| Oh, Nooo. Oh, Ginnie...I'm am so sorry for your loss. Tears and Hugs for you and your Husband. I feel for you both and I know a bit of what you're going thru...Nala passed a few years ago and the hole in my heart is still sensitive. But the good memories do come to the fore and you have your beautiful pictures to help. God is dog spelled backward for a reason...may he keep Merlin and Jabber (and Nala and all our "babies") safe until we see them again.
NalasMom |
| Ginnie,
I lost Igor 4 years ago and I agree that losing a dane is different then losing other dogs. I have followed your web site since 1998 and feel I knew your dogs. Cry all you want and we'll cry with you. Only us dane lovers may understand but who cares. Lecia |
| the tears are flowing as I write this.. i lost my beloved Majestic Liberty last sept . and even now it still hurts.. but I know deep down inside Libby is waiting for me at the rainbow bridge and I'm sure Jabber and Merlin are waiting for you... when the time comes and you will konw it you'll find another little {big} puppy and they will help bridge the lost.... you can never replace the ones you have lost,, but you can always love another..
my prayers are with you and you're husband..... |
| Ginnie,
I'm so sorry for you and your husband. I cannot imagine the loss you feel. I have my first Dane who is only 2, so I have not lost one, but I do not doubt for a second that you are correct about losing a Dane compared to other breeds. They are not like other breeds, pure and simple. They are extra large and extra special. My deepest condolences to all who loved Merlin and I'm sure there were many. Rest in peace, sweet boy. |
| Oh Ginnie,
I am so sorry for your loss. I had come to love both your dogs by virtue of your wonderful storytelling. I am sure that the grief is overwhelming right now but you're right eventually, you will start to remember the things that you loved best about both of your boys. I'm sure you're right - Merlin is with Jabber. Again, I'm so so sorry for you loss. |
| Oh Ginnie ... I am so sorry. I have come to know you and your dogs through this wonderful website. I mourned Jabber several years ago and even have his picture on my refrigerator at this very moment. Yes, we all go through it. I lost my beloved girl, Cory, last June at almost 11. My life will never be the same. As I've heard on this site so many times, you never forget them, you just somehow learn to live without them. God bless. |
| Tears on a Monday morning. Merlin was such a special boy and I'm sure he and Jasper are zooming in the tall grass somewhere. Your next gentle giant will find you when your hearts are ready. Take care of each other. |
| Dear Ginnie,
I am so sorry for the loss of your exceptional friend Merlin. Just keep in mind he has not gone....just gone ahead. Until you meet again know that others understand the pain of losing one of these magnificent creatures. My thoughts are with you and your family. Merlin is still watching you. Sincerely, Chantel |
| I've followed DaDane since I got my first Dane just three years ago today. Danes aren't like dogs, they are far more human-like without all those pesky human foibles. I have two now and they are my life. The younger one is a merle. I chose her because I had fallen in love with Merlin. You have provided an enormous service to the Dane world with all the links to the medical advances so important to owners of huge dogs. When a beloved pet dies, you don't replace it, you redirect all that love to the next dog lucky enough to fall into your heart. And you never stop cherishing the memories. |
| I feel like I knew Merlin as a friend and he looked a lot like my Merle Tasha. It's not losing a dog when we lose them but more like a piece of your heart. You will see him again some day and for now he and Jabber will be watching over you from a different level. Karen |
| Dear Ginnie
My deepest condolences and sympathy. I just lost my 6 year old blue, Guido, a month ago, so I know exactly what you are experiencing. As you and everyone else has said, it is not the same when you lose a dane, they are truly different. Your dane checklist is SOOO true. Deepest sympathy. Steve Buratti |
| I am truly sorry about Merlin, but he was fortunate to have had you to love him. Having owned several Danes over the last 33 years, I know what you are going through. I have wonderful memories of all of them. Each time I have to put one down, I think I never want to go through the pain of losing one again, but after a few months, I miss having one so badly that here comes a new puppy again! They are a unique and irreplaceable breed.
|
| Ginnie
So sorry for your loss. I canrelate to your feelings on losing more than an animal when it comes to danes. Your story made me cry, realizing the many times I've had to go through the same heartbreak. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Bonni |
| In my experience, making that decision to let a beloved companion go is both the hardest and - in a way - the best thing we can ever do. Truly a case of doing the right thing even though it hurts so badly. May your memories of Merlin give you comfort, and may the knowledge that he's now able to run and play with Jabber and other friends give you joy. Hopefully soon another Gentle Giant will make it clear that he/she was meant for you.
A house without a Dane just doesn't feel like "home"! Hugs to you, dear Ginnie. Take care! |
| I am so sorry. Losing a friend is devastating. We lost our "Bubba" during knee replacement surgery last year, and I refused to love another dog. Then I logged on |
| didn't finish) to a Dane rescue in Arkansas. My husband and I now belong to a wonder Dane named Samson who is trying to run the entire household. Grieve. Cry. Then give love anothr try. |
| I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. We lost Shooter two weeks ago he was 10 1/2. Thank you for recommending T.LaBrie to us as our new little girl is helping us with our loss. Regards from St. Margarets Bay Nova Scotia. |
| We are so sorry for your loss. As Sam gets older and life becomes more difficult I know the time is near but you're right. They occupy so large a place in your heart - as big as they are. The comfort is to know he's no longer in pain. Thank you for sharing your Danes with us. |
| Oh, Ginnie...... I am so sorry to hear about Merlin! I didn't know that he wasn't well.
My deepest condolences - you are in my thoughts! Angie |
| Ginnie words cannot express how deeply sorry i am for your loss of Merlin. This is one of the hardest times for all of us who have lost our beloved danes. I know what you are going through, it will be four years this christmas that i had to say good bye to my 11 1/2 year old dane. It was the hardest thing i ever had to do and i still miss him so much. He was my first. Thanks to your wedsite i have learned so much about danes. Try to remember all the great times you had with Merlin he was a wonderful boy. You are in my thoughts at this most difficult time. |
| this is to Judy smith who wrote that she adopted Sampson from the Ark. rescue Iwas going to adopt a sweet little merle from them... I did'nt because of several reasons but often wondered about all of them.. I remeber Samson.. I am so happy he has found a home... there is a lot to be said about rescues.. my next dane will probably come from one simply I am too Old to be raising a puppy... SadieGrace will more than likely be my last "puppy".. and she is such a joy,, but a handfull.. but I cannot imaimgine life without a GreatDane..... |
| I am so sorry Ginnie,
I first found your website 8 years ago when we got our girl Cigar, then 2, now 10; then we added Ada. as a pup, now 7. I have followed the stories of Merlin and Jabber and cried at their loss. I learned alot from your website, it saved Ada's life from bloat, we luckily got her to an excellent vet in time. Withhout you, Merlin, and Jabber she would not still be with us. I thank God for you and your boys. Danes and the people who are lucky enough to have them are special indeed. I know my husband and I will cry our eyes out when we lose our Cigar. We love the danes so, we could never imagine a home without at least one, no matter how hard it is to lose them. |
| Dear Ginnie,
I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. My husband and I have a fawn Great Dane bye the name of Serenity's Storm Chaser, aka Ezekiel or just plain ole Zeke, and he is the love of our lives. He is more human than he is dog. We had waited 2 long years for his litter to be born and we can most definetly say, he was worth the wait. If he is not sleeping, he is by our side following us every where we go as most Danes do. If I leave him home with my husband when I go out, Zeke longingly waits at the window until I return. He is attached to the both of us, but he is clearly my dog. He will be 2 on June 3rd and is already turning grey around his muzzle and eyes. The saddest part of sharing your life with this gentle giant is knowing that not too long after they take over your heart and your home, they will so depart just as quickly. My prayers go to you and yuor husband. I know how much you treasure this wonderful breed. May each passing day bring your saddness to gladness as you think of your precious Merlin and the wonderful memories that were created. God Bless, Kim |
| thank you for letting us share your grief as you share so much of your love of Danes with us - the public. When my Dane passed someone told me - when the righ time comes another dog will find you. So allow yourself to greive and know that other animals will come to you when the time is right. I now share my house with a Doberman - who is not a Dane - but still read your column every week. bless you and your family. Lynne |
| Ginnie, I'm so sorry to hear about Merlin. You were so very lucky to have him for a such a long time, a great life for the most precious of God's creatures. Animals are perfect creatures, and you can bet he was met by Jabber and you can bet he will be "there" to greet you again. hugs |
| So sorry for your loss. Losing a dand is one of my biggest fears my family and I feel badly for you. |
| Embrace the memories and let the tears of joy and sadness flow freely. What a special time you shared, and you will cherish the memories forever. |
| Ginnie, I'm very sorry to hear of your loss. It's been my experience that letting them go is both the hardest and one of the most rewarding experiences we can have as parents of the four-legged children - helping them to let go of the pain is the ultimate act of kindness. We will keep you and your family in our thoughts, and may Merlin, and Jabber, loom as bright as the sun in your heart. |
| I'am so sorry Ginnie. These wonderful babies come into our lives and then have to leave so soon. Sending prayers to help you during this great time of need. Rest In Peace "Merlin" and play and run free with Jabber. |
| Ginnie, I'm so sorry for your and your husband's loss. May your hearts heal so that you may again share your lives with a Great Dane. |
| so sorry for your loss- losing Merlin is heartbreaking for all us DaDane afficianados.having had Danes since 1968 & been lucky enough to have shared my life with Margot, Luther,Dillon & now Sophie I truly understand Danes are the Heartbreak breed but oh the love we receive in return for our grief at their passing!!!!! After we lost Margot we waited until Luther insisted he belonged . the same was true of Dillon & now Sophie. Merlin & Jabber are even now searching for your new companion .he or she will be along when the time is right. |
| Ginnie, what a beautiful tribute - both pictures and words. My condolences.
Bev |
| Ginnie,
Trying to wipe my eyes to write this...many hugs to you. Keep Merlin close in your heart.,..he will be there forever... Annie |
| My heart goes out to you on the loss of your sweet boy. I too sit here crying for Merlin and all my "big loves" who have gone on over the years. |
| I am sorry for your loss and know all too well the feeling of emptiness after a beloved Dane passes. Thank you for sharing Merlin with us, even now. Soon enough you'll see your two friends running together in your dreams. |
| Ginnie,
I so look forward to the Dane of the week.Every Monday I check the site. I am so sorry to hear of Merlin's passing. My thoughts are with you as I lost my two boys in the space of 6 months. I now have two more as I couldn't stand being without them. My beautiful Scooter is 1 1/2, and her new brother. Cupid, is just 3 mos, I hope you find another wonderful Dane to share your life with. They are the most wonderful conpanions, and as long as I can, I will always have a Dane. So sorry to hear of your baby, Merlin, passing away Condolences |
| Ginnie,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. It sounds like Merlin passed in a very loving and gentle way. Condolences... |
| Ginnie,
Words can't express my feelings for you and Billy right now. Merlin and Jabber were such special boys. Take comfort in that they are together again. Take care. |
| Ginnie,
So sorry for your loss. Yes it never stops hurting when you lose a beloved Dane. Hugs Trina and Indy |
| Ginnie, So sorry. Merlin was a beautiful boy. Thank you for giving him a great life and your heart, and thank you for sharing a part of that with us. Hugs, prayers, and kisses. |
| I lost my beloved foster to the same thing and it's heatbreaking, but when they fall in their own waste and look up at you with those eyes, you know it's time. Still, it doesn't make the hole they leave behind any easier. Merlin is in VERY good company at the rainbow bridge, with many playmates until you meet him again. You are in my thoughts. |
| Ginnie,
Shufi, Ginger and myself are so very sorry to hear about your loss. There is no love like that of a dog and especily a Dane. Reading your stories every week has deepened my love and respect for these animals that touch our hearts and change our lives. I know it will be a long process to get over the grief you feel after losing your beloved best friend Merlin. Our deepest sympathies go out to you and your family in this special time. If it helps, I can share some of the sloppy kisses Shufi & Ginger give me daily with you. We are sorry !!! Andrea ,Shufi & Ginger |
| Ginnie, there are no words to describe the pain of such a deep loss. I can only tell you that I've been through it, too -and dread the day(s) I have to say goodbye to Catherine and Arnold. I hope when that time comes that I'll have the strength to do what's in their best interest, and not my own selfish desire to never let go!
You have given so much to the Dane community through your website -and I'm sure all the Danes that you have helped through the years will be running and playing with Merlin, and thanking him for all you've done for them! Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you - along with the tears we're shedding in sympathy for your loss "hugs 'n' leans" from, Bobbie, Catherine and Arnold |
| Ginnie, I am so sorry. What a lovely tribute for such a special Dane. It's so hard when they go, we are thinking of you and I am crying too.
Louise, Chris, Bella and Rigel |
| Ginnie, My heart is breaking for you we that know the grief of losing a heart dog or any of our beloved friends know your pain.
I have this on my memorial page for my dogs "Let me share with you this love of mine, always and forever. When you need me, know that I am here. I have not left you for I am in your heart where I belong. Our love is eternal as is the brilliant glow of candlelight which illuminates the path to the heavens and Rainbow Bridge. I wait patiently as do you for our inevitable and glorious reunion." you are in our prayers, comforting hugz. May God wrap you in warm comfort of his love Lynn Davis |
| Ginnie, My Dear Friend what can I say that others haven't already said? We've all been in your shoes but please try to take comfort in knowing you will see Merlin and your other babies again one day. Try to remember all the wonderful memories he left you with. He will always be with you Ginnie. He is stamped in your heart and soul.
I will keep you in my prayers. God Bless you always. Linda |
| There are no words Ginnie. You are in my prayers. I hope you find comfort in knowing that when you get there, they will be waiting impatiently for your arrival with kisses and hugs all around.
Cathy, Daryll, Bailey, Rusty & Sparkle |
| Ginnie, all I can give you is my tears. We were there 4 years ago with Chloe, and now that Henley is 4, my fear has begun again. They are amazing creatures, with hearts bigger than their bodies and personalities that leave a hole in your heart that can be covered, but never repaired.
Our hearts and prayers are yours. David, Bunny, Sean and Henley the Dane |
| Ginnie, I am so sorry about Merlin. What a beautiful boy.Take comfort in knowing you will seem him again,happy and healthy.
You are all in my thoughts. Wendy,Sky and Angus |
| Ginnie I am sorry to hear of your loss. Your tribute is beautiful and the love for your boy shows. Blessings to you and yours |
| I am sorry to hear about your loss, Ginnie. I did not know Merlin, but I can tell in his eyes that he was a wonderful friend. They are not with us long enough, are they?
Peggy |
| I am sorry you lost your Merlin and pray God will comfort you and help your heavy heart. |
| I am so sorry for your loss! You wrote an amazing eulogy and it is so obvious how much you loved your dogs. You are in my thoughts and prayers and only time will ease your pain.
Julie |
| Dear Ginnie,
I am soo sorry to hear about Merlin. I was devastated with you when you lost your beautiful Jabber and I'm crying with you aobout your beautiful and loving Merlin. I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you will in time be able to look at all the good memories and be happy that they had a wonderful life. The hurt will never go away completely but it will get better! Best wished to you and your husband. Evelyn |
| Oh Ginnie...Your comment on loosing danes is so true. I have lost many dogs in my life, but when I lost my Ellen, Ch.DayStar's Just Call Me Ellen, I thought my husband and I were going to just crawl up into a ball and die. I was ready to call it quits with her loss and get out of Danes. Her loss was so devastating to us that my sorrow put me in a very deep hole of depression and so I completely understand your pain. I'm sitting here balling like a baby, revisiting my sorrow and feeling yours. Memories are good, but we felt robbed of Ellen's life with us far too early. My heart bears witness to your pain and I send my sincere condolences to you in your dreadful loss. Sleep well, Merlin and say hi to my beloved friends I wait eagerly to see in Heaven with My Lord.
God Bless...remember him often and peace be to your home, Ginnie...Shelley Bjorkman |
| Ginnie,
I just found out and I am so sorry! There are no words that can ease your pain but do know that others do understand. These dogs are such a large part of our lives and they definitely do take a part of us with them when they go. Others have out things more eloquently than I but know that I cry for you, Billy, and your boys. I have been in your shoes and will be there again, I know. Thank you for sharing your life and theirs with all of us. T. |
| I to am crying because of the loss and I no that my Boo at 12 has his card up soon and I will be so sad like you my heart goes out to you and your husband..Thank you so much for the nice write up it was great...Trudy BooBoo,and Hanna... |
| Ginnie,
Our sympathy on the loss of Merlin. Take some comfort in knowing he was well-loved and cared for and a better Dane for having you and Bill in his life. Walt and Maria |
| Ginnie:
My heart goes out to you and your family, and although most of us here know what it is like to lose our big babies, each one of us feels different pains and losses. It is never easy, and your eulogy was a wonderful tribute to one who has touched your life in such a perfect way. Take comfort in knowing that he is no longer in pain and he and Jabber are free and waiting at the bridge for you. As the happy memories take over the pain, they will eventually put the pain in a spot where it will only come out once in a while, because the happiness these gentle giants give us will always be bigger than the pain. |
| Ginnie, I feel as though I know both you and Merlin and am crying over his loss. These incredible dogs are more than just big dogs that leave a very large space when they leave us. I know. We have had Akitas, Tibetan Mastiffs, and a St. Bernard. But Genny is different. She just turned two years old and has so enriched our lived for those two years. We love her more than we can ever describe. But we don't have to try. You know. You love Merlin every bit as much. Thank you for the loving tribute and the excuse to give our Genny another big hug. Our hearts are with you. Thank you for all you do for our beloved dogs.
Marty, Ken, and Genesis (Genny) |
| I'm so sorry to hear about Merlin. Reading your story has finally put a face on what my 7 year old Dane has. He exhibits all the early symptoms you mentioned. Now I know we can manage this until we too have to make that very hard decision. Our thoughts are with you.
Cheryl, Stella and Earl |
| Know that Merlin felt the love you gave him as much as the love he gave you. Always sad to say goodbye, but knowing that you gave him a wonderful life can put a smile in your heart. |
| So sorry for your loss, Ginnie. I, too, am quite familiar with your grief. But as deep as the hurt is, you will have all the wonderful memories you and Bill share as you reflect back on your life with Merlin. One day 'that' puppy will make eye contact with you and you will know life is renewed! I often tell my friends Danes are like Lays potato chips, you can't have just one. With deepest sympathy-Judie and her clowns(Nadir Nadim, Puppup and Ivory) |
| Ginnie my heart still aches for Dusty,but i know he wanted me to have another to pay tribute to him when the time was right.I now have a goofy 1 year old that keeps me cursing all the time. Now when i pass Dusty's grave i smile instead of shedding a tear because he was right.You can never replace that one special dog,but you can find another to love. |
| They creep so quietly into our hearts that we can't remember when they weren't there. I'm just glad you got the chance to say good-bye to your sweet boy. |
| Merlin and Jabber were two lucky Danes to have been loved by you, and now they are together again. I am sure the two of them are plotting and planning; looking for and guiding you to another special dog who can fill that place in your heart. |
| Ginnie, I am so sad for your loss, but your tribute to Merlin is wonderful. I know his loss and that of his brother Jabber have left an anormous hole in your heart, but time will ease the pain and someday, maybe, that next special soul will enter your life to help fill the gap. I have followed your site for several years and even met you in Orlando last year, you are a wonderful person. My prayers are with you and your husband...God Bless... |
| Ginnie,
So sorry for your loss of Merlin. I became acquainted with your site after losing my first dane last year. I have learned so much about the breed and just so look forward to mon mornings. After crying for 6 months (literally every day), we added Hugo the Boss to our family. My Chloe will never be forgotten and she still holds a piece of my heart in heaven with her. Hugo has added much joy and laughter being our first dane puppy and we delight in his life. I do cherish everyday knowing that time with a dane is very precious and much too short. I am so saddened by your loss. I am praying for you and your husband. |
| So sorry to hear of Merlin's passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
John, 'Kira, & Jake |
| Ginnie, I'm sending cyber hugs in sympathy for your loss. I'm in tears - your beautiful tribute captures dignity and majesty of Merlin's spirit as well as emphasizing the exceptional experience of loving a Great Dane - you're right, the very fiber of your being is changed by these these awesome creatures.
I truly believe Merlin was met at the Bridge by Jabber and by all the other beloved Danes and Dane friends there. Thank you for sharing your Danes with us as well as your heart - you are much-loved in the Dane world. Take care, Ginnie. :-) Delayne |
| Ginnie, Krueger sends sloppy kisses and suggests you and your husband visit DisneyWorld and stop by for a Great Dane fix.
Your tribute to Merlin was lovely. Merrell & Krueger and OP |
| Ginnie,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I will be lighting a candle in honor of your beloved Merlin's life while saying a prayer in his memory. Please allow me to express my heartfelt sympathy to your family and you. Closing with warm and supportive hugs, Sharon and her "wanna be Dane" Goldens, Becky and Troy |
| You have buoyed my spirit so many times with your DaDane page when I was "between" Danes, so I am so sorry for the loss you feel now. They do leave huge holes in our hearts and lives when we have to let them go, but I wish you hugs -- both human and Dane -- as you heal. |
| owr condolences from the dane moms from argentina
we are very sorry adn owr hearts are with you. |
| I have not lost a great dane yet, but I know what you mean by it being more painful. We speak as a family about just that. Please accept our condolences and know you have made a lovely memorial for Merlin here. He was gorgeous. I am terribly sorry for your loss. |
| I am sorry for your loss it is a hard thing. I had to put down Zoe a dane i had rescued from the pound less than 2 weeks ago. You will be in our prayer.
God bless |
| Ginnie,
I am so sorry for your loss. I've been amazed at the warm tributes you've given for other families as they've lost one of their dear friends, and I'm sure it must have been difficult to share your story with us so soon. You have such a special gift, which I appreciate you sharing each week. Our thoughts are with you and your family. Lisa Herman |
| Ginnie,
What a lovely tribute! I am so sorry for your loss. I think just about every dane owner can empathize with you right now. Sophie's mom |
| Sorry to hear of your loss. It sounds like you gave Merlin the peace with dignity that he deserved. Though it might help to know that your great website with its insightful information (e.g., addison's stories and links)has touched and helped many well beyond the Dane community. And for that we thank you .
Robin, Bubba and Wesley |
| I am so sorry to hear this Ginnie. Words are never enough to convey the depths of our feelings. Merlin will always be with you, as will Jabber. As the pain fades you will be able to look back with a more smiles and less tears.
Hugs.... Sonja, Jake, Luke, and the Mythical Danes. |
| If I could ask God just one favor, it would be that our furkids live as long as we do. I know your hurt and I feel for you.
|
| Ginnie and Billy,
Today is such a sad day for me because I've just learned that my friend Mer-Man has moved on. Thank you so much for the opportunities I've had to love him, have my nose nibbled by him, toss him cookies across the room and watch in awe when he caught ever one! And what a gentleman he was... to human and all others. Always such a cordial host when my Danes visited, or many otherDane visitors, for that matter. As soon as we'd arrive he'd becon his visitors to come see his pond and his geese and swans. When my Autumn first visited, she was scared of the water, but Merlin escorted her in, convincing her it was safe and lots of fun. She's not been afraid of water since. You have been there for me through the loss of three of my guys, your tributes helping me to purge my grief. It is obvious through the vaste number of kind comments that Merlin is a very special Dane and one who will live on forever in our hearts, thanks to your wonderful pictures and your special way of expressing what we Dane lovers feel. |
| I'll never forget the first online photo I saw of Merlin....it took my breath away. I loved his name!! I know you miss him terribly, but your act of selfless love shows how much you cared for his well-being. I am so sorry for your loss. |
| Ginnie, add me to the long list of those grieving right along with you. I still have tears running down my face since I visited your site and read most of the comments from others. I too felt like I knew Merlin from your many wonderful stories and photos, and can relate many of your experiences to ones I've had with my own Danes. Thank you for sharing Merlin with us, and for your continued amazing portrayal of this truly special breed. If only all dogs could experience the life and love you gave Merlin. My thoughts are with you. |
| Ginnie--I am very sorry to hear of your loss. I am a long-time Da Dane fan--I found your website after I found and fell in love with my first dane, Roxanne. My first memory of your site was the story about the time your husband left you alone with Jabber and Merlin and you all slept in your bed. We often said that our Roxanne was the "ideal gas dog" -- she expanded to fill all available space and we completely related to your story and experiences--thank you so much for that. Unfortunately, we lost Roxanne last January to bone cancer. We too had to make the difficult and important decision to let her go when quality of life deteriorated too far. She is frequently in my thoughts, always in my heart and I miss her terribly. Our house without a dane was too quiet, and we missed that dane personality, so we ended up getting a rescue dane last August and now we are on to a new and different adventure. You're in my thoughts, Cami |
| I am still crying for you and Merlin. How wonderful to have him so long! I helped get Hector to Nori and Will, they seem like wonderful people. It is so nice to know Merlin was with gentle and loving people. Your loss and emptiness is understood by anyone who has truely loved a Dane.
Thinking of you, Debi |
| Ginnie,
My heart broke for you as I read Jabbers story, you have a real knack at getting the Dane view of life across, as I have read so many times in DaDane. I'm sure Merlin and Jabber are both happy and at peace and await you and your hubby's reunion at the rainbow bridge. No words can console or replace the loss, but know in time it will hurt less and hopefully another fortunate Dane will know the love you and your family can give. Brightest Blessings, Lisa and the NorthStar Dane Crew |
| Dear Ginnie,
I am so sorry for your great lose here. I can understand as I have been through the same. I feel happy that Merlin lived till a age where not many Danes survive. He will always be looking at you from above. Blessings from PAQUIN GREAT DANES |
| Ginnie,
I know your pain and I am so sorry for your loss. Thank you for all you have given us Dane lovers. Merlin is running with Jabber, Oliver's 1, 2 and 3, Chancy Gardner, and Judy. If tears could build a stairway and memories a lane - I'd climb up to heaven and bring you home again. Deborah |
| Ginnie: My desk is covered in tears. It is obvious that you have such a loyal following. I have been enamered by your sight since I fell in love with a beautiful black dane @ Thanksgiving- Gunner. Every Monday I eagerly await DaDane of the week. It has taken me 4 days to stop crying for your loss and still as I sit here I cannot help but to feel a deep sadness for you and your family. I am sooooo terribly sorry for your loss, but as everyone else has said... another will eventually come along that captures your heart and although he/she will not be your beloved Merlin the pain will decrease and life will go on. There is no true love like that of a dane. I have 4 dogs only 1 is "gods special breed" and I can only pray and hope that mine has a life half as wonderful as you and yours have had. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. I'll send a special Gunner kiss to you tonight on behalf of those that have been loved and lost.
Sleep well, love long and live happy. Michelle and Gunner |
| Ginnie,
I'm so sorry for your loss of Merlin. He was a gorgeous boy and your tribute to him was wonderful. It was so good of you to take on the extra pain of letting him go with dignity. I want to thank you for the wonderful information you provided on Addison's. We are owners and family members with another large breed, newfoundlands. While I haven't had a Dane I can really identify with your comments about how they become so much a part of your life and heart. When our newf-mix Moose was recently diagnosed with Atypical Addison's your articles were such a help to me in understanding this disease. Moose is doing great now and your articles really helped me ask the right questions to get him there. May the good memories of your days with Merlin soon ease your pain. Sharon, Moose, and Kimber |
| I'm sorry to hear about your lost! I don't know how it is to have a great daene. My dogs are poodles. But, I k,now loosing a dag is loosing a soul-mad |
| Dear Ms. Saunders,
I wrote on Monday to express my deepest sympathy for your loss, but find myself coming back daily to read the other tributes to dear Merlin. Something just popped into my mind. That picture at the top of the page this week is one of the most expressive and beautiful protraits I have ever seen of a Dane. I certainly would be delighted to buy a copy, and it occurred to me that a great many of your readers might, as well. It is perhaps rather presumptuous of me to suggest it, but I thought that if you charged enough to cover your supplies, time, shipping, cost of reproduction by a photo lab, etc., and added a few dollars over that, the extra money could be used to establish a Merlin Fund from which donations could go to worthy Dane-related medical projects or rescue groups of your choice. Merlin could continue to bring joy and hope to all of us who find Danes superior to other life forms. Best wishes, Janet |
| Ginnie & Billy-
I feel so fortunate to have met Merlin and known what a very special Great Dane he was. He touched my soul from the very beginning, and I continue to be touched in his passing. He and Jabber were so fortunate to have been so loved by both of you, and you were so fortunate to have been loved by them. Thank you for sharing him with all of us, and for sharing your loss at a time when it hurts so badly. May it help to know that he is greatlly missed by the entire DaDane community. |
| so perfectly put... loved beyond reason.
Those of us who know and love our Danes... how blessed we are. May your tears soon be replaced with soft smiles and comforting warmth by your memories of Merlin and Jabber. |
| Great Danes have insite into our hearts our minds our souls. I don't know how but they do. They sense all of your emotions and take them on as if they were they're own, experiencing it with you, sharing the burdens of life to lighten our load. This is why they are different they are our emotional equals. My thoughts and prayers are with you in this time as are the thoughts and prayers of so many of us who have known Merlin and Jabber over the years. Thank you for sharing your special friends. |
| You are right - you are not alone. To love a Great Dane is to have a great friend, a great bond, great times, great memories....and most unfortunately, eventually it is to suffer a great loss. I know personally that sometimes you find yourself wondering why you would put yourself through the heart break of Dane ownership. Then you come around and remember that it is because they are the most wonderful dogs in the world. I hope that one day you will feel ready for a "new family member" again.
You have my deepest sympathies. |
| Oh Ginnie I am So sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you and your husband as I try to see what I'm typing through the tears. I felt like I knew Merlin, just from reading about him over the years. I know what you mean about danes being so special. I get sad as I watch my Max slow down alittle at 7 1/2 years old. I still miss my Apollo that I lost in the 80's. He like Max and Merlin were just very special.
My deepest sympathies. Chuck |
| Jabber, Merlin, so very special. Yours words of tribute are amazing,Please know that you are in our thoughts, such a hard time.
hugs & leans, " Gracey & Dreyfus" |
| Oh Ginnie! My heart is just aching for you! Merlin has been so funny to read about and hear about the car escapades. Maybe he and Jabber are having a great time together today! Lot of love!
|
| Ginnie,
What a sweet, sweet story on the passing of your Merlin. And, the comments are outstanding and so many. I can just see Jabber awaiting Merlin there at Rainbow Bridge. I just have to believe that my Danes have just gone ahead and are waiting on their Mama to come as your Merlin and Jabber are. My heart is broken for you...no one knows the love of a Dane 'till they loose one. We send our love to you, Cathy, Ivey and Razzoo |
| Ginnie,
I know that Merlin has found his way to Jabber and all the other wonderful Dane children up in heaven. I know how you feel after losing two of our beloved danes this year. What a hard decision to have to make. We had to do the same for our beloved Clara who lived to 12. Just know that even though you can't touch them or see him, Merlin will always have a presence in your heart and in your life. So sorry for your loss Kathy |
| Ginnie,
please know you are not alone. I am so sorry for your loss. We rescued Jagger for a companion to our Gracie . We lost him three months later due to the heartworm shot. A day does not pass that I do not think of him. But in my heart, I know we did the right thing by sending him on his way over the rainbow. Once the shock went away, we got a merle, Miles, to play with Gracie. We also rescued another merle, Barney who had been dumped at the pound. Barney has so many of Jaggers little touches which makes me wonder if it is him back to give us another whirl. I hope a special dane comes your way soon. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your husband. |
| The hole they leave behind will never completely fill, but I truly believe that you will all be together again. Take comfort in the knowledge that you loved them truly, and they knew it.
I also believe that the best way to honor their lives is to open your heart and your home to another special soul. After I lost my first dane, I truly thought I would never ever have another, it was just too painful. I am so glad I was wrong. I would never trade the pain of losing one to the years of sheer pleasure, joy and total love that I received from them while "they owned me". My thoughts and prayers are with you and your husband, now and for always. Kel, Dave, Darla and Hunter |
| Ginnie,
We are so sorry to hear about your loss, we lost 2 very special danes last year and there just doesnt seem to be any words to make the pain of losing them less. These danes are so very much a special part of our lives as you point out. Thank you for sharing your pain with all of us who have so looked forward to your dane postings and pics for 8 years Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your husband. Nikki, DP, and (MeMe) |
| Ginnie,
What a beautiful tribute to an extraordinary Dane. Merlin's expressive eyes captured all the traits that make them unique -- intelligence, sensitivity, humor, kindness, and a big heart. I am so very sorry for your loss. I hope that Merlin is now at peace with Jabber -- what a joyful reunion they must have had. To lose the dogs we love beyond all reason is heartbreaking, but their brief time with us is priceless. My sincere sympathies, Carol |
| A little over two-years ago, your website helped convince me that a Great Dane was just the type of dog me and my husband needed. I am so very thankful for Merlin and Jabber and all the stories you've retold. We now have two Great Danes - a 2 year old Black and a 9 month old Merle. I get choked-up thinking about a life without them. Great Danes have such wonderful souls that will live on when their bodies can not. I'm sure Jabber and Merlin are in a better place - enjoying endless times with their doggie friends. May there be lots of doggie parks, frosty-paw treats and of course nice cozy couches in their new home.
Sincerely, Katie |
| Ginnie, I'm so sorry to hear about Merlin. I just lost my dane of 10 1/2 Caeser. I understand your pain and that of all of us who have lost Danes. They are incrdible companions that can never be replaced. |
| Ginnie, I've enjoyed your website since I discovered it in 2002. With tears in my eyes, my heart goes out to you. Merlin is still with you and always will be. I'm so sorry for your loss. Dogs are amazing, beautiful animals and without them, life, to me, would be so empty. |
| Dearest Ginnie-I have followed you for years-and loved your Merlin and Jabber. I have a 9 year old black most beloved girl and a 2 year old beautiful fawn boy. I am crying as I type-for your loss, the loss of those who have sent their condolences, and for the day I have to face the saddness of losing my own. There are no words to describe this love we have for our danes-it is beyond the realm of human comprehension-possibly the only bit of heaven we are afforded here on earth? My thoughts, prayers, sympathy and the deepest of gratitude to you and your family.... |
| So sorry to hear of your loss. We loss our Sam, a mantle dane to cancer on the 23rd of this month. We rescued him from the spca 13 years ago and have loved him ever since. Our home and hearts are so empty without him. He was a sweet heart. I know you must be going through the same pain as us. Our thoughts are with you. |
| I have lost dogs both suddenly and when I had to make the decision to help them to the Rainbow Bridge. It is never easy. Rest easy that there are many who share your grief and our thoughts and prayers are with you. |
| We have just started the wonderful adventure with Danes. My husband passed away (cancer/3 months after diagnosis) last Feb., and on Father's Day (June of the same year) we added Sahara to our home. We love her very much and added another "baby" Skye about 4 months ago. I cried when I read your post...I don't want to think of the day we must know loss again. These two are such a comfort as we learn to live our new life without hubby/dad. We also share our home/love with a Dobbie and Papillion mix. Our prayers are with you and your friends. |
| Perhaps another dane will help the healing process. I understand you might not want to, not yet, but we only on this earth for a short time, and need to do all we can to help our four legged friends. Part of life is letting go, but also recieving. |
| Ginnie,
My family sends our condolences on your loss. We just let our beloved Otis cross the bridge on Wednesday. Otis was adopted from the SanDiego Great Dane Rescue 5 plus years ago while he was still a pup. It's always so hard and like you I am convinced that letting a Dane go is harder. We were fortunate to have spent time with him in the Memorial Garden at Alameda East where their Grief Counselor, Sandra Coffin, and Dr. McLucas hugged us and assisted in letting Otis go. We were even able to keep him in the garden amongst the flowers and the fountain. I cried so hard I swelled blood vessels in my right eye. I send you our comfort and support. It is quieter now in our house, and his big sister Maggi (an onyx brindle dane who we adopted from Tracy and Burt Ward's Rescue) is mourning him as well. Take care. -Kristen |
| I too just lost my beloved companion. Beech was only 11 mos old and was a white deaf Dane. I too am just overcome with grief and so feel for you. I'm glad you had so many good years with Merllin and grieve that I didn't have that chance with my Beech. Nonetheless, I feel blessed to have had him in my life for the short time I did. He was the most magnificent creature ever and was my constant companion. I miss him in everything I do.
Aloha, Kathy |
| Ginnie,
I'm so sorry for your loss of Merlin. I come here whenever I want to smile, and Merlin has been the source of many of those smiles. Just last week, I went through the very same experience with our 11-year-old, Ziggy, which is why I came here for smiles. He was a very special boy to us, as Merlin clearly was to you. Our three other Danes are mourning with us and, now, with you. Every minute with these wonderful beasts is precious. Take care, Holly |
| Ginnie
Over the years we have followed the saga of Jabba & Merlin, and this morning having to experiance the grief ourselves of loosing our beloved Saschat three weeks before her 12th birthday, we understand exactly how you & your's are feeling. I most crtainly must agree with you that a Great Dane is more than just a dog. Go well Alf |
| Who would have thought than on May 19 I would enter an entry into Merlin's book and only a month later I would loose my own Dane. She was 12 years old and was found at a park in 1993 near St. Louis, MO. I can't believe she is gone. I can't believe I can hurt this bad. My wife is devistated and so am I because we had her put to sleep because her back legs didn't work and her left front sholder could not support any weight. We knew she had Cushings but didn't know that it effected the back hips. I just thought she was old. Then we found out that Cushings is treatable and she might have recoverd some of her mobility had we treated her, though some of the treatments are very harsh with many side effects. The overwhelming guilt about this is killing me, My wife is overwroght with guilt for not having stopped me from having her put down. Please if your dog has Cushings make sure you do all the research to find out what can be done. Don't rely on the Vet's to tell you, they won't. You must do the research yourself. Chloe, my dearest Chloe we miss you and love you and I am so, so sorry. |
| Dear Ginnie,
Im May I discovered your website and read about Merlin for the first time. I am very sorry for your loss. As stated by many others, we who live with Danes know the feelings all too well. I have a question for you regarding "cauda equina syndrome". We currently have harlequin litter mates, still puppies at 8 1/2 years old. Our male, Deche, has developed what sounds exactly like this syndrome; your experience with Merlin is the first I have heard of this disease. Deche was absolutely fine until a point in time that our young pitbull knocked him off balance as he went up stairs and he slid down the stairs. Even though my husband was able to catch him and prevent a bad fall, we feared Deche's back was hurt to some degree as he has moved very differently since that time. I know nothing, except what I have read here, regarding this syndrome. You say surgery was not an option for Merline; do you mind saying why? Is it too dangerous or is it too expensive, or are the results not worth the trauma to the dog? We thought we were getting Pepper and Deche prepared for a longer life than our previous Danes as we had both their tummies tacked a couple years ago; now it appears Deche's hindquarters may give out instead. I hope you will please share with me what you know of this syndrome. I am keeping my fingers, and everything else, crossed that there is something that can be done for our dear, sweet, innocent, loving "biggest boy" Deche! Thank you for any information and guidance you can offer. Sincerely, Debbie |
| I just lost my precious Nola last Thursday, Sept. 15. I have kept up with your website for years and decided to go in since I hadn't been in for some time. I found this about Merlin and it summed up how I was feeling. I cannot believe how devastated I am. I got Nola when she was 6 weeks old and she would have turned 9 in November. She had Wobblers, which sounds a lot like what Merlin had. It was devastating to watch her go down hill. If you have any thoughts on how to get through this, I am taking any advise that I can get. I am so sorry for your loss, but THANK YOU so much for sharing Merlin with us and expressing what I feel. |
| Brandi,
I am so sorry about Nola. We all have our unique ways of handling grief. Merlin died 4 months ago and only now am I posting to this comments area. Earlier, it was just too painful. It's never easy to lose our Danes, but it is MUCH easier when you have another one in the house to help cushion the loss. Some people bounce back pretty quickly by inviting a new Dane into their home and hearts. Others, like me, take "time off" to work through the loss before moving on to the next Dane. I am making our home available for short-term fostering of Danes in transit via the Dane Train. It's a win-win situation. I know I'm really helping another Dane, and I am able to enjoy him/or her without developing an overly strong emotional attachment. So my advice would be to consider signing up with a rescue group as a foster home. It works well for me, anyway. Ginnie |
| Hi Ginnie,
I am a 36 year old woman and have been in the company of my wonderful great Dane Chloe for the last 12 and half years. I stumbled on to your website by lcuk (or not!)and read your article about Merlin. It described Chloé to a T. I have been in tears for the last 12 hours not knowing how to control how I feel. I am upset and can't bare the thought of not only losing my baby girl but having to make "the" decision if the time ever comes. How does one decide of the destiny of such a precuois life? At this time, chloe is managing but she has been deteriorating for the last 6 months. Incontinence, clumsiness, not wanting to go for walks (which she used to love!). She doesnt always eat as much as she should although will never say no to table scraps. And all this time I thought she was just being old. How much pain is she really in? When do you know it is time? I love my dog so much that I always tell her to please never leave me as i would not know how to deal with it but last night I told her with great dificulty that if she was ready to go I would accept it and understand her. I think I lied... How do I prepare myself? I am a mess... |