Messages from Shasta's friends

Shortly after I had shared the news (via the blog) with you, many of Shasta's friends, we got many well wishes back from you. Some of you know Shasta rather well, because you have either dog-sat him, played with him, went camping with him, etc, etc.

I know that some of you do not like your names on the internet. However, I thought it would be best if I could share some of these well wishes with everyone. I think it just validates Jessica and my feelings on how special and precious Shasta was to us. I know I did not ask for any of your permissions to post your e-mails on this blog, but I'm sure you will forgive me for doing so.

(1)

Dearest Jessica and Gavin,

I had a lot to reflect in past few days after hearing about Shasta... Today, I went to your blog and read more about what you guys are going through... Your blog, so filled with love for Shasta and for each other made me cry... I am still crying and I type this email...

I think I can relate what you are going through... May not completely... But, I think so... I hate to use the word "pet" or "dog" to refer to Basil (or Hodori) either. I have known, cared for, and loved Basil close to 13 years now ever since she was 9 weeks old... I have known her longer than I have known Matt even... Matt always jokes about how Basil comes before him... And there is some truth to that. Different kind of love... I do think of Basil as my child... Actually... for a person who does not have a child, I don't know what it feel to have a child. All I know is that she is one of the closest "person" to me. If I think of Basil leaving me, I start to tear up and cry even if she is seating next to me... I don't know when Basil (or Hodori) will leave us... So, all I can do is to love them and care for them the best I can while they are here with me.

You two have been the best... Shasta had a wonderful life... Please find some comfort in that Shasta had a great life with two people who loved Shasta so much...

I am not good with words... Honestly, I don't know what I can say to make you two feel better... I don't think anything CAN make two of you feel better at this point. I just want you to know that I will be thinking of Shasta and you two as both of you go through the grieving process...

Love,
Jae

(2)

Hey Gavin and Jessica,

AJ and I are both very sorry about your loss.
Shasta was a cool dog, and your baby, and taken away too soon.

I read your blogs.
The whole griefing process is not pretty but is a necessary and tremendous release.
We cried buckets when our cat Bubby died late last year.
Now when I talk about him, my eyes still well up and we still constantly miss him.

Shasta was a very lucky dog because he was so lovingly cared for by you guys.
He showed his contentment by being so happy and mellow all the time!!
Not many dogs have the privilege of such loving homes.
And not many humans get the privilege to hang out with such a special character.
I hope you can find comfort in the fact that you helped give Shasta his very very happy life.

Have a safe trip home, Gav.
Take good care and talk soon!
Shian and AJ

(3)

Gavin and Jessica,

I’m sorry for the sad news. I can understand your desire to be left alone; but I just want to tell you guys that I miss Shasta too – always drooling during your bbq, coming to me with his smelly wet bone so I can play with him. Please take care of yourselves, and we’ll talk when the time is right. We miss you in the bay area.

Minnie

(4)
Sorry to hear about your loss.

Even in the short time I knew Shasta I liked him a lot. Always happy and friendly to all, with his tail wagging away . At our camp ground at Lake Shasta is where I got to hang out with him the most. Shasta was a funny dog that I liked to be around the more I played and hung out with him.

No words I can say will make you feel any better, but Shasta was a good dog who lived a good life and had two loving parents.

Take care