9 replies to this topic

[cairnsby3]

I first brought Spike home as a 12-week-old puppy and his first dog friend was an Australian Shepherd named Calvin, who belonged to my best friend. I always believed that Calvin told him the most important thing is “never let your mom out of your sight”. Spike followed that rule religiously; he was at my feet night and day, every night and day for over 13 years.

Spike started out as my pal before I even knew that dog sports existed. He went everywhere with me even to work, he went to country concerts, a rock concert, a cowboy poetry reading, and even a wrestling match. He loved the bull riding at rodeos, standing on my lap and wagging his tail when the bulls came near.

When Spike was about 3 ½, I took an obedience class and that changed our lives. First he earned his CGC and went on to earn a CD. He made me work hard, but we finally earned a CDX. We started agility and he earned his novice titles, and open standard. I moved him to the preferred division and he went all the way through his Excellent Standard and Excellent Jumpers preferred titles. Spike loved tracking and earned his TD; making him the second Cairn Terrier to earn a VCD2.

It took him awhile, but he finally learned to work the rat and earned his Junior and Senior earthdog titles, and last year accomplished his two masters’ legs. When Rally Obedience came about, we tried that and he finished his Rally Excellent title in 2006. He liked to talk back by barking at me when I gave a command and some of the rally judges didn’t see the humor in that.

In all, he earned 26 titles in our career together, but he taught me to never take it too seriously and to remember he was first and foremost the guy who slept with me every night. He also taught me how to train a terrier. He accepted a sister and a brother, with the knowledge and assurance that he would still be first and would be included in everything we did. He saw no reason to be in a crate if he could see me, and was always ready for whatever adventure the day held. There is an empty place on my bed where he slept every night for over 13 years and I miss him terribly. I look down and see him at my feet, but I know he is running free with his friend Calvin at the Bridge, watching me still. Run Free My Boy!

Flickwynds Spike VCD2, RE, OA, NAJ, AXP, AJP, SE
10-6-94 to 4-17-08

Linda

[jimnconnie]

Linda,
It's obvious that you and Spike had a wonderful, loving relationship for over 13 years. Every dog should be as fortunate as Spike was to have and owner like you, and every owner should have the chance to experience what Spike meant to you. You will keep him in your heart until you can hold him in your arms again. Our condolences to you.

[pkcrossley]

i'm so sorry to learn of spike's passing. we all know what you are going through, and are thinking of you. you'll see spike again.

[Will&Grace]

Linda, What a beautiful story of your life with Spike! Of course - a bond that will never be broke..... Peace to you and your family.

[cairns&cats]

Linda:

I just lost my 13 year old cairn Smokey a week ago Monday and I know the pain you are feeling. It sounds like Spike was a wonderful part of your life. I'll keep you in my thoughts.

Barb

[Kramersmom]

I'm so saddened to hear of Spike's passing. My heart hurts for you. Please know I'm thinking of you. You have my sincere condolences.
Godspeed Spike

[oscar's mom]

Linda,
That was a wonderful dedication to the companionship you and Spike shared for the last 13 years. You and Spike were blessed to have each other, and I know you will keep that in your soul for all time to come.

Antonietta

[PeppersMom]

I am so sorry for your loss, but that tribute to Spike was so beautiful! Thank you for sharing it with us!

[Greg P]

Linda,
I've long watched your adventures with Spike from afar. Providence brought you together, and the relationship and accomplishments that you and Spike shared have inspired many a Cairnite to coax their cairn off the couch to attempt the world of performance. Thank you....and thank Spike. Many cairn lovers will be saddened to hear of his passing. My deepest condolences to you.

Greg Perry

[katsmac]

So sorry for your loss....I know that kind of loss....our pets are our friends and family too. What wonderful memories you will always have in your heart....and as long as they are there...they will always be with you.....another borrowed angel....now returned.