REMEMBERING BEAR

Loved by Paulette Henry

Bear was 5 years old, quiet, and shy, when we met him on June 16, 2016. He was chained to a doghouse and was rescued from a neglectful situation. We felt an immediate connection with him. He loved physical contact. After retiring I found a wonderful group of therapy dog volunteers, Paws for Love. Over a 3-year period, we logged 200+ visits to schools, nursing homes, Hospice patients and Family Justice Center, helping victims of domestic abuse. People of all ages loved Bear and he always made them smile.

Bear enjoyed RV camping and riding on his custom-made loft in our truck where he could see out the front window and be close to us. He was a trooper on hikes and exploring areas we visited. He was by our side for a 3-month cross country RV trip in 2019/2020. We moved to Virginia in 2020 and after pausing therapy work during the pandemic, we joined TheraPets in 2022, visiting libraries for the last 6 months of his life. Bear was our special pup. He was a sweet, gentle soul. His favorite things were belly rubs, riding in the truck, vanilla ice cream cones, walks and greeting people. He was with us whenever and wherever possible, local and long distance.

In May 2021, a cancerous lung mass was found and removed. He recovered but after 2 years another mass was found along with a rare, painful condition affecting his long bones. On May 8, 2023, just short of his 12th birthday, after 7 years with us, Bear went to the Rainbow Bridge.

We thank Dr Mallet and her team at Virginia Veterinary Specialists for exceptional care. They gave Bear a happy, healthy life 2 years post cancer diagnosis. We have so much gratitude.

We miss our gentle boy and think of him every day.