The poem below was written by Antonella Cappo, a staff breeder and good friend from Milan, Italy, who was here with us along with her partner Ornella Cami, at the time of our loss. Thank you Anto and Orni from our hearts.

Skip and Janine

To Candy

The Last Queen

You welcomed us just like a Queen, despite your 16 years

And your gaze veiled by pitiless ageing

Dignified in your wavering posture

Your head up high, your tail eager to show your sweetness

You slowly bend your ears when a hand gently strokes you

You climb one more time on your throne and look down on us through your tired eyes

Your time is ticking off and the other dogs all know this deep inside

They have not come close to your seat since yesterday after offering you a last tail wagging

Or a soft kiss on your muzzle

They keep at a respectfull distance and share our sorrow for your departure

A crown of white encircles your mighty head

Your muzzle is powerful, the look in your eyes is proud

We cannot stop a tear from trickling down our face while we take turns and sit next to you

Your muzzle resting on our hands

I've never met you before but your pictures, your metals and your prizes, all talk to me about you

Showing me how beautiful you were

Your womb that gave birth to so many champions is now betraying you

And accomodates what is inexorably taking you away from us

Candy is there, on her sofa, breathing slowly

A tear silently rolls down my cheek as her eyes close for the last time

     Antonella Cappo