was especially happy when he got to visit with them and walk with Lou. It is difficult to say goodbye to our wonderful Mr. Max, but his memory and the joy he brought us for 15 years will live in our hearts forever. Jon & Jeanne Bickford, September 2016.

Mr. Porkchop

Porkchop

In memory of Porkchop, adored companion of Ann Saydlowski and Nathalie Cunningham. “Despite his pug wrinkles and big sad eyes, Porkchop was the happiest of dogs— self-assured and proud of his whiskers. This compact little ambassador could make even the most stoic New Yorker crack a smile as they passed him on his jaunts through the neighborhood. He loved all people. He also loved squirrels, greeting the tourists in Central Park, and socializing with his pals at the dog park. . . . Porkchop will live forever in our hearts— our sweet, silly, most special little Bub.” Remembrance donations by Judy Wolfe, Berni Leahy and Mickey & Peter Bickford, June 2016.