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February 2, 2013
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Rest In Peace

David and I say goodbye to our best friend Java

David-And-JaveMy husband David Alliker, and our beloved dog Java

…………………………

When I met David Alliker on July 4th weekend in 2008, I knew that I’d met the man I’d spend my life with.  At the time I had a Norfolk Terrier named Bruno (who passed away 3 years ago), and he had Java, a Chow/Lab mix he rescued from a shelter in Washington DC when she was 6 weeks old.

David and I married on July 24th, 2011, the first day Gay Marriage was legal in New York, and we celebrated with a few friends, and our beloved Java.  I know most folks with pets think that their dog or cat is the best pet ever, but honestly, Java was the most gentle, loving, and loyal dog either of us have ever known.

She was diagnosed with liver cancer last summer, and after wrestling with the risks of surgery for a 13-year-old dog, we went ahead.  She rebounded, and we began to have hope she would live another year as the vet suggested.

Unfortunately, that was not in the cards.  Quite suddenly two weeks ago she stopped eating, stopped responding to us, and within days was unable to walk.  David had Java in his life for 13 years, so the decision to shift the focus from his grief in loosing her to compassion for ending her suffering wasn’t an easy one, but he made it.   Together, like countless other pet owners, we held her while our vet put her to sleep.  David’s was the last face she saw as she left, which we have to believe comforted her.

This post is for you David.  There really isn’t anything I can say to ease the pain of loosing Java, but there is a song that I think might offer you some hope.

Rest in Peace Java.  You will be missed.

  • http://jfwhite.org/ James

    I’m very sorry to hear the news, but it’s nice to see you’re grateful for the 13 years of companionship and love. There’s no friend quite like a dog.

    • CJDellatore

      Thanks James. It was tough to say goodbye, but she’ll always be with us in spirit.

  • Bruce

    I just read your message about Java passing. I am so sorry for your loss.

    There is nothing that can replace the unconditional love, as Java warmed and filled your hearts with love and joy for 13 years but Java is now at peace. We can’t imagine the hardship of your lose.

    With our heartfelt sympathy,

    Bruce and Luis

    • CJDellatore

      Thank you Bruce, we both appreciate your kind words.

  • Anthony Costa

    I am so so sorry for you and David…. you all are in my thoughts and prayers…..

    • CJDellatore

      Thanks Anthony. She’ll always be in our hearts.

  • Sunday Tidwell

    I’m so very sorry. My heart goes out to David and you. Dogs are the best.

    • CJDellatore

      Thanks Carl.

  • Carl Lana

    sweet and fitting gesture…..my heart goes out to you both for your loss.

    • CJDellatore

      Thanks Carl, is so hard to walk around the apartment and not have her underfoot.