Niles

Niles was a precious little German Shepard puppy. He died on August 18, 1999 all of 10 weeks old when he was tragically taken from my life. He was out playing with his brothers Normy a 1 year old golden retriever and Frasier a 2 year old German Shepard.

Normy who loves to swim was in the pool while Niles and Frasier chased around the pool barking at Normy. I never left Niles out by the pool alone but as most drownings go, I ran into the house to answer the phone and when I went back to the pool I saw Normy diving under the water (something he has never done before) and I could not find Niles.

There he was my precious little baby on the bottom of the pool. I dove into to get him, but it was too late. My little ticklebug died because I was careless. The guilt alone of not being there for him torments me daily. He needed me and I was not there to help him. The people I got Niles from heard of this accident and gave me one of his sisters which is Karla. She is just as wonderful, but nothing can ever take away the heartache of the loss of Niles. I miss him so much and I hope he forgives me for letting him down and not being there to help him. The only thing good that can come from his tragic death is that hopefully people learn that puppies do not know how to swim, and they need to be watched like children.

I have experienced many losses in my life, but never one that was because of my carelessness. I can only hope that Niles forgives me and that he will be waiting for me at the Rainbow Bridge.

I love you so much my precious Ticklebug and I want to thank you for loving me like no-one ever has.