I DON'T CARE ABOUT DESIGN TODAY.......





It is with a very heavy heart that I share this news with you.

I know I have posted many stories about our [2] Old English Sheepdogs.  I rescued them 8 years ago losing our 1st OES.  I  was cruising the internet and drinking wine.....husband out of town town......bad combo.  

I have a theory that you don't go out looking at new cars and puppies because you will probably come home with one.

I had to put our Zipper down last night after another bout with bloat and other complications.  He was in so much pain and we had tried everything.  It was heartbreaking to see him like that and a kick in the gut to make the decision.

I did it because it was best for him....not necessarily for me:(

He was a crazy boy with tons of personality.....I am so happy to have had 8 years with him.  

Those big brown eyes would look right through to your heart.

I feel bad that I threw him under the bus like this once.....
But he did like to indulge occasionally :)

If you want to know how crazy he was you can read this post.

At the end there is a story about my silly boy.

When my husband was flying and gone all the time Zipper and Patches kept me company many lonely nights....and gave me so much love.

I know tonight when I look over to his favorite chair I will feel that little stab in my heart that he is gone.

Here's to you Zippy.....running and playing at the rainbow bridge.

Thanks for letting me share.



106 comments

Unknown said...

I know how your heart has a huge hole in it right now. I have been there with pets so many times and at least you had dear Zipper in your life and you both were better for it. As my vet would tell me, you did the most humane gift you can give your dog and that is to not let him suffer anymore. Your Zipper can be with my dogs in the big playground in the sky and don't you wish we could hear their conversations about having a decorator as an owner? Hugs to you Sherry,
Xoxox Nancy

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry. Zipper was loved until the end and that means everything.

Kara said...

I'm so sorry for your loss. Never easy to make that decision. Sending good thoughts your way.

Mary said...

Oh Sherry,
I know there is nothing I can say to help you right now but I am so sorry.

Linda {Calling it Home} said...

I am so sorry for your loss. This is the worst day in a pet owner's life. I know how much you loved that baby of yours. Somehow, you will get through all of this. You were both lucky to have each other. Hang in there.

Maureen Wyatt said...

That is a hard, hard thing to have to do.
I feel so sorry for you but you have the comfort of knowing you gave him a wonderful life for 8 yrs.

My Notting Hill said...

Oh, Sherry I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm sure Zipper felt enveloped in love every moment he was with you. Michele

Kelly said...

I am SO SO sorry for your loss! We love our pets like they are our children and they give so much love back to us (like children). I hope the hole in your heart heals fast. Just know that you did what was best for him even though it felt so difficult. He is still alive in your heart and always will be.

Kim @ Savvy Southern Style said...

Oh,Sherry, I am so sorry to read this. It is always so hard to make that decision and we have done it more than once. It never gets easier. Hurting with you and yes he is better now at rainbow bridge.

Christine Stanfield said...

I am so sorry to hear about losing part of your family, Zipper. I know personally how much a pet can bring comfort and love. I lost my dear Abby (basset hound) in July after 10 years and I am sure she is meeting Zipper at the rainbow bridge.

Christine Stanfield said...

I am so sorry to hear about losing part of your family, Zipper. I know personally how much a pet can bring comfort and love. I lost my dear Abby (basset hound) in July after 10 years and I am sure she is meeting Zipper at the rainbow bridge.

Karen at Home Sweet Hollywood said...

Aw Sherry, I'm so sorry. You did the right thing, but it still sucks. Take care xoxo

Kathysue said...

Sherry,
I am so very sorry that you had to put down Zipper. It is never an easy decision but it is always a loving, kind decision to make when our fur babies are so ill.
I hope it makes a little bit easier knowing there is someone in California thinking of you today,
xoxo Kathysue

Ashley @ The Houston House said...

Oh, my heart breaks for you!!! That is one of the hardest decisions to ever make. My Blakely is like my daughter, literally we call her our "dogter". I know how heartbreaking it is. Thinking of you!!

Catie said...

So sorry to hear about your loss, Sherry. Such a handsome pup.

Nichole Loiacono said...

oh dear girl, I feel you. I'm so, so sorry. They are truly part of the family, and will always have a place in your heart. My vet likes to say that they don't necessarily care how long they are here, just how happy their life is. You gave him a good one.

Lisa @ Shine Your Light said...

I'm so sorry Sherry, your sweet Zipper sounds like a wonderful companion over the years. He was so lucky to find a home with you all those years ago, as your husband traveled and you internet surfed with vino in hand! :)

Pat@BPM said...

I am so sorry, Sherry. What a blessing our dear fur babies are and how heartbreaking it is to need to make the decision you had to make. My heart goes out to you.

gina said...

I am so sorry for your loss. My heart hurts for you.

Jennifer said...

I'm so sorry Sherry, my heart is breaking for you :( Hugs to you my friend! xxoo

Pink and Green Mom said...

I'm sorry for your loss!

Julie @ Creating This Life said...

I'm so sorry. What a sweet boy he looked to be. Be good to yourself.

Elizabeth @ The Little Black Door said...

I am so so very sorry Sherry. This is a greater pain than some appreciate but as you said you did the best thing for him. Thank god for all the good memories and pictures you have of him and the years you got to enjoy each other. Hugs to you!

lizziefitz said...

Sherry!
You know I understand. Two weeks today😞😞😞
I am still crying daily. So very sorry that you lost your sweet puppy. You are amazing and went above and beyond for Zipper. It was so selfless making that very brave decision . Biggest hugs from your long lost bloggy/ insta friend.

Patty Day @Pattys Epiphanies said...

So sorry. Our pets are our family. Take care.

Katie @ Wildwood Creek said...

I'm so sorry about Zipper. It's so hard to lose a beloved pet.

BATrombetta said...

((((Hugs)))) to you. Zipper was so loved. Sending him over the rainbow where he can eat all the pizza and poop he wants!

Barbara said...

So sorry for your loss. It's heartbreaking to make that decision but Zipper was very lucky to have such a loving caring owner. Thinking of you in Canada.

Carrie said...

I'm so sorry, Sherry. That day is coming for my best furry girl soon, and I am dreading it. My best to you.

Cindy said...

Awwwwwww.... just look at that face. I'm so sorry, I know you did what you felt was best. Bloat is horrible, and very painful. I know he'll come visit you in your dreams, and that he is in doggie heaven right now...

Cindy

bluehydrangea said...

So sorry Sherry!! He was one good looking dog and how lucky he was that you were the one to rescue him!!

Beth of designPOST Interiors said...

This just made me feel awful for all the times I yell at my dog for getting under my feet. When three kids came along my little buddy definitely took a little bit of the backseat but today in honor of Zipper I will let him cuddle up on the couch with me. So sorry- hope your pictures at least make you smile. The I'eat poop" one made me laugh out loud :)

Susan said...

It is hard enough when a pet dies naturally, but when you have to put them down, you also have a certain feeling of guilt - no matter how bad off they were. I am so sorry for your loss~

Dana Frieling said...

My heart hurts for you so bad right now. I have a 14 y.o. pug who seems to be nearing the end. I literally prayed last night that I wouldn't have to make that decision. I'm so sorry you had to endure this. Sending you big hugs.

Vel Criste said...

So sorry Sherry, loosing a loved one like that is always heart, may rest in dog heaven peacefully...

pixelimpress said...

oh, i am so sorry to read this and so sorry for your loss! he was a lucky dog to have you and your husband! (and he's chasing my orange tabby bruiser around the rainbow bridge right now!)

pam {simple details} said...

It's heart wrenching to lose such a pal, I'm so sorry. I always enjoyed when you shared stories of both of them, I remember one on the beach and they were doing tricks with their treats! :) Take care, sweet friend.

Kim said...

Oh Sherry, my heart is heavy for you. I lost my Murphy in September. Like you, Murphy was my companion, always there is his silly, sweet ways. A friend sent me the Rainbow Bridge poem, I love it! You find you miss the silliest things about them ... but Zipper will be in your heart and you in his forever. Big hugs to you. xo

Anonymous said...

So sorry for your loss! Anyone who reads your posts knows how much you love(d) your dogs. My condolences to you. Arti

Kerry Steele- Design du Monde said...

Aww, so sorry, Sherry.

Anonymous said...

So sorry about your pup. Sadly, the greater the love, the greater the pain and sense of loss. Pay attention to your dreams in the coming weeks; your Zippy may send you greeting from beyond the rainbow bridge.

Lynne said...

Oh Sherry, I don't care about design today either. I care about your heart. I am so sorry to hear about Zipper.
w/L

Simply LKJ said...

So sorry to hear the news Sherry. We had to put our beloved Golden down this past June. We were very fortunate to have 13 years with him. It is never easy, even when you know it is best.

Emily A. Clark said...

I saw your Instagram and just now read the post. I hate that. A hard decision, for sure. So sorry :(

shannon said...

So sorry for your loss. It is such a horrible decision to have to make. Thinking of you.

shannon said...

So sorry for your loss. It is such a horrible decision to have to make. Thinking of you.

Michelle @ Sweet Something Design said...

So sorry Sherry. I know your heart is broken, thinking of you.

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry. I feel your heartache. Pets are the best!!

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry. I feel your heartache. Pets are the best!!

My Interior Life said...

Oh, Sherry, I am SO sorry for your loss. There really are no words to make it better. Losing a pet is just the pits. Hugs and kisses to you during this crappy time.

Kathy

Anonymous said...

I am so very sorry to hear about your sweet dog, Zipper. I have been reading your blog for a while and I know how much you loved him. Sending good thoughts your way.

Zoe said...

It is probably the hardest and most giving thing we ever have to do. I feel for you and I am sorry for your pain.

Karol

Cannon said...

So sorry to hear about your loss. As you know we had to put our 13 yr old lab down last week. It was such a hard decision to make. I am sure Zipper and Carter are hanging out in doggy heaven together.

Brandi said...

I'm so sorry, Sherry. I am a crazy dog lady of three and can't imagine having to make such a tough decision. You gave your sweet pup 8 wonderful years. You fought to save him till the very end. Sending you a warm hug.

AndeM1 said...

sherry...I am so sorry for your loss. I had to do just this to our beloved Maggie....she was 13 years old and a yorkie........ it was what was best for her, but it hurt none the less...... We now have two other dogs who we adore, but I think of my Maggie dog every day.......Zipper is no longer suffering.....you did the right thing for Zipper. Hugs for you!

Linda Donohue said...

So sorry Sherry. You have Zipper in you heart always. Much love. Linda

JuliaW said...

I am so sorry! You were the ultimate good pet parent to not want him to suffer, and he is now out of pain. May you find healing each day.

Linda @ DesignInMyView said...

If I may repeat to you what our vet wrote in a sympathy card nearly a year ago when we put Bodie down:

"He got to heaven and looked around and said, "It's just like Mom's house!"

You're stronger than I, as I have yet to write of Bodie's passing.... xo

Katherine @ Grass Stains said...

Sherry, my prayers are with you. Losing a pet is a deep loss. He was lucky to be loved so well for so long, and vice versa.

Mary Ann Pickett said...

Oh, my heart goes out to you, Sherry. Zipper had a great human mama. I'd like to think he's joyfully running circles around my dog, Rocky in heaven.

Take care.

Francine Gardner said...

I hardly know you, just through the lines of a blog, but my heart feels for your pain and loss. I could not envision my life without, as i call them, my 4 legged children. As you, I have rescued a few dogs, and a couple years ago, my Cali died in my arms. the memory of Cali is still so vivid that at times, I have very realistic flashback, a smell, color of a leaf, a moment in time, and I know she is somewhere. I believe in Karma and reincarnation. The memories of Zipper will always be in you heart, grieving is not letting go but accepting that Zipper is in his own world now. Cherish the memories, cry your heart out...this means that you are a loving person. Isn'it amazing that dogs bring out the best in us?

Junell said...

Dag nabbit:( That sure does suck & I am truly sorry. He was better for knowing you Sherific!

Naz said...

I'm so sorry and I know how much a member of the family they become. Such a sweet adorable dog.

Anonymous said...

Sherry, I know I don't know you personally at all. But I can say that I know this feeling all to well. We had to put our sweet girl Roxy down on April 8 after a battle with cancer, also after 8 years with her. I still feel an ache all over my whole body when I think of her, just about everyday. I know that the only good thing to come of this is that he's no longer in pain. I know that the best place for our pets is with us, but it's not always possible. I know this sucks and I am truly very, very sorry.

Barbara Moore said...

Ain't life a bitch, sometimes? So sad for you and Patches. Letting go of my beloved Buddy is still hard to think about 2 years later. Just gonna take some time, Sherry. But you'll get there.
Barb

marlene said...

Sherry,
I am so very sorry for your loss of Zipper! He has the most adorable face and eyes. I'm so glad he was there for you and you were there for him. Our furry friends are just the best. So very sorry.

Donna-s Lair said...

Sherry, I am so sad to read this. I know how much you love your dogs. Zipper isn't in pain now and for this you can feel relief, but your (and my) heart aches for our pets are truly family. I am so glad Patches is there to comfort you. You are a good mom!

Wonderful Life! said...

So sorry girl. Those four legged humanimals, fill our homes and lives with such joy. Lost my big Newfie at 8.5 years and it's just not long enough!

debra @ 5th and state said...

reaching out, sending hugs, know that pain.
bless you all
debra

Cindy Albert said...

Sherry, I'm so sorry for your loss. My eyes are leaking so uncontrollably for you that I can barely leave this comment. It's a good thing I barely know you or I would really be a wreck. I know you we're a great dog mom and he was so lucky to have you. I rarely leave a comment but I always look forward to reading your blog. Just love your brand of humor. Sending lots of love your way!

Rachel said...

I am so sorry.

Donnamae said...

I am so sorry Sherry. I can only imagine your agony over that decision. But I'm sure he is in a much better place. ;)

andresenjuhl said...

Hi Sherry, my heart hurts for you, but he has peace now. You were a good mom to him.

Your Canadian friend,
Lynn

Susan M said...

oh I am so sorry...

A Perfect Gray said...

oh, baby. please know I'm sending love and prayers your way.

donna

Unknown said...

Sherry, through all the emotional tugs you'll experience in the days ahead feeling Zipper's void, may you find peace and comfort knowing he is not suffering anymore. Not an easy road and I know any one who has been down that road aches for you. Me included. Cyber hugs~
Judy G.

Bethany [at] Powell Brower Home said...

oh sherry - i didnt know, i am so unbelievable sorry. mom told me and i had to run over to give my condolences. i fear there are no words for something like this (id be committed if it were me, so i hope you lean on us if we can be of any help) and I'll leave you with this:

"To call him a dog hardly seems to do him justice,
though inasmuch as he had four legs, a tail, and barked,
I admit he was, to all outward appearances. But to those who
knew him well, he was a perfect gentleman."

Kati McG said...

Sherry, Regularly you make me laugh and snicker at your witty posts; today, you brought tears to this dog lover's eyes. My heart aches for you at the loss of Zipper. Pups bring us so much joy that it is an unwritten rule that humans should insure they do not suffer. May your beloved Zipper be frolicking to his heart's content.

"Dogs' lives are too short. Their only fault, really." - Agnes Turnbull Sligh

Tery H said...

I am so sorry to hear this news. Four legged babies are so special and touch our hearts so deeply. You did the right thing...no more pain. It's the hardest decision to make but it was the right one.

An Urban Cottage said...

I was so sad to see this when you posted it on IG. This is the worst feeling. You pull out all the stops and checkbook hoping it will fix things and it just isn't to be. You know you've made the right decision for your pet and you feel guilty at the same time. You miss and want them back. It's just the worst. I'm so sorry and I'm glad to see all your fans pouring out the love. I hope it helps. My sincere condolences.

Alysa from Valencia said...

So sorry about your Zipper

Anonymous said...

Sherry, I'm so very sorry about the loss of your precious dog. Please take comfort in knowing you made the right decision.

Terri

Reagan Geschardt said...

Oh I'm so sorry Sherry.... No doubt u did the right thing, but I know so sad.. He was sooooo cute!

LiveLaughDecorate said...

Awww lady, I've never had a pet but I can certainly imagine the pain of losing a member of the family. Tough choice but I'm sure that pain was unbearable for little Zipper. Kudos for doing what was best for him.

Taylor Greenwalt said...

Oh Sherry...I'm so sorry...that is such a hard decision, but you did the right thing... If I was there I would give you a big hug!

mapleandmagnolia said...

Sending hugs and prayers your way. <3

Anne Boykin said...

Sherry, I'm so sorry for your loss.

Elizabeth@ Pine Cones and Acorns said...

I am so very sorry for the loss of your adorable little Zipper. I have never has to make that decision but my pup is coming on 13 so I am sure that at some point i will.

Thought and prayers are with you, Elizabeth

Anonymous said...

O, Sherry my heart is breaking with yours, pets are such a blessing and I'm so sorry for your loss. You have been so brave to make the best decision for your Zipper. My thoughts are with you in the days to come. On a side note I think your the only person who can make me cry and laugh all in the same post (that my just be my pmt) but I love the photo of Zipper looking all sheepish with the notice on his chest. Lots of cyber hugs to you and your family.

Anonymous said...

O, Sherry my heart is breaking with yours, pets are such a blessing and I'm so sorry for your loss. You have been so brave to make the best decision for your Zipper. My thoughts are with you in the days to come. On a side note I think your the only person who can make me cry and laugh all in the same post (that my just be my pmt) but I love the photo of Zipper looking all sheepish with the notice on his chest. Lots of cyber hugs to you and your family.

Anonymous said...

O, Sherry my heart is breaking with yours, pets are such a blessing and I'm so sorry for your loss. You have been so brave to make the best decision for your Zipper. My thoughts are with you in the days to come. On a side note I think your the only person who can make me cry and laugh all in the same post (that my just be my pmt) but I love the photo of Zipper looking all sheepish with the notice on his chest. Lots of cyber hugs to you and your family.

Connie D. said...

SOB!!! My heart is so sad.

Mona said...

I am sooooo sorry, Sherry. I know the feeling exactly, and it hurts like everything. Sending love your way! Mona

Unknown said...

Oh Sherry, I am so sorry to hear your sad news. It is so painful to lose a faithful friend - I know you will miss him terribly :(

Kris @ Driven by Décor said...

I'm so, so sad for you. It is such a horrendously difficult decision that you had to make but the right one for sure. No doubt Zipper knew that he was loved beyond words. Hang in there...

Anonymous said...

There's a lovely saying that I hope might bring you comfort...
"It came to me that every time I lose a dog they take a piece of my heart with them, and every new dog who comes into my life gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough all the components of my heart will be dog, and I will become as generous and loving as they are."
Blessings, Barbara of donothing_restafterward@aol.com

Amber B (Simple Dwellings) said...

Oh I am so sorry for your loss. Just try to remember the happy memories to help get you through this difficult time. Sending hugs your way!! :)

my favorite and my best- MFAMB to you said...

oh man i am so sorry. such a hard part of life. losing pets...good grief. it's the worst. what a sweet face he had. when i was a little girl i always wanted a sheepdog and to name it raisin. big hugs.
xxoo
jenny

hope said...

I am so sorry for your heart. So hard to loose a love like that -- go easy on yourself, you really did all you could do.

tanyaj said...

really sad to read about Zipper, i felt a little loss too as he is so often in your posts. i still miss my little kitty stripes but have very sweet memories..hope you do too

Unknown said...

I just discovered your blog on the day you posted about Zipper. Your post was a beautiful tribute to him and made me cry my eyes out. I completely understand how difficult the loss can be as we had to make the same decision for our Maltese, Spencer, last January due to kidney failure and it was the most difficult thing I've ever had to do. Never have I had such a strong bond with a pet and although it's been nearly 9 months since he's been gone, not a day goes by that I don't think about him. You'll never forget him, but it will get easier with time. He obviously was very loved. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Cassie Bustamante said...

oh sherry- i am so so sorry. :( thinking of you, my friend. i was away for the weekend and playing catch up, so sorry this is coming late.

kathy said...

Crying as I leave condolences for you as I lost my beloved Lemon Monday evening to cancer without warning. The hole in our hearts and homes is gaping..maybe in time the hurt will heal and leave only a smile in our hearts. Thoughts with you and yours. Kathy B.

The Pink Pagoda said...

So, so sorry Sherry. I've been ORCing and haven't been keeping up with everyone. Can't even imagine....I'm thinking about you!

Woodside Park said...

I've been so busy.....lots of traveling....just catching up. Your post reminds me to spend more time with my Panda and Mocha. They are 14 and 13, and I dread losing them. I'm so sorry about Zipper, Sherry. Really sorry for your loss.
xo
Loi

Privet and Holly said...

Sherry, I was catching up
on the ORC and so very,
very sad to read about your
boy. The hardest thing
about getting a dog is knowing
that this date on the calendar
looms out there ~ the day
you must say good bye and
let them cross the Rainbow
Bridge. It's the trade off for
all of the joy that they bring.
I have been there and I feel
for you.....

Hugs a go-go,
xo Suzanne

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