Hi friends! Before we jump into my normally-scheduled weekly update post, I need to share some sad news. Most of you know our dog Zuzu from her occasional reviews and interviews here on the blog – and certainly you do if you follow me on social media. She brought joy and snuggles everywhere she went, but unfortunately my beloved sidekick, sometimes “co-blogger”, and adorably quirky blog mascot has passed away from a tumor in her spinal cord. We are devastated and heartbroken but we are also smiling through our tears, thanks to 11 years of great memories since the day we adopted her & she rescued us ♥
Like the way her sneezes took over her entire body, starting at her nose and wriggling all the way to the tip of her floofy tail like the cartoon dogs sneeze on TV. Like why she was our watch dog – not because she guarded the house (she was a bit of a fraidy-dog) but because she kept us to a rigid schedule & heaven help us if we weren’t right where we were supposed to be or doing what we were supposed to be doing at the allotted time. Like how much she loved pillows and blankets – every single throw pillow or blanket we bought in the past 11 years was quickly claimed by her royal Zuzu-ness. Like the way she seemed to know exactly when you needed some cuddles or the way her ears were the softest thing I’ve ever felt or the way she contorted herself into the oddest sleeping positions.
Image credit: Josh Booth PhotographyOur sweet Zuzu had a personality like I’ve never before seen in a dog, and my heart is emptier just like her sleep spot against the small of my back every night will be. I can’t imagine the days ahead without her but i’m incredibly thankful for the days we had with her and the love and joy she brought into our lives ♥
And now, because I know you didn’t come here for a Zuzu tribute (but thank you for tolerating one anyway)…
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Carrie, So sorry to hear about Zuzu. That’s the only sad part about having pets, they just don’t live long enough. Just remember all the joy she brought into your life.
she did bring so much of that! <3
Carrie, I read your news with tears in my eyes. My heart feels for you. Our furbabies are our children that never grow up, have unwavering devotion only asking for a bit of kindness and attention and they definitely occupy a big spot in our hearts. Ours is 13 years old and now on two shots of insulin a day. We do treasure each and every day. May your memories of the good times help you through your time of grief. Please know that us fellow pooch lovers are praying for you and saying God speed to Zuzu who is now on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge. <3
oh thank you, sweet Kay! that means so much <3 Hug your furbaby for me!
So sorry about your fur baby Zuzu. May good memories bring you peace and comfort Carrie.
thank you, Merry! <3
Hugs!!!!!!!
My heart goes out to you with hugs and prayers. Losing a loved pet is definitely as painful as losing a human member of your family.
thank you so much, Danielle <3
I’m so sorry, my dear BFFF. I’m going to miss all those adorable pictures of her. 🙁
we are laughing last night that we probably have enough pics of her to keep that going for years! 😛
A lovely tribute my sweet friend. My heart hurts for you at the loss of your beloved Zuzu. ❤️
thank you, dear friend <3
I am so sorry for your loss. We don’t have children, but our dogs become our children and a main source of joy and structure. Our current rescue girl, a Heeler mix, keeps us on track. There is another soul out there waiting to be rescued and to complete your household.
Carrie, I am so sorry to hear about Zuzu! A month ago, we said goodbye to our family dog of 14 years and I still listen for his jingly collar every morning or for the sound of him scratching at the back door to go out. It’s amazing how much you miss the little things when they are gone. So glad you have pics and memories. Praying for comfort for you and your husband.
Oh Zuzu, you surely will be missed. I’m not sure this blog will be able to go on without you. I have loved getting to know you!! Hugs to your mama. She is a sweetie and I hate seeing her sad.
I will miss Zuzu’s posts – such a talented dog! She must have picked it up from her mom. My heart goes out to you, especially as I am looking at saying farewell to one of my kitties in a few days. Our furry family members are certainly special.
Carrie, I’m so sorry for loss. Loved reading about Zuzu and it was easy to see how much you loved each other. It’s amazing how quickly our pets take over our hearts and their time with us is so precious. I know you will have lots of great memories of Zuzu and I will miss her comments on your blog.
I’m so sorry for your loss Carrie. I completely understand your feelings right now. You’re in my prayers, my friend!
Oh so sorry for your loss of your precious ZuZu. ?
I know this pain well unfortunately. I know how hard this is for you. Praying God will give you peace and comfort ❤️
So sorry to hear this Carrie. Your loss is heartfelt to us. Take care of yourself.
So sorry to hear about your loss. Praying for you! Your words are a lovely tribute to Zuzu! Thank you for sharing with us.
beautiful tribute to Zuzu. <3
I’m so sorry about Zuzu. I know exactly how much your heart is breaking. I always feel like every pet I lose takes a piece of my heart with them, but they leave a piece of theirs to take it’s place. Maybe once my heart is filled by pet pieces, I will be as good and loving as them.
Cherish the part of your heart that is Zuzu. You will always have the beautiful memories of love and laughter that she brought to your life.
I’m sending you hugs through the atmosphere.
So sorry for your loss. Unfortunately, I know how it feels to lose a furbaby. Sending hugs your way.
Oh, Carrie! I’m so sorry for your loss! I loved following along on Zuzu’s adventures and will miss hearing about her. Thank you for sharing such a tender piece of your heart and family with us!
Carrie, I am so sorry to hear about Zuzu. Her pictures stories will be missed.
Hugs. <3 <3
I’m very sorry.
Carrie, I’m so sorry for your loss of Zuzu! Sounds like she was a sweetie. Furbabies can be such a blessing.
Carrie, my heart aches for your loss of Zuzu. Our pets are such important parts of our families. Your tribute was beautiful. Zuzu sounds like she was an incredible dog. You have such beautiful memories and photos of her. I lost my dog this past February and I’m so grateful of the many amazing memories I had with her. I’m praying for you and your family.
Every time I think of this I cry. Sending love and hugs
I’m sorry for your loss! My two year old always enjoyed seeing pictures of Zuzu (as did I!). You are in my prayers.
Carrie, this is a beautiful tribute to ZuZu! Our lives are a little dimmer now that she is gone. Continuing to cover your family in prayer. ((((HUGS))))
so sorry to hear about your puppy. As a long time dog lover and owner, i know what you are going through. God bless you!
So sorry, Carrie. I know that she was another family member for you, such a part of your life. We are a dog family and understand your loss.
Carrie, you certainly have my sympathy. There is nothing like loving a dog and there is nothing like losing them! My blue heeler Buddy, who truly was MY buddy, passed away and I still feel his loss. God bless you!
Oh thank you, Connie!
I’m so sorry to hear about ZuZu. Their passing leaves a big hole in our heart and a too quiet home. I will miss hearing about her!
thank you Jeanne <3
I’m so sorry for your loss. We just lost my oldest shepherd who brought us such joy. I know it’s hard. Thank you for rescuing and giving her such a wonderful life.
Aww Veronica! I’m sorry too