This morning our black dachshund Abby passed away. She had undergone 4 weeks of radiation and 16 weeks of chemotherapy this past summer. She was doing so well. We had returned last night from the Outer Banks, and she was a ball of energy. We were so happy to see that. This morning she would not get up and was very weak and disoriented. We immediately prepared to take her to the emergency vet. She passed away in our arms before we even left the bedroom. I don’t think it was the cancer. She was so strong and had seemed to really have conquered it. I think she had a stroke or other health issue. We will never know. 
I still remember bringing home that dachshund puppy on our first Christmas Eve in our new home 11 years ago as a gift for Brett. She weighed 2 pounds and fit into a kitchen scale. Early on she had back problems and had to have surgery. She overcame it immediately after surgery. We could not keep her from walking and climbing.
She was a wonderful dog. She loved curling up in our laps, especially under blankets. She had a knack for burrowing under the covers every night. She was like a hot brick. Her body just radiated heat.
Cancer didn’t faze her. Through her treatments, she was a trooper. Always playful and never aware of her illness. We owe so much to Brett’s parents for keeping her during her 4 weeks of radiation in Columbus. Her chemo back up here did not daunt her. She became an instant hit at oncologist’s office. The girls there just adored her. They told me they loved watching her wake up from the sedation and rubbing her eyes. She got fed many treats during these sessions.
We of course miss her dearly. The house seems quieter, even with Bosley and Emily still romping around. There’s no wiener dog asleep behind by neck on the couch while I watch TV. I will miss her this winter keeping her warm under the lap blanket while I watch TV. I know she has crossed the rainbow bridge.
The Rainbow Bridge
Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge.When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge.There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable.
All the animals that had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor.Those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by.
The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind.
They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent. His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster.
You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet,you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your
heart.Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together….