In memory of Duchess Prosser, Nov. 1988 - March 1998
I remember the day you came to us. It was two days before Christmas, and you were the cutest present ever. As the years passed, you were a constant companion, friend, playmate and comfort. When I cried, you brought me your rug. When I needed a hug, you were the best. And when you would lead me on merry chases through the neighborhood, I knew you would always come back home.
When I left for college, I missed having you around. I knew you were getting slower, more tired, but I didn't know we'd have so little time left together. Then came the day that Dad called to say that something had happened to you, that you were not very responsive and your eyes were glazed over. No one was too sure what had happened to you, but you started to recover. The vet said that it was your spleen, and just a few days later, on March 6, I got the call that you had died in the night.
To this day, we're not sure why your spleen ruptured, whether it was caused by cancer or something else. You must have been in such pain, and I'm sorry I wasn't there to help, or to say goodbye. You were so young, only 9, and we weren't ready for you to go. But go you did, and I'm glad you aren't in any more pain.
You are missed so very much. Dad wasn't the same after you were gone; you were "his dog," after all, and a beloved member of the family. He has a picture of you in his office. It's not a very good picture, but it's you.
And Ivan, your little terrier friend that we had had only a short time before you died, was distraught. He couldn't be near your collar without crying for you. None of us could.
Some time has passed, and while time lessens the hurt, it can't get rid of it entirely. No other dog could be like you, Duchess, and none ever will. You were special and wonderful, and I hope you wait for me on the rainbow bridge. I can't wait to see you there, running and playing like always. I miss you, and I thank you for the time you spent with us. You were, and still are, a very special dog.
Signed, Erica and the rest of your loving family