RubyRose Hunter

2011 - 2023

On July 17, 2023 , I lost my everything. Ruby Rose a five-pound toy poodle who was an absolute treasure. She made each day worthwhile. She was my animal soulmate, constantly by my side for 11 years and 7 months. She was very smart and earned her registered therapy animal title as well as several other awards. She gave so much joy to people of all ages. At the library, she spent time with children helping them gain confidence in reading. She knew lots of tricks and would entertain us when we visited retirement homes and the hospital.

She helped me get through the death of my Mom, six months later Dad, a year later a sister, and three years later another sister.
Of course, my husband, my son and my daughter-in-law give me love and support. I appreciate everything they do, and I will always love them, but Ruby Rose was different. She was like a part of me. She communicated with me all the time.

She was to turn 12 in December. Ruby developed a mild heart murmur in 2019. She was diagnosed with severe degenerative valve disease which led to severe secondary heart enlargement in 2020. With medications she was doing well. She would have a syncope every now and then, but she would recover a few moments later. In May 2023, the syncope’s became more frequent. In June, we went to her vet and she adjusted meds. Ruby Rose showed improvement and in early July no more syncope’s and a good checkup. But …a week later God called her home. I am thankful that she went peacefully in my arms. For me it was like being hit by a truck. The pain was intense. My legs felt weak and if I had not been sitting already, I would have fallen. I hurt!
I am devastated. My heart is broken, and I feel so empty. I loved her to the depths of my soul. I talked with her daily, spent so much time with her. She was always by my side even when we slept.

I have lost humans that I loved, but the grief for my Ruby Rose seems much harder and intense. Most mornings I wake up with tears. I try to remember all the good memories we shared. Some days are better than others. There’s no motivation and no real desire to do anything anymore. My life just feels empty.