Sampson earns his wings

Good-byes
Sampson enjoying the great outdoors on Tuesday
Owen saying goodbye
Sam looking out the window and Owen enjoying snuggling up to his big brother

Sir Sampson Bearington-Vaughn

Ā 

January 12, 1999 to August 18, 2010

We helped Sampson earn his wings this past Wednesday, August 18, 2010.

One day earlier he was enjoying life as much as possible, rolling on the grass, watching

the squirrels and the birds go by.

Tuesday evening, he was restless. The pain was becoming more difficult to manage, since

the cancer spread to his remaining front leg. His great bones began to feel too heavy. On

his last day, we moved his bed to the window.

He passed away in his home, on one of his favorite beds, surrounded by all of the things

he loved. It was the one promise we had to keep. One day earlier would have been too

soon, one day later, would have been too long.

Dogs heal our past and challenge our beliefs.

Sampson taught us patience, how to live in the moment, how to forgive and most of all

how to love this world. He brought such joy to our home and each day he is missed.

For those of you who were fortunate to know Sampson you know what a gift he was.

Our friend Jonathan characterized it perfectly, Sampson was the epitome of love.

We buried him on Friday, August 20

Sampson we know you are somewhere wonderful floating above this difficult world. We

imagine you running through fields on all four legs, where there is no pain, an endless

supply of dog biscuits and an unlimited number of squirrels to chase.

With loveā€¦.

January 12, 1999 to August 18, 2010

We helped Sampson earn his wings this past Wednesday, August 18, 2010.

One day earlier he was enjoying life as much as possible, rolling on the grass, watching

the squirrels and the birds go by.

Tuesday evening, he was restless. The pain was becoming more difficult to manage, since

the cancer spread to his remaining front leg. His great bones began to feel too heavy. On

his last day, we moved his bed to the window.

He passed away in his home, on one of his favorite beds, surrounded by all of the things

he loved. It was the one promise we had to keep. One day earlier would have been too

soon, one day later, would have been too long.

Dogs heal our past and challenge our beliefs.

Sampson taught us patience, how to live in the moment, how to forgive and most of all

how to love this world. He brought such joy to our home and each day he is missed.

For those of you who were fortunate to know Sampson you know what a gift he was.

Our friend Jonathan characterized it perfectly, Sampson was the epitome of love.

We buried him on Friday, August 20

Sampson we know you are somewhere wonderful floating above this difficult world. We

imagine you running through fields on all four legs, where there is no pain, an endless

supply of dog biscuits and an unlimited number of squirrels to chase.

With loveā€¦.

Ā 

12 thoughts on “Sampson earns his wings”

  1. I am SOOO utterly sorry for your loss.

    How beautiful though that you were able to help him to the bridge from one of his favourite beds. And if nothing else, while you mourn his physical presence, I hope there is comfort that he is no longer in pain.

    My sincerest condolences. Fly free, Sampson.

  2. Our hearts are breaking for you and your family. Please take comfort in knowing that he was on his favorite bed surrounded by the things and people he loved. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.

    Ginger, Annie and Brian

  3. I am very sorry to hear of your loss, but the fact that it was done at the absolute perfect time makes it a little less hard. We lost Jack this past Saturday, and I agree with what you have said…one day earlier was too soon, one day later would have been too late. They totally let us know when its time, and all we can do is comply with their wishes. Sampson was SUCH a cutie, and I love all his pictures above – he looks like an angel šŸ™‚ Thank you for being the best parent you could have been – that was one lucky dog šŸ™‚

    <3 Laura and Invisible Jack

  4. I’m so so sorry for your loss. Sampson seemed content and at peace in these photos – such a beautiful boy. And aren’t you so lucky that you were given this beautiful gift of love although certainly not long enough to have. He will always be with you forever in your heart. You are in my thoughts and prayers. My deepest condolences.
    Kami (Mackenzie’s Mom)

  5. our thoughts are with you, we’re glad sampson was able to be with his family, in his favorite bed when he passed. such a handsome boy who always did his best…we should always strive to be so good.

    love never ends.

    charon & gayle

  6. Sampson, what a long, glorious life you lived. We are so sorry your time on earth came, but we know your spirit will stay strong in everyone’s hearts. Stick by our side, you still have much to teach us.

    Many many condolences to your pack, I know they will miss you.

  7. I posted a comment a couple of days ago and not sure why it didn’t post….just want to send to you again…

    Iā€™m so so sorry for your loss. Sampson seemed content and at peace in these photos ā€“ such a beautiful boy. And arenā€™t you so lucky that you were given this beautiful gift of love although certainly not long enough to have. He will always be with you forever in your heart. You are in my thoughts and prayers. My deepest condolences.
    Kami (Mackenzieā€™s Mom)

  8. I’m so sorry to hear about Sampson… šŸ™ He was such a beautiful boy…

    You are in my thoughts and prayers during this very sad time…

    Rest in peace sweet Sampson…

    Angel Jake and Wolfie’s Mom

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