Our Final Morning Together -Tika's Departure Date to Rainbow Bridge
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- čas přidán 3. 06. 2021
- It has been one week since my sweet Tika Angel (German Shepherd dog) departed across the Rainbow Bridge (she was 14.5 years!), on May 28, 2021. We share such a strong love and unbreakable bond, and we’ll remain connected forever. Tika is my soul dog.
Missing you every second of the day my girl! ❤️❤️
I have documented our experience together in a special TWO-PART STORY and hope that her story reaches others who have a great love for their pets or who are are experiencing similar challenges. If her story can extend a pet’s life or make their life more comfortable, than mission accomplished! This will be a part of Tika’s legacy.
SEE TIKA'S HEARTWARMING TWO-PART STORY:
1. Comfort and Care for our Senior and Paralyzed German Shepherd Dog - Tika's Story -Part 1
Visit: www.tawnabrown.com/degenerati...
Part 1 shares a story of compassion, dedication, commitment and unconditional love. It provides suggestions on how to provide care and comfort for a senior/disabled pet.
2. Pet Bereavement - Moving Forward with Love and Grief - Tika’s Story - Part 2
Visit: www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereav...
Part 2 is an inspirational story of pet bereavement. You will learn how to move forward with love and grief without having to say good-bye to your beloved companion. It covers our final weeks together, preparations for the big departure and an overview of the grief journey.
***If Tika's story touches you in anyway, I'd love to hear from you in the comments at the end of the blog post (see above links). If you liked this video (or any of Tika's videos), please leave a comment, click on the "like" button, and/or subscribe to my channel.
INSTAGRAM: @TIKATRIBUTE
FACEBOOK: #tikatribute
I’m a man and I’m sobbing! You gave her the best, loving life she could ever have. So sorry for your loss
My girl's spirit is with me forever and always; the connection we have is so beautiful and our relationship and experience has taught me several life lessons! One of the greatest lessons was learning that there is no end to the relationship, since the spirit never dies.... and so I never have to say goodbye, just learn a new way to "connect" and move forward together:) Tika remains with me every single day, in love and spirit.
@@coldinyk ❤
@@coldinyk furever in our hearts
A man! -Gasp!- sobbing! Why, I've never heard of such a thing! This can't be. My smelling salts!
A REAL MAN is never ashamed to admit he is sobbing at the loss of a beloved pet. I personally have sent 5 to Rainbow Bridge, and about to send a sixth if she doesn't survive her cancer surgery. So sorry about Tika. She is waiting for you at Rainbow Bridge.
This was so beautiful. I am sobbing because I had to let my sweet 15-year-old Carley go three weeks ago. I don’t know how to live without her and don’t know that I want to. It’s just too hard and painful.
Sorry, I just saw your comment now. I hope you are finding your way... Surrendering and accepting to what is, can be the greatest challenge for some. But knowing that your Carley hasn't actually left you, since her spirit does not die, this can be a source of strength and comfort for you in the days, weeks, months and years to come. It has been over 2 years since Tika's departure from the physical world, and our bond is so strong that I have never felt her absence since that day...May 28/21. If you haven't already visited it, I would like to share with you Tika's Part 2 story, which may help you through this journey you are currently on.
Face that grief, embrace it, honour it, acknowledge it - because that is part and parcel, LOVE.... The two are inseparable. And it hurts so much because you don't have anywhere to channel that love that you poured into Carley... But I promise you, if you can do little things for other pets, whether it's bringing treat bags to friends' dogs at Christmas, walking dogs at your local shelter, interacting with someone else's pets... you will start feeling a bit of relief from the pain, because the love that has been bottled up inside with no where to go now has somewhere to go.... and this becomes a bit of a legacy for Carley.... the things you do to make others happy, that is because of Carley. I hope this makes some sort of sense for you.... and it is written much more clearly in the blog post:
www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/ Best wishes for moving forward on your journey (not "moving on"), with Carley happily trotting right at your side:)
Me too!
Beautiful! I too had to say goodbye to my little pug Riley who I gave as a Christmas present to my daughter when he was a pup. We loved him for 15 years and miss him dearly . On the night he passed he was quite and wasn’t moving much and we knew his time had come but the minute my daughter cuddled him in her arms he looked up into her eyes as to say goodbye I have to leave so don’t cry and soon after he passed peacefully. I believe he is in heaven being all of God’s creation was good in the beginning and he is taking care of them for us until he calls us home where we will be meet at the gates by our pets
Omg ty I’m heading to a goodbye soon I think. My Doberman has liver issues. Ty for what you wrote.
Meine verstorbene Tiere haben mir immer neue Fellbabys anvertraut. ❤❤❤❤❤
I've had shepherds all my life and it never gets easier.....I am in tears....😢😢😢😢❤❤❤
Me too.
I'm more sad when I loose a great dog than I am of some family members.
Doggies are never intentionally mean to a good human.
Woof
It gets harder each time...
I just sent our 6th german shepherd to the rainbow Bridge. He had degenerative myelopathy. I'm crying now for Tika was so gorgeous. I can see the love you had for Tika.
My hubby & I didn't think we'd get another GSD because we're almost 70 but a few weeks ago...I dont know why....I googled german shepherd rescue in San Diego and I just scrolled thru the dogs and one caught my eye, I called and the gal there sort of interviewed me on the phone and she said the dog I was looking at was not the right temperament for me but she said, "have I got the dog for you!!!!" Hubby & I drove over and it was an instant love affair! He's the sweetest GSD we've ever had! I don't even want to go to sleep at night because I don't want to miss a minute of him. You have enough love to find another GSD even though you don't think you do. Bless you. God is watching over Tika.❤
Wow! What a love-filled life you must have had with 6 GSDs.... And I am so very happy to hear your story and that you have a new addition! About 15 months after Tika's departure, I brought Miss Hiccup into my life (it wasn't planned, even though I was walking dogs at the shelter, and when I saw her... OMG, something just clicked!) I'm pretty sure Tika had something to do with this set up!
Here is Hiccup's adoption story (she will be 10 years in October 2024): czcams.com/video/4aMwbOtvgPI/video.htmlsi=NbWGhWrwYh_0HX03. Sending you best wishes to you and your family!
Of one thing I am very sure. That our dogs and cats too, when at the end of their lives, would hate to think of us being sad and hurt. They want us to give another dog or cat the same kind of loving they enjoyed. The cat we have just now, came into our lives five years ago now and the boy cat we had before her, was our only boy cat. I called him my wee baby boy because he was also the only cat we’ve had from a kitten. I was heart broken and just as I was starting to sink into a depression, Cleo walked into our lives. My boy cat used to hug my leg but stopped doing that as he grew older. He only started again a couple of months before he passed.
Our new cat, Cleo surprised me and delighted me by running at me and hugging my leg the way her big brother did that I missed. She does it often. She is such a happy cat. Doing zoomies and giving leg hugs especially just before we’re off to bed. I can’t look at her without feeling love and gratitude to God for bringing her into our lives with more leg hugs than ever.
I held both of my German Shepherds in my arms as they died. The grief was deep and vast.
A very intimate experience and one I would never pass up if given the opportunity again. I'm grateful I had that chance. Deep grief because it is such deep love.; we've been blessed to know that love.
Those days are always tuff...
I have 2 now, to love and share stuff with..
Woof
Such great dogs, thank you for giving me hope that I will make it through.
❤
I could hardly bear to watch this, Tawna. I lost my beloved sheltie, Angel just before Christmas. We were soul mates, life is so empty without her.
I truly believe that Angel hasn't left you, you are not "without"; she soul remains alive in your heart.... You remain connected forever and always by the very strong bond created during your life together. You have so much love to give, and it was never meant for only one soul.... it is meant to be continually given/shared, the more love we can give, the better our lives our, and those of others! Angel would want to see you sharing this love... it is kind of like her legacy... you will feel so much better once you get back to sharing the love.
The first time I had close contact with another dog was 5 months after Tika's departure. I did my first housesit/petsit while traveling... doing what I love the most! My first time sitting was in Italy (my fave place in the world), and then 6 months later, I did it again in NYC (my 2nd most fave place!)... And I just LOVED these dogs!! i know Tika was so touched by me doing this... I felt that by caring for and loving these other dogs, I was channeling my love to her... it was reaching her! (I was in TEARS when I had to leave both of these dogs at the end of the housesit, i know it was a very therapeutic experience for me... definitely a big part of my grief journey)
And then I began walking dogs at our local shelter... never with the intention to foster or adopt... I even brought dogs home for the wknd to give them a break from the shelter, I'd make promotional videos for the spca and help show what wonderful dogs they were!! AND THEN.... Hiccup and I found each other!!! See her story here: Hiccup's Adoption Story: czcams.com/video/4aMwbOtvgPI/video.htmlsi=qzodAfr-zdZb8gdy
Keep an open mind and open heart, and know that by giving and sharing your love with others, you are connecting with Angel. Your relationship continues on; and the more you actively tap into that love, (intentionally doing so for Angel), the more apparent Angel's presence will be. She is right there, and always will be. Sending love and good wishes to you!
Their love for is is unconditional and eternal god bless
This just brings back the pain from watching my last 3 precious dogs cross the bridge
I would say that it perhaps this brought you back to the very deep love (which you might view as pain). As I write about in Tika's Part 2 story, pain/grief is the other side of love - they are inseparable. And to honor the grief, you honor the love. Embrace it. www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/
@@coldinyk 👍👍👍
❤
My beautiful German Shepherd, Paulina...after almost 14 years with us, sadly, tragically, had to leave us this past Saturday the 27th at 245pm...
I have not stopped crying. I'm 54 years old, male...married over 20 years, 22 year old daughter.
Have had all kinds of ups and downs over the decades, including having my mom die...and I can say, without any doubt, that losing my Paulina has been the HARDEST thing I've ever been through.
I am lost without her.
I lost the best dog of my life 5 years ago, the hardest thing ever, took a week off from work!!! Time does help but, you never forget!!! I have another boy now who has amazing similarities!!! I think it's God's way of easing the pain!!!
My deepest sympathy to you and your family. The grief is indescribable.
I understand. I think a lot of us feel similarly about our pets. Tika's departure was also the most difficult, painful, insightful and beautiful experience I've ever been through. The unconditional love and bond that we share with our pets is unlike anything in our human relationships. Know that the spirit never dies, and Paulina remains with you forever and always. Your relationship continues on (just in a different way)! You just need to acknowledge and include her in your everyday life... she is right there at your side:) I hope you can find a way to reconnect with her, and that will bring you much comfort!
I hope that you are finding help during your grief journey, because it doesn't have to be painful and full of suffering. I am grateful for what I learned along the way and had such a beautiful grief journey.... and I think it only happened that way because I was very receptive and present to my feelings. I took care of myself and I attended to my grief. Many people bottle up their feelings, avoid facing difficult things that remind them of their pet, etc... but the more that you face the grief, embrace it and welcome it into your heart, this can be incredibly pivotal in your grief journey. (Grief is love, they are inseparable. And by avoiding the grief, you are denying your love). The grief journey is different for everyone, but I would like to at least share with you what I learned in hopes that it may help you also.
You can read Tika's Part 2 story that focuses on pet bereavement and grief at: www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/.
Sending you love and healing thoughts during your grief journey.
I remember when our Maggie died about 4 years ago at the age of 17, she had it hard the last 3 years after a stroke like incident, but she hung in there. She was a big part of our lives.
And she will remain a big part of your lives:) She's with you forever and always.
Beautiful Tika RIP 🖤
Beautiful, for my Belle (German shepherd) I carried her to her favourite place by the river and we shared one last good time before she had to leave us
That's so beautiful. Belle was so comforted with you at her side. I truly believe they haven't "left" us.... their spirit never dies and remains with us forever and always.
Remind me of my dog Duke, he was so beautiful and he was so brave. We had him so short time but he was so loved he was adopted from a shelter and he was an amazing dog. He was so good he was so kind he was so loving, and we miss him desperately, I can’t wait to see him again the day he went over the rainbow bridge. We took him for a walk and he got to play in the leaves. It was fall leaves were everywhere. He had a tumor in his mouth. We had it removed at one point and they said it would just grow back and that they would have to take his jaw For him to have no cancer and I could not let that happen because it would be a continuous life with no quality. He was amazing. We laid with him on the floor and we watched him go to sleep. We cried we all cried. We miss him every day. It’s nice to know he has friends and I’m sure Duke will be her friend.
❤❤❤
I agree, Duke and Tika are friends! I know it hurts, and having to make that decision was really really difficult; you did the best thing you could have done for him, and it was such great love to have made that decision for him. He knows this and he will always be with you; his spirit never dies.
Such an amazing tribute to an amazing friendship. My eyes are leaking big time. Sending special love and healing to you my friend.
Thank you for your kind words and thoughts. Not a second goes by without Tika in my mind and heart. Taking things one moment at a time.
The most glorious of all breeds.
Hands down
I have 2 and their our world 😢
Our 5year old sable and black female GSD Amber would agree!
While its hard to lose our best friends, its also beautiful in knowing we gave them a wonderful life.
Couldn't hold back my tears!
Rest in peace sweet Tika.
These are so Tuff to see..so sad..
Been there...
Hugging my 2 mutts now.
Thank you. We have a very special, unbreakable bond.
Memories that last forever.... Tika will be waiting for you!!!
May god bless those that love their animals lick they love you. You’re a very strong woman god bless!
It's always very difficult to let them go. I kept 6 dogs n all have cross the rainbow bridge, till today I still feel sad when I think of them but they have all the best things in life and a forever home n that's the consolation of it all.
Fly high sweet Tika 🌈
Sorry for your loss of your beloved dog. We have all lost Puppers that have meant so much to us. I sure hope that we will see all of them again in the future. If not, mine sure lived good lives.
Not only do I believe we will be reunited when our time comes, but also, I don't think our relationship and connection ever ended to begin with... It continues forever and always through spirit and love, and this brings me great comfort in life!
Omg I can’t even see 😢so beautiful, my heart hurts.
I'm a 69 year old male in tears and I know what you're feeling!!! You hang on to the memories cause they belong to you and nobody can take those away!!!
They take our hearts with them. ❤
Her spirit remains with me forever and always, living in my heart. This brings me great comfort, knowing that she is not gone. I feel her presence with me every single day 🙏
14 beautiful years.
How you're so calm is truly incredible. I'm dreading this day with my dog - little guy's my best friend in the whole entire world.
You learn very quickly how your fur baby can read you so well, and so I did my very best not to show her my sadness or frustration, because she would then feel bad. For example, even during the 2+ years with the paralysis setting in her back half, Tika couldn't feel when she had to go to the bathroom, and #2 would happen just like that! Sometimes while laying on the couch, sometimes while I'm walking her on her front legs only to go outside or come back inside, and some little surprises pop out! And you can't get angry or give her any kind of negative energy, because that will just bruise her spirit and there is nothing she can do about it. It's all part of compassion, devotion and love. You put on the smile and give them every ounce of love and attention that you can, because you know that your time together (while in physical form) is limited and you cherish every single moment. Wishing you a beautiful life together with your little guy, and know that when his time comes, the spirit/soul never ever dies; your relationship and bond is forever...and he will live in your heart until your day comes and you are reunited.
I buried my beautiful golden 27 years ago and I never got over it.
Yes, It's not something you ever get over, you never "move on", but rather you learn to move forward with your grief, and hopefully realize that your dog's spirit never dies, it never goes away... it is forever and always, and s/he will always remain connected with you by spirit and love.
@@coldinyk Thank u for your words of kindness.
Ive lost family and friends many times and never shed a tear BUT when I had to say goodbye to my best friend i was crying like a baby, ive got a framed photo of my rocky on my bedroom wall and say good morning to it every day
Got to be one of the worst things we have to do for our dogs. Even today 10 yrs since I had to send my dog to heaven, I dare not ponder on that day, absolute hell.😢
😢😢😢😢💔💔💔💔
RIP sweet beautiful Tika!!! You were so loved and missed !!! ❤❤❤
I am doing a study on degenerative myelopathy and came across you and Tika. She seemed so happy despite that she was in a wheelchair. She lived her life full of adventures and love. I am happy I got to see your way to handle this disease. Much love from Sweden ❤❤
Thank you so much for your kind words! Yes, she was so happy. She was having a real hard time in her final 6 months with the chair, and we barely were able to get out on walks, but instead took her on many drives! I was on a year off from work, so she had someone with her 24/7 (between her Dad and I:) So much love!
Have you seen her other videos on my channel? I have a great video (but didn't upload on youtube) of Tika's first steps in a wheelchair (she was trying out a friend's), and she just took to it so easily! It was sooo heart warming! (I might have a snippet of that video in one of my others). I wrote about our experience and journey in detail at www.tawnabrown.com/degenerative-myelopathy-senior-dog/, that is part 1; part 2 is: www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/.
Since you're doing research on DM, I'd like share with you some friends who are connected to some research also (Tika is the "poster child" German Shepherd image on the products they sell for fundraising efforts). Please visit: www.bubbasbuddies.org for more information about the research and trials.
Thank you for stopping by. Best wishes with your research!
Thank you for this tribute. I lost my GSD, Samantha, after 12 great years together. Her collar joined the 8-10 others that hang on a hook over my garage workbench so that when I look up I can always remember all of them. Each one left special memories. I always try to have two dogs at a time so that when one is called to cross over the Rainbow Bridge I always have one left to help me grieve. My best solution has been to wait for a suitable period and then...when I am ready... just get another dog... I generally try to find a senior dog in a shelter now that I am senior too... there are thousands that need good loving homes to live out their senior lives... just make sure the one you select is good with your existing companion dog and little kids... that formula has always worked for me... Good luck to you!
Thank you for your message! Wow, your life must have been so enriching with all of those dogs! You're right, they all bring so much to us, they fill our hearts and life up with love, and leave us with lessons, love and memories. About 1.5 years after Tika's passing, I had been walking dogs at our local shelter for several months.. this became part of my healing journey- to open up and share my love with others who need it. I had NO INTENTION of adopting or fostering (and I do intend on retiring within 10 years, so I am thinking ahead)... but one day, Miss Hiccup appeared and I will never forget the first moment I saw her curled up in the inside kennel. She has been in my life for 2 years in September and will be 10 years in October! Between Angel Tika and Miss Hiccup, my heart is soooo full:) I have thought about fostering a dog to give Hiccup companionship, so we'll see! For now, I ensure she has playdates and day camp, and lots of walks, and lots and lots of love! Here is Hiccup's adoption story, czcams.com/video/4aMwbOtvgPI/video.html
and here is a "comparative love story" of Tika and Hogan, and now Hiccup and Gjoa!! Such an uncanny resemblance!! czcams.com/video/JUR7D0AuBpE/video.html
You can find more on Tika and Hiccup on IG and FB by searching for #tikatribute or #hiccupadventures (Hiccup gets into a lot of trouble! She sure keeps me on my toes!)
Best wishes:)
You were The best mom ever to tika she'll be always watching over you forever from doggy heaven
Bless you always Tika
🙏 thank you. I feel her with me always; she has never left my side, and I’m so comforted knowing this. She is the best dog ever. I’m physical form and spirit🐾💜
My shepherd Morty crossed over in 2019, I still think of him and cry. Time has not healed my heart.
When I have those crying moments, I feel those are times when I'm very connected to Tika's spirit.... I don't look at this as a sad thing, but rather a very special gift of love, of remembering, of connecting. I write a lot about this in Tika's Part 2 story, and perhaps this may offer you a different perspective on what you are going through and your overall grief journey. You don't have to stop crying in order to be "healed" - I think you have to learn to embrace the love that you will always have for your Morty, and find a way to reconnect with him (by just acknowledging that his spirit remains with you each and every day, talking to him, including him in your daily thoughts, etc. Almost 3 years after Tika's departure, she remains with me on a daily basis... I have never felt her absence. This is a mindset, a belief/perspective- it may not be for all, but it feels perfectly fine to me! Sending you best wishes.
www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/
She was beautiful 😢💔 facing this right now with my Siggy 😢
Thank you. She "is" beautiful" :).... Although Tika's body has expired, I've never thought of my baby girl as being in the "past tense" - unless I was referring to past events, etc. Her spirit is ever-present and with me always. (So this is why I say, she "IS" beautiful). It can be a rough journey ahead of you if you don't have the support, time and space that you need.
Somehow I found my own way along the most beautiful grief journey (I'm sure Tika had a huge part to play in guiding me along that path, as she continues to do now). I like to share that with others so that they may see there is another way to "move with" this grief. To embrace it.
If you haven't already, I encourage you to visit Tika's Part 2 story (Pet Bereavement - Moving Forward with Love and Grief) ... it may help you a little through this very tender journey you are facing... www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/
You will be ok. Siggy loves you. And once that time comes, know that he/she remains right at your side and in your heart. They do not go away. We haven't "lost" them. Your relationship and bond is forever and always.
Tika is a beautiful soul!
That she is!!!
God bless Tika, you will be reunited!
While I do feel her presence always, I do look forward to that reunion on day!
Only us GSD owners know. Godspeed Tika.
Tika and our Shep Lucca were lucky to have lived long lives and to have had loving families ❤❤
Beautiful Tawna, Amazing connection between the two of you. What remains in our hearts is eternal!
Thank you so much. Yes, Tika will always always be with me! She is my soul dog and we will remain connected forever.
The hardest of owning a pet or just loving any animal. Even neighbor's/friend's dogs/cats. Is when their gone how much we all miss their smiles, barks and meows. They'll all be waiting to see us again one day when we all go home. Happy and healthy and young again. Excited to see all of us especially their owners and family members. She was a beautiful puppy.
It will be quite the reunion, won't it?! While their spirit remains with us while we are still in the physical world, the day will come when we are fully reunited! Until then, I am comforted with Tika's spirit in my heart each and every day.
Beautiful Tika RIP
Thank you - her spirit remains with me always.... she's a permanent resident of my heart.
Losing a good dog is no small thing. Been down that road three times. The third was my Yorkie Tony a few months ago. Tony was originally my son's dog. My son passed away exectly 4 years ago. Matt was 39, Tony was 17. God bless them both.
A beautiful tribute to your dog. The tears would not stop. Beautifully put together video. 💔💔
My dog's laying next to me wondering why I'm crying 😅❤❤
Why do I do this to myself? A beautiful last moment. So much love in Tika's eyes. Thanks for being an amazing mother to this girl.
Very emotional 😢… beautiful to see the bond and love you both shared. Thinking of you every day. Hugs❤️
Thank you. The waves of emotion keep coming.... I was doing better within a week of her departure, and now at 2.5 weeks, it is hard, I find myself emotional more often. Missing her so much. She was my outlet for so much of my love and energy, and I'm still trying to figure out how to channel that love and energy into something that represents our strong bond.... I'll find it though. I know I'll know when I do:)
Heartbreakingly beautiful, and so difficult to watch, but through trars and sobs I had to see it through to the end.
Im so sorry for your loss, he was such a handsome boy.
I lost my beautiful girl Harley 5.5 weeks ago, also to paralysis. She had been by my side for 14.5yrs, with the longest time apart only being 4 nights once. She was my one constant, my baby, best friend, family, my 'person'
I cannot seem to move forward from that day, and the flashbacks and panic attacks are increasing daily. I still feel her and talk to her like I used to, but I think its because I have not accepted that she is actually gone. Then having to put on a brave face and go to work and pretend that Im "well, thank you" Its hard, so hard. I miss her, every second of every day, and cannot actually believe Im still here without her.
I almost signed up to volunteer at the shelter, to help a dog in need who could potentially help me in return with my grief, but my local doesnt have a shelter as such, only foster care. I cant bring myself to put Harleys beds away, and I couldn't bear another dog in it and losing Harleys smell.
Grief is a process.
Trauma knows no timeline.
One day at a time. One hour at a time.
❤❤❤
I'm sorry for the late reply; catching up! Each grief journey is very individual and personal. In my opinion, there is absolutely nothing wrong with talking to Harley and acknowledging her presence. I have done this with Tika since the day she crossed the bridge; her spirit is everywhere. She did not leave me, I did not say goodbye. Instead I learned that our relationship continues, just in a different way. The love and bond we share will never be broken; we will remain connected through that very strong connection. And I'm sure this is how you and Harley are the same. It has been nearly 3 years since Tika's departure (the anniversary is approaching); never once have I felt her absence. Even though I have another dog in my life now (Miss Hiccup: czcams.com/video/4aMwbOtvgPI/video.htmlsi=mQjtWTYSO5UGbqw5, Tika is front and centre. Her pictures are everywhere, even at my office, phone screen, computer screen, etc. I have her paw prints, stick, leash, etc, displayed on my fireplace mantle and other mementoes throughout the house and yard. I talk to her, acknowledge her. I celebrate her birthday and at Christmas I bring out her stocking and put treats in it! This is my journey, no one else's. And it's not denial. It is my own belief and knowing that the spirit never dies, the relationship never ends, and Tika remains at my side and in my heart always. I don't know if you've seen Tika's part 2 story, so I'd like to share it with you in case you haven't... it may help you through your own grief journey. It can be a real beautiful experience if you're open to it. www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/
PS...I spent a lot of time walking dogs at our local shelter, even took some home for a wknd break from time to time! And unbeknownst to me, this is how Hiccup came into my life! (And this was not the plan!).... I also did pet sitting in other countries as part of my vacationing... It was all so therapeutic and beautiful. I hope you will find such opportunities that will help you heal and give you an outlet for sharing your love.
I wish you all the best and hope that you will find your own way to reconnect with Harley's spirit:)
I know someday the time will come, and I will have to consent to the unthinkable. That’s why I hug and squeeze my pup everyday.
This reminds me of my late grand parent's Alsatian Ranger. I wasn't there when the went he went, in a way I'm glad as I would have have cried. He's been gone for over 40 years now Lovely dogs and part of the family. 😭
Beautiful video. I'm crying like a baby. My GSD Heidi just turned seven and is very healthy, but I know someday that time will come. I hope your heart has healed because you know you will see Tika again in Heaven.
Thank you for your kind words. Yes, my heart has healed and it has been a beautiful journey I've been on. I am sharing with you Tika's Part 2 story (not sure if you saw it), and it explains how I processed and embraced the grief (which is inseparable from love).... with Tika's spirit accompanying me each and every day. Not one day has passed in the almost 3 years since her departure (May 28 is coming up!) that I felt her absence. We remain connected as always. Please give Heidi some extra loving for me!! www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/
My first gsd has Heidi also, called her Heidi hoho like the hostess snacks. Just a kid growing up with. I'm 53 now, never forget, ain't got much today but her ashes with me, together forever
This is such a beautiful tribute to your beautiful dog, but also so sad. I had tears in my eyes watching it😢. I had to have my female shepherd put down last September 20th. I hated to see that day come, 1 yr .life has been the same without her 😢❤
Thank you. I'm sorry I am just seeing this message now. I hope that your grief journey has improved since you wrote 3 months ago. I have shared with others Tika's "Part 2" story that may be of assistance for you if you're looking for ways to help you move forward with your grief and love...
I am very familiar with how much it can hurt, and I'm grateful to have found myself on a beautiful grief journey that showed me that it doesn't have to hurt. (Which is what I wrote about, and also in response to so many comments that were left from people all over who have been facing similar experiences). I've kept Tika as a central and very obvious part of my life; she is everywhere in my house, even in my car. I continue to talk about her all the time, and I know she is with me always. And all of this... while I have a new girl, Miss Hiccup! (She is a 9 year rescue!) I'll share with you her adoption video below).
Tika's PART 2 story: Pet Bereavement - Moving Forward with Love and Grief: www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/
Hiccup's Adoption Story: czcams.com/video/4aMwbOtvgPI/video.htmlsi=qzodAfr-zdZb8gdy
Best wishes to you. And thank you for connecting with me and sharing your story.
Sorry for your loss. Tika seemed like a sweet girl. Know that she's watching over you❤🐕❤️🙏
Thank you. I know she is with me forever and always...in fact, I have never felt her absence since the day she crossed the bridge. (I don't feel I experienced "loss", as her spirit will never die). I wrote about this in her story: www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/
@coldinyk I'm glad to hear that. I hope when my 2 doggies and cat cross that bridge that I can feel thee way you do.but I'm such a cry baby when it comes to that.i cried during your vid but knowing that Tika lived a Beautiful life made me feel better❤️🐕🙏❤️
As this reason, enjoy every minute with this wonderful souls, because their lifes is so short ♥️♥️💕💐🍀
So sad but so very beautiful to know that Love is the ingredient that connects us all. Because of Love and that connection to our pets, we know we get to see them again in young - healthy spiritual bodies. That day comes to all of us that love our pets like you loved Tika. Thank you for sharing this with us.
Thank you for your kind and insightful words. I feel the same:) You can read more about Tika's PART 2 story (which deals with pet bereavement and grief) at: www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/
Beautiful tribute to your beloved Tika and I'm crying as I type this message. Your love for her and Tika's love for you is real and beautiful. I know the two of you will be reunited someday...💞
Thank you. How I see it, we never were separated.... we remain connected forever and always by the very strong bond we have. One day, when it is my time to "graduate" to the higher plane, we will have a different kind of reunion and it will be soooo beautiful! But until then, Tika remains at my side in spirit, and she is everywhere:)
I was crying and still are I miss my German Shepherd he was soo wonderful I miss him every day
They remain with us forever and always, in spirit and love. This brings me much comfort.
Thank you for sharing. Tears me up. These creatures are so wonderful I have kept knowing there a r e miracles on this planet...
You are so welcome. Thank you for watching:)
I've had dogs all of my life and so I've reached that day more than a few times. The pain and feeling of devastation afterwards is hard to bear and each time, I have sworn I would never get another dog. All the dogs I've ever had have been rescues or strays, then comes another dog who needs help, a home, and so it begins again....
An important lesson I learned (among many!) during this journey was that we are meant to continuously give our love, and not keep it bottled up, shelved, and hidden away (that's when it hurts)! And while I wasn't expecting or planning for this.... Miss Hiccup came into my life just over 1 year after Angel Tika's departure! So much love!!! And I even talk to Hiccup about her Angel sister... Tika remains in my life as much as ever! czcams.com/video/4aMwbOtvgPI/video.htmlsi=tHm1KUs5-FA5Zi5h
Beautiful tribute to someone you loved! Lost my Jery a week ago, and it feels very hard! But he is not in pain now and is with us in spirit! It is a no win no win situation, where you know your dog doesn't deserve the pain but at the same time , his absence also hurts! Hope time will heal us!
Time will heal for sure, but so will continuing to acknowledge Jery's spirit. The more you include him in your life, thoughts, events, etc... the more you become comfortable with the fact that his physical presence is no longer there...because you are aware that this his spirit is with you forever and always, and this will bring you great comfort.
@@coldinyk agree with you! E will have Jery in his new life as we had him before! His memories will bring a smile where there are tears now, but I know he is with me every single day as I am with him! Thank you for your words!
@@oscarp.6361 That's very comforting, isn't it? Knowing that they are always with us. I'm glad that you have this awareness, as it's difficult for some to grasp.
Yes it is difficult for many to grasp, they are afraid to face their pain; unfortunately we are not taught how to do this in life and I am grateful that it just naturally happened for me. It was a beautiful and very intimate experience, and has taught me so much! My learning journey is not over. Tika has been the greatest teacher! Because of her, I am much more mindful of life and death, accepting of what is, and appreciate all. There is a lesson to be learned in everything!
Such a nice memorial for your pup Tika ❤
She looks so much like our Shep Lucca who passed last year at 12 1/2 years old 😢
RIP Tika.....
A beautiful German Shepherd. They are all wonderful dog's and good to see you had a very long time with her.
Such a loving tribute to your beautiful fur baby. You brought tears to this 76 year old guys eyes, you will be united again soon. She's waiting patiently at the bridge for her mom. Blessings to you.
No no no. A dog never leaves you, their bond to you goes beyond this life. She is being cared for and loved and understands that dogs don't stay here on earth as long as we do, their work is shorter but will continue. She's aware and when the time comes she will be called and without hesitation come to the spot to meet you when you cross. It was easy to lover her here, now is the test for you to love her far beyond and she'll send it back to you. Your time together is not over just pawsed!
I firmly believe the same... she has never left me, as her spirit remains forever and always. Tika is part of my daily life, I talk to her, and i even talk to my new dog about her Angel sister! Not a day has gone by in the past 3 years that I've felt Tika's absence, as her spirit is my constant guide and companion in life... Until we meet again! Sharing with you our Part 2 story: czcams.com/video/4aMwbOtvgPI/video.htmlsi=-9TdhxTDapYQlhug
Thinking of you!! That is a tear jerker of a video, had to pause to collect myself, so I can't even imagine how you're feeling. Big hugs!
Thank you Sam. Yes, you know how much i love my girl, and putting these videos together share a bit of her spirit with everyone... I was so lucky to be her Mamma!
Beautiful dog🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I had a sweetheart that looked just like this. She lived t0 about 14 then had a stroke. I love and miss her forever. My sweetie.
I can empathize. I lost my 14 year old German Shepherd, Thunder (my avatar), in 2019. It was the worst day of my life. I'm just glad he's in heaven now and fully healthy, waiting for me to come play with him again someday.
Привет с России...я обожаю их. У меня 13 немцев
What a deeply loved pupper ❤😢 so heartwarming video ❤
Thank you. The love is like no other and I've been blessed to know such love. If you'd like to see more, I'd like to share with you Part 1 of our story: www.tawnabrown.com/degenerative-myelopathy-senior-dog/ and PART 2: www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/
I would love to see more ❤️ and thank you 👍🏻 take care
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
We said goodbye to our GSD back in December. I miss that dog something crazy, such a warm soul!
It's so hard, and many think that we do have to say goodbye. I feel that we don't, because their spirit didn't go away.... it remains forever and always and our relationship therefore never ends. It doesn't have to. I include Tika in my every day life, and we are almost at the 3 year anniversary date of her grand departure (May 28).....no matter how much time passes, Tika remains as close to me now than when she was alive, in fact, maybe even moreso, because we are connected by spirit and love. I write about this in Tika's part 2 story that talks about pet bereavement and not having to say goodbye.... www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/. Perhaps you will find a way to reconnect with your dog's spirit and if you do, that will no doubt bring you so much comfort!
It's very sad...I'm near to your heart❤
Grazie mille my dear friend.
Awww mine too.....Germansheoards...over the rainbow bridge...God bless
So sad when we have to put down our loyal, loving, friend. It’s gut wrenching but it’s done for kindness and to relieve our friend from pain and suffering. 😢
It is so hard to say goodbye to our babies. But know this without any doubt, we will be together again with them on the other side. There is no love as pure and undefiled as the love our precious darlings share with us. They are truly gifts from heaven. Thank you for sharing your last day with your darling Tika. Just remember everyone, our separation is only temporary. May the Creator of the Universe bring peace and comfort and hope to anyone grieving the loss of one of your babies.
Thank you. I believe that Tika's spirit remains with me forever and always and not a day has gone by over the past 3 years that I've felt her absence. Our love and bond will never die, and I am comforted knowing she is with me. She is my soul dog.
Hardest day in so many family's lives who consider their pups their true family.
My pups have always been true family.
Warmest regards~
You have my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your beloved dog Tika. She got to meet the cats that I had to send to the Rainbow Bridge. Johnny Boy,Deanie, Frankie and Dolly. Dolly was a kitten who was born without eyes and a grade 6 heart murmur.
Thank you. I do like to think about all of the interesting friends she has up there! I know she is surrounded by love, and at the same time, we remain connected through love and spirit. Not a day has gone by that I have felt her absence.
I'm so truly sorry for your loss. I know the pain you feel. My heart breaks for you. This is truly beautiful video you did. I'll pray for you
Just cried like a grown ass man baby. Thank you for sharing this. Its difficult, I have ashes all my friends, first one I was 15 just a kid putting down after 12 years with. Do the math I was 3. Gsd hip dysplasia had to put down.
Rest in Peace sweet beautiful dog , knowing you will always be loved and missed. But the two of you will still speak to each other despite no longer being here. The beauty of love between dog and person that is beyond words ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Yes we remain connected forever and always, and our relationship carries on! She brings me so much comfort:) And... .1.5 years after Tika's departure, Miss Hiccup unexpectedly showed up in my life... completely not part of the plan, but I know this was a gift from Tika! Here is Hiccup's adoption story:) czcams.com/video/4aMwbOtvgPI/video.htmlsi=YzCJKo5Freo5XGeW
Good bye you beautyful . Rest in peace, we met again ! ! ! ❤
Mine went rather unexpectedly during a trip to the vets. He was such a good friend i didn't realise how good until he wasn't there any more.
Still miss him a year on.
He is still there, in spirit. I learned that my relationship with Tika never had to end (and it never did! She remains with me every single day, in love and spirit)... You too can connect with your beloved's spirit and I hope you find your way to reconnect with him. It will bring you much comfort.
so Emotional!! you def gave her the best life more then most would do. RIP Tika
Thank you Sabrina. She was/is my world as you know; I'd give her everything. I'll have to continue working hard, with my health and pursuing my passions- and doing it all for her... my inner personal trainer and coach!
I’m 81 yo male and can’t see this all the way through. You are such a good person, I am sure you all will share a corner lot in heaven forever.
Thank you for your kind words. If you can't see the whole video, maybe you can read about it... Part 1 of our story: www.tawnabrown.com/degenerative-myelopathy-senior-dog/ and PART 2: www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/. By sharing Tika's story, I am sharing her spirit, sharing her love. And I think that is a really important thing to do in this world. Tika is my soul dog and we remain connected by love and spirit forever and always.
I lost Shadow, my GSD, on April 29, 2024. I was blessed to have him for 7 years. I had to have to put him down due to internal bleeding most likely from his spleen or a tumor on or close by. His treatment options were nebulous and he had just reached his 8th birthday. I think of him daily and I have been able to reach some solace by expressing thanks to the Lord for allowing him into my life. He was my 7th GSD and the best. I'm not surprised God wanted him back. Better to have experienced unconditional love than not.
I hope that you are now able to remember the good times with Tika. Maybe we will all meet at the Rainbow Bridge at a better time.
What a precious, beautiful girl ❤ I’m tearing up as I recognize so well the terrible silence and emptiness which are left when they’re gone 😓😓
Thank you so much. You can fill that void with memories, love and connection with spirit... and there will be no void. I have not felt Tika's absence one day since her departure 3 years ago (in 2 years), and she remains part of my everyday life (even while I have a new girl in my life!) I am so grateful for what I've learned on my grief journey, and hope that our story can help others.
If you'd like to see more, here is Part 1 of our story: www.tawnabrown.com/degenerative-myelopathy-senior-dog/ and PART 2: www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/
I lost my Buddy 4 years ago. The most heart wrenching part was he decided his time to go was when I was out of town for an important family trip (my parents needed me). I believe he chose this time because he knew it would be difficult for both of us to part in person. I was there in FaceTime when he crossed over the rainbow bridge. My heart still bleeds for him and that I wasn’t physically there holding him when he left. 💔
Beautiful Beautiful video tawna.
What a beautiful Shepherd, I am so very sorry for your loss. The love & bond you shared was magnificent... until you meet again over the rainbow bridge...❤🐾
Beautiful.
Thank you!
Will always cherish the time my furry friend is here with me. She got an unexpected hug after watching this ❤
That's so nice to hear!
Hermoso!
It's clear that you both loved it other so much. That's cool that the video is so uplifting and upbeat. I don't think I could've made it through knowing it was the last day...good on you. Dogs pick that up. Probably made the experience less scary.
It was very important for us to be mindful of what Tika was going through; I didn't want to show her my pain, I didn't want her to feel bad in any way. We wanted to give our girl the most comfortable and loving "departure" that we could. And while this was the most painful experience i've ever endured, it was also the most intimate, enlightening and beautiful experience and has certainly made me become more comfortable with life and death; Tika has been an amazing teacher and i know she will always be there guiding the way for me. I'd like to share with you Tika's Part 2 story that goes into this more deeply: www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/.
I’m balling my bloody eyes out!!! Are you kidding me, what a sweet lovely puppy and. You loved him so much, I am so sorry for your lose, I wouldn’t be able to handle that.. it’s so very sad we have to say goodbye bye them so early in life, you gave him a great life!, and he bought so much happiness to you too.. your see him again one and and always in your dreams
Not a love on this earth like the love of and from a dog! Sweet Dreams Tika! I'm sorry for your loss!
Dormi a mi Negrito hace 1 mes de 13 años un chihuahua , tenia cancer de Colon no quise que sufriera y tome la descision , me quede con su hermano un Husky Siberiano de 2 años y medio , El Frosty , la pasamos muy bien los 3 juntos.❤❤❤
What a beautiful tribute. Brought back great memories of my Samantha.
My vision is blurred and my cheeks are wet as I write this comment to you. I have lost a cat and a dog and each time I was absolutely heartbroken. I never cease to be amazed how our pets, particularly cats and dogs (or at least they are the most demonstrative), give us absolute, unconditional and unfailing love and devotion. Why is it that different species can attach themselves to us even more than some members of our own species? Your posting of this video shows that you loved Tika Angel very much and it is also obvious that you gave her the best life that you possibly could. For that I thank you and I am so sorry for your loss.
Thank you for watching and your kind words. I know what you mean, the connection we have with animals is so very strong and our love is absolutely unconditional. I think a big part of it may be because we do not use words in our relationship, we just love (not everyone unfortunately!), we use our eyes, we use our spirit and energy. We connect in a way that human beings are simply too distracted to connect in that same way! The love I have for Tika is like no other (even though I love my new dog, who will be 10 years old in October, soooo very much!), and our bond will never ever end. I have never felt her absence since her grand departure, and that is because the spirit never dies. So our relationship continues on, and I am grateful for this!
You can read more about Tika and our story at Part 1: www.tawnabrown.com/degenerative-myelopathy-senior-dog/ AND Part 2: www.tawnabrown.com/pet-bereavement-grief/
God bless.