Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Webster RIP

My dear Webster died yesterday on his own terms, at home.

I was with him right here at the end, in this very spot.

I called my local Mobile Vet earlier in the day to assist with his passing but Webster died before they arrived. They came and picked up his body for cremation and that was a big help. I considered burying him on the property but decided against doing it. That turned out to be a good thing because my favorite helper who would have helped me dig a grave was in Vermont picking up a new puppy as a companion for his 12-year-old Lab.

Webster was a huge part of my life since he "rescued" me at 9 weeks of age 14 years ago. We had a great life together and of course I miss him terribly. But it was time for him to go and it was a peaceful passing. Boo Hoo.

I know my readers will miss him too. 

107 comments:

Beth said...

Oh, I'm so sorry. But I'm so glad you two had each other for so long. He was clearly very loved.

Unknown said...

Oh, Rosemary . . . I'm a complete stranger to you, so it's crazy how gutted I feel seeing your shocking post about Webster. I've lost my dear husband, a precious dog, and two ancient cats in the last 18 months, yet I'm sitting here crying at the loss of your Webster. The relationship you two shared, with each other and with your readers/viewers, always made me smile. How lucky you both were to have found one another. I send my sincere condolences and a big virtual hug.

Catherine said...

I am so sorry very sorry to hear it. I know what a big hole it leaves in your life to loose a friend/pet you loved so much and shared your life with.

Rest in Peace dear Webster.

A Brit in Tennessee said...

RIP sweet boy, you made me smile endlessly.
Hugs to you Rosemary, Webster was loved, and he knew it.
~Jo

Recycled Cottage & Garden said...

I'm so sorry, and yes the Wonder Dog will certainly be missed.

Mama Pea said...

Oh, dear Rosemary, the tears are flowing here and my heart is hurting.

Your dear Webster went the way all animals should be allowed to go (and we humans, too), on his own terms in his own time. (It was the same for our Zoey and our Max before, both at 14 years of age.) What a wonderful dog he was for all those years. You both gave each other so much love and companionship. Sending a heartfelt hug to you.

Joan said...

I am so sorry to learn of the passing of your beloved companion Webster. I wish you peace and fond memories of all the good times you shared.

Sunny said...

Oh, Rosemary, I'm so sorry to hear of Webster the Wonder Dog's passing. I will miss him in your posts. I'm sure you are missing him so very much.

Unknown said...

Rosemary,
Oh how my heart feels or you. Webster is so real to your readers. We will miss the stories of your companionship.I know you will miss him terribly. I am sorry for your loss. May your memories of walks, meals, playing and just sitting bring you sweet memories.

Leslie said...

So very sorry to read this, Rosemary. He was a lovely dog and you were great to share him with us here. I've had many pets over the years, and just 2 weeks ago lost, at 18, one of the last of a number of kitties that I've had since they were born at my farm (from a then-feral female I also adopted). It was always a treat to see Webster read about and his doings in your blog posts . I will miss reading about him. Thank you for sharing him and sincerest condolences to you for your loss.

Shewhokissesdogs said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
itztru said...

My sympathies on the loss of Webster.

I'm gonna tell Mom! said...

You have my heartfelt sympathy.

kim

Shewhokissesdogs said...

I'm sorry you lost your sweet boy. I so enjoyed reading the "adventures" of Webster and Tabitha. I lost my Great Pyrenees, Fontaine, last month and am still struggling without her constant, sweet presence.

All we can do is grieve at our own pace and thank the heavens that we had them in our lives for the time being.

Wishing you peace and comfort,
Elizabeth Kirschner
Memphis, TN

Gail, northern California said...

Oh, Rosemary...I'm so very sorry. Mr. Webster was such a kindly old gentleman, and the two of you were such a lovely pair.

Be extra, extra good to yourself for a while.

Cindy said...

Sorry for your loss. What a dear and special boy he was. So fortunate that he was able to pass in the comfort of his own home.

Donna said...

He was a good boy! May your memories be filled of his antics over the years and not the sad last days.

Connie in Hartwood said...

So sad. I'm very sorry. Webster will live on in your heart. Sending my most sincere condolences.

Godspeed, Webster.

Good dog.

Geri Meftah Art said...

I feel so sorry for you. I loved your posts with Webster. I know that it hurts, because I miss our Sarah.

Christine said...

{{{{{ Hugs }}}}
I will miss you telling us about your walks and naps.

Lori W. said...

I am so sorry for your loss. Webster will be missed by all of us who love your blog.

Sky said...

I am so sorry for your loss. I'll miss Webster on your blog.
Betty

Vickie H. said...

I grieve this loss as though he were my very own. I adored Webster and the stories of your life together that you shared here. RIP, handsome boy....until we meet again. Prayers for you in the days ahead, Rosemary.

Special K said...

Am very sorry for your loss - he was obviously a fine companion.

Maud said...

I an so sorry for your loss. <3 <3 <3

Tara Dillard said...

Webster. Dear Webster.

One Charlotte Court said...

I am so sorry for your loss--as a blog reader for some years now I felt like I knew him too, if only virtually. He seemed like such a sweetie. I'm glad you were able to be with him at the end.

M. Points said...

I'm so sorry to read your news. It was always such fun to read about your Webster. I know you'll miss him terribly but I'm glad he had a peaceful passing.

Candice said...

I'm sure Webster would say, "Thank you, Rosemary. I had a great time."
He's waiting for you over the rainbow bridge.

LG O'Connor said...

So sorry for this terrible loss, as you know, I know it all too well. I'm glad I had a chance to know Webster... He was a sweet boy who ended up with several of my pizza crusts. May he and my sweet boy Nevada roam happily together in the clouds. xo

Kathy said...

Rosemary,
My heart sank and the tears flowed for you reading this post. I am so sorry for the loss of your dear friend and family member Webster. He was a wonderful dog and you gave him equally wonderful loving home.
As a long time reader of your blog, you are right I will miss him too.
My heartfelt sympathy,
Kathy

friendandfaux said...

I am so sorry for you!

It is wonderful though that you were together at the end. We have had our traveling vet come to the house also, it is so much easier on those "best friends". Webster will be missed, but also fondly remembered.

Sending you hugs,

Deb

Robin@DecoratingTennisGirl said...

Oh Rosemary. I haven't been blogging much, but so glad I saw this post. It is so hard to lose our pets. They become our children. I know through your posts how important Webster was to you. May he rest in peace. Someone once said that the reason that dogs live such short lives, compared to us, is that we will have more of them to love in our lifetime. Not much of a consolation, but know my thoughts are with you.
xoxo,
Robin

coasterkim said...

I'm so sorry for the loss of your dear Webster. I will miss his cute face. You gave him a great life and you'll meet again one day.

libraryeducator said...

I loved Webster and his friends' sleepovers - was it "Piggy" who would come visit? Webster always seemed so wise and patient. You always shared your oatmeal bowl with him - truly the best of friends!! I feel for your loss and had already been worrying about you when you did not get a new kitty friend after Tabiftha. You have had a lot of loss this past 12 months. I cannot imagine my difficult times without my furry friends. Best wishes and know we all are thinking of you through this "blog friendship" that brings us together. Karen

Crow’s Foot Farm Designs said...

Rosemary... I am so sorry to hear about Webster. He lived a good long and well-loved life with you. It is so hard to say goodbye. My sincerest condolences. Karen

donna baker said...

So very very sorry for both of you.

JudyMac said...

Oh, Rosemary. ... My tears are flowing ... I can hardly see to write this. I am so sorry. It's terrible to lose our beloved companions after so many years of their company. I know you will miss him very much, but after a while maybe you will see your way to acquiring another pet, or maybe a lucky one will find a new home with you. I will miss Webster very much. JudyMac xxoo

Linda said...

I lost my beloved cat, Oliver, over Thanksgiving weekend. It was heartbreaking. At the time, a friend sent me this quote, which I think will have meaning for you.

"Until one has loved an animal part of one's soul remains unawakened."

RIP Webster.
Take care,
Linda

Lorraine said...

So sorry for the loss of your beloved companion. Thanks for sharing him with us these years.

Lady Laura said...

Sorry to learn of your loss, Rosemary. I've enjoyed stories and photos of Webster for years!! I simply love dogs with white showing on their faces. If only humans could age so unconcerned.

I'm sure he felt how very much you loved him! If only he could have known how many of your readers enjoyed all the Webster updates!

debra @ 5th and state said...

indeed, the tales of webster will be sorely missed, a beautiful elderly gentleman and lovely companion.
the finality is always quite difficult, my last blog post is on the passing of my beloved pooch cooper.
my heart and arms reach out to you rosemary
debra

karen said...

Rosemary,
I am so sorry to hear this sad news.
You were a great team!

jane said...

Many condolences. I am a cat person, but I know what you feel. We have lost 3 wonderful cats over the years and even though they came back afterward to say good bye, I miss them, still.

Gayl said...

Oh no! I am so sorry for your loss. It is always heartbreaking to lose a pet but how fortunate that you were with him and he went on his own terms. Condolences....

Maureen said...

Oh no. So sad. You gave him the very best possible life and he gave you his unconditional love. Dear Webster.

Linda Sand said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm glad he got to go on his own in his own time, though. For me, that makes my loss a little easier--to know I didn't hurry one. But, sometimes it is good to release them from pain, too.

Patricia said...

I understand completely how you feel right now...I also lost my constant companion, Bo, who looked very much like your Webster...but what a long life Webster had, full of your love and care, and all the things that dogs love so much. You won't forget sweet Webster ever, and you'll think of him every day, but it will eventually be with a smile at the lovely memories, instead of a tear.

annette said...

Dear Rosemary,Whenever you posted a photo of Webster he put a big smile on my face.I am so saddened by the news,but what a good life he shared with you and, as we pet owners know,it is what we hope for when they adopt us. Sending a big hug,Annette

rmzbrooks said...

In my head, I realize that I don't really know you. But, your posts connect with me so much that if we lived next door to one another, I'm sure we'd chat every day. Condolences on the loss of dear Webster. Your Webster posts always made me smile. Chin up.

SALLY said...


Rosemary,

So sorry you've lost your dear Webster. Webster was so lucky to have such a loving home.
Hugs to you in this sad time.

Greystone Interiors LLC said...

Webster gave much and will be missed terribly. My heart aches for you but he's romping in heaven with your Mom keeping her company!!May the wonderful memories surround you and help you through this painful, difficult time.
"It is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all"
Shakespeare

Cindy D. said...

Webster was a really great dog, who was very well loved. I enjoyed seeing posts about him. (((HUGS))))!!!!

From All Stitched Up said...

I am so sorry to hear of Websters passing. Every evening I read your post I have enjoyed your friendship with Webster.
I send you prayers and love as you find your way without him.

Lynette said...

So very sorry...I am going to miss seeing that handsome wonder dog and hearing about his daily adventures. He was so dear.

auntiejenni said...

dear rosemary....i am so sorry for the loss of your dear webster. i wish you peace and sweet memories and am so glad that you were right there by him till the end of his journey. he knew you loved him. i hope the void of his loss does not settled so hard in your heart and that you are able to see the wonderful companionship he brought you and you him and that you keep that feeling inside you always.

Penelope Bianchi said...

OH, I AM HEARTBROKEN. I will miss him so. It is the hardest thing.

I hope that sometime you will rescue again; not to take his place; but to help fill the hole in your heart.

Penny

Penelope Bianchi said...

Oops! I wasn't finished!


And to save another life. There are so many wonderful dogs needing rescue; and you are such a loving owner.

SuSu said...

Rosemary - I am so very sorry to learn about sweet Webster's death. What a wonderful, sweet boy he was and such a good companion. I will miss seeing his "licked clean" oatmeal bowls! You have lost Tabitha and your very lovely mother also in these past 18 months or so...but I know you are a tough Yankee like me - we think can handle it all...but I know you will miss him terribly. Do you see any other 4-legged friends in the future? Please take care of yourself and my thoughts are with you...and a few prayers as well. Webster doesn't need any because dog is just God spelled backward!
Susan

La Vie Quotidienne said...

I am so sorry, it is very difficult to loose a beloved pet.

A Few Pennies said...

So sorry for the loss of your best friend; I know how happy you made his life and his spirit will be with you. They are our treasures in life aren't they? Take care.

monil3 said...

I'm so very sorry to hear about Webster. What a wonderful life he lived. I know that it a sad day for you but he is running free over the rainbow bridge. My thoughts are with you. Monica

Barb_in_GA said...

I'm so sorry to hear about Webster. Rest assured you gave him the best possible life.

Unknown said...

Every night before I go to sleep I read your post for the day. Tonight is a very sad post. Yes, we all will miss Webster. I never get over the loss of my Westies. But we do move on. Will be thinking of you. Martha

Mimi's Poor Blog said...

Ever since I began reading your blog Webster has been a part of my life too. My thoughts are with you.

Tricia said...

I am so very sorry to hear about Webster. I can't find the right words to say. My thoughts and prayers are with you at this time. With love and hugs from New Zealand-- seems Webster was not just a Wonder Dog, but a Global Wonder Dog as well.

Robin (Q of E) said...

Words fail me. I have followed you and Webster for years. He was such a happy addition to your blog. Know that dogs go to heaven, and you WILL see him again. My heart is broken for you. R

kathiquilts said...

Dear Rosemary-
The life you created for your sweet boy certainly repaid him for his"rescuing" you. I always smiled when I read about you fixing him his breakfast and thought how lucky both of you were to have each other. He'll be waiting for you--

jusaweecatnap said...

So sorry. I know you'll hold wonderful memories of him, along with Tabitha, tightly in your heart. Thanks so much for sharing with all of us so many fun stories of your pets, as well as tender stories of your mother. I think we all feel as if we knew them, and we, too, get to share some of your happy memories. You are always so generous about sharing the happy side of life with us, which brightens our days.

Jeff Wignall said...

Awww. Sweet dog, I'm so sorry that you had to say goodbye. Losing pets isn't like losing family, it *is* losing family. Very sorry.

Janie said...

Rosemary, Webster had the kind of life and death I wish all dogs (and humans) could have. He was loved by you and all of your blogging friends. He had a wonderful companion and returned that love every day. His life had purpose. He touched so many people.
I know the hole his passing leaves. I'm so sorry, but so happy he was here.
God bless you both.
Janie Horn

Unknown said...

im so sorry to hear of Websters passing , I cant seem to stop crying i have enjoyed your post so much about your family .My own sweet Toby of 16 years passed away 2 years ago it was and still is pain full..but as you said yourself it was his time and now i like to think there chasing after balls and having a grand time.And Tabatha is there teasing them both .. Take care of yourself and know that you have many friends here even ones like me that read your posts and hardly comment , We care that your happy and are very sorry for our lose .

Sue said...

I'm so very very sorry , Rosemary. He was a beloved friend to you (and all of us who have followed your posts )
I know he had the very best life and you have many sweet memories to sustain you through this difficult time.

Karen in VA (was CT) said...

... I'm so very sorry to hear this, and my thoughts are with you.

We can only hope for a peaceful end for our loved ones. He was a great pal for many years, and will always be part of you.

We will all be thinking of you as you turn this next chapter.

Karen in VA

Linda said...

Dear Rosemary, Your blog was the first blog I ever followed. I also live in a small house in the country and am a lover of dogs. You certainly have felt like a kindred spirit to me. I was so sorry to read that Webster died. I am 66 and have lost 5 dogs over the years and it never gets any easier. Webster certainly had a wonderful life with you. Fourteen months after the loss of my last dog, I finally brought home a lab puppy named Emma. She has made all the difference in my life. I just wanted you to know that you and Webster are in my thoughts. I will miss reading about him. Linda

Lucille said...

He will be missed. Hugs to you.

Laura in Texas said...

Laura Gallagher
Rosemary, your blog was my first reading every morning when I arrived at work. You and Webster started my day with laughs, joy and happiness. I was so upset to see your blog this morning and feel as though I've lost a wonderful boy because truly through your writing Webster became all our Wonder Boy - my thoughts are with you during these very hard days. My arrival at work will truly not be the same.

Patricia said...

It's so sad. Goodby Whebster and I'm very sorry for you Rosemary.

Stirfry said...

Shanna Stirling

I shed a few tears over breakfast this morning as I read about Webster. I've followed his adventures for many years and will miss seeing his face on your blog. You are in my thoughts as I know the huge space they leave behind. I have two dogs myself and used to have a golden lab who died aged 12 and is still missed. I have followed your blog for many years and it is the first one I read each day. Thank you for your lovely posts, I hope you keep them going for a good many more years. Webster had a wonderful life with. God bless you both.

Cheryl West said...

My sincere sympathy for the loss of your dear companion.

Cathy said...

I am so very sorry to read of Webster's passing. I have enjoyed reading of his daily exploits and seeing his handsome face. It won't be the same. I'm sure he is with your mom and Tabitha, waiting for you.

Karen said...

Oh Rosemary, I am so sad, I loved stories and pictures of Webster. He was such a sweet dog. My heart goes out to you but it is some small comfort that he passed at home in your company.
xo,
Karen

Jan R. said...

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Someone said to me, in similar circumstances: Buy a dog, get a tragedy. It's true, but it doesn't capture the place they hold in our lives and hearts. I loved hearing your stories about him, and will miss reading about your adventures together. I hope you will console yourself with the knowledge that he was a very lucky dog to have been so loved.


Sincerely,
Jan
J. F. Riordan
www.northofthetensionline.net

Unknown said...

Thank you for sharing Webster with us. It was a joy to follow his adventures and your great love for him.

Tricia said...

I'm so very sorry Rosemary. Webster was one of the special ones and he will be missed. Thank you for sharing your wonderful guy with all of us.

LANA said...

Oh Rosemary I am so so sorry to hear about your dear Webster. I always enjoyed his photos and adventure stories. I have lost pets as well and know how very painful it can be. Allow yourself to cry and grieve. I truly believe we will all be reunited one day.

kansasgirl1 said...

Sincerest sympathies on the loss of your beloved Webster. I've only been following you a few months, but I'll miss seeing his white-muzzled face. I really like the picture you posted with this news, of him laying in the cool, green grass - he looks very peaceful. May peace come to you, also.

tammy j said...

you know how much I loved him rosemary.
i'm literally sobbing here.
it's a shock.
oh Webster.
love.

QZB said...

Webster was such a sweet boy, and I loved reading your little stories about him. I'm so happy you found each other! <3

Linda said...

Awwww . Knowing how much you loved him, the only good part of his passing, was that you were together, as always. ❤️ I hope time heals you, and memories last your lifetime.

Mary Anne Komar said...

Dear Rosemay, what a terribly sad shock to hear about your sweet Webster. You were such a lovely Mom to him and he was such a wonderful friend to you. So many of us will miss his sweet postings. You are in my prayers.

Mary Anne Komar said...

Dear Rosemay, what a terribly sad shock to hear about your sweet Webster. You were such a lovely Mom to him and he was such a wonderful friend to you. So many of us will miss his sweet postings. You are in my prayers.

Deb said...

Rest in Peace, dear Webster.

Broad In Daylight said...

Dear Rosemary, you and Webster have been such a comfort and inspiration in my life. It is so hard to lose our familiar, and I am truly sorry. You do not grieve alone.

Lisa Smith said...

Oh Rosemary, I am so very sorry. Your dear Webster shall be sorely missed. I have always truly enjoyed your posts about the sweet Wonder Dog and his beloved companion Tabitha.
❤️
Please know you are in my thoughts. . . .
With sincere sympathy,
Lisa in Oregon

GI Jilly said...

I am so sorry! I love the Rainbow Bridge poem because right now Webster is young and playing. He's his best self. He's just going to play until one day, he'll take a sniff and start running to the Rainbow Bridge to greet you.

Tina McEown said...

Dear Rosemary my heart is so saddened to learn of your dear Webster's passing. Being an animal lover and many times owner, I cannot help but to feel your sadness. I cried when I read the news. So very thankful that he died on his own terms. You are surely in my heart and prayers that you will be comforted and his memory will bring you joy.

lindaroo said...

I'm very sorry for your loss, and yes, we will miss him, too.

The Queen Vee said...

Rosemary my dear...

When I read this post my heart ached and I just cried. Such a handsome Prince, a loyal and honorable friend, a stately fellow, a much beloved companion, a friend to many who never met him in person....I mourn with you. I'm grateful that he was able to leave this earthly life on his terms with the person he loved most by his side. Thank you for sharing your extraordinary Webster with all of us, sending love and a wish for comfort and peace for you.

Malcolm W. said...

Rest in peace Webster. You will be missed by many.

I believe Candice stated it best in her comment above.

Malcolm W.
Abilene, TX

martha said...

I am sorry for your loss. We have an elderly dog whom we love so very much...

Unknown said...

Rosemary I'm so sorry... I don't know you or Webster personally but I am heartbroken for you

Unknown said...

I´m sorry for your loss, Rosemary. Sweet dreams to the Wonderest dog ever. A tear down the cheek from Norway.

Penelope Bianchi said...

LOTS OF TEARS DOWN LOTS OF CHEEKS.......WE ALL LOVE YOU; AND WE ALL LOVED WEBSTER....THE WONDER DOG!

YOU RESCUED EACH OTHER......WHICH IS THE WAY OF RESCUE DOGS!

I HAVE 3; AND HAVE BEEN RESCUED BY MANY OTHERS.....I AM SO GRATEFUL.....AS ARE YOU! I AM PRAYING YOU CAN GO FOR ANOTHER! IT SURE HELPS OUR EXERCISE SCHEDULE......AND THAT DOG ON THE BED.......WOW.

YOU ARE PERFECTLY LOVELY.....

THANK YOU FOR YOUR BEAUTIFUL BLOG!!

PENELOPE

Penelope Bianchi said...

I HAVE ALREADY left comments....Just reading these I have just been crying. Everyone knows just how you feel; and all your followers empathize completely.....we loved Webster because you made him so real to us! HE WAS REAL!!

That is the beauty of the internet; is my opinion! We all loved "Webster the Wonderdog"! Because of your exquisite writing that brings us into your house....and your life...and your garden. Every day or so. No wonder you have millions who follow you!!!

You are simply wonderful! I am praying you get another rescue dog and a cat. Those were the luckiest animals....ever!

Penelope

Millie said...

Dearest Rosemary - I feel as though I've lost one of my own. You two were destined for each other all those years ago & what a truly wonderful relationship you had. His calm & wise demeanour matched your own so beautifully. He aged gracefully & became a lovely old gentleman. Vale Webster the Wonder Dog, you'll, never be forgotten.
Love Millie xx

stacey said...

I always wait a few days between reading your blog, saving it up for a treat. I am so sorry to hear about Webster and send my condolences. A house isn't complete without a pet or two, at least for me. Wishing ou well.
I started reading your blog because my grandparents lived in Chatham, and I spent some time living with them there when I was 6 years old. I remember walking to the elementary school with neighbor children across a little creek. I remember it as a quaint and lovely town.