"Bear Osteen"

Bear Osteen

1/30/99 - 7/10/13

Bear came into my life ten years ago as a young fellow. He belonged to my daughter-in-law Shelby Osteen but for some unknown reason, when she came to live with us, he chose to be with me. From that day forward he became my shadow, my protector, my sleep companion, my confidant and my best friend. I never left one room that he wasn't right there with me. Never entered another that he would be right there looking for the nearest place to lay down so he could keep an eye on me. He warmed my heart, my soul and my life. He became more to me than just a pet. In the last year he had started getting heart failure which led to kidney failure and then the arthritis. He was on medication 3 times a day but we held in there. I knew the day would come but chose not to dwell on it. My love for him could overcome it I thought.

That day came yesterday. That day I had dreaded and chose not to acknowledge hit me square in the face yesterday. He layed peacefully in my arms and went to sleep for the last time. Feeling his life slip from his little body was the most heart wrenching moment of my life. But he is free and healthy now. And while I know that he is happy now I am feeling blessed that he had chosen me to be his person.

Today has been very hard. I truly had no idea how much my day revolved around him. I don't leave a room that I look to make sure he is behind me, go outside with him make sure he takes his meds or is even napping comfortably. I feel like a part of my heart is missing. "Bear, thank you for giving me the best years together. Thank you for choosing me and loving me like you did. You have been the best! Rest in Peace baby, Be happy! I love you."

Thank you to the Chiefland Animal Hospital and Dr. Eisler for taking such good care of him these past few years and for your understanding and care yesterday.