Chase (Simba)

It is with a heavy heart that I report that Chase, FKA Simba crossed the Rainbow Bridge this morning.

I had to put my first golden, Sam, down in late November of 2000. I contacted R.A.G.O.M. because we had met a volunteer while taking our walks. After my home visit, I was earmarked for a 2 year old R.A.G.O.M. dog who would soon be undergoing knee surgery, so the adoption was tentatively set for March or April the following year. I had very little desire to go through "Puppy Hell" again, and 3 or 4 months would give me time to adjust to a life without Sam. However, I didn't expect the desperate phone call 3 days before Christmas. There was a 3 month old puppy that had just been surrendered and the foster did not have anywhere for him to go during the holidays. So, I got an early Christmas present that year. Almost 16 years later, I said goodbye to my partner in adventure, my Frisbee champion, and my snuggle buddy. Rest in peace, Chase. You were the best unwanted Christmas present I ever got.