A Personal Struggle
Our Golden Oliver led the way when our site came online in 1997. And, his valiant struggle and loss to lymphoma helped us channel our efforts in more healthful and holistic ways. Yet, even with reduced vaccinations, filtered water, a chemically-clean environment, organic foods, and more, we did not escape a fibrosarcoma diagnosis with our Golden Darcy in 2005. Their images, along with other Goldens who have lost such battles, are honored above.

Angel's Gate Hospice and Rehabilitation Home for Animals
Angel's Gate is a residential, non-profit, 501 (C) 3 home for special needs animals. Here, animals many of whom are terminally and/or critically ill or physically challenged, come to live out their days in peace, dignity and love. Their focus is on wellness and quality of life, providing for the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of each animal. They take a holistic approach in animal care, giving all needed supportive services including hospice care. They have eleven wonderful guidelines for hospice care which we have reproduced below. Click here to download a pdf version enabling you to keep a handy reminder sheet by your side.

Do be sure to visit the Angel's Gat website and donate to a cause that is truly beyond noble. There are few individuals who can be involved in such emotionally exhaustive work, and we surely need to reward such dedication.

Animal Hospice Guidelines
1. Be present and be in the moment with me. In the moment of now we will write the final chapter of my life. Your presence is everything. Listen to me with your heart.    

2. I have a right to compassionate, considerate, respectful care. Choose for me a veterinarian who will honor me physically, emotionally and spiritually. One who will listen to you because you are my advocate and no one loves me as you do. Choose a veterinarian who will offer her or his wisdom so that you can make informed decisions regarding my care.    

3. Keep me free from pain and symptoms so that I may enjoy my day and the precious time I have left with you. Seek to understand the different types of pain I may have. Look for enthusiasm in my eyes as a gage. Celebrate my life with me till the very end!    

4. Keep me well nourished so that my body will have the fortitude that it needs to fight disease and energy to function. Offer me my favorite foods to entice me to eat but honor my decision, should I choose not to eat.    

5. Keep me well hydrated; for this will keep me in balance with the universe.    

6. Keep me warm and comfortable. I will need to be bathed more frequently—maybe several times a day. My favorite bed and blanket gives me security and lets me feel safe. I want to smell fresh air and to feel the warmth of the sun on my face. I want to hear the softness of your voice reassuring me of my importance in your life.    

7. Let me stay active and continue to be a part of the family I love so dearly. I want to go for rides in the car, and long walks on the beach, and snuggle with you on the couch while we watch TV. Keep fun in our day.    

8. Touch me. Your loving hands have fed me, played with me, comforted me and now give me strength. Linger just a little longer as you scratch my ear. Your touch lets me know you are there and gives me assurance that you care.    

9. Give me permission to leave—I need to hear those words from you. I need to know you will be OK. Let me go. Know it is my time even if it seems like it is too soon. Support me as I take my final breath.    

10. If there comes a time when you know that I am suffering please euthanize me. I trust that you will always make the right decision for me for I am the blood of your heart. Be with me—I want you to be my last vision.    

11. As there has been great joy in our life together now let there be joy in my passing. Cherish and be thankful for our happy moments together. Promise to keep my memory alive in all you do everyday.