This poem about Val was written early last year by her adopted Mom and she
has given permission to use it here as a tribute to this wonderful dog and
their lives together. Val crossed over the Bridge on Sept.
29, 2003 - they had 14 years, 9 months, and 11 days together. And all of
Eternity awaits them.
"Valentine, a Dog
She's been abused, the Shelter lady said.
And so have I, I thought.
First, change her name,
No longer Coyote
Rather Valentine.
Tail down,
Huge brown eyes brimming with pain
Unknowable.
Cowering.
Waking me each night with whimpering,
Nightmares of a loveless life.
God, what did they do to you?
Here, baby, eat tranquilly.
Here, sweet one, long walks - your pace.
Toys for one who's never known play.
Naps together on bleak Winter afternoons.
Gentle hands, gentle voice,
A cocoon of love.
We became a family, a pack of two.
She forgave when work kept me late.
Had I ever been forgiven before?
One day, a contented sigh!
Tail up, she pranced on her leash.
She invited play.
Nudged my hand when petting stopped too soon.
Hey, who's the boss here?
We howled together, survived together.
Her childhood, my puppyhood.
She lives unconditional love.
This child of life healed me."