Elegy for Matthew
One of the very hardest things we do in rescue is say goodbye. One of Big Fluffy Dog Rescue’s very own had to do that today for the second time in as many weeks for a beloved pet and our hearts break for her and her family. Matthew came to Donna as a rescue last year that never left. He was already quite elderly on arrival, but there was something about him that was so wonderful it could not be explained. All dogs are special, but some dogs are just magic and Matthew was definitely magic. This sweet, soulful boy loved Donna with everything he had and it is very apparent the feeling was mutual.
Last night, Matthew could not get up and his poor legs just would not work anymore, even though he willed them to move. Donna had known from the outset that the grains of sand left in the hourglass were few for Matthew, even on the very day she brought him home. Matthew’s love for Donna and his family shone that much brighter to make up for the brevity of time he had with her. For all of us, the time we have with any dog we love is a gift. However, we do not get to keep those we love forever no matter how much we wish we could and for all of us, there will be a day when we have to return the gift and let someone we love go.
Matthew left this world this morning as the beloved family member of the Brennan household. His sweet wrinkly face will not grace us again in this world, but we’ll see you on the other side, Matthew. You were loved and you took excellent care of your family. Rest easy.

My heart is broken for the Brennan family over the loss of their beloved Matthew. HUGS to all and thank you Donna for all you have and will do for the fluffies. You are an angel and now your Matthew is in heaven looking down and wagging his tail— pain free.
Gail Harris
July 5, 2012 at 4:33 pm
I am truly sorry Donna. It is very hard to say good bye. My thoughts are with you and your family today.
July 5, 2012 at 4:36 pm
Matthew – you will be deeply missed by all who were honored to know you and love you. You were a gentle giant and we are so blessed to have gotten the chance to spend time with you. You will never be forgotten. Love – Christen, Madison and Delaney.
July 5, 2012 at 4:41 pm
so sorry for your loss, Donna and family. I know it is just one of the hardest things there is. Thinking of you all.
Amber
July 5, 2012 at 4:46 pm
What a beautiful spirit! These old guys are the absolute BEST ever! We have had two – one with us for just over 4 years, and one for 5 months, and both were beautiful blessings and a gift to our family. There is something so very special about these goofy old boys that bring such joy into our lives. And, to give a gift of happiness, love, and security to one of them brings so much in return. I still miss my boys, but am so thankful they were in our lives. Wishing you much comfort and blessings by many wonderful memories of Matthew…
July 5, 2012 at 5:01 pm
I am soooo sorry Dnna. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Thankyou for taking such loving care of all of the pup’s <3
July 5, 2012 at 5:04 pm
Two of mine will meet him at the Rainbow Bridge and make him feel at home.
July 5, 2012 at 5:30 pm
OH…Super sad…;o( You’re so lucky to have been able to spend time with him~!
July 5, 2012 at 5:35 pm
So very sorry. My heart is heavy for you.
July 5, 2012 at 6:17 pm
I’m very sorry for your loss, Donna. Some dogs really are just magic.
July 5, 2012 at 6:39 pm
So sorry. My heart aches for you and your family.
But I am sure all of my pups are there with him at the Rainbow Bridge. Sharing their toys and treats. And they are in good hands with our leader, Linda Jensen, who we lost last year also.
As I sit here teary eyed, I know all of our pups are OK with Linda there to care for all of them.
God Bless.
Linda
July 5, 2012 at 7:58 pm
I am so sorry, Donna. Each loss leaves a hole in our world, and in our heart. Thank you for giving him a good home and lots of love…….that is what he knew and what you will remember.
July 5, 2012 at 10:13 pm
So sorry to hear about Matthew! My thoughts are with you and your family at this very sad time.
July 5, 2012 at 10:46 pm