My Papa and his Partner have raised amazing toy poodles for as long as I can remember.
They are down to two homebreds ... Ruthie and Lydia. We lost our Ruthie last week. She went gently in the arms of her friend, our Groomer, as Papa & Jim would have been too distraught and feared upsetting her.
She lived her last months as an Empress ... catered to, carried and spoiled. She ate what she wanted after a life time of managing her diet for allergies and weight. She slept where she wanted after years of having to share and rotate a spot on the bed with the Bichons and other poodles. She was always loved ... and the highlight of her year was when I went home.
From the moment I walked in the door, she was mine. As much as she adored the menfolk ... she was my dog. She slept with me, ate with me, I'd sneak her out for walks and treats and other no-nos :-)
My heart is a bit heavier tonight ... I did not get home in time to say good bye. I knew she was ill, but hoped that maybe she would bounce back as she has before. She was a Champion, produced Champions. A credit to her breed, for certain!
Farewell, My PoodleGirl Ruthie. Lydia & CurlyMae will miss you - and so will Papa, and Jim, and of course - your girl
Run free, my sweet girl ... I'll see you in a while.

Ruthie and her daughter Lydia in '08