“If ever there is tomorrow when we’re not together…there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart… I’ll always be with you.” ~ Winnie the Pooh
Shelby’s story of faith, patience, perseverance and love touched us deeply.
The reward for her surrender to trust: she left Homeward Bound for a forever home of her own.
‘Forever’ turned out to be much too short. Symptoms revealed Hemangiosarcoma; and while Shelby’s new family’s belief in her worked miracles on her emotional wounds – it, sadly, could not heal her cancer.
Shelby crossed the bridge this week – at home. For however brief the joy of her homecoming, she was surrounded by love.
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”
Shelby took our breath away. Our hearts break for her family – our fellow Homeward Bound volunteers and friends – whose bravery and strength have been so severely tested. Still, we know that Shelby will always be with them.
For Shelby – we say “Run free, girl. Run free!”
Gardens For Goldens 
Shelby’s story is sad but happy. Sad because her life was cut short. Happy because she achieved her ultimate dream – a family of her own. I hope her family comes back and gets another special dog to join their family and that they have a long and happy relationship. Rest Shelby.
Beautifully said, Judy. Thank you.
I will forever have the memory of this girl’s sweet smile in my heart. Rest well Shelby girl. Run with my precious Kenai up there. Love and prayers to your family, I, unfortunately, know exactly how this feels.
Her loss is felt by so many. Thank you, Stacy.
I am so thankful for the humans who saw the flower beneath the thorns. I am sure that your faith in Shelby and the love that you gave to her made her a very happy girl.
However short her forever home – she was loved – by all.
I am so saddened by this news. Tears………Shelby was a beautiful girl and was so happy to get her forever home. Prayers for her family.
Thank you, JoAnn. What a special girl to won the love of so many.
No matter how much time, it is never enough. I am so glad she got to be with her family, even if the end came far too soon.
So true, Kristine. Thank you.
Sweet Shelby, you will be missed – it is because of you and others like you, that we continue our dedicated work at Homeward Bound – in the gardens and all around. Loving thoughts to Shelby’s family!
Thank you, Ina. 🙂
my heart is breaking for her family..both in her forever home and the rescue, she was beautiful and I am thankful she knew true love in her life, my heart and prayers go out to all of those who loved her
Thank you, Carie.
Thank you for such a beautiful tribute to our girl. We miss her deeply already and know there are many volunteers at Homeward Bound who grew to love her over the years that are grieving as well. You are the voice when there is none.
Hugs from so many surround you and Steve. No words are necessary. You, Steve and Shelby are simply in our hearts.
That last picture says it all…she fully loved and trusted you. Finally…someone she felt safe with. It was short, but it was pure. Many pass on (two legged and four) that never feel that true, pure, honest love. Shelby did with you. What a gift you gave her.
Beautifully said, Lorrie. Thank you.
I am so sorry you guys!
Thank you, Chris.
May she rest in peace.
Thank you.
Beautiful tribute…very sorry for the loss of such a special girl.
Thank you. She is deeply missed.
Shelby could not have been in a better place for the end of her life than with Chris and her family. My condolences to everyone who knew and loved Shelby.
Agreed, Jill. Thanks for sharing.