In Memory

If you have a story that you would like to share of your senior Doberman who has gone to the rainbow bridge, please send it in and we'll post it here.  Click here for the submission form.

You have been warned... have tissues ready....

Raven

April 29, 2012

Raven Lee Felitz PCD Cad RE Am RA CGN WAC HIC Dec 28, 2000 – April 28, 2012 It was an incredible journey you gave to me. You fit into our house and hearts so well. You had so much love and loyality it was almost too much for one dog. You taught me so many things I cannot list them all. Sleep well my baby girl. Meet up with Misty, Trapper, Cricket and your other friends, we will meet again one day. We love you and we will miss you. My protector, my companion, my friend… Raven was a rescue from Washington state that we adopted in September of 2001. She overcame many challenges in her lifetime with the true Doberman style and grace. Raven will be missed dearly.

Nicole H.

Koti (Dakota Royale)

Feb 9, 2012

Having had Dobermans before, when my husband asked me to marry him I said "Only if we can get a Doberman". His response was, "Absolutely not, those are killer dogs!" It took me 3 months after we were married to talk him into it and we brought home an unpapered Doberman pup we named Duesenberg. We lost our beautiful Duesie at 14.5 years. We were devastated. I didn't think I would be able to EVER give my heart away again, but after about 3 months my husband began making noises about getting another dog. Because he had put up with me nagging about getting a Doberman before, I thought that I would give him a chance to pick the breed this time. When asked what he wanted he said, "Another Doberman! After you have had one, there are just no other dogs!" Enter our beautiful Dakota Royale! She was born on July 25,1998 and we drove 3 hours to Stockton to get her from the breeder, Shal-Mars Dobermans. We were told that the breeder had 2 female pups left, one very laid back and the other not. Thinking that we needed a laid back pup since neither one of us was getting any younger, we went looking. After arriving at the breeders, she took us to look at the pups. One of the pups ran to the front of the pen and said, "Pick me, pick me!" So we did! We brought her home that same day and she rode on the back seat of our T-Bird, her first ever car trip and she fell asleep about 10 minutes from the breeders and slept the entire 3 hours home. Because of some medical problems, I had to be hooked up to a machine every night for 12 hours to feed me and we did that after we got home. I laid down on the couch and our Koti managed to find her way around all of the wires and tubes and lay on the couch with me with her had on my lap without moving until we went to bed 5 hours later. She became my constant companion. Whenever I was sitting in a recliner, she was right next to me with her head on my lap, she always knew when I was not feeling well and would often go find my husband and bring him back with her so that he could help with whatever I needed. Thankfully, I got over my illness and we spent many days traveling in our motorhome. Koti went everywhere with us, she loved going no matter what where we went. She had no formal training beyond the basics, but she learned so many behaviors that she was always asked to show off by anyone who saw her. She would whisper when asked, just a little snore out of her nose, her favorite was "Bang", she would fall over on her side and roll up onto her back with all four legs in the air. We spent so many years together with her sleeping on the bed with us and she was always there no matter what. She got older, but still acted like a puppy until one day we noticed that she had trouble jumping up on the bed. We made her a set of stairs to that she could get up easier and that seemed to help her for a while. She developed many Lipomas in her elder years that we left alone because they didn't bother her. She was never sick and always ready for anything we asked of her. She was always by my side! We entered Koti in the Longevity program and she received her certificate, LC2102F98-11L on 2-10-2010. I knew when we went to bed that April night that something was wrong with Koti. I lay at the foot of the bed with her and we talked all night about all of our adventures over the years, the places we'd gone and the things we had seen. About 4:30am April 4, 2010, after I finally tried to get some sleep, Koti pulled herself up between my husband and myself, gave me a kiss on the cheek and quietly died. My heart aches with the loss so much so that this is the first time I've been able to write about the biggest blessing in my life. We feel the loss deep within our souls and even though we now have another black and tan female, Shal-Mars Blitzen Kussen, (german for lightening kisses) and a beautiful, big red female, Shal-Mars Heavenly Rose, call name Donner, (german for thunder) we still carry our beloved Koti in our hearts everywhere we go. She will always be there. She is buried next to Duesenberg in our yard and her memorial plaque reads, "Treasured Friend" "You gave us your heart filled with unconditional love". We will never forget you Koti and we will always, always love you! RIP, my heart, my Koti. Dakota Royale, born 7-25-1998, left us April 4 2010. Forever, our love, Mom and Dad

Rheana

Feb 2, 2012

In April of 1997 I bought a Doberman female puppy that was 5/6 weeks old. I took her to a friend, Vet. and he said she should be three times as big. She was 2 1/2 lbs. Very tiny. Anyway she had worms (a lot). I went and got her some puppy formula and the best dog food I could get. I named this little girl Rheana. Rheana grew to be almost 75 lbs. I know Dobermans are smart dogs, but Rheana was an exception. Rheana knew over 30 commands, and she was with me all the time. When I would take her for walks and if I told her to "Whatch em" she would keep her eyes on what ever I wanted her to watch until we was clear. Anyway this last summer of July 2011 I lost Rheana. She had a heart attack. I had her for 13 years and 3 months. I was so heart broken and I still have days of sadness.  Rheana was the best.

Donna H.

Shooter

August 9, 2011

Lyndobe’s Outlaw Justice, CD, CGC, WAC (aka: Shooter) March 11, 2000 - June 27, 2011 It is with a heavy heart that I put my feelings into words and reflect on the memories of my “Shooter Boy”. He was always was quite a clown, in our training classes and at home. He pushed me in obedience classes and just when I thought I had out smarted him, he challenged me with something else. He trained in agility, rally obedience and worked toward his CDX, but we never had a chance to compete in these venues. He was a very smart boy and as a friend of mine expressed to me, “Shooter was a genius”!! He was a thinking Dobe and you never knew what he would do next, making life interesting. Shooter talked and would tell you exactly what he was thinking in so many words. His talents were never ending. If he wanted into a room with a closed door, he would grab the doorknob, open the door and there he was in all of his glory. Shooter also had other talents and knew the names of all his many toys. You could tell him what toy to get and he would go find it, even if he had to go out the doggie door, wander around the yard and bring it back to me. He loved to play ball, no matter what kind. He had basketballs, tennis balls, jolly balls, footballs and balls that squeaked. It was always fun to watch him play soccer, as he would block the ball and hit it back to you with his nose. Neighbor kids would come over and want to play with Shooter. He was the star of the neighborhood and everyone knew Shooter. He had never ending energy and was still attempting to play ball, even with the pain of the cancer until the day he died. Now, my “Shooter Boy” will be playing ball on the “Rainbow Bridge” and if they try to shut a door, he will open it and visit with anyone waiting on the other side. Shooter, you were always “my special boy” and I learned so much from you! There will never be another Shooter, as they broke the mold when you were born. I am so thankful for such a wonderful boy and there will never be another boy like Shooter. He was one in a million and his memories will live in our hearts forever. Rest in Peace my dear boy, as you won’t be in pain anymore. You fought the fight until the end and I will miss you beyond words. Shooter lost his life to cancer (osteosarcoma/ bone cancer) and will be truly missed by all who knew him. Thanks “Shooter Boy” for giving me great memories that will last a lifetime!

Lynn T.

Bourbon

July 5, 2011

I rescued my beloved gentle giant blue male doberman on 12/18/09, he was 4 years old, we named him BOURBON [all past dobes have also had liquor names], he came with alot of baggage, but he was gentle. You could not approach him face to face, he was always afraid, I could'nt cleanhis eyes, or pat his head, when I patted his head he had to be sitting with his back to me,he was so afraid of everything,but he was full of love, he would sit beside my reclainer& put his head on the arm and kiss my hand. He was afraid to ride in the car, he would shake & bark. We found out later on that the previous owners would keep him & litter mate sister in the basement at nite then in the morning would pull them by their collars to the outside pens, and they would stay there all day, regardless of the weather, rain snow sleet,& hot weather. They were turned in because the town got after the owners to do something about the conditions. The female was un-adoptable she had wobblers so bad that she had to be put to sleep. We had our beautiful Bourbon for a little over 2 years, he passed away February 7, 2011. Shortly after Christmas he started to scream whenever he tried to stand up, our vet took x-rays, he was loaded with arthritis & many of his disks were compressed. We tried, the anti-imflams worked for a short time then the pain would start up again. We could not have him suffer and he was suffering so we did the best for him, not for us. It was so hard to let him go, but we did. We miss our gentle giant...

Annemarie K.

Kit

Apr 25, 2011

Εvery once in a lifetime, something happens that changes our lives or draws us inward to deal with unfinished business.  For me, it was June 2007, when a message came across the Maritime Show Dog Mailing List which I moderate, asking for anyone to come forward to assist a person who was having a difficult time in their life.  They were so desperate that they were ready to euthanize their two Doberman - one an older girl and a youngster.

Without even a pause, I was on the phone inquring as to the older girl and before I knew it, I was sitting in the owners living room with a large red alpha female glued to my feet. Her name was Kit.  She was a few months shy of her 10th birthday and it was obvious that she was riddled with cancer.  She has been spayed only the year before with life just taking its toll on her human owners and their ability to keep up with her health issues.  There she was, there I was, and there was no doubt that she was coming home with me.  The younger dog was pretty and surely needing of attention.  But this old girl stood her ground, claimed her ticket out and we were gone.

There is some humour to this somewhat glum beginning - the chap who agreed to drive me to pick Kit up - didn't tell me that he was terrified of Dobermans.  Needless to say, we didn't realize that there was no crate for the dog and so it was a LONG drive home with a terrified old dog and a terrified driver.  Neither was amused - and in the dead of night - in an icy rainstorm - from HRM to Windsor.

Kit and I shared eight wonderful months together.  She asked, or rather demanded, a great deal of affection and attention that she craved and it was gladly given.  By the early autumn, it was obvious that, although her quality of life was still good, it was only a matter of time until her condition would decline. As she had been through so much and had given so much, I made the heart wrenching decision to euthanize before she had to deal with any further complications from the cancer.

The response to my grief over her death by those who should have known better was a shock to me.  "You only had her for a few months."  "Why did you take an old dog with cancer?" "Well, it couldn't be that much of a suprise.  With all your years in dogs, you should get over yourself."  I felt if this is happening to me what is like for others who may not have any resources to fall back upon?  After I could breathe again, I rallied and began my search for ways in which this would never happen to anyone else.

Kit's living and dying and our brief but deep love ignited within me a desire to guide others through the journey of pet bereavement and our own fears of death and dying which ironically begins with the realization of how precious life is day to day.

Sadly, early in 2010, the friend who drove me to pick up Kit and make her part of my life also died from cancer.

Goodbye old friends.

Valerie B.

Echo

Apr 22, 2011

Nikita Seuss ATT OA OAJ CGC RN Her call name was "Echo" Whelped on 11/13/98. Died 4/2/11. Cardiomyopathy. She fell asleep next to me in her bed and never got up. She was my $100.00 'show dog'. So the ad in the paper said. When I saw her, she was a little over a year old, skin stretched over every bone, full of round worms, had ringworm, fresh bite wounds on her head and front legs and extremely in heat. She was a mess. I knew I couldn't leave her where she was. I learned about being dog aggressive and what to do for that. I learned about not being good with kids. I learned about allot of baggage that troubled (but beautiful to look at) dogs could come with. She taught me so much about dog behavior. All the training classes, the workshops, the shows, the chat lists and the books read. She came from pretty much nothing of a pedigree. Only 2 titled dogs, 4 & 5 generations back. One with a CD and the other with a CDX. She ended up being one of the best trained Dobes I’ve ever had. She made me proud on several occasions when demonstrating in public, her appropriate behaviors via positive training. She even threw in a couple of her own. Like laying down and when I would say “What’s a proper lady do?” She would cross her front legs, tilt her head slightly and focus intently on me. Then I would follow up with “That’s correct. They cross their legs”. People really thought that was special. It was always her “job” to take an empty water bottle out to the garage to be recycled. She was very proud of that responsibility. That was a VERY important job that she loved to do. We went places that most dogs never get to go. I thank her for that. Words cannot describe how much I miss her. I could fill pages and pages about her, but that won’t bring her back. Now I must start looking ahead and start thinking about utilizing the knowledge she so willing gave me. Knowing that she will always be tugging at my heart.

Dylan D.

Diva

Apr 5, 2011

Diva "Diva's On Ice" Owner g/u at 4 1/2....I failed fostering 102 with her. She became a registered therapy dog with TDInc. got her CGC and 4th place on her third leg of her CD. Date of birth Sept/1996 if I remember 7/5/09 pts she developed spinal arthiritus. R I P my sweet girl! She was two months short of 13.

Eve N.

Harry

Feb 22, 2011

Harry, "Alpha's Birthday Cake" was born 1/30/1998 and died at home at 11:15 AM on 3/4/2010 in our arms. We called our boy Harry because his breeders Susanne and Paul Smith nicknamed him little Houdini because he was an escape artist. Harry was a wonderful boy and I could go on forever telling you about him but I won't, my wife and I love him and miss him so very much. We cannot say enough about his breeders they are the most caring, loving people, they sent Harry birthday cards every year and when he was young called weekly and made us bring Harry to them so they could see him. We miss our boy and have his ashes here with us, we kid each other, whomever dies first gets to take Harry with them. LC-1688M98-10L

Thomas T.

Zeus

Feb 20, 2011

Zzzzzeus 3/26/1999-10/16/2010 We got Zeus affectionately called ZooZoo at 8 weeks. He was my everything, my partner, my baby, my love. I will miss him always. I love you Zoo!!!!

Debra B.

Black Moon Maggy

Nov 26, 2010

My loving companion for 14 years and one month, she will be missed terribly. "if tears could build a stairway and memories a lane, I'd walk right up to heaven and bring you home again." Black Moon Maggy - 10/10/1996 birth death - 11/22/2010

Lucy J.

Humphrey

Nov 10, 2010

I rescued my Red Doberman in 1999. He was born with a several issues, but lived to almost 11. Born on May 21,1999 and died on Feb 5th, 2010. His name was Humphrey, which went well with his Cleft Palate...We use to say he barked with a lispt:) He had a sillyness about him and loved to be loved. He loved to run with me everyday, until we found he had Cardiomyopothy, which at that point kept himself to his rather large back yard. When my daughters were born, he instantly accepted his roll as "#2". He played with my kids everyday, and no doubt would have protected his family if need be....Although he never hurt anything his whole life. Earlier this year Humpy tore his mcl. Not confident that he would survive a sergery, we sadly put him to sleep. In my 38 years of live, that was the hardest thing I have ever had to do. I miss him so much. We all love you Humphrey.

Ed M.

Ansel

Oct 29, 2010

From the moment we brought him home he stole my heart. A gentle giant who loved to go on walks, play and be loved, not just a good dog, a great dog! 12-1-01 to 9-14-10

Peter E.

Taz

October 7, 2010

On June 8th, 1996 a litter of five Doberman's entered into my life in my kitchen. From the time their ears and eyes pened there was definately a red/rust male that was always the leader of the pack. and let his siblings aware of it. He began to be a real 'looker' and was sold to a handler who saw the same thing as I did in him. Life takes strange turns and when my "Taz" was a bit over a year and the handler divorced, I purchased this fellow back. He became my heart and sould and my forever friend. Through thick and thin and many disasters and osses, he was by my side. Losing Taz is like nothing I have ever experenced. There are always dogs that leave behind just a bit more than hey take. He was a Hero in every sense of the word. He was PTS lovingly and with dignity PTS on 9/2/'10. His ashes will be with me forever. Taz will never have to be afraid of the thunder ever again. Ilove you, TazMan, Mom He died of renal failure

Cheryl

Naomi

Sept 17, 2010

As I write this I am still in tears. My beloved Dobie was put to sleep this morning to end her suffering. Her official name is Naomi but to us she was most often called Noma, Nomi, and Nomers. She was diagnosed with Wobbler's Disease in May 2010 and I was certain we would lose her that day; but she proved me wrong. She responded to steroids and began to walk again. I believe she gave me time to accept the eventual and to make sure her last few months were special and enjoyed. She loved me with her entire heart and though in great pain she wouldnt even nip me. She is not replaceable and this morning she took a chunk of my heart with her, I miss her greatly but I will remember the 7 years of her company and her absolute devotion and love for me. Rest in peace pretty girl, mommy misses you. December 18, 2003 - September 17, 2010

Sarah F.

Duke

May 21, 2010

Duke, my booky man. Always thought walking him I was going to get my arm pulled off. We rescued him right after my Sparky the Dalmation passed, after 15 years. Duke came, filled my empty heart. Such a beauty Duke was. I was told a million times. Hated riding in the suv.. but always wanted to go. Took him everywhere, all over this big USA. But home he was most happy. Duke kept me grounded. I would rather be with him than doing anything else. I hated going to work, he would look at me with those Doberman eyes! He started coughing, and after about a week my husband started to worry. So off to the vet again, this time we thought for a little cough. our vet didn't know what was wrong, after much insisting on a chest x ray because of the cough, a few minutes later we found out our beloved Duke had DCM. I ran out of the room and got sick while my husband sat in there in shock. Our vet was cold, and just didn't seem to care. gave us 6 months and a hand full of medication; next day to the Heart Vet. More tests. Then I found a web site for a new study at the U of Florida on stem cell transplant into the hearts of Dobermans. Called them and Duke didn't qualify for the study but if we wanted to pay for it they would do the stem cell transplant. I was so relieved, made all the arrangements. All I had to do is keep my boy alive for two weeks then off to Florida to save his heart. I couldn't even do that. Every 6 hours round the clock, ground up medication into the sirloin I would cook. Outside so much so he could get rid of the fluids from the Lasix. he was still so strong, happy running around like crazy. But that night that he brought up his supper, I knew in my heart. of to the ER because his heart was beating so fast. Made my bed on the chairs in the ER. In to visit him every hour, sat in his cage holding my boy while he was getting iv fluid and medication. His heart rate came down and I thought we were out of trouble. I just left his cage and went out to my chair bed when the ER doc ran out and said you better come in here cause Dukes heart stopped. I thought I died, ran in there and they were doing CPR. I held on to his head, crying, begging, stood back so his heart could be shocked. Nothing. No heart be could found. They stopped. I pleaded for them to keep going, but they would not. Why! Now my heart is broken too. My husband can't think, and all we do is cry. No more dogs he said. Two days later we have a new Doberman puppy. We still cry 24/hours a day. Tonight it will be just one week. I can't believe he has been gone a week. Oh how you are missed Duke. Forever your footprint will be on and in my heart.

mommy Bev and daddy Ed

Sugar

May 12, 2010

The most ironic thing in my life of owning Dobermans was that my beloved Sugar, adopted (indirectly from a 3rd party) at two years of age from a groomer who worked at the Brandywine Animal Hospital in Chadds Ford, PA, lived to 14.8 years of age and was healthy until a week before she died. She came with no papers and no genetic history. She came to me FREE OF CHARGE. Now how about THAT? Her temperament was nothing short of marvelous. She was gorgeous, faithful, bright and the love of my life. She did have several lipomas in her senior years, but I left them as they were. At about the age of 8 she developed some leg arthritis, but I took care of that with a mixture of Gloucosamine/MSM/Chondrotin daily and it fixed her right up. She was chasing her hated squirrels until shortly before she passed. She outlived her two male companions, one of whom died of DCM at age 5 and one who died of disk disease at 9.5 years of age. Sugar was born in November of 1990 and passed in August of 2005...I WILL NEVER FORGET HER.

Sandra B.

Happy

May 12, 2010

Our Happy was born on 1/5/2000. His start was rocky at best. When we got him he was sick with corona virus. The vet said that it was normally fatal to puppies and older dogs. He obviously made it through that and went on to live the fun life. When we got him we lived in Clearwater Florida. He loved his early morning walks, as he could not be out in the sun for too long. He did not enjoy the ride to Minnesota when moving there. After settling in at his new home he acquired a new found love of snow. He loved to run through snow, sometimes over a foot deep to get to his favorite tree. The only thing about his new home that he did not like was the below zero temps. Can't blame him there though. He was an absolute joy and gave so much pleasure to all that knew him. He learned to say hello and would sometimes walk up behind us when we were sitting in the living room and say it in our ears. Happy's heart begin to fail into his 10th year of life. Our beloved Happy went to the Rainbow Bridge on 4/27/2010 at 3pm. We are still grieving the loss of our son. We will never forget our Happy.

Stephen

Graf Luke

Mar. 26, 2010

Graf Luke was a 12 years old Doberman, handsome, loyal and the best guard dog, always watching for the family. He miss too much his sister Canela, she pass away two months before him and we know life was not the same for him, after being together for 12 years with Canela; we miss them a lot, they are going to live in our hearts and memories forever.

Virginia

Seren

Mar. 16, 2010

Seren DOB 3-27-97 DOD 8-15-09 "Red Sunset of the Serengeti" was her name, protector of her people was her game. Sweet Seren left us in August of 2009 at the age of 12 years and 4 months as a result of a cancerous tumor in her left front armpit. It was inoperable and we monitored it for almost a year before her quality of life slipped away one sunny August day. It had become the size of a small grapefruit and had affected her walk, but most importantly, it had caused her to quit eating for five days and the look in her eyes said she was ready to leave us. I took her to the Vet and stayed with her and comforted her with my voice as her eyes grew heavy and she went limp, she had crossed over the rainbow bridge. I brought her back home, wrapped her up in a favorite blanket and laid her to rest in our back field facing the east so she could see the sunrise every morning. Weeks later I noticed the long rays of the September sunsets broke through the treeline and put a sunny spot right over her grave. I feel this was no accident, but not planned by me. Seren, "Red Sunset of the Serengeti", LOVED basking in the sun when it came through our windows and now, for eternity, she is forever always in the evening sunshine. Seren came to us at 3 yrs old when her former owners brought home a new baby and Seren took exception to it. We got her prior to her entering a rescue program, so she went from one family with two Dobes to another family with a doggy housemate, Xena - a 2 yr old Dobe. We were always confused by the excuse that the previous owners gave her up for as she was always great with young children the whole time we had her. She did not like other dogs at all (except for her house mate, Xena) or anything that moved in her yard. She was the only Dobe that I have ever seen that ran her nose to the ground like a bloodhound, sniffing out everything. Her nickname was "snake dog" due to her killing 18 snakes one year while exercising her in our back field. Seren wasn't a"velcro" dobe like Xena, but she was very loveable in other ways that made her unique from all the others I have had. Because of her brute personality, I have picked up another red dobe female puppy in hopes of getting some of her personality quirks that I perceive to follow red dobes. On a similar note, I hope that the red male pup that we got at the same time does NOT have some of the traits that my male Dobe #2, Torr had. Now we have new pups to soften the void that losing the old girls six months apart left us with, it is sad and joyous at the same time.

John H.

Xena

Mar. 16, 2010

Xena DOB 3-3-98 DOD 2-27-10 Xena was a true "Velcro" Dobe if there ever was one and her mission in life was to be with her people and be happy. We got Xena as a 4H pet for my oldest daughter when we moved out of the city onto an 11 acre estate. She had another house mate Dobe, Shasta, that we got 3 months after Xena so my youngest daughter could do 4H, too. We would refer to Xena as "ZZ" and sometimes "DD" (dumb dog) for the silly things she would do, making us believe that she was mildly retarded. One thing was for sure, she was a puppy in an adult dogs body up to her death. Xena was put to rest just one week from her 12th birthday due to having bone cancer in her right rear femur. When she had her senior dog exam in October, the Vet thought she was a 7 or 8 year old dog, no way almost 12. She was a very healthy dog when the cancer was diagnosed in November and we were told that we had no longer than 3 months to have her. We put her on an experimental treatment of Artemisinin that in the end only slowed down the bone cancer, but didn't get rid of it. A week before the end, her breathing became heavy, but she did not slow down. In her last 6 weeks, she was lame and got around on 3 legs, but still wagged her stub like no tomorrow. One Wednesday, she had a hacking spell that ended up in throwing up some bile with blood in it, and we knew the end was here. The Vet phoned in a prescription for her nausea and breathing to make the night easy for her. The next day after work, I gave her a long car ride to pick up her 4H partner and we went back home to get my other daughter to head off to the Vet's office. I held her head in my arms and looked into her eyes as the Vet pushed the needle into her leg and administered the shot. I rubbed her head and snout and told her she was a good girl and daddy loved her and she was going to a better place. Just about the time the syringe hit bottom, there was a puff of breath in my face and she relaxed. My DD was gone. She lies at rest in the front corner of our property looking at the house, always on guard. Shasta and Seren, dobies #6 and #7 also join her on our propertyin eternal rest. It is March 2010 and we just picked up a pair of red dobe litter mates, a boy and a girl, that will fill the void, but never replace those before them. They are all unique and I have never had two that were alike.

John H.

Kali

Feb. 25, 2010

Kali was a female fawn Doberman Born in 1996. As you can see, she was a long life for a Doberman: 14 wonderful years. When she came to my family she has just 2 weeks of life and was barely capable of seeing all that was going on around her. We don’t have all the details, but she probably was born in the garden of farm, very close to the earth in the ground. We believe that because during all the days of her live she loved to play, sleep and just be close to the ground, especially if there is green grass on it. When she made 1 year she was fully grown and shown signs of an always present hunger: if you feed her 10 times a day she will eat all that you show to her. This has one problem though: she eat a lot of things that are not supposed to be eaten, such as gloves, clothes and other things. In one occasion she eat a mouse’s ball, that iron covered plastic ball that was used in old computer mouse, not to be confused with the optic ones. Well, we have to take her to surgery where she lose a part of his intestines. Nevertheless, she have a quick recovery and in a few days she was ready to learn some tricks with a dog handler. After that we choose a suitable mate to her with lead to 8 beautiful fawn Dobermans that she take excellent care, 6 of them males and 2 females (the males were born in one day and the females are born in the next day). We decided to keep one female that was named Dolly just because she was so similar to her mother that we thought that Dolly was a Kali’s clone. Anyway, Kali have many experiences in her life: hit by a car, physiologic pregnancy, a wound on her left ankle that never was completely healed and another surgery to remove all his tumors so frequently in his breed. She was present when we lost his companionship daughter Dolly after 2 months of struggle with another cancer in 2007, which we did almost anything to save, include a blood transfusion. After that she become gloomily and begin to lose weight. In the end, she was a fighter, a warrior and never give up. We have to put her to sleep after seeing that she was not able to do all her biological needs without asking to us by a sorrowful bark. There is no words that can help me express better what my family felt for her during her live and we can only wish she rest in peace in heaven after all that she gives to us. 

Maura C.P.

Poppy

Feb. 15, 2010

Triple B Hell's A Poppin OA, AXJ, CGC 2/7/97 - 1/28/10 To know Poppy is to never forget her. Her life was like a roller coaster ride. Her regal elegance was betrayed only by her mischievous ways. She was named after the beautiful red poppy. . . instead of the noun, I got the verb. She was a magnificent dog. Neck arched, ears ever alert and the look of eagles in her eyes. In Agility she literally flew over the jumps like Pegasus taking to the air. You could hear the people's exclamation of wonder. She was a gentle creature and doing demos gave her great joy. She always insisted there be order in this world. While working with a drill team she became noticeably disturbed at people and dogs making mistakes and would leave the group. She delivered newspapers, slippers, shoes, notes and whatever was asked of her. She also holds the record of consuming 13 bratwurst in less than 5 seconds. She always thanked me for her meals. Her presence is sorely missed by all of us. How we love her! Her sister, Paige's addition to this memorial was, "Watch out Heaven, here she comes!"

Pap

Feb. 15, 2010

I just lost my beloved Dobe to DCM. Mikadobe Mai Tai V Amoore.. AKA, Pap was a great agility dog, fantastic protector of property and family, a wonderful companion, and my best friend. Anything I wanted to do was fine with him, whether it was run agility, or snuggle on the couch, or spoon in the bed. He was always there for me. I miss his smiling face and wiggling butt every time I come home. Pap excelled at agility even though he was my first agility dog, and therefore had to learn with me. He forgave my mistakes, and figured out what I wanted. He was #1 Master Gamblers Doberman after his last show! Smart as a whip. I look forward to the day we get to run together again. RIP Pap. June 14th 2003 - Jan 29th 2010

Shelby Rose

Jan. 25, 2010

Shelby Rose 2-12-01 to 1-13-10 We miss our Shelby Rose more than you can imagine. She was our fierce protector, never letting us out of her sight. She was not only beautiful but she was the smartest animal we have ever encountered. Shelby was also a wonderful teacher for her puppy siblings. She is gone from our lives much too early and we will miss her always. Shelby I still look for you next to my side of the bed every night. I know you are in heaven with Maddie and Saba watching over all of us. I hope you know how very much you were loved and how much happiness and joy that you brought to our lives. You were truly our "Rose".

We love you and always will, Daddy, Mommy, Hannah, Triton, Sienna, Cisco and Crissy

Canela

Jan. 13, 2010

My Doberman name was "Canela", we call her baby girl, she was a very special dog, sweet, smart and always happy dancing showing her teeth when she was going for a ride. She was 12 years old, she pass January 8, 2010. We miss her so much, she brought a lot of happiness in our lives.

Virginia

Randi

Jan. 9, 2010

Randi, our beautiful red girl. DOB: 10/01/97, DOD: 09/25/09 (less than 1 week from her 12th birthday). She was so special to us. A true "Velcro dog" she loved all living things (animal or human). She was a true "good will" ambassador for the Doberman breed. Her true joy in life was a good long walk. My husband and she would go out for a brisk 5 mile walk, he would come home ready for a break and she would lay down waiting for him to say "let's go walking!" like they had never been out. She became sick only 4 days before she had to be down. The tumor on her liver was massive and the cancer too extensive. I made the decision to do what was best (and most humane for her) and not what would make me feel better. She was old (although still walking at least 3 miles a day - only slower), hurting and tired. As a palliative nurse at a major cancer center I did for Randi what I truly belief in - Quality is more important than quantity and what we want for our loved one is not always what they want or the best thing for them. We agreed to do what was best for Randi in a humane manner. I laid her pillow on the exam floor at our vets and spooned with her while I talked pat her and spoke calmly. They injected her with me holding her. It was one of the sadly memories of my life and I will always be glad that I was there with her to the very end. We now have Sammy, our 9 month old Dobie male. We could tell from the beginning he will also be a wonderful addition to our pack and even though he will never be a Randi he will be special in his own way. With his help we will continue to try to educate others on the wonderful traits and temperament of a truly loyal, gentle, noble breed.

Ivan

December 8, 2009

Ivan (b. 5/9/94, d.4/4/07) was also known around here as "My Doberman" and "Houdini". He could escape any confinement, no matter how secure. A gentle soul, Ivan outgrew his destructive puppyhood to become the best dog I ever had or could have. He had the ages in his eyes. He and I loved each other. He died while keeping me company as I worked in the yard, a fitting tribute to a working dog with a huge intelligence and independent spirit. He left behind Ozzie, another Doberman (b. 11/19/02) and three grieving cats (Frank, Dino and Sammy). Since his passing, I have acquired an aged (about 9) Labrador retriever (Whoopi), who but for my intercession, would have been euthanized in the city shelter. Also joining the household was Lawford, my fourth (and last, I mean it!) cat, a baby stray needing a meal but choosing a forever home. I miss Ivan every day. He had heart, soul, spirit, brains, love, and stamina. He will always be "My Doberman."

Kachina

November 24, 2009

My beautiful girl's name was Kachina. She was 14 years, 3 months old. Putting her down was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life! She was my girl before my wife and I had children. She traveled everywhere with us. A constant companion always at my side. She was definitely a "velcro dog." She always greeted us when we came home from work with a shoe in her mouth, a wagging of her tail and a whimpering crying "I'm so glad you are home so that I can be with you now" cry. A friend and protector of my children when they were little, she "played" along when my girls would play dress up and was good sport. She loved the outdoors, going for walks and riding in the car. I miss the nudging of my hand with her head which was always followed by patting of her head and a kiss to the cheek. I miss the nightly hug and kiss before going to bed and the wet nose on my hand in the morning letting me know that it was time to get up and start the day. I miss EVERYTHING about you Kachina. I could not have asked for a better dog! How you loved to play ball and fetch. The many, many joys you brought to our lives...God I miss you! I would give all of my possessions that I own to do it all over again with you girl. There is a void in my heart and my life now that is just does not seem right. I've cried so many tears over losing you, there is not a day goes by that I do not think about you. Zoie and Zia say a prayer every night for you and it breaks my heart every time. I looked through the photographs of you last night, what a beautiful dog you truly were. The puppy years were wonderful as well seeing you with your ears cropped, made me chuckle. I still have visions of you running as a puppy and how clumsy those big paws were. Sharing our bed with you as well. You always liked to stretch out and crowd us out of bed, but we would not have had it any other way. Even as a senior, you still had spirit and spunk. You are sorely missed girl...yet, I know there is no more pain. We will be reunited some day on the other side. Thank you, thank you from the bottom of my heart....YOU WERE PRICELESS! So many wonderful memories, I could fill a book. I was blessed to have 14.3 years with you. I hope we showed as much love to you as you gave to us Kachina. Rest in Peace. I love you with all of my heart, and my heart aches for you. Thank you God for this wonderful dog. We were blessed to have her. Deeply missed....by all in our family, but never forgotten!  

 Mark Smith

Duchess

November 20, 2009

March 19 1981 --------- April 16 1996 A Tribute to Duchess

The day we met I had no clue, that I would be going home with you. He let you off your short old chain, you looked at me and over you came. I kneeled right down you came to see just who this strange young woman might be. Your eyes looked deeply into my soul, at that very moment my heart you stole. You took your nose and lifted my arm you wanted some petting you had such charm. I made the deal and home I ran to get the cash for my Doberman. Dobermans' they said a ferocious breed, thank goodness dear Duchess you did not read. A kinder dog with the biggest heart, always so good and so very smart. You thought your job was to take care of me, but you dear love became my world you see. Just being with you was such a pleasure, every moment with you I always will treasure. I almost lost you when you got so ill, but you toughed it out with your iron will. Six weeks we worked to get you healthy, we made our vet so very wealthy. There is no price for one so rare, just for the pleasure of stroking your hair. An inseparable pair our bond was deep, so at the hospital your cage I did sleep. Every night they let you come home, IV and all for I would not leave you alone. On borrowed time they always would say, life is always like that we cherish each day. We showed them all that never say never, even though we knew it wouldn't be forever. One day I saw that there had been a change, that lipoma you had was looking so strange. Once more to the vet just to see he nodded his head and did the biopsy. For the first time Dutch I had a strange feeling and after the Doctor called my head was reeling. Inoperable untreatable malignant he said I hung up the phone and I felt such dread. Fifteen years is so short it seems only yesterday you'd bark and cavort. I promised you love that on that inevitable day that I would help you go in the easiest way. The doctor came here so home you would be, and I told you to go and sleep peacefully. Now you are gone the house is so bare, I look at your photos and see how you stare. They say the eyes you know are your souls mirror I've never seen goodness or kindness shown any clearer. The day will come when you are back with me, for without you my love no heaven could be. My beloved friend DUCHESS March 19 1981-April 16 1996

Dorann LaPerch

Lucky

October 12, 2009

Lucky Gingerbread Boy, "Lucky", was born April 26th 1997 and lived to be 10 1/2 yrs. old until congestive heart failure brought him down. We said our goodbyes on Nov. 30th, 2007, and it still seem like yesterday! Oh what a outstanding boy he was! His favorite times were retrieving the clay pigeons while trap shooting, yes, he brought back more missed pigeons than hit ones. He loved to snowmobile, it was understood by him that we were to keep up with him. Lucky showed his courage one summer afternoon when he would not allow our daughter Michelle, in the basement door, we learned later his reason was there was a 5' 3 1/2" in length snake lurking behind the air conditioning unit! Lucky was accompanied by our two Scottish Terriers, oh the playtime were most active times. I am so waiting upon the day when I can retire from work to bring home another Doberman baby boy into our family to again fill the emptiness that Lucky has left us. I miss you so much Lucky! Love mom.

Ceasar

September 30, 2009

I remember the times we hiked together, the quiet times we spent together, you were there for me when I needed a friend, you always wanted my attention I gave you as much as I could, I am so sorry that at times work and life got in the way of that, I will never forget the morning of the 25th I knew you were not feeling well, I gave you a hug and said I would be back after work, when I came home you had died in front of my office door, I know you were looking for me, I am so very sorry I was not there for you. this feeling of emptiness will be here for a long time. My tears just will not stop flowing Ceaser, I love you so much my pal. You were the best. You will always be in my heart. I miss you so much..............

Emanuel Bellio

Winston

August 3, 2009

Winston CD MX MXJ NJP NGC NJC CGC TDI - 10/28/1996 to 8/3/2009

Today I helped Winston cross over the bridge. Winston came from a rescue group who had obtained his mom from a backyard breeder who was not providing her with what she needed. The rescue group whelped the litter and after lots of discussion they left one black and tan puppy with his dew claws, tail and ears all natural. Winston joined Max and me when he was 7 weeks old and they became best buddies. We started taking obedience classes and he earned his CD in 3 straight shows finishing at a Doberman specialty. Then we started agility classes when he was 2. He was one of my Novice A dogs and during training loved to put me on my butt with a big grin. We made it to Excellent B when his weaves fell apart and later in that spring I sent him into a chute during the rain and he came out and showed some neck pain. So after an MRI he was diagnosed with Wobblers in July of 2001. We competed for a short time finishing his MX MXJ and a couple of other titles before he was retired to be just the household best buddy.

Winston always greeted me or anyone who visited with something in his mouth and loved to be with people. He was truly a gentle giant amongst the sea of little SFT's. He and Hunter were very close. The day Hunter joined us he figured out that if he growled Hunter would pee and he did it frequently which is why Hunter was fed in the bath tub when we were on the road (to this day he still runs and jumps and stands in the bath tub waiting for his dinner). Fortunately Hunter got past the peeing. Hunter would always lay next to Winston on the couch and even if Winston was grumpy he always let Hunter come and visit.

Winston has been healthy until recently when the wobblers took its toll and he lost control to his back end. Thus I made the difficult decision to let him cross. He will be missed by his SFT buddies and especially his mom.

Rest in peace my big guy, you can once again run and jump

Denise and SFT's Max, Lexie, Hunter, Gidget andFat Boy Slim

Baccardi

June 2, 2009

A TRIBUTE TO MY DOG BACCARDI
4/86--10/1/98


When we first met he was just a puppy and I was much younger. No one else in the family really wanted him. They had all heard rumors and stories about Doberman's and even though he was so small and just a puppy, it took some time for them to get over their fear.

But to me he was the dog I had always wanted and together we shared our lives. We both saw my children grow up, leave the house, marry and return with their wife’s and children, my grandchildren. He accepted them all and welcomed them into our family. No matter what they did he tolerated it and when he couldn’t, he just got up and left the room. When required he could be protective, but usually he was just sweet and gentle, and everyone's friend.

There was a time when we were both younger, stronger, and more energetic , but that was some time ago. No matter how hard we try, time catches up with all of us eventually, and it seems to have caught up with him before me.

He doesn’t hear much now anymore, he is sort of deaf. But then I can't see well either. We have both sort of grown old together and have reached that stage in life where we have climbed to the top of the mountain and are now sort of coasting down the other side.

He has been ill the last 2 years and like the warrior he has always been, has displayed courage in the face of an enemy he could not defeat and a battle he could not win. Even now as death approaches and he sleeps most of the time, there are still moments when he is young again, and the dog he once was. Let someone come into his yard, and although he may not hear them, if he sees them, for a period of time he is back to his old self. The protector of our home and his domain. But that doesn’t last very long and before any time has passed he is back to sleep, one that he has earned.

We will not run through the parks or take our strolls together any more. Those days are gone forever and are just a distant memory. But wherever I go in the house, he still follows me and sits by my side. I don’t move around too much because it is difficult for him to get up and down. He is still comfortable however and seems to enjoy whatever life god has granted him. Instead of the runs, walks and romps followed by his cookies, he now just gets the cookies.

Time has passed and things have now changed. He no longer follows me around the house because it is too much effort for him to get up. Now he just sleeps. Even cookies no longer seem to have any attraction for him. There can be no question that time can only offer discomfort.

I wonder if he feels the sorrow that I do or can notice the tears as they run down my cheeks. I hope not. I will never let him fade away. Death to him will be merciful, and will come swiftly like a friend to take him to a better place where the fields are always green the sky blue, and there is no suffering, only peace.

I will be his friend like he has been mine for the last 12 1/2 years. I will take him into my arms and hold him while he goes to sleep, a sleep that will last for eternity. I will then lay him to rest in the yard he has guarded so faithfully and try to remember all the wonderful moments we shared as we grew old together.

I will also remember the words of the eulogy about a dog that ended with " he is your one true friend who will stand by you in sickness and in health, in prosperity and in poverty. He will kiss the hand that has no food to offer, and when all other friends desert he remains, faithful and true, even to death".

Although my dog has grown old and ill, he has always remained faithful and true. And as I look into his eyes another time, there is one more thing he has asked me to do.

Didn't sleep much last night. Got up at dawn. I know when the day is over my buddy will be gone. So lay your head down my old friend and I will be with you until the end. And this I also know is true. There will never be another like you.

As the new day approaches and I gaze up at the sky, I remember the saying "when you live in the hearts of those you leave behind you never really die".

Mel Appell

Diamonds

April 24, 2009

Diamonds was born 7-22-96. He lived for almost 12 years, passing away 5-4-08. Shortly after his 10th birthday he showed me that old dogs CAN learn new tricks.

An attempted break-in sent him and sister Dobe Hallika out of the doggy door at mach speed both growling and barking. I saw flashing lights in front of the house and called them in to prevent any harm to them. I noticed one of my patio chairs against the back fence, sunk into the lawn. I informed an officer that someone had been through my yard and that my dogs had chased them off. He told me there were two men, one still on the loose.

After awhile we went out to move that chair back and as I passed my shed, I got the creeps. Being a crotch-height dog, he had been told "no sniff" all of this life. I took him to the chair and pointed, telling him to sniff, he did, then looked me in the eye like "What's next?" We went to the shed and I told him to search. He sniffed that shed all over and then looked at me over his shoulder as if to say "There's no one in the shed." He had never been told to search, but pulled it off like a pro. He was a hero.

Shortly before his 12th birthday his job in this world was done. Four days after he passed, my puppy "Dancer" was born. I believe that Dancer did not have a soul until Diamonds passing and that beautiful was passed on to him.

Jennifer Williamson

Kadee

April 15, 2009

Kadee was a special girl who I loved more than I could ever explain.

I really do not know the best way to say this.
She was put to rest this afternoon.
The cancer had taken over, so much so, that she could not carry herself.
She never gave up, even when she could not stand on her own, she never stopped trying.

People look at Dobermans and make judgment, but I wish the world could know the heart Kadee carried.
She was by very definition courage, intelligence and strength, all balanced by compassion and kindness.

I am not sure how much of this is shared with the community.
Two things.
1. Dr. Lutz gave me a girl so special I could never repay.
2. Animal Hospital of Polaris, Dr. Niki Eaton, the entire staff is phenomenal. They always treated us like special members of family, and today was no different, the entire staff was in mourning at Kadee's loss.

I believe I will be lucky enough to share life with another Dobe in the future.
I do not know when, but I believe when the time is right, he or she will find me.

Kevin Layne
 

Wilhelm

November 18, 2008

On November 14th, 2008 at 7:38pm, I sat with my best friend and companion, Wilhelm, as he succumbed to DCM, complicated by a lung tumor. It was 5 months from diagnosis to death. Willie was 9 1/2 years old. Had it not been for the tumor I believe he may have seen 10. In my lifetime I have never seen an animal fight death so hard, he all but refused to leave me. For hours we gazed into each others eyes, both trying to measure the depth of one another's despair. It is said that your eyes are the windows to your soul, any one who is fortunate enough to have a Doberman as their chosen friend knows this to be true. What I saw was an animal whose unconditional love and devotion was shining through and nothing was going to extinguish the flame. Sadly, the flame was blown out, but in my mind it burns bright. For well over 9 years Wilhelm has been by my side and involved in almost every activity that I have undertaken. Where I went, he went and our bond was set in stone. My house is now quiet and my bedroom feels empty, all his medications are out of sight. My tears are constantly flowing, because my mind is showing me a constant steam of his life, that is how I found you. I have been searching for a diversion, but try as I might Willie seems to lead me back to the Doberman's. I know Willie missed the longevity program by a few months, but it was not for his lack of trying. Wilhelm has been one of the most important things in my life, and I believe that I was in his. Despite the requirements, I wanted to share a little bit of him with you. It's ironic isn't it, the very thing that a Doberman is known for, is unfortunately his weakness, his heart.

I began keeping a journal a few months into Wilhelm's illness, trying to identify a pattern to his "episodes" and if there were any environmental contributors. I felt abandoned by our veterinarian, for a death sentence is just that. Internet research was rather redundant; however I stumbled upon some new information during his last days. I watched the rise and fall of a magnificent individual, and I would like to help others whose dogs are found to be on the short end of the gene pool. Support was something I would have welcomed. The day after Wilhelm's death I tried to recount what had just happened, mainly because Willie's choice to live and to let go, even the spot he chose, was dictated by the dog he was. I don't believe I mentioned that he died on my wedding anniversary. The way the illness progressed, entwined with periods of "remission", made euthanasia or should I say the timing, more like torture. I finally felt that he wanted to stay at home. If there are others, and I believe that there are, who like me had seemingly no where to turn, then I would like to help them transition and perhaps give them an idea of what to expect. I offer no medical advice, just an idea of how heart wrenching and at the same time awe inspiring those final weeks or months might be. If you think that I might be able help someone, could you please pass my name along.

I would like to share a little more about Willie. His registered name is "Windancers Baron Von Wilhelm" WP933218/04, and he was born on May 29, 1999. We wanted to try to show him (we show horses, not dogs), but he had a missing front tooth in his lower jaw. He was neutered at the age of 5, because of recurrent prostate problems. Willie was 28 1/2" at the shoulder and weighed 100 lbs. He made you look at him, and in turn you were captivated. He insisted on eye contact and those who obliged saw themselves, through the eyes of a Doberman.

Wilhelm is survived by his family: "mommy and daddy", Shannon and Christopher, 12 cats, 5 horses, 20 chickens, 1 turkey, Hannibal his dwarf rabbit, and Spot his very lonely dog friend. Willie was also a foster brother to 3 "Paws For A Cause" puppies.

Thank-you again, not only for recognizing Willie, but also paying tribute to the relationship that we shared. Several years ago I asked Willie why he followed me from room to room. I tried my best to explain that I was 15' away and he could see me, so he didn't have to follow me. When I was done speaking, he held my gaze and replied, "Because you complete me."

Added April 20, 2009:

Yesterday I was looking for something in our linen closet which is where I put Wilhelm's medications the night he died. During the past 5 months that closet has become a time portal. No matter the reason for entry one glance at those bottles will take me right back to our last hours. It is usually a brief glimpse, but occasionally I linger. As my eyes start to well up I pick up the prescription bottles one by one and read the directions even though they're etched into my brain for eternity. As my tears start flowing in a steady stream I let myself go back to him. I remember his "doggy" smell, the weight of his head in my lap, his soft ears-that we thought would never stand up, his nose that at full velocity was a lethal weapon...now rests quietly on my knee, the dirt on my hands as I stroke his body...I remember thinking he should have had a bath. As we sit hour after hour I try to not move a muscle, afraid that any slight adjustment on both of our parts will cause you to cough and gasp. You doze off and then open your eyes and just look at me, I know that look, "Hi mommie." As you continue to gaze into my eyes I am remembering our in-depth conversations, most of them taking place without a spoken word. I am prone to fits of uncontrollable sobbing, once I rein myself in and my eyes clear you are still watching me, your expression clearly troubled and concerned. Once my tears subside your eyes are peaceful once again.............I try very hard not allow myself to digress any further. Two broken hearts still remain two broken hearts.

I was still foraging through the closet when my husband walked up behind me. Already knowing the answer, I asked the question anyway. "Should I throw Willie's medication away?", without hesitation he said yes. They are still in the closet. All I want is to feel a nudge on my hand as I doze off to sleep. To hear the clicking of nails on the hard wood floors. To feel the breeze on my legs, associated with a 100 lb. Doberman spinning around in tight circles on 3 legs, in hot pursuit of his fourth leg, which always seemed to elude him; but I would settle for hearing the thud as he dropped to the ground and then rolled from side to side in conclusion to the afore mentioned floor show. As days have turned into weeks and weeks into months, I miss his presence more than ever. I will never have another friend like Wilhelm, but I will have another friend. Wilhelm was not a King among men, but a King among Kings. Wilhelm was a testament to his breed. He never walked into a show ring, instead he showed his heart out at home with style, grace (mostly), faith, tolerance, compassion, loyalty and humor. His innate sensitivity to the human spirit was uncanny. I think Wilhelm believed that his life's mission was to watch over me. With tears in my eyes, I concur, Mission Accomplished.

Sincerely,
Lee Ann Thorsgard

The DPCA reserves the right to refuse LC/BFL certification to any dog for any reason.