Carolyn Kreider wrote this heartfelt tribute about her Libby Doll on June 12, 2003.

Today has been a very hard day for us. We lost our beloved Libby this afternoon. Some of you know that she had been fine until Sat. morning. She got up not feeling well and we took her to the doctor. They admitted her, and after ultrasounds, x-rays, numerous blood tests, biopsies, etc., she was diagnosed with hepatitis. She seemed to be improving, and we brought her home Tuesday evening. Last night she began vomiting and getting very weak. We took her back today, and after more x-rays, she was found to have an enlarged heart and possibly pneumonia. They admitted her, and a short time later she crashed. They were unable to bring her back.

To those of you who were fortunate enough to know Libby, this will bring back some fond memories. If you had not met her, please bear with me while I eulogize our precious girl.

Libby was found pregnant, in a ditch, in the middle of a snowstorm, and still a baby herself. I brought her home that day, and she became a member of our family and a part of our hearts. Whatever horrible sin she had committed to be treated like that still escapes us. Although she did steal a banana once, she was otherwise a wonderful edition to our pack. Logan treated her with respect, and our puppy, Katie, adored her. She and Katie became fast friends, and were seemingly joined at the shoulder. When we lost Katie a year later, Libby could not be consoled. She could not accept that her Katie-Kate was gone. We brought home Meggie two weeks later, and Libby was once again half of a loving whole. Her joy was complete. She took it upon herself to take over Meggie's upbringing, and raised her a firm, but loving paw.

Libby became known as one of the famous “Kreider Goldens.” She worked for three years as a visiting therapy dog at a nursing home, and her visits were soon requested by two other homes. Along with Logan and Meggie, she marched in parades, participated in cancer walks and doggie benefits, and competed in numerous contests. Almost every costume contest they entered became “their show” as they charmed one judge after another. What crowd pleasers!  Libby was also known as a solo act—winning the “bobbing for tennis balls” competition as well as the “most treats caught in 60 seconds.” She was once on WJW News with Denny as the fastest tail wagger in N. E. Ohio. She defended her title in subsequent events and remained undefeated. She could carry up to three tennis balls in her little mouth at once, and had to greet every visitor with a mouthful of “woobies”. It was her gift to them. She did three episodes of Animal Crackers—a local cable show hosted by Janice Sponsler.

We took all of the Goldens with us, and Libby, as always demonstrated how someone's disposable dog became an invaluable part of our family. She recently went with our older grandson, Tyler, to kindergarten. She arrived in full costume, accepting the compliments of all onlookers. We explained pet safety to the children, and Libby executed her tricks with perfection. Afterward, she basked in the affection they gave her. She always loved children. She worked many hours at the various rescue events—collecting money for the Goldens still looking for their forever homes. Swimming was a passion. Even a glance at the pool gate meant that Libby would soon be jumping up and down on her back legs begging for a swim. She loved the motorhome, and it always meant an adventure with Logan and Meggie. The return trip would find her on the bed, sound asleep, head on a pillow or me.

I held her on the way to the doctor today, and when we got there she rested her head on Denny's lap and wagged her prize-winning tail for him. Her tail never stopped during all of the tests and exams. It was wagging when Dr. Feeman carried her out of the room, the last time we saw her.

To anyone who knew Libby, it will come as no surprise that she had an enlarged heart. After being abused and beaten by humans, she forgave and allowed us to prove to her that she deserved to be treasured and protected. Thank you, Libby, for giving us that privilege. Rest in peace, little Libby. Find Katie once again, and your beloved “woobies”. We now have two Golden angels. We will always love you.

You can read more about Carolyn's lovely family by clicking here. Also, please enjoy the following poem that Lori Cacciatore wrote for Carolyn's family, so honoring their Libby Doll.

GOLD DUST

Ever ponder about the moonlight that casts off a golden hue…
Could that be Gold Dust in the night sky glittering off angelic wings anew?
Ever wake up in the morning and rub your eyes in disbelief…
Could that be Gold Dust near your bedside, or at the chair where you rest your feet?
Ever wonder why the sun beams gold through clouds when you are feeling blue…
Could that be Gold Dust making sure to light the day for you?
Ever hear a rustle or feel a whoosh and think it’s only a trick of your mind…
Just reach out and rest assured you’ll find Gold Dust ever faithful at your side.