Penny was our angel on loan.
Born to an autoimmune-disordered body she did not deserve, each battle waged against her diminishing self created fresh challenges. In the end, small victories were no match for the war raging within.
Had she been an old dog, we might have let her peacefully slip away much sooner. But she was a baby, just two years of age. We could see her whole life ahead of her – or so we thought. Sometimes, the universe has plans that we just cannot know. Try as we might to change the tide, we were only really borrowing time.
Was it worth it? Yes. She was cared for and loved by many including her once-and-forever feral boyfriend, Red.
He lives in sanctuary with us in housing that he and Penny shared. A May-December romance. Their age difference was wide but their hearts were one. Sadly, it is not his first loss and he will need our extra care and loving to see him through.
An angel was returned to heaven today with pieces of our hearts paid in interest due.
Gardens For Goldens 
That’s so sad, but so good that she got to be loved by human and canine friends during her short life. RIP Penny, and struggle no more.
Such a sad read. My heart grieves for both of them. Rest in peace, sweet Penny. Red, I am so sorry.
Love to you all. xo
My heart hurts! I adored this little girl. Life was not fair to her. She was loved by many, and I want Penny to join my pack in heaven, and I will see her again. RIP beautiful little girl. I am honored to have known and loved you…even though time was short.
I’m so touched by the relationship between Penny and Red. What a sweet story, despite the heartache. It’s beautiful to learn of how much love Penny received, even though she had such a short life. I wish I could give Red some of those well-needed hugs.
I will pass one on for you. 🙂
Oh, so sad that Penny was called home. But at least she knew love during her short life. Hugs to all of you but especially to Red.
DId you see that photographer who just published a book about humans and their dying dogs? I could only look at a few of them. The raw grief in the people was too hard for me to see. I think this is what animals do to us. They make us better people.
I know that this is hard to read. But we were her family now, and she should be remembered here. The losses are thankfully few. But you are right: we are better for knowing them and having tried no matter how hard it is to say goodbye.
Bless HGBRR and all the volunteers… Penny had a brief but loving life. That is more than can be said for many a stray and suffering dog. Thank God for HBGRR and all that give of their time and heats. XOXOX from Poe.
We are so sorry for your loss. Run free sweet Penny 💜🌈
I’m at a loss for words, but grateful she was surrounded by so many caring people.
Our thoughts are with you.
Sending love & pawsitive energy to Red.
Penny received the greatest gift, your love.
💜 nose nudges 💜