Paw Paw: I will miss him

UPDATE: Thank you for the many kind words, they are most appreciated. I have added a new picture of Paw Paw's final resting place at the end of this post.

As many of you know, my beloved dog, Kublai Khan Paw Paw Chow Chow Chow, was not feeling well in recent weeks and I am very heart-broken to announce his passing last Saturday, April 12, 2008 as he was approaching his 13th year.  Paw Paw was a spectacular chow and an even more spectacular dog.  He was always my loyal companion, displaying the most agreeable temperament.  Paw Paw loved traveling with me and was always a willing model for the camera.  In addition to taking part in television commercials and several national print ads, he has been part of numerous photo shoots and is a familiar face on my television show, in my magazine, and on this blog.  Paw Paw’s veterinarians, Dr. Thomas Marsh of Fairfield, CT and Dr. Marty Goldstein of South Salem, NY also admired his easy-going nature, and caring for him was never a chore.  Even in his final days, Paw Paw just stopped eating and drifted off to deep sleeps, where he now rests peacefully, and, I’m most confident, quite happily.  I will miss him, always. 

Paw Paw in the pachysandra one week before he died. He loved walking through soft green ground covers.

One of Paw Paw's final smiles.

Paw Paw - the “last day” of a great dog - Kublai Khan Paw Paw Chow Chow Chow.

Paw Paw's thoughts that day: “Martha got up really early to check on me, again.  She took a picture of
the beautiful morning.”

I went outside for one last pee.

Paw Paw the day before - he just wanted to sleep.

A sleepy bear.

My best friend and baby sitter, Carlos.

Francesca does not look happy.  I know she will miss me.

My two little gargoyles flanking me - I'm just so tired.

They just could not get close enough.

Francesca stood guard while Sharkey just wanted to nap with me.

I'll just stay here a little longer.

Lily has been my very good friend for my whole life.

Martha always liked to bury in my fur.  I'll miss those hugs and kisses.

She nuzzled me so gently.

I'm not even dreaming anymore.

I really don't want to eat anymore.

Beauty-Boy, Paw-Paw was elegant and kind and reserved and charming up until the very last moment.  He was the only pet I ever had, with the exception of Blue Maximilian Chow Chow Chow, who was never disobedient, and never, ever, required me to raise my voice.

Francesca and Sharkey paying last respects to Paw Paw before his burial.

April 12th, 2008 was an early spring day.  It was the day Paw Paw was laid to rest amidst the crocus and greening grass.

I will make this more beautiful in the coming days

Comments

[Lauren Ames]

Sweet Paw Paw,

May god bless your sweet soul. I know you will be missed but you are now in a better place. I never met you but you touched the world with your presence.

[Brett--Fort Wayne, IN]

Martha~
Just know that our thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time of loss. PawPaw was a beautiful dog and he surely loved you!

[bernadette]

My heart breaks for you! What a wonderful friend PawPaw was! Paw Paw will be missed!

[Karen Thornburgh]

What a loving tribute to a loyal companion. The photographs are absolutely touching. For everyone who has had the unconditional love of an animal your affection resonates through all our spirits.

[Shannon (from NC)]

Hello Martha,
I am so very sorry for your loss. A pet is one of the most special companions in all the world. I know you will miss him dearly. Please take some comfort in knowing that Paw Paw will always be able to watch over you, your other companions and your home.
Sincerely,
Shannon (from NC).

[Jackir]

Martha, I am so sorry.

[erin in dallas]

Dear Martha,
What a beautiful tribute. I hope your sweet memories will soothe your heart.
Take care.

[Steve Shelton]

As I write this, my (baby) Cocker Spaniel is relaxing in a chair watching me with adoration. I wish that I had something to say to help cheer you up in your grief, but I know there is nothing to mend the broken heart of one that has lost her best friend. God bless Paw Paw.

This is a very sad day for all of his fans who loved seeing his beautiful face.

Thinking of you and wishing you a lighter heart in the coming days.

Steve Shelton

[Louis Gastelum]

Martha,

I am so sorry to hear this. Paw Paw was a beautiful dog. I love my dogs and us dog lovers know that our dogs are like our children. They can never be replaced and the unconditional love that they provide us is priceless.

Francesca and Sharkey will miss him so but you guys can comfort each other as you get use to Paw Paw's absence.

We all will miss seeing Paw Paw on television.

You are in my thoughts,
Louis J. Gastelum

[Tara]

I was sorry to hear of Paw Paw's passing. Paw Paw seemed like an amazing dog, and I will miss hearing stories of him and seeing him on your show. I wish you peace and comfort at this sad time.

[Catherine]

Martha,
That was the most heart-wrenching and wonderful tribute to a beloved pet I've ever seen.

I know he was your "bestest" friend and you will miss him more than anyone will know.

Thinking of you . . . and Paw Paw

[darrell white]

Thank you so much for sharing this Martha. I'm surprised at how sad I was after seeing these pictures. The picture of you buying your face into him really shows your heart and ability to love.

That picture meant a lot to me.

Thank you
Darrell White
Toronto, Canada

[julie james]

ah paw paw ... will be missed by all his fans who love to see him and hear about him!

[Oatmeal Cookie Guy]

Martha,

What a cute dog. I'm so sorry for your loss. I've always wanted a dog and would love to adopt one who is in need of a good home. But I'm afraid of the loss I'd feel when the dog passes away.

[Mary]

What a wonderful tribute. Pets are our children and deserve the best care possible. My thoughts are with you with the passing of PawPaw.

[Angela]

I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved friend! My prayers are with you as you grieve your loss.

[Kathy]

What a sweet dog. My deepest condolences.

[Greg Marzullo]

Oh, Martha, I'm so sorry for your loss. Chows are wonderful dogs (I grew up with them in our home), and Paw Paw was exceptionally beautiful and well-tempered.

Be well.

[Stacy]

This just made me cry. I never met this beautiful dog but he just looked so gentle and sweet. God bless Paw Paw.

[Trish]

Martha,

I am so sad. I loved Paw Paw! You have all lost a most beautiful friend! Thank you for the prescious pictures which I will enjoy later when I stop crying. I wished I could have met him; I so wanted to feel his soft fur and look into that cute face of his. Hugs to you, Francesca and Sharkey. Trish

[Jen]

April 12 2007 was the day my best friend died after 14 years of being my most loyal companion. Exactly one year prior to Paw-Paw.

I know how your heart must be broken & I cant say it gets much better any time soon. April 12 will always be a grim day for the both of us even with the beautiful blooms and green grass.

[Linda Bateman]

Dear Martha,
Please accept my deepest sympathy in loss of your beautiful dog, Paw Paw. The beautiful pictures brought tears to my eyes. It is never easy to lose a beloved pet. He was a faithful companion to you, Sharkey and Francesca. It looks like they were great pals. I enjoyed seeing him on your show.
I am so sorry for your loss.

[Jennifer]

I'm so sorry to hear of Paw Paw's passing. He was a very special dog. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time.

[Lou]

It's so sad to hear of Paw Paw's departure. I also had to say goodbye to my spitz, Phenix (cq) C, on an April day. And she was also 13 years old. It's great that you took pictures of Paw Paw to the last. When Phenix C neared the end of her life I took time off from work to do all the things we enjoyed and took photos to remember the joy of those moments. That's the one thing I recommend to friends when they say their pay may be going soon. I tell them to do their favorite things and keep taking photos.

[Kristen]

This was such a beautiful tribute. Thinking of you Martha.

[Shannon]

Martha,
I am so sorry to hear that Paw Paw passed away. Paw Paw was very loved by you and had a great life. My dog, Spicy, of 14 years passed away when I was 23.(Last year) I grew up with him and it felt like I lost a little brother. Pets are a part of the family and can bring true joy to our lives. I'm sure you brought great joy to Paw Paw life as well. A sweet way to give tribute to your pet is to fill out this book called "All about My Dog" by Philipp Keel. Its a good way to keep memories and there are fun questions about its personality such as your dog would have which of the following occupations? It makes me smile and remember the good times.

Take care,

Shannon

[Desiree']

Martha,
I got really choked up reading about the loss of Paw Paw. I really enjoyed seeing him on your shows over the years. Our dogs are our faithful friends and the pain of loosing them can be tremendous. I am truly sorry for your loss.

[Janet]

My goodness, Martha - What a beautiful tribute and such an honor for you to share this with us.

Thank you, and Sweet dreams, sweet Paw Paw.

[Dale]

I think many of us felt Paw Paw was a part of our lives, I will miss seeing him, he always made me feel happy when he was on your show.

[Ashley]

I am deeply sorry for your loss. I understand how pets are family and the passing of them is an incredible burden to bare. We lost our little Yorkshire last year and we continue to mourn her loss but look back on the memories she gave us with great appreciation and joy.
Thanks for sharing Paw Paw with the rest of the world.

[Jenn]

Martha - My heart aches for the loss of your beloved Paw Paw. Big Martha must have been in need of another companion.

[Phyllis]

Your tribute made me cry.

[Renee]

Thank you for sharing with us. Our pets are sometimes more "family" too us than our humans.

Our Black Lab, Governor Dudley of Cow Island, died one evening about 15 years ago, he was "not feeling well", looked up at my husband and died. He was 12. We never got another dog-there was only one Dudley, our third child, and we felt he could not be replaced in our hearts.

Dudley was interred on our property, resting under a now 10' pine tree. "Dudley's Tree"-a tree that I grew from a pine cone in a plastic container on our deck. As Dudley aged and his hips sometimes refused to take him off our deck to pee, he would personally 'water' the little tree-so it was fitting that the tree now marks his final nap spot.

[Nancy]

Oh Martha...I am so sorry for your loss. What a beautiful tribute to him. You will miss him.
We had a beautiful golden retriever, Sara Jane. She passed away 7 years ago...it was very hard for about a year. We have very fond memories of her.

Wishing you the best
Hugs, Nancy

[Christine]

Martha,
My deepest sympathies on your loss of the beautiful Paw Paw. I have found a love of Chows by watching Paw Paw over the years with his beauty and grace. Your pictures and his thoughts of his last days have me sitting here in tears. My thought and prayers are with you.
Christine

[Jennifer]

I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. My pets, cotton the cat and Brittney the chocolate lab are definitely part of the family. The tribute on the blog is just beautiful and I feel for your other dogs that surely will be looking for Paw Paw for some time to come.

[Anne]

OH, I am so sad to learn of Paw Paw's passing. But what a beautiful photo tribute you put together for him and for all of us who admired him closeby or from afar. There are tears in my eyes as I write this. Rest well, dear Paw Paw!

[Jennifer]

I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. My pets, cotton the cat and Brittney the chocolate lab are definitely part of the family. The tribute on the blog is just beautiful and I feel for your other dogs that surely will be looking for Paw Paw for some time to come.

[Kerry]

Dear Martha:

I logged onto your blog this morning and was so sad to hear of Paw Paw's passing. I viewed the beautiful pictures and words you wrote for him and tears just streamed down my face. I am so sad. He has been such a part of your shows that I feel like I knew him. He was a handsome, sweet boy and he will be missed. My deepest sympathy to you Martha.

Sincerely,
Kerry in Maine

[Sandra]

I am sorry for your loss. I too love my pets like family and know the pain of letting one go. 3 years ago my cat Snoopy left us at the age of 18. She was one year younger then my sister and always part of our family so it was very hard for all of us. One day she just went to sleep and we couldn't wake her.
Thank you for sharing his life with us, he blessed many.

[Jeff]

Dearest Martha and four-legged friends:

I am deeply sorry for the loss of your beloved friend and companion, Paw Paw. God speed him to that lovely place, where green fields, tall trees and lovely flowers await. Remember that he will always be with you in spirit. Your photos brought tears to my eyes. You and yours are in my prayers.

[Jodi Anderson]

Awwww, I'm sorry for your loss, Martha. I cried reading this.

There just aren't any words; I'm so glad that you have these very special photos.

[Dan]

Martha:

My condolances.

Dan

[David Jones]

What a very handsome dog He is and always will be. It is sad but I wish him and you the best. Thank You for letting him be our dog as well. I wish I could share Fred, my dog, with you.

David and Fred

[Susie]

Dear Martha,

Paw Paw is at peace. You will love him forever and as time goes by, you will love him even more.

I lost my Sugar, a yellow lab eight years ago. It was difficult in the beginning, she was such a part of our lives but when it was time,it was time and she went peacefully. I will love her forever and that just suits me fine. Time will heal all of your hearts. God bless you all.

[Marta Kuzmiak]

Dear Martha,

My heart goes out to you. You loved Paw Paw dearly and he had a life fit for a king. I am sure he is thinking of You as he is running around in his new resting place at "Sunny Acres".
Sincerely,
Marta

[Gary Parker]

Dearest Martha:

My heart truly goes out to you. Next to the losss of a beloved relative, the loss of a beloved pet is just as devistating. I have two dogs ages 15 and 14. I know that when their time comes I will be just as proud to have had them in my life as you were with Paw Paw. This is a beautiful tribute to a loyal and trusted family member. He will be with you always.

[Christy Donahue]

Please accept my heartfelt sympathy and deepest condolences on the passing of your beloved Paw Paw. My dog and cats are a dear part of my family and my heart goes out to you on the loss of your beloved family member. Your tribute and pictures of Paw Paw's final days were very moving.

[Jessica]

Martha, I am so sorry for your loss. I loved seeing pictures of Paw Paw in your magazines over the years. You and Paw Paw are in my thoughts and prayers.

[Paula M.]

Dear Martha,
How very, very sorry I am that you lost one of your beloved and dear, beautiful, fur friend, Paw Paw. I read this Blog and cried. Such a beautiful tribute and photos. Losing a pet is never easy and one cannot replace the unconditional love and gratitude Paw Paw gave you. I will miss him dearly in your books, magazines and on your show. He was a blessed dog to have your love and care and a good life. I am truly sorry.
I am in the same place right now. I am losing my 17 1/2 yr old Yorkshire Terrier, Higgins tomorrow. Like Paw Paw he is failing fast and I have the appointment set up for tomorrow morning. I grieve also.

There is a prayer called the "Rainbow Bridge" that I thought you'd like to see. Maybe you are familar with it.
May Paw Paw and Max, and all your "Angel" pets watch over you Martha, and wait to someday meet you again in Heaven.

"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 who 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.... "

Author unknown...

God Speed Paw Paw. May your star shine brightly in heaven to show you had a happy life here on Earth.
I will look for his star in the sky tonight, along with Higgins' tomorrow.
God bless you Martha,
Paula

[Rhea]

I know from your writings how much you loved Paw Paw. This tribute to him was fabulous. Even showing the burial. Most people hide from death, but this faced it head on. Dogs are the best companions!

[Sherey]

Martha...we will all miss darling Paw Paw.

Your tribute is no surprise...you are so kind and exceptionally caring to all your animals. Dear Paw Paw is resting in a beautiful place.

[Jenn]

Ms. Martha,

I am sorry for your loss. Losing a pet is a very hard thing, but you must focus on the wonderful time you shared and how you gave him a wonderful comfortable life. You will meet back up with Paw Paw as he is waiting for you on rainbow bridge. Your tribute was beautiful and showed what a charmed life he lived with you. A very lucky pup.

Sincerely, Jenn

[John Askin]

My personal regrets, Martha to you and your emidiate dog family. Paw,Paw was a great and strong dog. He will be missed.

Sincerely

John T Askin

[Pat]

Your wonderful tribute to PawPaw brought me to tears, and the Rainbow bridge poem is amazing. Our pet is our child also. I dread the day when he leaves us. They are our children, our companions, our friends. Sincere condolences to you.

[mbbeard]

Martha, You are so sweet to share this tribute. It just made me cry. I laid next to my own dog (currently sleeping in the sun) and just hugged her and gave thanks for her companionship. You were a great "mother" to Paw Paw. I'm sorry for your loss.

[Barbara]

Your tribute to Paw Paw is beautiful and heartfelt. I am amazed at how our beloved pets touch our hearts. The unconditional love they give makes our lives so rich. I remember the day we got our 7 week old mini schnauzer who will be 12 this July 4th. The joy I felt when I first held her had a touch of sadness as well, knowing that even a long life for a pet is too, too short. Nevertheless, I would never, never have missed having this pet in my life. I am sorry for your loss. Thank you for sharing your beautiful tribute.

[Jessi Nagy]

Ahh, Martha that was just so sweet! he was the best dog, im sure he will be missed dearly!
Im glad you have your 2 other little spit fires to help you get through this. it's never easy loosing a best friend! My thoughts are with you!
oxooxox,
jessi

[Kate]

I am so sorry to hear of Paw-Paw's passing. You always spoke with such love when you mentioned him and he was also so lovable on air. We lost our wonderful Raleigh, a Basset - Retriever mix, in December and it just about broke our hearts. Now we are blessed with wonderful memories and occasional chuckles that bring smiles to our faces. I hope time brings you the same.

[Terriaw]

Oh my goodness, my heart goes out to you, Martha. Paw Paw sure was a sweet companion. May he rest in peace and may you find comfort in your heart. Blessings, Terri

[Jyesika]

Dear Martha, Just a note to express my condolences for the loss of Paw Paw. Those last photos of the pugs with Paw Paw are so sad, I wonder if they could sense that he was ill. Hopefully they will enjoy their Paw Paw sweaters you had made with the Paw Paw yarn.
Paw Paw always seemed so well behaved and elegant, and was always such a treat to see on the show or in photos.

[laura]

Martha,

You handled this with such grace and deep sympathy. I cannot tell you how much your documenting this process means to me. I lost my 17-year-old Cocker named "Ruffles" last April. The pictures of your two babies flanking Paw Paw made me cry. What wonderful animals dogs are. Thanks again, blessings to Paw Paw, and keep your chin up.

[Karen Porrazzo]

Dear Martha, Thank you for everything you do to help the lives of others, and thank you for allowing us to share your personal sadness at Paw Paw's passing on. I felt your grief as you nuzzled for perhaps one last time. We have a companion dog, a yellow lab named DOC who goes to school with my daughter,Sarah. It sadd ens me to think of losing her,she is such a loving presence in our community,always gentle and sweet. Dogs like Paw Paw and DOC bring such peace and joy to all who are fortunate to know them. Our prayers are with you and your family. Karen

[Trisha]

Martha-

I know I am a stranger but this post brought me to tears. I am so sorry for your loss. I am a huge animal lover and my heart breaks whenever I hear someone has lost one of their family members. but Paw Paw lived such an amazing and beutiful life and had one of the best mothers any four legged friend could ask for.

Take care.
Trisha

[Suzannah]

Marhta,
Please accept my deepest sympathy in the loss of your dear Paw Paw. I lost my Rottweiler last year, two months shy of his 13th birthday. Your tribute blog is beautiful. I wish I had pictures of my dogs last day and I think it is wonderful that you took a picture of him wrapped up. I burried my dog in his favorite quilt. Paw Paw was a lucky dog to have a caring and loving owner like you and I'm sure you felt blessed to be able to have a wonderful dog like him. Hug Francesca and Sharky a little tighter and let them help you through this rough time.

With Love and Sympathy,
Suzannah
Tennessee

[Anna]

Im sorry to hear of Paw Paws passing. I recently lost my best friend, my dear Bichon. I am currently doing a scrapbook of her, and is helping me adjust to her abscence. I am comforted by the fact that we will one day meet again at the Rainbow Bridge. God Bless

[Suzie]

Your tribute to Paw Paw in his last hours is so touching and beautiful. Knowing you were with him
at the very end meant everything to him. You were his best friend!

We will all miss this magnificent chow chow. Paw Paw you were so special. Enjoy all the fresh soft grass and eternal sunshine forever.

[Emily]

Oh Martha how sad but Paw Paw I am sure lived a very wonderful life and was obviously loved more than any dog could imagine. You took so great care of him and gave him the best life possible. Your tribute brought me to tears as we all have beloved pets we wish were still with us.

[Jon]

Martha, words can not express how truly heartsick I am at the passing of your most wonderful baby boy, Paw Paw. The unconditional love from our dogs is a very hard thing to lose.
You were an excellent steward of a beautiful little soul who's life was filled with caring and love.
Rest peacefully Paw Paw. . .Good Dog!

[Ali]

I'm so sorry, Martha. God bless you and bless your beautiful Paw Paw.

[Sally Arnold]

Your most touching tribute to Paw Paw made me cry as well. I loved the picture of you buring your face in him...he knew how much you love him!

He and Big Martha are watching over you!

[Anna]

Im sorry to hear of Paw Paws passing. I recently lost my best friend, my dear Bichon. I am currently doing a scrapbook of her, and is helping me adjust to her abscence. I am comforted by the fact that we will one day meet again at the Rainbow Bridge. God Bless

[Joan Fluor Mason, OH]

Dear Martha,

So sorry to hear of the passing of Paw Paw, he is in "animal heaven" now. I know you will miss terribly.

He had a beautiful life being your loving companion.

We all love your animals as if they were our own through all your beautiful pictures.

The photos are so heart felt and Sharkey and Francesca could tell Paw Paw was not well.

God Bless. Joan Fluor Mason, OH

[Liane McCumber]

Dear Martha-

I am so saddene by your loss of Paw Paw as we devoted followers of you have grown to incorporate him into our own hearts. It brings back many memories for me of my doggy people,the one I recently lost and the new member who has adopted us. Particularly in your blog the photo of you hugging him during his last days and the 'Frenchies' paying their last respects brought me to tears of gentle remembrances and the years of love your companion brought you. Remember, all dogs DO go to heaven!
Love from us Martha!
Liane, JT Renoir and Chiara Jolie

[j]

Awe, bless you and your family Martha. What a beautiful tribute. Take Care.

[Judy]

I am truly saddened by your loss, Martha. I know your heart is aching and that you will miss Paw Paw very much. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all those who loved him so dearly.

[Janeen]

So sorry for your loss!! That was a very sweet tribute to your sweet friend.

[Harper]

A beautiful post. Paw Paw died the way he lived, with grace.

[Claudine]

I am so sorry to hear the news of Paw Paw's passing. It was so touching and sad to see the stories and pictures above. It is so difficult dealing with the passing of a pet, I still get very sad thinking of my sweet Frieda the Great Dane. They do become your best friends and family.
Take care!
Claudine

[Adelaide]

So sorry to read about your pal Paw Paw. Losing a precious friend is very difficult and I hope you are not too sad. Please know that there are many who share an understanding of your loss and wish you all the best.

[MMLK]

My heart goes out to you & all those that loved Paw Paw. I once was in a town called Paw Paw, Michigan. I will admit I had tears in my eyes as I looked through all the beautiful photos of your beloved companion & I felt deep feelings of love between you & your friend. I wish you peace and comfort during this time.

[MARY SIRLS]

My deepest regrest to you on Paw Paw's passing. I am so sorry and had a beautiful chow chow my self years back. He was as loving and the best pet.. wait family member we ever adopted. He to lived to 13 and just drifted to sleep. What a sad day.

[Annette]

I'm so sorry for your loss.

[Cara]

Martha,

I am sorry for your loss. I always loved hearing you tell stories about Paw Paw! You can rest assured his memory will live on not only with you, but all of your fans. :)

xoxo,
Cara

[Tracy]

Martha, caring thoughts and prayers are sent your way. We all know how much you loved PawPaw. He knew he was well loved, too. Blessings, Tracy

[Sean Milton]

Martha,

I feel that Paw Paw was a constant in our lives for so many years and I will miss seeing his fluffy face. Your beautiful words and pictures brought me to tears...
Sean

[Carol in NC]

Martha, I know your heart is breaking. May your beautiful Paw Paw rest in peace and may his memory live forever in your heart.

[ks]

Oh, Martha, I'm so sorry. Paw Paw was so well-loved, and I appreciate you sharing his last days with us.

[Cindy Douglas]

Sweet PawPaw~You were blessed with a beautiful life that was filled with love and adoration from your 'mommy' Martha. We all grew to adore you.
Martha~I cry for your loss...but know sweet PawPaw will be with you again one day. They wait for us in Heaven.

Cindy Douglas
Frisco, Texas

[Jeanine]

I don't normally comment (I am more of a lurker) but I really wanted you to know how sorry I was for your loss. This post made me cry because I know that pain and I know how you must be feeling. My thoughts are with you.

[Anna]

So sorry for your lose of Paw Paw, what a wonderful heart and soul he had. Your pictures of his tribute are beautiful.
I recently lost my dear pal, three weeks ago, just a month and a half before turning 14.
I will miss her for a very long time. Someday we will meet again at the "Rainbow Bridge"
God Bless you Martha.

[Roann]

Martha
I'm so sorry for your loss and I know how you feel. I lost my dog of 18 years 3 years ago. I try to only remember what a wonderful companion to me and my family she was. You do the same.

[Carly Killpack]

Martha,
My thoughts are with you today as you remember your friend and loyal companion Paw Paw. I'm sorry you are hurting at the loss of your beautiful friend.

[A longtime fan]

Oh, Martha. But Paw Paw lived such a rich, full life. May his spirit ever grace your surroundings.

[Pam Carey]

Martha, I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. It's amazing how our pets find that special spot within our hearts. They love us and accept us no matter what and they are always there to greet us at the end of the day. They give us so much joy inside it's hard to describe. I sometimes think my cats understands when I talk to them. I know my dog who I lost 8 years ago did and I'm sure Paw Paw understood you. I feel your sadness and I understand how much you will miss him.
God Bless you as you go thru this.
Pam/DE

[Bill (From Mount Desert Island, Maine)]

Dearest Martha,

I am so very sorry (and saddened) to hear of the recent passing of your beloved Paw-Paw. He was undoubtedly not only an unconditionally loving (and well-loved) gentle giant in your life (and to those of us who had the fortune of briefly meeting him as I did recently last October 2, 2007 when he came over to me and slept at my feet during the entire show), but also, I'm sure, a welcomed and trusted friend. Oh, if only some humans could exhibit and be such a fine example of unconditional love ... as Paw-Paw was, did (and continues to be) for you and us.

I'm certain that if you were able to do so right now, you would see him playing happily (or snoozing peacefully in a lush, heavenly garden) on the other side where he has been reunited with those (including your dear Mother) who also loved him.

May the rebirth, promise and newness of the spring season (along with the wonderful memories that you have made and shared with Paw-Paw over his many loving earthly years) provide you with a healing source of peace (of heart, mind and soul) knowing that one day you will be once again reunited ... not to be separated ever again!

With heartfelt condolences, blessings and love,
Bill
Northeast Harbor, Maine

[Holly]

Martha, I'm so sorry to hear of Paw Paw's passing. Such a wonderful doggie - I always enjoyed seeing him! You made a lovely tribute to him on your blog. He was a well loved pet...

[Gloria Brown]

A VERY LOVING FAREWELL…THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR HUMBLE TRIBUTE HONORING PAW PAW.

[Kenn]

Dear Martha,
I'm so sorry to hear of Paw Paw's passing.. I know how terribly difficult it is and the feeling of sadness can be overwhelming. My heart and thoughts are with you.
--Kenn

[Katie]

Wow, I'd have to say a blog post has never made me cry before, but this is the saddest post I've ever read. What a beautiful story you have told with these pictures and I'm sure Paw Paw is running around happy now. My prayers are with you and your family/staff to heal your loss felt. I'm sure he will be truly missed by all.

[Karen Preston]

Oh Martha I am so sorry for your loss. A lot of people say loosing a pet is "like" loosing a memeber of your family. I am more inclined to say Loosing a beloved pet is loosing a member of ones family. He was a beautiful dog! I am sure his spirit lives on with you and yours. My thoughts are with you.

[Brenda Munro]

My heart goes out to you & Paw Paws little friends, as all of you grieve the passing of your beautiful and faithful friend. What a touching memorial you've made for him. I've shed tears for him and will miss seeing him on the show. I'm so glad you were with him...

[Beth]

What a wonderful tribute to Paw Paw. He is playing happily at the Rainbow Bridge ...

[Judy]

Dear Martha,

I am so sorry for the pain you feel in your loss of Paw Paw. He was so beautiful. I also will miss seeing him on your show. Thank you so much for sharing your life with me. I have learned so much and receive much pleasure from your show and magazines. Paw Paw will never leave you.

Judy

[Staci Glover]

Such a beautiful little man. He led a very wonderful and love filled life. I know he's looking down and watching over you. He held a special place in everyone's hearts and will continue to do so. I got a little teary eyed looking at the pictures, it's always so sad to lose a pet, loved one, friend.....you're in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. I know Francesca and Sharkey are going to miss him terribly. With Love....Staci

[Sarah H.]

Losing a pet is never easy.
I always enjoyed seeing photos of Paw Paw and always thought he looked like a big teddy bear without a care in the world. While the other two dogs were running around, Paw Paw would amble behind, perfectly content.
May you feel peace knowing that Big Martha and Paw Paw are in heaven together feeling well and keeping an eye on you in this difficult time.
Thank you for sharing Paw Paw with us for all these years, he will be missed.

[Judy]

Dear Martha,

I am so sorry for the pain you feel in your loss of Paw Paw. He was so beautiful. I also will miss seeing him on your show. Thank you so much for sharing your life with me. I have learned so much and receive much pleasure from your show and magazines. Paw Paw will never leave you.

Judy

[Julie]

I got teary eyed while reading your blog, I am sorry and Paw Paw looked great even on his last days.

[Donna]

Martha, I'm so very sorry to hear about your loss. This post has me in tears. It is a touching tribute. Paw Paw was such a beautiful and sweet dog. I loved seeing him on your show and in the magazine.

The passing of our dear animals is so difficult because they are loyal and love us so much. You provided such a wonderful home to Paw Paw. My thoughts are with you and everyone in Paw Paw's life.

[Emmy]

First blog post I've ever read that will haunt me in such a beautiful way. I'm going home to hug my dog tonite. Thanks Martha.

[Sarah]

I am really sorry about Paw Paw. We will all miss him, but not nearly as much as you will.

[Ruth]

Just last night my son and I were reminising about our dog Patch - he passed away 2 years ago. The memories and smiles will continue to bring joy many days after they are physically gone from our lives. I wish you the best during this time......

[Carole]

I am so sorry for your loss. I know Paw Paw will be greatly missed.

A wonderful tribute to a wonderful friend.

[Robin]

Martha,
What a wonderful relationship you and Paw Paw had. The memories and photo's will keep him with you eternally. I wish you strength and peace through this difficult time. Thank you for sharing him with all of us.

[Laurine]

Martha,

I am very sad to hear of Paw Paw's passing. I too, had a chow that lived until the age of 13 and looked so much like your Paw Paw. They are undoubtably enjoying beautiful, pain-free days in a better place! My deepest sympathy to you Martha.

[TiffanyH]

Dear Martha,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you over the loss of your beautiful family member Paw-Paw. I will miss his smiling presence in your magazine and on your show.

[lisa]

dear martha,
i was so sorry too dear about your beloved paw paw. my thoughts are with you during this difficult time. what a wonderful tribute you paid to him during his final time with you. may your heart heal over time and know that he will always be with you in spirit.

[Jennifer G]

Dear Martha,
Please know that the thoughts and prayers of all us dog lovers are with you. It's always hard to lose such a loyal friend.

[Jeremy]

I'm SO sorry to hear, Martha. Its awful watching any beloved pet pass on. Paw Paw was gorgeous and so much fun to watch on television :) You can tell how much he meant to you. My thoughts are with you.

Jeremy

[Pam From California]

Martha,
I am very sorry to hear that Paw Paw passed away over the weekend, I woke up to the news from many emails before I made my way over to your blog.
My chow chow Mrs. Bosley is the same age as Paw Paw and she brings me such happiness as I know Paw Paw did for you. They are great dogs.
I have been crying all morning I just can't help myself, he was so regal and so sweet just a great dog with a spirit of such love - what a face!
I will place a tribute on my MSP page and group page for him he is missed already . It won't be the same anymore first Big Martha & now your Paw Paw good thing we have film and they are captured forever on the screen a hard year for you .
I know you will miss him so much, I hope you are doing ok, it's hard after they have gone you look for them everywhere expect them to run up to the door when you come home, it is so quiet and everything reminds you of them. I am glad you had something made out of his fur to keep. I am also glad he is buried there on the farm so he is resting among his beloved land where he played and explored.. People say all the time when an animal passes away oh, it was just a dog or it was just a cat, or horse. Well they are family and we love them, I know you loved Paw Paw.
Pam from CA

[Sara]

So sad and sorry for your loss, Martha (and to Paw Paw's friends, too). He knew it was time and he knew you were surrounded by others to hold you when he was gone. Our pets are our hearts, and his was huge. I know he will be missed, but you will smile when you see something that makes you remember him sweetly. Hug yourself and feel him with you always. Take care.

[Hooligan]

We all know that one day our beloved pet/baby will leave us, and it is a time we never get used to! My sympathies to you at this time. Paw Paw is frolicking now with all our lost loved pets!

[Lisa Wiley]

What a beautiful, touching tribute, especially the hugs from Martha and also Francesca and Sharkey... they knew, just as you did that Sweet Paw Paw was getting ready to say goodbye.
Those of us who have been owned by a dog --or cat, or bird-- can understand how profound this loss is for you, your staff and your family.

I'd like to share a quote from Rudyard Kipling:

There is sorrow enough in the natural way
From men and women to fill our day
But when we are certain of sorrow in store
Why do we always arrange for more?
Brothers and sisters I bid you beware
Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.

HOW TRUE!

[Natalie Donnelly]

Martha, you have opened a part of your sole by sharing such experiences with your dog. I do the same with my baby boy, Sir Woody of Berkley or as we at home call him Woody. May you find much continued happiness through your survived pets. You are truly blessed.

[kat]

this the sweetest tribute I have read in a long long time. Really, I'm tearing up just reading and viewing the photos. May you find peace in your memories of your sweet paw paw.
my best, kristen

[Stephanie]

Despite what Rudyard Kipling says about the folly of giving one's heart to a dog to tear, the love and companionship of a dog is a treasure well worth the price.

With deepest sympathy to you, and all of PawPaw's companions.

[Aunt Sadie]

Ah...this post touched my heart. I'm so sorry that you lost your friend, Paw Paw. May you all be comforted.

[Andrew Ritchie]

Martha, this brought tears to my eyes! Having lost pets in the past, I know the sadness that is left when they depart.

I had the pleasure of meeting PawPaw at the Good Things Event. He was such a wonderful dog: patient with all those admirers around him!

Bless your heart, Martha, and I know PawPaw had a full and beautiful life with you. Thank you for making him a part of our lives too!

love
Andrew Ritchie

[Emily A]

Hi Martha,

Having just recently lost a 13-year-old loyal family pet myself, I can sympathize with your loss. My thoughts are with you.

Emily

[Jan Erickson]

My Dear Martha, My thoughts and prayers are with you and all of the hearts that were touched by thia most beautiful being, Paw Paw. Because of you, he brought joy to so many and will be forever missed. I was going to call you today on "Ask Martha" to ask you how he was doing. Now I can't think of him without tearing up. Please know that I not only love you but love him as well. You can take comfort in knowing that dearest Paw Paw loved you as much as you loved him. Sincerely, Jan Erickson

[Denise Onyskiw]

THE POWER OF THE DOG by Rudyard Kipling

There is sorrow enough in the natural way
From men and women to fill our day;
And when we are certain of sorrow in store,
Why do we always arrange for more?
Brothers and Sisters, I bid you beware
Of giving your heart to a dog to tear.

Buy a pup and your money will buy
Love unflinching that cannot lie--
Perfect passion and worship fed
By a kick in the ribs or a pat on the head.
Nevertheless it is hardly fair
To risk your heart for a dog to tear.

When fourteen years which Nature permits
Are closing in asthma, or tumour, or fits,
And the vet's unspoken prescription runs
To lethal chambers or loaded guns,
Then you will find--it's your own affair--
But . . . you've given your heart to a dog to tear.

When the body that lived at your single will,
With its whimper of welcome, is stilled (how still!);
When the spirit that answered your every mood
Is gone--wherever it goes--for good,
You will discover how much you care,
And will give your heart to a dog to tear.

We've sorrow enough in the natural way,
When it comes to burying Christian clay.
Our loves are not given, but only lent,
At compound interest of cent per cent.
Though it is not always the case, I believe,
That the longer we've kept 'em, the more do we grieve:
For, when debts are payable, right or wrong,
A short-time loan is as bad as a long--
So why in--Heaven (before we are there)
Should we give our hearts to a dog to tear?

[Toni Bonitto]

Martha, I know how our pets really become part of the family and I am so sorry for your loss. Paw Paw was just a beautiful, beautiful dog. I'll miss his guest appearances on your show (smile). I wish Francesca and Sharkey well in coping with his absence. May he rest in peace.

[Heidi]

Martha,
I am so very sorry to hear that you lost your beloved Paw Paw. Thank you for sharing him with us.

Heidi

[Heidi]

Martha,
I am so very sorry to hear that you lost your beloved Paw Paw. Thank you for sharing him with us.

Heidi

[Karen]

And now Paw Paw begins a new journey. I like to think that when our pets end their time with us, they pass to the place where our loved ones no longer with us, and those who had no one to love them in this life are. No one is alone. There are pats, and licks, games of fetch, long walks, smiles, and a real peace. They all look upon us from that place and always send love.

[Deborah]

Hello Martha:

With tears streaming I wanted to send my sympathy to you on the loss of Paw Paw. I have always loved your articles and photos of your babies. To document the last day was amazing. I have lost several pets and know how heart wrenching it is. Paw Paw will now sleep and rest with many, many wonderful memories.

Thank you so much for sharing such a very difficult time with us.

Deborah Leisher

[Tania P.]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Paw Paw was a very lucky dog and you were a very luck lady to have him all these years.

[Kenda Orrell]

I am so sorry to hear about Paw Paw. I know he will be greatly missed. Thank you so much for sharing him with us. He was a beautiful & loving dog.

[IowaCowgirl]

Please accept my condolences on your loss.

[PAUL]

MARTHA,I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR OF PAW PAWS PASSING,I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN A HUGE FAN OF YOUR SHOW AND MAGAZINE,BUT NEVER FELT COMPELLED TO WRITE UNTIL I SAW YOUR BLOG TODAY.OVER THE YEARS YOU HAVE BEEN
GENERIOUS SHARING YOUR LIFE EXPIERENCES,KNOWLEDGE,AND YOUR PERSONAL FAMILY.PAW PAW HAS BECOME OVER THE YEARS AN EXTENDED FAMILY MEMBER,I'M SURE OF MILLIONS OF YOUR FANS AND VIEWERS.READING THE DEATH AND TRIBUTE TO YOUR BELOVED PAW PAW BROUGHT TEARS TO MY EYES,RECALLING WHEN MY BEST FRIEND OF 12 YEARS,PASSED A SABLE POMERANIAN .WHO REMINDS ME OF A MINI PAW PAW.I KNOW YOU MUST BE GRIEVING THE LOSS OF SUCH A BEAUTIFUL CREATURE,AS WILL WE.JUST
KNOW THAT YOU WILL BE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS AND THANK YOU FOR SHARING OVER THE YEARS.GOD BLESS.

[julie mosgrove]

Martha;

I am so sorry about Paw Paw. I have lost two little angels to kidney disease and it is heartbreaking to say the least. You tried your best and I know that if there is a heaven, I picture all my little fur angels there and me, seeing all of them again. That would be my heaven.

Blessings to you

[Molly]

Martha,

So very sad to hear of Paw Paw's passing. He looked to be such a wonderful dog and I always enjoyed seeing him on your tv show or pics of him here on your blog. May he rest in peace. Looks like he had a wonderful life. I am sure you and your family and dogs will miss him.

Thank you so much for sharing your life and pets with us, Martha. We who never knew Paw Paw in person will miss him.

Molly

[Sue Russell Glover]

I'm so sorry to hear of Paw Paw's death. We had to put our Old English Sheepdog, Muldoon, down a week before his 14th birthday. Reading your comments and seeing the photos gave me that lump in my throat again...

[Jenn]

Martha,

I am so sorry for your loss. As I was reading this post I was in tears as I know how sad you all much be.

Paw Paw was such a beautiful dog and after seeing him for the first time I have always wanted one. I am waiting for my youngest child to get old enough for us to get a Chow of our own. Thanks for sharing him with us.

You are in my thoughts today.

[Paula]

Oh Martha, I'm so sorry that you have lost your sweet lovey. My heart breaks for you and all who have known and loved Paw Paw. I'm certain that in time the pain of his passing will lessen and turn into the most beautiful of memories...

Take heart....

[Vivian Price]

Dear Martha,

I'm so very sorry about Paw Paw. I have seen him on your show so
many times and loved him. Pets are members of the family, and it's so hard to lose them to death. I lost my 16-year old Maltese in 2003 named Miguel.
My thoughts are with you.
Love you and your show,
Vivian

[Paula]

Oh Martha, I'm so sorry that you have lost your sweet lovey. My heart breaks for you and all who have known and loved Paw Paw. I'm certain that in time the pain of his passing will lessen and turn into the most beautiful of memories...

Take heart....

[Crystal]

I'm so very sorry, Martha. There is very little that is more sad than the loss of a beloved pet. They ask for nothing and bring love and comfot to us during even our most trying times.

I have lost a beloved husky (Rufus Reginald - 13 yrs) and a treasured cat (Slade Rodman - 18.5 yrs) but I try to take comfort in the hope that they are now out of pain and with the people that I have loved and lost and that one day we will be together again.

Again, my deepest sympathies.

Crystal

[Marissa]

I'm so sorry to hear about Paw Paw. He was an awesome dog! From one dog lover to another, my heart goes out to you. He was such an elegant addition to your t.v. show and magazine. He will be missed! Take heart in knowing he had a wonderful life!

[Cheryl]

I'm teary-eyed after reading your tribute to Paw Paw. It is so hard to lose a pet. After losing our dog years ago, I didn't want another because I had such a hard time with the loss. I'm so glad that we finally got a cat because she brings so much love to our family. I can't imagine losing her but I cherish her every day. Hopefully, the happy times you shared with Paw Paw will help you through this difficult time. Take care.

[Eliza]

Ohh Paw Paw! I'm so sorry he passed away this weekend. I will miss seeing and hearing about him as I remember you included him in your shows and magazine. I always enjoyed his appearances. I wish you strength.

[Darlene Stencel]

Martha,
May heartfelt sympathies go out to you for I lost a beloved dog, a minature dachshund, named Pretzel and my daughter is a Vet. so I understand the reasoning behind letting a pet go but it was one of the hardest things I had to do. Take care and keep all of those fond memories you have of Paw Paw.

[Adam]

Martha you have my deepest condolences. I loved Paw Paw on TV and in your ads, he looked like such a big cuddler. I'm sorry for your loss.

[Jackie Lamothe]

Martha Dear:
My Sweetheart and I were on the Valentine's Day show and I feel privileged to have seen Paw Paw in person that day. What a beautiful and noble creature he was.I'm sending you a warm hug.
Jackie Lamothe,
Frederick, MD

[Debbie Holston]

I, too, have just lost a beloved pet that was with me 13 years. He was a gentle beagle who was so loyal and always trying to please. We both have been so blessed to have these wonderful furry friends!

[lucciana]

i will miss paw paw he was a great dog god bless him we will miss him

[Emma Figueroa]

Martha first of all love your blog it is done so tastefully and you make it fun to read.BUT this is all about PAW-PAW,I am so sorry for your lost and I alway love it when you bring the doggies to the show,it is my favorite part of your show.We will miss PAW-PAW so much and I know it is not easy for you so we will keep you in our prayers....keep bring your animals to the show,just love when you talk about then.Maybe because we have three cats and two desert turtles.

Also love when you and Joey C. go at it.

Take care Miss Martha.

[Fiona Rose]

Dear Martha

So very sorry about the loss of your beloved loyal companion Paw Paw.

He seemed such a dear old gentleman in the (very enjoyable)TV clip about his visit to the canine spa. I shall miss not seeing him in the magazine & your books. Please take some comfort in knowing that your love & devotion gave him the very best life.
With very best wishes
Fiona Rose.

[Wendy Wagner]

Thank you, Martha. All of us who are gotten to know Paw Paw through your stories and beautiful photos will miss him mightily. He was a wonderful dog and a truly special friend!

[Nancy Bauer]

Martha, I am so heartbroken for you. I could hardly see the pictures thru my tears for the loss you are feeling. I have lost my beloveds to old age, sudden illness and a tragic incident. I will never forget them and think of them often now without the heavy pain. I truly believe in the Rainbow Bridge and have their pictures under a copy of that lovely story. Please know you are in my thoughts and prayers! Paw Paw was a true love in your life.

[Chad]

Martha,

I am so sorry to hear about your sad news. I remember in a past blog you sent some of Paw Paw's fur off to be made into yarn after being groomed. I hope you will have time to create a special keepsake to remember him by. I will miss seeing his big, sweet lion like face.

Chad

[Paula]

I know the pain of losing a pet Martha. I lost 1 of my 2 beautiful Saint Bernard females Jan 5,2008. It was so traumatic because my dogs go to work with me(I own the Tradeshow Connector Inc) an are such a vitality to my everyday life. I assure you the memories live on in a good way, and you learn to smile again, as the pain lessons with time. Paula

[Claire And Peter Finkel]

Knowing how valued Paw Paw was, we extend our deepest sympathy for your loss.
Claire and Peter Finkel

[lisa-marie]

That was a beautiful and moving tribute to a great friend. I'm so sorry for your loss! God bless!

[Rosemary]

Somewhere Paw Paw chases elusive butterflies and walks through cool, lush meadows. Yet, our hearts ache for you because we too have experienced the sorrow, the loss, that big, sacred, empty longing love leaves behind.

Thank you for sharing your creativity and your life with the world. I am always most grateful.

[silvana]

Im crying for you,,And yet i know that the only consolation would be knowing that you got to experience his presence all this years and the joy of loving soo depply,,,

[Emily]

Thank you for the lovely tribute to your Paw Paw. He was a beautiful dog. **hugs**

[Liz]

Martha,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I know all to well how you feel. I recently lost my beloved doggie, jessie.
My thoughts are with you.

[Kristen S]

Martha,

Thank you for sharing the last photos of your faithful friend. It was if so many of us knew him all these years from your show and magazine. I know all too well the sorrow of losing a pet.

God bless you...

[KnitXcorE]

*hugZ*
we'll all miss him :-(

[Susan]

Dear Martha
I am so sorry for your heartbreak. Each of us loses a soulmate pet in our lifetime. I still grieve over a cat named Noel and he has been gone almost 30 years now. I will miss seeing Paw Paw in your magazine and on the show. You gave him such a wonderful life, and he gave you unconditional love. You both were very lucky to have found one another! Peace of spirit to you both. Thank you for sharing such a painful, intimate part of your life, Martha. My prayers are with you.

[Sue B]

Perhaps they are not stars but rather openings in the heavens where our loved ones shine down to let us know they are happy.

[Stacey]

Martha,

I'm so very sorry for your lost. I cried as I read this blog because it brought back memories of the wonderful pets I've had in my life. Five years ago I had to put my cat Franny to sleep because of renal failure. I know the ups and downs you've been through with Paw Paw trying to halt this disease and how emotionally draining it is. He is at peace now, laying in a grassy field waiting until the day you are reunited. My thoughts are with you, Martha. Take care.

Stacey

[Nicole]

I am very sorry for your loss. Your tribute to Paw-Paw is very touching and shows how much you really loved him.

[Brian]

Please know that Paw Paw will always remember you as a loyal companion also. He was very lucky to have you. We all shall miss him on the show, the magazines and the blog..
Brian

[Kim FAucher]

What a beautiful tribute to your special friend.
Im so sorry for your loss.
Kim Faucher

[Caroline]

Martha,

I can't begin to express how sad I am for you. I know that you love all your animals but you could always tell Paw Paw was special I have a 11 year old Lab who has been through broken jaws, diabetic siezures and I consistenly worry about him. I know each day I have with Fred could be the last and my heart is breaking for you. I don't know how you put on such a brave face. I try to watch you every morning and I saw your show today and don't know how you looked so great and had such a great show. I just logged on to get the recipe and saw the sad news. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time.

[Rita C]

Martha and Family,

My deepest sympathy for the loss of PawPaw. Where would be without our bestest of friends? I would like to share with you a story about my most beloved Sassy a Sheltie. Oh my, we were the best of buddies. Sadly she passed about 7 years ago. I miss her SOOOO Much! Having a rough time with Sassy's absence, one evening I was talking with my husband about her...I asked "Where is my little Sassy Girl, I miss her"...just a moment later a little wad of hair floated down from the ceiling!!! Oh my gosh it was like a ton of bricks had been lifted off of my heart...I knew from that day forward she was still with me and would always be with me. I love and miss her dearly to this day.

My heart reaches out to you during this time. Please know in your heart PawPaw is still with you.

[Dana]

Your tribute was so touching and it brought me to tears.

Pets are truly a blessing in our lives. Their gifts endure long after they are no longer with us.

This I know...there are not many events in life that are quite as sweet as a snuggle in soft fur!

Hugs!
Dana

[Sue Krasnoger]

Dear Martha,

My name is Sue....you probably don't remember me...I work for Dr. Marsh. I had the pleasure of getting to know Paw Paw when I first starting working at GAH. Paw Paw was great dog and my MOST FAVORITE Chow in the whole world. I am so sorry for you loss. He was one in a million!! XO

[Pat]

Dear Martha I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your wonderful Paw Paw. I know how lost you must feel because our animals become part of our family. I will miss seeing him on your show. the pictures you posted were wonderful. May he rest in peace

[Eva]

I am so sorry to hear about your loss of a beautiful, magnificent dog. Warm memories of Paw Paw will always be in your heart.

[jbelte]

Martha, We will all miss Paw Paw. I'm so very sorry for your loss and my heart goes out to you and Francesca and Sharkey. He will truly be missed.

[Suze Way]

Oh Martha, I am crying for you! I lost my beloved Cat 2 months ago, she was 12 years old and I miss her so. Paw Paw was the master of your homes and a light in your life, you are so proud of him and he loved you so. My deepest regrets and prayers for you.

[Jennifer]

Condolences most heartfelt on your loss- everyone who has loved a dog knows what it is to lose one...anyone who has not will never know.
What we can say for Paw-Paw is that he was a Good Dog- those who have had one know what that means,and those who have not may hope to know one someday.
That title is the best, and only, title that we can ask of a dog. Good Dog.

[Diane Bertschin]

Martha,

Thank you for sharing the life and death of PawPaw. We know how to live with our beloved pets but find it so difficult to grieve for them. Your genorosity of spirit will help all of us when our special ones pass.

Even in times of loss, you are still a great teacher.

God Bless.

[matt armendariz]

Martha,

You and the animals -- Paw Paw included -- will always be in our thoughts.

From me and my clan of dogs...

-matt and adam

[Vivian Love]

Martha, So sorry for your loss. What a beautiful tribute to your dear pet. I know how you feel about your pets. We lost our dear Basset Hound a few years ago and I still miss her terribly. My heartfelt condolences to you.

Vivian Love, Yorba Linda, CA

[Barbara]

Having a dog as a special friend is a good thing. Having several dogs as best friends is even better. Your tribute to Paw Paw brought tears to my eyes. My sympathy for your loss is with you. Barbara from CA.

[David B.]

I recently had a health scare with one of my beloved pugs and I was distraught that he could be in pain and suffering. I can't imagine losing him, and I can't imagine how you feel now. Dogs truly are GOD spelled backwards.

[Sad in Paris]

Martha,
I can not remember a time when Pawpaw wasn't part of the wonderful world you created and shared with America day in and day out via your TV programs, books, magazines and, in the past months, your blog. To know that Paw paw is no longer a part of it all makes me cry. He seemed to be the one creature that managed to keep up with your pace and the lose of a partner like that must be to great to articulate. I can't imagine one of your gardens with out the dignified and joyous presence of paw paw, I can't imagine a kitchen in which you might be cooking without the presence of that ball of orange fluffy love near your feet, but most of all I can't imagine you without paw paw. I doubt I will ever know the pain you must be feeling at this time. You are such a commendable person for continuing to work through this period, I have no clue how you find the strength, but I think one dog does, it's just a shame he's no longer around to let the rest of us in on your secret.

[Cathy Santarsiero]

Dear Martha,

You and PawPaw are in my thoughts and prayers.

Warmly,
Cathy S. ^..^

[Kathy]

What a beautiful tribute! I'm trying to type this through all of my tears. I have a Chow Chow mix, and everything I've learned about him I learned from Martha as she described Paw Paw's personality and traits. I will miss seeing him on The Martha Show.

[Elaine]

I am so sorry to hear about Paw Paw. He was just a beautiful dog and I will miss seeing him on the show and on your blog.

[Kathy]

What a beautiful tribute! I'm trying to type this through all of my tears. I have a Chow Chow mix, and everything I've learned about him I learned from Martha as she described Paw Paw's personality and traits. I will miss seeing him on The Martha Show.

[Lauren Hunt]

Thank you so much for sharing with us such a truly difficult thing. Your tribute to Paw Paw was beautiful, and I am sure he was the happiest dog in the world to live with so many who loved him so much. My deepest condolences fr your loss.

[Atlbiscuit]

Having just gone through the lost of a furbaby, your tribute to Paw Paw was heartwrenching.. There is no doubt how much you loved him.
Our thoughts are with you.. cause it really is miserable for a while. Hope the gargoyles adjust.
Peace,
Biscuit and Butter

[Jo]

Martha -

I'm so very sorry to hear of your loss. What a wonderful and touching tribute to a fantastic companion. My sincerest condolence and sympathies.

[Nanette]

I'm so very sorry about Paw Paw - I know how much you must miss him. He was such a beautiful, spectacular dog.

[Ann]

Oh Martha, I am so sorry. Paw Paw was so lucky to be a member of your family. I know you miss him terribly.

[bpfster]

He will be missed by all. Rest peacefully Paw Paw.

[Mim]

Martha,
I am so sorry on your loss of Paw-Paw. He seemed liked a gentle soul.It was always enjoyable to see him when you had him on your show.
Those last pictures with your two other dogs are just heartbreakers.

[katie]

martha, i am so sorry for your loss. i lost my cat last december and i know how very hard it is. my thoughts are with you, and someone already posted the "Rainbow Bridge" poem on here so i won't again, but it is a beautiful poem.

[Gilda Stigliano]

Oh you have had two big losses in such a short time!> I nearly cried when I read/saw this post. I still remember MY only dog, Samson, and he holds a place in my heart similar to where Paw Paw lives in yours. So sorry for you..

[Mike]

Dear Martha,

I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved chow PAW PAW. It is comforting to know that he was so well-loved, by you and your friends, and by his canine friends, too.

[Kevin]

Martha, I am so very, very sorry to hear of Paw Paw's passing. He was a truly beautiful creature. What they say is true - pets become part of our families. You are in my thoughts during this difficult time of grief.

[Kelly]

Anyone who has experienced the loyal companionship of a dog, particularly those of us who have already gone through a loss of one, knows that the coming days are difficult and emotional for you. Facing the loss of a loved companion is heartwrenching, but well worth the love we give and receive in return. No relationship is quite as genuine and true as the relationship between a dog and his owner. I would never give that unconditional love up for anything. My heart goes out to you, Martha. May you see him once again someday.

[Amy M. Burks]

So sorry about Paw Paw! This is a piercing, heartwrenching, poetic tribute you have posted. Beautiful just like you and your angel dog.

[Victoria]

I feel there is no greater pain than the loss of a wonderful dog . 12 years is too short of a time , for that matter, any number of years is too short of a time ...
Your courage to take family pictures while you knew he was in the stages of leaving his little body speaks so much on your character .
Wrapping him in his blanket with a ribbon so beautifully to be placed in his final resting spot , oh how the tears cannot stop flowing on my end.
My two beautiful Golden Retrievers ( twin brother and sister ) are sitting very close trying to comfort me.
They are in deep concern because they never see me cry .
When it comes to the death of a beloved dog whether mine or someone else, I cannot maintain control. Dogs are the one spirit that will love you in an unconditional way that no one else can .
I really have to believe that we will one day be reunited with them , it's what keeps me sane .
I lost a beloved Golden in December 2004 and I still feel as if it was only recently. I am so deeply sorry for your loss Martha and at the same time, in awe of your courage for your baby in his last days to grant him such a peaceful transition.
You and Kublai Khan Paw Paw Chow Chow Chow are in my thoughts .

[Enphal]

Dear Mrs. Martha,

I wish there were better words to say in such a situation, other than, "I am sorry for your loss." I am glad that he had you as an owner and you had him as a pet. Both of you would not have been this blessed in each other's company if you had not met and lived together for this long. So, from Kuwait, I pay my respects to you, Mrs. Martha.

Cordially,
Enphal

[Susan]

My condolences to you on the loss of your beloved Paw Paw. The pain in having to let go of such a wonderful friend is one of the most difficult things anyone can experience. Always keep him in your heart. I am deeply sorry Martha. God bless you and bless your little Paw Paw. Rest in peace sweet one.

[Ann and daughter!]

Oh Martha, I'm so sorry to hear of your beautiful Paw Paw's passing...I'm crying for you! My little 4 year old adopted daughter, newly home with us from the Philippines, just walked by and saw your photo on our computer from your blog, and she stopped suddenly and said, "Hey, there's Martha!" (as she already knows who you are since we BOTH watch your show every morning) and I said yes, that's Martha, and, Martha's dog, Paw Paw has died! We BOTH are so sad for you...please know we will keep you in our prayers. We are BIG animal lovers ourselves and our two rottweilers are right here sending their best wishes too, along with our two cats and cockatiel...they're all whispering, "please tell Martha we love her!" ;-\

[Charlotte]

Sharkey and Francesca will help you through the rough days as you will carry them through - with love. They, as you, will miss Paw Paw so much.

Love, Charlotte

[Sandra Davis]

Thank you, Martha, for sharing your personal feelings and pictures regarding Paw Paw. He was an ambassador for good dogs, and think of all the people he touched over the years via print and tv. I'm glad you have many other animals to hug during this time. Indeed, I will say a prayer tonight for you and your friends who cared for Paw Paw over the years.

Take care.

[Katie]

I will be lighting a candle tonight in memory of Paw Paw. He was a wonderful friend.....

[Karen]

I sit here -tears falling.

I have had 3 Chows, losing my last one this past May. Paw Paw looks so much like her..

They are often the most beutiful companions. I know your pain and how your heart feels. I miss my baby too. How blessed Paw Paw was to be so loved and to share part of the journey with you.

Hugs..

[Marilyn]

I am so sorry about Paw Paw. he was a beautiful boy. what a beautiful tribute. I always enjoy seeing your dogs on your show. I just put my beloved Golden Retriever, Sienna, to sleep December 11, two days after her 15th birthday. It hurt so much, they really are a part of your family. Penelope the Tibbie, and Louie the Frenchie, send their love to you, Francesca and Sharkey.

[Cindylu]

Martha,

Our hearts are broken over his passing, I'm crying with you.
Paw Paw will live forever in our hearts.
Thank you for letting us get to know him.
He has touched our lives forever.
We'll miss you Paw Paw
Rest in Peace!

Cindy S in Arizona

[Carla Martin]

Ohh Martha,
What can one say, its so sad, I cried for you as I could feel your love for him...he will always be there for you...and wait in "rainbow bridge" for you one day> smile Godbless you for sharing such a heart breaking time in your life..we have all lost ...and share this with you..God bless you ...>hugs<
Carla

[Mark]

This post made me cry. I'm so sorry for your loss.

[Carol]

Martha, My deepest sympathy to you. I'm sure Paw Paw is as close a family member to you as are our dogs are to us. What a wonderful, beautiful dog! My thoughts are with you.

[Julie]

A very moving tribute for Paw Paw. What a gorgeous spirit he was. I too am morning the passing of my beloved companion, Chelsea. She passed on Feb. 11th. She was 14 and a chow mix. She was the love of my life and I miss her terribly.
I thought of Paw Paw often when you were at Alderson(sp?). I kept wondering if you were able to have some sort of contact with him? There is no doubt in my mind he loved you dearly, it showed every time you were together.
Paw Paw will live on in our hearts.

[Carrie]

Oh, my. I'm so, so sorry. What a beautiful tribute to such a wonderful animal.

I held it together until I saw you nuzzle him, and then I lost it. It made me think of the last time I nuzzled my sweet Akita before her passing last summer.

May you have peace knowing that he is ultimately in a better place and in knowing that you gave him the best life a dog could ever ask for.

Namaste.

[Dorothy]

My prayers are with you during this difficult time. I know you will miss him so much.

[Terri Mullins]

You were the lady of PawPaw's life. Your emotionally moving tribute to him is clear....I am so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I will truly miss watching you and he walking in your gardens on television. ~ Terri

[Hope]

Dear Martha, my husband & I both so enjoyed Paw Paw - whenever we were watching your show, and one of us was not in front of the TV, we only had to yell "Paw Paw!!" and the other would look to the nearest tv to see him. We have a 10 year old red Chow Chow, Bam Bam, that has the same wonderful temperment you described of Paw Paw. May all the years of happy memories help to fill the void in your heart.

[Connie]

I had tears when I saw pictures of Paw Paw and read the captions. I recently lost my best furry friend. Paw Paw is in a good place now and is no longer feeling the pain. He will always be in your heart and you will always be in his.

[Celina]

Ms. Martha,
My deepest sympathies on the passing of your friend Paw Paw. My son who is just 2 years old always enjoyed watching him anytime he came on your show and he learned to do the dog sign(for sign language) every time Paw Paw was on, at first he was confused and thought Paw Paw was a lion. We will miss him as well.

[allygar]

What a sweet tribute to a dog that we got to know and love thru Martha, he will be soo missed and hugs to our Martha on this sad sweet loss! HUGS !!

[Michael in Phoenix]

Wow. I have seen Paw Paw for years and always admired his beauty and his great temperament while walking around your sets. I shed a tear here at work reading this blog, my condolences, the loss of a dear pet is as sad as any loss one might feel.

[Jill Sullivan Grueter]

Martha, you are in my thoughts and prays. Precious Paw Paw had such a enchanted life because of you.

Best,

Jill

[Janie]

What a lil pumpkin he was...and will be sorely missed. Hoping your memories are a constant strong source of comfort for you and your family. We enjoy seeing all of your animals and thanks so very much for including us to view your photos of them and all of your wonderful travels.

Blessings to you and your family,
Janie

[Suzanne Marks]

What a loving tribute to a long time friend.
He now dances lively over the Rainbow Bridge.

[mar5195]

My condolences to you Martha. While I know you feel blessed to have had him in your life I'm certain he felt the same about you.

[Lisa from Cali]

Dear Martha,

I'm sad to hear about Paw Paw. I've always wanted a dog like him ever since I first saw him on your show. I will miss him. It's a comfort to know that you gave him a good life.

[PoodlePoo]

My heart ached when I saw the blog news about PawPaw passing. He lived such a wonderful life, and sadly our best furry friends are only meant to be here with us for a short time.
It's a very sad time, considering so soon after your Mom left this world. I know he was a great comfort to you during that time.
After my beloved poodle went to sleep in my arms, I asked a Bhuddist monk what they believe when a dog passes over.
He said, if it was a very good dog, he would be reborn to human form.Dogs are the highest form of animal life and frequently rebirth to human life.
I was upset and told him I wanted my friend to be there when I arrived. The monk told me to tell my pet to wait to be reborn till I get to see him again.
My condolences to all PawPaw's friends and to you Martha. I know how much a void is left, even though you have beautiful pets to comfort you again.

[the crazy cat house]

I'm so sorry, Martha! He was a beautiful dog, and you gave him a wonderful life. I have no doubt that he has found a pastor of pachysandra in heaven and is having a good romp. *sniffle*

[SParker]

Martha, You gave Paw Paw the most wonderful life a dog can have and it was perfect to the end. You were both very blessed to have found each other. I know how much you will miss him and we will miss him too! Such sweet sadness...

[alicia]

My deepest sympathy to you Martha. I cried when I heard of the passing of PawPaw but I am sure my sadness is nowhere near yours. My thoughts are with you.

[Amy]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I'm crying after reading your beautiful tribute. He looked so good right up to the end. I have a newfoundland and she's only 5 and already started to get gray. Breaks my heart. They just don't live long enough. Sending prayers!

[Lisa]

A beautiful tribute to a beautiful dog - you gave him a wonderful life. I am so sorry for your loss.

[kathleen]

I am so sorry for your loss. They truly become a part of the family and own such a big part of our hearts. I hope he is resting peacefully.

[Marlene]

Dearest Martha,
My sincere condolenses on the passing of your chow chow. Reading your blog brought tears to my eyes and remembrances of my own chow chow that I had to have put to sleep over 10 years ago when I was in high school. She was 13 and it was cancer, that even after surgery kept coming back. Without a doubt still one of the hardest days of my life. They are unquestionably the cutest puppies and one of the most gentle, loyal and loving friends as they grow. They are always there for you to bury your problems in their thick hair. I'm sure you will remember her with the most golden sunrises that start your day...

[CJ Connoy]

My beautiful Chow Chow, Nani, passed away a little over a month ago. She was 13. I miss her terribly.

[Mark Pollaski]

Martha,
So sorry to learn of the passing of Kublai Khan Paw Paw Chow Chow Chow. I always enjoyed his visits on set and his many campaigns. I know that Paw Paw is still in your doorway watching over you with his appetite restored and his heart full.

[Crystal]

oh martha i feel your pain so much, i lost my little 10 yr old chihuahua last year to a heart murmur, he was my first pet to lose after getting married and i'm still grieving. i have another chihuahua i got after he passed away and now he is too sick with a heart murmur. i hate to hear of anyones loss and i'm so very sorry. we all love our pets dearly as if they were our children, at least i do may god bless you in these difficult days ahead. snoopy was my best friend and he will ALWAYS be missed and greatly loved

[Wanna Lee Johnson]

Oh Martha, I am so sorry that Paw Paw died. I know you love him very much. I enjoyed watching him when he was on your show. He is a very beautiful dog. He is so beautiful I was thinking of getting a dog like him. He died a much loved dog. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Many hugs
Wanna Johnson

[Jennifer]

Martha, my deepest condolences on the loss of your dear Paw Paw...

our pets may leave us, but they don't ever leave our hearts.

[Linda Gail]

Martha:)
As I sit here with tears streaming down my face, I remember a beautiful red chow walking out beside you and slowly moving into the audience to receive to gentle pats and soft hellos that where his right. So regal and so gentle. Paw Paw will be missed by everyone, but the ones that will miss him most are those that where his family. You and everyone that came in contact with Paw Paw every day are grieving, but know that Paw Paw is now at peace. No longer in any pain and no longer trying to put on that brave face that all animals have when they know that their time is up. Now he wants only for you to remember him with love and all the wonderful time you spend with him. At night look up and watch the stars as they twinkle and watch for the brightest one as Paw Paw says good night. And when it rains and the beautiful rainbow is there, that is where Paw Paw is playing with all our wonderful friends and he will be waiting for you to come some day and then you will be together again forever.
Linda Gail

[Jon Beattie - Richmond, Virginia]

Oh Martha,

I am so sorry for your loss. Over the years you have allowed us to share in the joys and sometimes the losses that life brings and that is one of the many things I like about you.

Take care and comfort in your memories of those dear to you.

Take care Martha

[ll]

I sorry for your loss, Paw Paw always made me smile because of his constant sweet and calm manner. Especially during your halloween epsiode where he was dressed up as an 80's areobics instructor it was so sweet. i thought that this blog post was a wonderful way to honor and remember paw paw.

[Carlo Brando]

Dear Martha,

As tears roll down my face, I want to tell you how sorry I am for your loss and please know Paw Paw is watching you and guarding you, your family and friends from above. I admire your dedication and love for your adorable Paw Paw--he will live in your heart, soul and thoughts forever. Blessed you were for having had such a beautiful, sweet and loyal friend all these years. Be in peace.

[sandy]

Martha,i am so very sorry for your loss,i am crying now just thinking of you and how you must feel. My wonderful pet dog SHADOW OF 15 YEARS passed away one year ago April 14,2007. I still miss her , my husband passed away 10 years ago ,Shadow had always been here for me. Again Martha I'll cry for Paw-Paw to.

[Amy, Catmandu and Kismet]

We here at The House of Felines in Houston, TX wish to offer our sincerest condolances to Martha, her staff, Sharkey and Francesca on the passing of the beautiful Paw Paw. I remember Paw Paw when I first started watching Martha way back when, and I can't believe he's gone, poor thing. I fear for the day that I have to say goodbye to my Kittenz, and hope that I can create a tribute just like the one given to Paw Paw.

Amy

[Renita]

I was so surprised to read about Paw Paw's passing & by the time I finished reading this blog the tears were streaming down my face. It so reminded me of my Heidi who passed at 21 years of age & was our most beloved pet raised with seven cats & who even learned to use the litter box on rainy days. People who don't have pets can't understand the strong connection & bonds that we form with our four-legged friends & in the end, we are all better for it. From one heart to another....I'm so sorry! God bless & may Paw Paw's memory always remain with you.

[Margie]

Martha,

I am sorry. It is tough. He loved you and you loved him. Paw Paw knew that and you knew that.
Take care,
Margie

[Julie]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss. I was fortunate enough to have a chow for 14 years. They are the most loyal pets, and give a kind of love that no other dog can. My thoughts and prayers are with you and Paw Paw, as well as your other pets.

[Barbie]

Martha~~

I am so sorry to hear of the passing of your beautiful dog PawPaw. How blessed he was to have you as his Mom.
I loved seeing him on your show. He was just the sweetest, most gentle dog. He always looked like he had a smile on his face.
What a beautiful tribute you made for him.
I won't take up all your space, but when you have a chance, look up the poem..
"Rainbow Bridge." When we lost our beloved dog to cancer I read it and it helped to heal my broken heart.
Stay strong and let all your wonderful memories of sweet PawPaw help you through this difficult time. PawPaw will live on in your heart always!

Barbie

[Michael Saiz]

My two Chow Chows Kelso and Bossanova send their condolences. I always loved seeing Paw Paw on your show. He was a very good ambassador for the Chow Chow. He will be missed.

[Kathe Cronin]

Oh Paw Paw.....

[JOE]

Dear Martha, as a daddy to 3 chocolate labs (12, 10 and 3), I cannot imagine the pain u are experiencing right now. The loss of a baby, like Paw Paw, is so devastating. Paw Paw lived a beautiful, fulfilling life, and he was so blessed to have such a loving mom, as u were so blessed to have such an angelic spirit in your home for 12 years. Our deepest sympathies to you and your family. Warmth, light and all of our prayers, Joe,Paul, Niko, Grover and Rufus,
Silverlake, California

[Lisa]

Dear Martha,

I am crying while looking at these beautiful and touching pictures. I am sure he is at peace. Hugs to you :(

Lisa

[Rosa Musumeci]

Martha, I am so sorry for your loss of such a beautiful friend.

[Dave]

Martha,

This is deeply upsetting news. I got to share a laugh while meeting Paw Paw at the MSL 15th Anniversary Event and he was just darling, getting his leash tangled in between my legs. Very sorry to hear this news, my prayers are with you and your loss.

[Amy G.]

I am so very sorry for the loss of your faithful companion. You have my deepest sympathies. Losing a dog is different than losing a person--our dogs love us unconditionally and bring out the best in us, so their loss is devastating.

[Candace]

Martha,

I send my deepest condolences, especially because I know exactly how you feel at this moment. My dog Sugar Bear passed away on April 10th, 2008 after a wonderful life. He didn't pass as gracefully as Paw Paw, but I am sure that they are keeping each other company in heaven and watching over us every day. There are no words to soothe the pain caused by loosing a furry friend, but the wonderful memories are there to remind us of how lucky we were to know them. God bless you and everyone who knew Paw Paw. I hope he rests in peace.

[Tresha]

Martha-
This blog made me cry-I am so sorry for your loss. The loyality, love and selflessness of our canine companions is one of the greatest gifts of all. May Paw Paw rest in peace.

[Lynn Pulliam Alexander]

Martha,

While I have not always supported all of your actions,I think you are very talented, and I admire you greatly. When I heard about your precious Paw Paw passing, I sobbed like a baby. I will pray for you daily, because I know how painful it is to lose a part of your extended family. I have seen and read about Paw Paw over the years, and I know she was a wonderful dog. I am so sorry for your loss!

[Karen Tracy]

Martha,
My deepest sympathy to you over your loss. Paw Paw was such a special dog. I have some of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren here with me. They are as sweet as he was. I was just talking about him at a dog show on Saturday. He was at the Harrisburg Dog Show and he was in the Group ring with his handler, Victor Capone. They had spotlights all over the place and Paw Paw was delighted. Every step he took in that ring his head moved from side to side to see the people applauding for him. I wish you could have seen him that day. He was absolutely magnificent. I used to love when I would bring Paw Paw's "girlfriend" to your home on Turkey Hill. He was so excited to see me and he was so funny because he would go jump into your beautiful flowers and all you could see was his face sticking out amongst the flowers. I am so sad that he is gone. Tears are streaming down my face. Just know that he lives on in his offspring.
Karen Tracy
Pazzazz Chows

[ann]

Dear Martha-as I write this, I share your tears as I recently lost my dearest companion of almost 15 years, my Tasha who will always have a special place in my heart. I believe that there has to be a special place where these loving beings go after leaving this earth behind. Will Rogers said that if dogs don't go to heaven, I want to go where they have gone. I feel the same. Your last photos are a very touching tribute to a special dog.

[Sarah L]

Dear Martha,
I, like you, am an animal lover. They bring us so much pleasure and ask so little in return. They are certainly examples of how we as humans should live. I have always felt so lucky to be in the category of people that loves animals. It is a real gift.

[Rhonda]

Martha,

May God comfort you in this sad time. Your years with Paw Paw have given you memories that can never be taken away from you. You are in my prayers. You're tribute to Paw Paw was beautiful and very moving.

[Keith Lee]

That is why I admire you so much, you love animals and I loved watching you interact with Paw Paw. These pictures are so touching, what a wonderful tribute. But I'm glad to know that you are still surrounded by the love of Francesca and company.

[Katya Viar]

God Bless little Paw Paw and all those who loved him. I had the pleasure of meeting him on the show this past November and Joey allowed me to sneak up onto the set and pose for a picture with him. He was one of the sweetest dogs I have ever met. My thoughts are with his family in this difficult time.

[liz]

what a dear, dear, sweet dog.
I will greatly miss seeing him on your blog.
My deepest sympathy to you Martha.

[Amanda]

Their lives are so short and yet they become such markers for the different eras of our lives.
So sorry for your loss.

[kat]

I dread this day. my eyes filling with tears and im choking on the lump in my throught as i get to still look at my lil princess. May the days get easier, memories will help xxxooo

[cheryl]

Dear Martha
I've been watching Paw Paw for so long in your magazine and on your show. He looked so sweet in his last pictures, and I know a lot of people have been crying over your loss including me. I've always had lots of pets, and each death was terribly traumatic. I now have a 13 year old cat, and I am dreading when his time will come. We will always remember Paw Paw. He was a little angel on earth. Cheryl Rocklin ca.

[Mina]

Awww, this blog really touched me. I ve lost a cat to cancer, and another to old age, so I understand the pain of loosing a loyal companion like Paw-Paw. He was a beautiful dog and had a long happy life...you were blessed to have him. Take care.

[Kaitlyn]

that is very sad to feel its not a very good feeling but i know how you feel:(.. im very very sorryy for the lose of your dog best wishs in the furture
your dog was cute bythe way
Kaitlyn:)

[Cindy]

Sorry to hear this news, Martha. Sweet tribute to Paw Paw, love the pictures, he is so cute cute cute. RIP Paw Paw.

[Laura Lab]

Martha, I remember when you once said that Paw-Paw would guard your bedroom door. You have my condolences.

[Andrea MacKay]

Dear Martha,
I'm very sorry for your loss. I hope that you can have comfort with the memories of the beautiful life that you shared with Paw Paw.

Love,
Andrea & Duane

[Brenda Reichert]

Dear Martha - My deepest sympathy to you - I shed tears for you as I write this as know the heartache of losing such a wonderful friend. I hope you find comfort in knowing you gave PawPaw such a good life and deep love just as he gave to you. Thank you for sharing the photos of beautiful PawPaw & your generosity in sharing your feelings. I will think of you often and send love to you, Brenda

[Kelly]

Martha,
My deepest sympathy goes out to you! Paw Paw is smiling in heaven, knowing just how much his mommy loves him and how much he will be missed!!
Kelly

[Deborah Lindley]

I am sorry to hear of your loss. I still miss my sweet old Mitzi Louise and she's been gone since 2001. PawPaw is enjoying all the beauty of Heaven now...how wonderful that is! Time really will heal the wound but the empty space will remain. PawPaw was blessed to have you as his "mom"! Thanks for sharing him with all of us over the years and thanks, Martha, for just being YOU!
Deborah Lindley
Little Rock, Arkansas

[Lindsay Shostal]

As a foster mom to the Boston Terrier Club of Canada Rescue, and a mommy to 2 fur babies, my heart goes out to you.

They are gone from our sight..... but never our memory. Gone from our hearing.... but never our hearts. Gone from our touch... but their presence is felt. And the love that they gave us never departs.

Sweet Rest & Godspeed Paw Paw.

[Karen]

I'm so sorry to hear of your furry friend's passing. It's different to lose a pet, in a way, more difficult than losing a human family member. The bond you have with your pet is something shared just between you, unique to the two of you. That makes it hard to lose, but something special you can treasure forever. Paw Paw was lucky to have you.

[Donna]

I'm so very sorry, Martha about your loss. Paw Paw looked to be such a special boy - it's easy to see how much he was loved. It's so hard to lose our furry kids - they are so special to us. Please take solace in knowing that he will not suffer and is with you always. I too, cry for you, Paw Paw and my own furry kids who have left this world.

You are in my thoughts, Martha-
Donna

[Ann T]

What a magnificent canine. I know he will be deeply missed by the many he left behind, both two legged and four legged, but I'm sure he is now brightening a corner of Heaven with his regal presence.

Rest in peace, Paw Paw.

[Tommy]

Martha I am so truly sorry for your loss, It was well known how much you truly admired Paw Paw and it breaks my heart to see him go.It will be sad no longer watching him on your show. All the best.

[Joseph Brennan]

Martha & Family:

I'm so very sorry to hear of Paw Paw's passing. He was a loyal and dear friend who saw you through so many joys and sorrows over the past 12 years.

He was truly a blessing to you.

Although I have no pets of my own, I felt like I knew Paw Paw. He was my favorite of all your pets. Thank you for sharing him with me.

God Bless you,

Joseph

[Chantelle]

So very sorry Martha,
"Dog's lives are short, too short, but you know that going in. You know the pain is coming, you're going to lose a dog, and there's going to be great anguish, so you live fully in the moment with her, never fail to share her joy or delight in her innocence,..." Brian McCarthy in Dean Koontz's The Darkest Evening of the Year.

Dogs, who are our furry children bring so much joy, it's much better to rejoice the time they were here, not mourn that they are gone. My thoughts are with you, be well.

[Donna]

I hope you continue to show pictures of Paw Paw. I so enjoyed them. Always made me smile.

[Nique]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss of dear Paw Paw. I loved when he came to visit on the show and he was such a beautiful soul he will be greatly missed. As a dog owner and lover of two beautiful dogs I know how hard this loss can be. My prayers are with you, Francessca and Sharkey. God Bless!!

[Linda]

I'm awfully sorry Martha. I always loved seeing Paw Paw. My little schipperke Max died almost one year ago in May. He would have been 13 yrs in July. I can't say he was never disobedient; but he was loyal and had the soul of a mastiff in his little body. I think we'll see them again. God bless you.

[Denise in CA]

Dear Martha:
I'm so sorry for your loss. You and PawPaw took great care of one another, through good times and bad.

Peace to you both.

[Ginger]

I am so sorry for your loss. I love animals, and loved witnessing the special relationship between you and Paw Paw. You are such a steward of animals. Paw Paw was just as lucky to have you in his life as you were to have him in yours.

[Secret Agent Mama]

This post brought me to tears. I have a chocolate lab that is the same age as Paw Paw.

I'm so sorry for your loss, Martha.

Rest in Peace sweet friend. :(

[Mo]

Paw Paw was such a special friend and loved member of your family. Your shared pictures and thoughts were so moving and loving.
Peace to Paw Paw and you, Martha!

[Michelle L]

Dear Martha,

I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved Paw Paw. He was a beautiful dog and he is at peace now.

I am so sorry for your loss.

[Jean]

What a beautiful tribute to your beloved. I am so sorry for your loss. It must give you comfort to know that he had the best journey in life with you and your family. I am sure that you and Paw paw will meet again. That is my belief that gives me comfort in sharing my life with my beloved four paws. So sorry for your loss and thank you for sharing your love of his life with us.

[Dedra Polinski]

Martha~
I'm so so sorry to hear about Paw Paw. I always loved seeing him on your show. He definitely hit the doggie lottery by getting such a great mom.

Sincerely,

[Tobi Weldon]

As I celebrate my sweet miniature schnauzer's 5th birthday today reading this....with my heart breaking for you. The joy that a dog brings to your world...there is nothing better. I am sorry for your loss and I hope you soon find peace. With XOXO

[Sue Landers]

Dear Martha,
There is nothing so heart breaking as the loss of a loyal pet. They become such an important part of our lives and we have them for such a short time. My heart aches for you as I know yours does for Paw Paw. I will give my Max a big hug in memory of Paw Paw. God Bless

[Dor]

So sorry for your loss, I am not an animal lover but seeing how much you loved paw paw and knowing that your heart is breaking breaks mine, take comfort in your other pets. They love you too.

[Ashley]

I'm so sorry to hear about Paw Paw, he was very beautiful and I'm sure a very special companion.

[Andrea]

Rest in peace, Paw Paw. So sorry for your loss Martha.

[Rosemarie]

I'm just bereft at the news of PawPaw's passing. You've been so generous sharing him and your other sweet pets with us. Your tribute, so touching, was beautifully rendered. May your happy memories soon take over the sadness you feel.

[michelle chase]

My sweet Pico and I send our good thoughts to you and the tribute to paw paw was indeed heart felt and beautiful. No one can underestimate the importance our pets place in our lives. Paw Paw will be missed by all of us.

[JoAnn Yuki]

Martha,

So sorry to hear about Paw Paw's passing.

I had to put down my beloved Silky Terrier last month. She was 17 years old and was healthy almost up to the end. I will miss her dearly. She was a great friend.

Maybe my Kinu and your Paw Paw are romping together and smelling the crocus?

JoAnn Yuki
Los Gatos, CA

[Lorraine]

I'm sorry for your loss Martha, Paw Paw will always be with you in spirit. He will be watching over you!! Your pictures are beautiful and very touching.

God bless you and Paw Paw!

[Kimberley Allan]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry to hear of Paw Paw's passing. I actually had the pleasure of meeting him when you had the Good Things event in NY and I took many photos of him because I was so delighted to finally see him in person! And what a beautiful dog he was. I, too, am a dog lover and can only imagine how difficult it must be for you to be without him after all these years. He truly brought something special in the photos and videos of him. He also brought something out in you to your audience, I think. Thank you for sharing him with us all these years.

Sincerely,
Kimberley Allan- Vancouver, Canada

[Michael]

What a beautiful tribute for Paw Paw. My heart is heavy, and I am truly sorry. Such powerful pictures
filled with true love.

I am so sorry.

[beatriz]

dear martha,
im so sorry to hear paw paw has passed away. He will be greatly missed.
Beatriz
canada

[Joel Quinones]

Dear Martha, I am so heartbroken to hear that Paw Paw died. Meeting him was one of those things I always wanted to do. I am lucky to have one of his grandchildren, a two year old girl named Bebop. She's been blessed to have his beauty and his genes. I hope another special Chow Chow will come to you one day.

[Linda Pastorino]

Dear Martha,
I came upon the news of the death of your beloved Paw Paw while checking out your sight after watching your show tonight. I had a very strange dream this week about Paw Paw and wondered about his health so I'm so sorry to hear the news. I had never had a dream about your dogs before.
I know how difficult it is to loose one's pet, and your tribute to him was very beautiful.
Sincerely,
Linda Pastorino

[Donna]

Dear Martha,

I couldn't help but cry reading your tribute to Paw Paw. My chow chow Simba died last year, but seeing Paw Paw on your show on TV and your magazine made me smile and remember Simba because they looked alike.

I'm so sorry for your loss.

[Rando]

I am so sorry to hear about Paw.... Dogs are our mentors. They travel with us, thru this crazy journey...only to teach us about life. I have lost many loves... but this is always the hardest. I have always admired your love, honesty and dedication. My love to you.

[Pamela Curry]

Dearest Martha - I have truly been touched by the loss of your beloved friend Paw Paw. As I too am an animal lover and hold the love and friendship of dogs close to my heart, my heart is heavy in knowing the pain you feel. I believe God will reunite us with our beloved pets along with all those we have loved in our lives. You will be in my prayers.

Pamela Curry

[k]

he's in a better place, and he lived a fantastic and beautiful life. i'm so sorry he couldn't have stayed longer, but at least the times you had together were always so lovely.

[Jean Balchin]

Martha: Paw Paw was a special friend and I know you will miss him dearly. Tonight I'll "talk" to our dear Lady and Max (Sheltie and Greyhound), both friends we've lost in past years...I'll ask them to meet Paw Paw and show him around. Then they can play at the Bridge together.

Know that he's still with you.

Jean

[andrea]

thoughts & prayers to you & your household. A wonderful companion like pawpaw is hard to say good-bye too. Hopefully the other sweet pups will help lift your spirits.

[David]

Martha, I cannot remember a time when I've watched you and there was no Paw Paw. We lost our beautiful 18 year old phantom poodle 6 months ago and I still wonder why there is no barking when someone knocks on the door, and I always rush to pick up things I drop while cooking to get it before she does. My thoughts are with you and all of Paw Paw's family, human and otherwise.

[Neil in Nashville]

Oh Martha, I am so sorry to hear about Paw Paw's passing. I know how much you loved him and he was such a delight on your show. Please know you and Paw Paw are in my prayers.

[David@GentsCanineSociety]

Dear Martha
So sorry for your loss.
David
& Kobey-Rose

[Barbara]

Rest in peace,sweet Paw Paw....I lost my furry soulmate Chamois almost 5 years ago(she was a 13 yr old Toy Poodle),so I know Paw Paw will always live on in your heart. Your blog photos are INCREDIBLE and the devotion shown by your Frenchies is also something very special to behold ! May God Bless you all at this extremely sad time in your life.

[Sues]

Oh my. I had no idea Paw Paw died. Wow. I'm so sorry :(

He is such a beautiful dog. I certainly won't ever forget him.

[Baby Sitter]

I am sorry to hear about the passing friend.But it will definitely reach u in a different way.

[Trina]

Martha,
I am so sorry to hear about Paw Paw's passing. May he rest in peace and may his memory be a comfort to you.
Trina

[Linda Bartholet Wpg Beach Manitoba Canada]

Dear Martha I am so sorry to hear of your loss. I know how hard it is to lose a pet as we lost our pet Goocho ( a Terrier, Poodle Mix) at the age of 16 years. It has been 6 years now, but at times I can still feel his presence. Take Strength that he is still with you!

[Leilani]

Martha as I'm writing this I can not stop myself from crying. I lost my cat that was dear to me and I was so heartbroken I felt I had lost a child. I hope that you will remember the great times you and Paw Paw shared and that will help you thru this painful time. Paw Paw will be dearly missed!

[Janis]

Dear Martha,
I am so very sorry to hear of
the loss of your sweet Paw Paw.
My heart aches and tears just
stream as I look at the pictures.
I know you love him dearly.....
Thank you for sharing him with
us through the years. May peace
and comfort come to ease the
sadness in your heart soon.
Many Hugs,
Janis

[Natalie]

Dear Martha,

I am truly sorry for you. The final pictures you've shared are both heart-wrenching and uplifting. Thank you for sharing his last days with us all.

Paw paw will truly be missed.

Condolences,

Natalie H.

[d. Sharp]

I am so sorry for your loss Martha. Wishing you the best during this difficult time.

[Dog Lover]

Martha,
I am truly so saddened by reading this. I sit at my computer crying as I look at the beautiful face of a perfect dog! I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. I can't imagine losing my dog, who is my absolute best friend, and I am so so deeply sorry.

[Chiara]

Mrs Stewart,
I'm so sorry to hear about your beloved Paw Paw; this post is really touching as I know what it means, I have tears in my eyes now. I love animals and I know how hard it is to let them go...Thank you so much for sharing this moment, my thought is with you. A huge hug,
Chiara from Italy

[Mena Trott]

Thanks so much for sharing Paw Paw's last day with us. He was such a beauty and clearly had a wonderful life. I wrote more about how meaningful your post was over on my own blog.

http://www.dollarshort.org/ds/2008/04/a-true-blogger.html

[byron]

Dear M.,
I lost my best friend on March 22. Sassy was the best.
We found a great reproduction of a mercury glass jar.
That's what we keep her ashes in. I miss her more than life itself. We still have one dog, Oscer, who is mean old grouch. But hopefully he will come around now that all our attention is focused on him. It is the worst thing in the world to loose the ones who seem to understand us the most. I wish you love. And the peace of knowing paw paw is in a better place.
love,
byron and juan

[Margaret]

Martha
Thank you for sharing Paw Paw with the world. He was such a regal dog. Seeing him brought such joy to my heart and brightened my day. Paw Paw will be missed.

[margalit]

Anyone who has ever loved a pet, especially a beautiful dog, knows of your sadness and feels the loss of Paw Paw right along with you. Losing a pet is just as devastating as losing any other loved one, and it takes a while to heal. The loss of your mother and your beloved Paw Paw so close together must be extremely painful. I'm so sorry for your losses. I hope that you can find healing in your other animals, your friends, and your family.

[Darlene A Czarnecki]

Martha I just want to send you my deepest sorrow for your loss of Paw Paw. I have a dog of my own and can sure understand your pain. You surely are the greatest mom a dog could ever have!!!!!!! And you have to know that Paw Paw knew that, too. I love you so much and never miss your show everyday. I will really miss seeing Paw Paw on the show and in the studio as well. Nothing I can say will really help your heart and it's healing right now but you will both be in my prayers. You are so wonderful and you bring so much joy to so many people everyday and I hope to be able to meet you someday!!!!!!!!! Thanks for all that you do and most of all GOD BLESS PAW PAW!!!!!!!!!!!! Love you so much Martha and I hope you get to see this e-mail because it is from a fan that truely cares!!!!!!!!! Love, Darlene Czarnecki

[O]

Martha, my heart goes out to you. I can empathize with you...the pain of the loss of a beloved pet is deep. May you find comfort in the memories you have of your wonderful Paw Paw and in the company of Francesca & Sharkey. This entry is a beautiful tribute to Paw Paw. Thank you for sharing this with all of us. Peace be with you.

[peabody]

As a dog lover and owner I am so deeply sorry for your loss. I am beyond misty-eyed at your photos and story.

[Pru]

Martha,

I am so sorry for your loss. I treat my dog as if she were my only child, and reading your blog brought a tear to my eye. Through seeing all the pictures and reading all the words that you have said about Paw Paw I think he had one of the best lives ever.

[Gladys Marie]

God Bless You Sweet Martha & Your Dear Family.
Thank You For These Precious Photos.

[barbtallica]

May your next lift be even mo' better...and it sounds like this one was wonderful. Sounds like you have brought much joy to many byjust being you. RIP PAW PAW!

[Mary Collings]

Dearest Martha

There just aren't words...just a big hug for you.

((((((((Martha & PawPaw)))))))))))

I'm so, so sorry.

Mary xx

[Hellen Torres]

Dear;Martha.
Sorry for your loss,of Paw Paw.I creid reading and viewing the pictures of Paw Paw.I know, how hard, it is to lose a beloved pet.But i know that, he is in doggy heaven.

[Scott - Sydney, Australia]

Martha

I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Paw Paw was such a majestic dog. We lost our beloved 19 year old cat this year and she is always with us in our memories

Please accept my sympathy

Scott

[Fran]

Awwwwwwwww!!!! The world is forever changed. I know exactly how you feel. Whenever you need to feel his presence just close your eyes and imagine.

[J. Reiner Pellestone-Martinez]

Dear Martha,

A friend shared your blog to me in response to mine about my dog's recent death (http://jmpb.multiply.com/photos/album/42/Miguelitos_Memorial). It helped me in a way and I would like to extend my condolences.

I just lost my beloved Miguelito, an 18-month old Chow Chow, last April 7. Just after my birthday.

He was very sick few days before that and on the day of my birthday party, we had to rush him to the animal hospital for confinement. I cannot cancel my party anymore and went on with it worried about him.

I know he wanted me to be happy during my party. He waited for it to finish and went to dog heaven an hour after my party ended, 3:15AM of April 6.

It has been very hard for me. I miss him in every place I go, every minute of my day. He has been part of my life since he was given to me.

I hope Paw Paw and Miguelito become good friends in dog heaven.

Best regards,

JM

[Rhonda Jarvis]

Martha,
Paw-Paw may not be with you in body but he will always be with you in your heart....He was a beautiful boy, I have watched your show many times and loved seeing him on the show, it was so great for our breed...People need educating on the chow chow, and need to know that it is one of the best breeds to own....They love you with all their heart and give 100% always...
I know what you are going through as I have just lost my older loved one in January...
I am so sorry for your loss but please know that Paw-Paw is running with all the other friends and having a great time...He will always be with you...
Rhonda

[Jasmine Carranza]

Dear Martha,

May it console you to know that others share in your grief and keep you in their prayers. The loss of a family member is horrible. I understand your pain and still mourn the death of my friend a year later. I pray that God blesses you with strength through this difficult time.

God bless and keep you,
Jasmine

[Carolyn]

So sorry for your lose!

That picture of you hugging him nearly made me cry.

Thanks for sharing on the pics.

Carolyn

[S.C.]

Paw Paw was a once in a lifetime companian.

From the first moment we bring them home, we fully expect to outlive them and that their time with us is short; but, it doesn't prevent us from loving them entirely and completely. Grief is the price that we pay for this love. My thoughts are with you.

[Mike]

Oh Martha....

I am so full of tears.

I'm sorry friend.

[Linda]

Martha:
I am so sorry for your loss. I want to offer my condolences to you. Your blog has a beautiful tribute to Paw Paw and I cried at the loss of him and for the grief felt by all who loved him including Francesca and Sharkey. Thank you for sharing the pictures of him and sharing him with us when he was alive on your show, in your blog and in the magazine.
Sincerely
Linda
Philadelphia PA

[Johann]

Run free dear Paw Paw - we will miss you! We send loving thoughts and prayers to you Martha, and Francesca, Sharkey, and all of Paw Paw's loving friends and family...Woofs, Johann

[Janet]

I am very sorry for your loss.

[Tammy]

You were so beautiful Paw Paw. One of the best dogs ever Im sure! Heaven just got a wonderful Prince! Sleep in peace!

[KellySchwark.com]

Prayers for you and all of Paw Paw's family (furry and human alike.)

[Sharon]

I lost my little darling on September 7, 2007. I know the anguish and pain you are going through. My darling Sandy lived for nearly 18 years, which I was most blessed to have her in my life for so long. God is good in allowing us to have His creatures as our companions to love and care for. Take care and know you did okay by your Paw Paw.

[L. Cazin]

My thoughts go out to you in Paw Paw's demise. I am still guided by my white cat of 17 years, Nicholas Sam. He was a feline angel. I know your feelings about your Paw Paw. He and Nicholas are sitting on God's lap. They truly had a purpose in life.

[Kathy]

Oh, Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss of Paw Paw. Thank you for sharing your loving tribute with us. He touched so many lives. My two dogs and I will miss watching him. You and Francesca and Sharkey as well as all those who were part of his life are in my thoughts and prayers.
Kathy

[cookiejar]

Oh Martha, I am so very sorry. Your beautiful photos and words for Paw Paw made me cry. I am sure too that Paw Paw is resting peacefully, and nearby in spirit.
So sad yet heartwarming that he had such a loving home. I'll remember him!
God bless,

[Nicole S.]

Martha-
I just wanted to say that I am so very sorry for your loss. Paw Paw was a gorgeous boy, who did more for his breed than he will ever know. The Chow Chow's reputation has been a bit tarnished in recent years beause of some very misunderstood dogs. I think Chows are one of the most loyal, and loving of all the dog breeds. I am the PROUD mother of a 10 year old blue Chow named Koti, who has been gift to our family.

Thank you Martha for showing people that Chows are great dogs.

Rest in Peace Paw Paw...

[Riley, Tiki, & Kesey]

We are very sorry about Paw Paw. We are sending you purrs, hugs, and soft woofs.

[Teri]

My condolences on the loss of your beloved Paw Paw. He was a beautiful boy that was loved by many. Your tribute to him showed how much you loved him. Teri

[Jo & Al Riebe]

Our heartfelt condolences for the loss of your love-bucket. Paw Paw was a wonderful ambassador for our Chows. We've done the Guardian Home & Pet Expo to educate the public of the truly great personality of our breed, but you have excelled in showing the public what truly wonderful family members the Chow can be. Bless you, and rest easy in knowing there are other beloved Chows romping with him now,as I believe God looks after our furkids as he does us. Hugs to you and your furkids, Jo

[Priscilla Wormwood]

Well, what can I say? I don't usually cry. I had to shut the door to my office (very late for a meeting) and sobbed, face buried in my arms, on my desk.
If one took pen in hand, one could not adequately describe the depth of the word; "heartbreaking".
Paw Paw has a brand new body now.Full of energy, appetite and pain free.
My version of heaven? Seeing my parents waiting for me with all of my animals gathered around my Mom and Dad.
Paw Paw's blog has done something to your appreciation base. It reminded us of why we are here.
To love and care for each other, the earth and the animals.
Thank you Mrs. Stewart for the gentle reminder.
Priscilla Wormwood

[Shannon]

Martha,
Please accept our condolonces on the loss of your beloved Paw Paw.
Shannon, MaryAnne and Joey

[Jan Cruser]

I lost my sweet Munchie, an eleven year old Yorkie, a month ago. I feel your pain, Martha, and your love.

[Kerry]

I don't think there will ever be another famous dog like Paw Paw - he was like the Dog Prince of All Media. May he rest in peace and may you, Martha, have nothing but happy memories of your life together.

[Leona]

Oh Martha I really feel for you as I know how much it hurts to loose our best pet friends,we ache for quite awhile after but Paw Paw will always hold a place in your heart and ours.He has been such a big part of your show for years,he's now in Doggie Heaven.
Leona in Nova Scotia,Canada

[Laurie in Dallas]

Dear Martha, I cried looking at the beautiful pictures of Paw Paw. He was a gorgeous and loveable member of your family - on and off television - and we will miss him very much. He was blessed to have such a loving mother in you. A beautiful tribute to a very special pooch. I send you all my love.

[pamela]

Oh Martha, I am so sorry. I know that you miss him. Thank you for sharing the precious photos.

[Mary Lou]

It is so hard when a beloved pet dies. I had tears rolling down my face reading your words and seeing your pictures. My thoughts are with you, Martha, and everyone who was close to Paw Paw.

[SewCrazyDogLady]

I'm so sorry to hear of PawPaw's passing. How wonderful you gave your Frenchies a chance to say goodbye.

He was a beautiful dog and I'm sure he will live long in your heart. Namaste

[Crickett Lanham]

Ms.Stewart,
I am not one usually to send comments, however knowing the love you had for your precious PawPaw I felt the need to share some thoughts with you. I had Baby a Golden Retriever ,for 13 years. She was my most loyal companion and friend. I lost her several years ago and it is still as fresh today as it was then.I take comfort by sharing stories and pictures of her with friends and family as you do. Our pets are forever a part of us and our lives. Just take comfort that he enjoyed life as much as you enjoyed sharing your life with him.

[Naratip]

I'm sorry. He was a lovely dog.
I lost my dog, coba, last few months ago, I feel your pain and love for Paw Paw too.

[Jeffrey Reed]

Dearest Martha,
I am so sorry you had to lose your friend. As I sit here very tearful I think of my Basset Hound "Fitch" I lost him when he was only 3 years old to cancer and I think of him every day. I know he is with me in my heart as I know Paw Paw will be with you. I find comfort in the idea that Paw Paw and Fitch and all the other animals that have gone before us are running freely in a place where no pain or sorrow will ever be felt. My thoughts are with you Martha, I am so very sorry. He will be missed! God Bless!
Jeffrey Reed
South Hadley, MA

[Carla]

So very sorry to hear of Paw Paw's passing. Thank you so much for sharing your precious private photos. Carla, Auckland New Zealand.

[Lorraine]

Martha, there are no adequate words. Be comforted in knowing that those beautiful black labs,Rosco and Velvet, and many new friends are there to greet him. Thank you for sharing this time.

[Paige Phillips]

Martha, one of the things I love about you is that you really adore your animals. Losing one is losing a family member. I know that your Paw Paw dog is looking down at you and smiling right now. This is a beautiful tribute!

[Karen]

Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss. I read your blog today and found out about Paw Paw. I was in tears as I looked through the pictures. I can only imagine how much you loved him and how much you will miss him. My dog is fifteen and it will break my heart to lose her. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

[Jacque' Greene]

Martha,

I am so sorry to hear about your loss (and ours) of Paw Paw. I have a lovely grand daughter/great grand daughter of his who gave me the most beautiful litter of 4 puppies just a year ago on the 21st of April. They each have Paw Paw's lovely personality and love of attention and will, along with all of his other offspring, carry on his legacy.

Run free, Paw Paw, at the Rainbow Bridge, until your beloved Martha joins you.

My most sincere sympathy (and empathy) during this time of loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you as you progress to where you can look back at the memories of all these years and remember, with joy, all the love that you shared with Paw Paw.

[catherine rucas]

Martha, I am truly sorry for your loss. Pets do become part of the family and it is hard to lose them. Please know that you are in my thoughts.

[Lorraine]

Martha, there are no adequate words. Be comforted in knowing that those beautiful black labs,Rosco and Velvet, and many new friends are there to greet him. Thank you for sharing this time.

[Anita]

Dear Martha,

Sorry your beloved Paw Paw has now gone to the Rainbow Bridge. I know you will miss him a great deal but, you will always have him in your heart & memories.

God Speed Paw Paw.

Anita from NJ

[Annie]

dearest martha & family, i am so terribly sorry for your loss. when our pets leave us, they leave their footprints on our soul and heart. i will pray for you and yours, as paw paw crosses the rainbow bridge, and i know he will treasure his memories of your love and care. may god bless you all and comfort you at this sad time. love, annie

[Paula]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss of Paw Paw. I loved seeing him visit you on the show. He was a beautiful Chow, and you tribute to him on the web-site has touched me deeply. No one but a pet owner (or ownee as I am) can understand the joy our pets bring to us. It is how we are taught unconditional love. My thoughts are with you and yours.

Sincerely,
Paula from MI

[Christine]

Hello Martha,

Just wanted to say how sorry I am to hear about the loss of your family member. My dog of 16 years passed away one month ago today and I understand how you must be feeling. The only comforting thing is knowing they are in a better place now, and that they had the best life possible on this earth. Whenever I get sad, I just close my eyes and think of all the happy memories and it makes me smile.

[Rose]

I'm so sorry for your loss Martha. Our pets are truly our "best friends" and companions. There's a poem about the loss of our dear friends called "The Rainbow Bridge". It states that when all of us, as owners go into our next life, our pets will be at the Rainbow Bridge waiting for us to meet with them again. You see "The Rainbow Bridge" is where all pets go to play and be together until their human friends join them in eternity.
Keep his memory alive always!
Rose

[Nan Ashby]

Martha, I'm truly sorrowful for your loss and I know your broken heart. Paw Paw was a great dog,and you gave him such a wonderful life. I know he is a love in your heart that only you are feeling. A dog goes through and stands devoted to us even in the worst circumstances. My thoughts are with you. Love, Nan

[Domonic]

Martha,

My wife and I lost two of our best friend to the semi-recent pet food debaucle. Zeus and Max our two babies (German Shepards)
died of renal failure directly caused by the afore mentioned food
thing Paw Paw is running and loving it in the Big Dog Park in the sky.

[Kathy :)]

Oh Martha, I have a lump in my throat after reading all about Paw Paw...what a sweet dog he was. When he was on the show he always seemed so easy going and then I read that you never had to raise your voice to him. I'd like to think that he and your Mum are together watching over you and yours !!!

Perhaps one day you can tell us how he got his name, and if you've already done this I'm so sorry I missed it.

All the best,
Kathy :)

[Lauren Hastings]

Dear Martha,
My roommate and friend Cassie and I want to express our sympathy at the loss of Paw Paw. He was obviously very loved and lived the best life a dog could live- which is most important. We will remember him happily. Best wishes,
Lauren Hastings, Boston, MA

[Eileen]

I am so, so sorry to hear about your loss.

[DIANE]

So sorry, there was always joy in my heart when I saw him , either on your show, in a book, or in a magazine. Whata beautiful and loving creature he was.

Sincerely, Diane

[joselyn s walsh]

Dear Martha, and all people who were close to paw paw. I cried so hard when I heard you announce your dog had died.
We recently lost our dog, Seamus McGee.. and it still hurts alot.
I still get tears in my eyes when I remember him.
They are not just dogs, but our best , most loyal friends.
Howabout part of a show dealing with grief after losing our animals? It is a subject not often touched upon.. and is a real thing.
I love the way you love and cover the animals in your life, and in the world.
Sorry again for your loss of your beautiful dog..
sincerely
joselyn in Maine

[sheila]

Hi Martha,
I too am so touched by your loving tribute to Paw Paw! A Scottish friend of mine told me of a Scotch lore. It is that once you reach heaven, the first to greet you are all of the animals that you have loved! I know that this will be the case, as your love, and respect, for Paw Paw is so evident. My best, Sheila from Kirkland WA

[Christina Gillen]

Dear Martha: Paw Paw was as lucky to love you as you were to love him! Next time you are in a library, check out Cynthia Rylant's DOG HEAVEN. It's a beautiful and comforting book that will ease the sorrow. A pat and a treat to all,
Christina

[Tiara G]

Dear Martha,

Sorry for your loss. What a beautiful tribute for your best friend.

[Morley Williamson]

Millions of North Americans offer up silent prayers for PawPaw, you and all companions.
I am so sorry for your loss - we all loved him.
Thank you for sharing his beauty with us.
Martha, he will be 'right by your side', in spirit, for ever. Just keep talking to him...he misses you too.
My sincerest condolences.

[Tara]

Paw Paw was obviously very loved and brought much joy to your life. I'm sorry it was his time to go...too bad they can't stay with us forever! thank you for sharing him with us.

[harley and oscar]

So sorry to hear about Paw Paw. Watched your tribute on the show this morning and then viewed your blog and looked at the beautiful pictures of him and your other "babies". The picture of the two of you together, him on the kitchen counter, brought tears to my eyes. He was very lucky to have you as his mom.

[Judy Rerko]

The following poem says it all for anyone who has lost a beloved friend. They leave us to soon and have given more than ever asked of them. So sorry for your loss

RainbowsBridge.com
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 who 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....

Author unknown...

This site was inspired by and is dedicated to FiFi

Visit the Human side of Rainbows Bridge - BelovedHearts.com

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[Angela]

Hi Martha,
I am so so sorry that you lost your precious Paw Paw. I was really hoping that he would pull through and be around for a lot longer. When you just announced on your show that you lost him, I started to cry. Reading your blog made me cry even more.

I can truly feel the love you have for him. Take the time to grieve and treasure the wonderful memories of your sweet, furry friend. You are such a busy person, but you have been through a lot in the last year and don't forget to take some time for yourself.

You are an inspiration to me and I wish you the best.

Love,
Angela from NB Canada

[Vicki Randle]

Martha, it was so sad to hear of Paw Paw's death. It is never easy to lose one of our 'fur children'. Having a dog is truly the only love that money can buy...and unconditional love at that. I hope that you will take comfort in knowing that there are many others who share your loss, not only of Paw Paw but of the many dogs that have passed away after giving such love and joy to their families.

[Janice Tremblay]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. Paw Paw was such a beautiful dog and I know you loved him very much.
I lost my little dog, Bob, almost 4 years ago and I was so heartbroken. He was 14 years old and he was my baby (I have no real kids).I have since adopted a border collie/lab mixed named Kiki and I could not imagine my life without her!
May you keep all the great memories of Paw Paw in your heart.

Take Care
Janice in Montreal,Quebec, Canada

[Regina]

Dear Martha, I'm sitting here with tears welled up in my eyes. This has to be the nicest tribute I have ever read. Paw Paw always looked like such a nice little guy. We lost our Yorkie, Skippy, in May of last year and I know the heavy feeling in your heart. Your other two dogs definitely knew Paw Paw was in his final days. Love to you during this difficult time.

Regina

[Marianne]

Martha - the tears are rolling down my face as I just watched you to tell everyone about the death of your beautiful dog. I only have kitties, but they are the love of my life and I know how sad you must be to lose such a loyal companion. The photos you took were heartbreaking, but I am glad you will have them to remember PawPaw in his last days. I hope your other dogs are not too sad, but I know they will miss him also. He will always be in your heart.

[Sue]

Martha,
Words cannot express my heartach for your loss. It brings back the loss of my 14 year old Golden who we lost to cancer 4 years ago. The only way to mend my broken heart was when my neighbor (breeder) gave me a long haired chi to comfort me a year later. I know your a very busy person but I hope you have some quiet time for Francesca, Sharkey and yourself to comfort each other.
He was a truely beautiful soul. I send my prayers,a HUG....and a kleenex.
Sincerely,
Sue
New Haven Michigan

[Ray McNab]

Dear Martha,
I'm so sorry to hear about Paw Paw's passing. Although, it is the natural order of life that we are all owed a death and we're all walking "our own green mile," it still saddens me to witness a passing of a beloved companion. I've always admired Paw Paw's deameanor and easy temperment anytime I've seen him on your show or the commercials you've done over the years. His love for you was undeniable. Your tribute to him with the pictures and stories here on your blog, and on the show, is very touching. In my heart, I believe that he and Big Martha are being good company for eachother now. Best wishes Martha and many blessings. Sincerely, Ray McNab
Tampa, FL

[James Jones]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for your lost. I know exactly how you must feel as I just lost my beloved dachshund of 19 years. People will tell you that he is in a better place, I would like to think that that place is in your heart. Not a day will go by without you thinking of your beloved pet. That is definitely a good thing. Be well and God Bless.
James Jones
Winter Park, Florida

[Rebecca]

Oh, Martha...I just read your entire post and am in tears. I have always loved seeing pictures of Paw Paw, watching him on your shows, and it always made me smile wondering where he would "pop up" next. What a beautiful dog!

I'm so sorry for your loss; but want to thank you for sharing so openly with all of us - allowing us one last "visit" with this sweet little soul. God bless you for your generosity. Paw Paw will be missed by so many...

Yours,
Rebecca

[Barbara]

We are so sorry to learn of Paw Paw's passing. Yours was a beautiful and heartfelt tribute in rememberance of his wonderful life with you. He will always be a part of you, living on in your heart, and he will be waiting to be reunited with you again one day across the Rainbow Bridge.

[Gambrell Williams]

I am sorry for your loss. It's amazing how these little angels bring such joy into our lives. We say to ourselves that we are here to give them love and to take care of them but really they allow us mere mortals to come into their lives to learn, love and to understand our own lives. They let us know of relationships with no judgements just total acceptance. In many cases they definitely teach us to laugh. I have a tendency to rescue these little guys whether they be cats, dogs and even a snake. Each and everyone gives purrs, barks and lots of wet noses. Such a blessing to have had such a great bond. I know you will miss PawPaw dearly. My thoughts are with you.

[Louise Martin]

Martha, I am so sorry....
He was a beautiful boy that did so much for the breed.
I am sure he and Fred are once again happy, healthy and enjoying life "across the bridge."
{{{HUGS}}}
Louise Martin

[crystal]

Losing a pet is never easy. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during your time of lose. I know I certainly well miss reading about Paw Paw and seeing he's cute pictures. I like to think he is running around with our beloved past pets.

[Monika Barkley]

I am so very sorry about the loss of your beloved Paw Paw. There is nothing like the unconditional love you receive from a dog. I have no children so my dogs (4 presently) are my babies. I've lost 3 in the last several years and I still miss them so very much. They are always in my heart and one day I'll see them again, tails wagging, as I cross that Rainbow Bridge and wish that for you as well. I'm going to give my four babies extra hugs today and say a little prayer for you, Francesca and Sharkey.

God Bless,
Monika Barkley

[Lola Meek]

He nuzzled his way into my heart
He mirrored the love he found there
Memories soften the emptiness, but the tears fall

Please accept my deepest sympathy.

Lola Meek

[Vanessa Fraser]

Martha, My heart breaks for you. Paw Paw was a most beautiful Chow Chow, and he will always be with you. I lost my Golden several years ago after almost 15 wonderful years. She was my most loyal friend through a divorce, the death of my Mother, raising my children and finally a re-marriage. I miss her still today. She comes to me often in my dreams as I am sure Paw Paw will do for you. What a fabulous life you gave him, bless you for your love of all animals.

[Carolyn]

Very sorry for your lose of Paw Paw, I didn't realize Paw Paw was that old, he didn't look it, he was a Sweetie. Have you thought about a nice rock to decoupage and display his picture onto at his final resting place? I'm sure what all you do will definetely make it memorable and so nice. You gave him such a wonderful life. Will miss seeing him on your show.

[Donna]

Martha,
When I heard about Paw Paw my heart broke. I have watched you for so many years and Paw Paw found a place in my heart. Paw Paw was an aspiration for when I chose my pet. I have a Japanese Akita, Zachariah, who, like Paw Paw tells it all in his face and eyes. I am so very sorry for your loss. My heart, thoughts and prayers are with you. Thank you for sharing Paw Paw with us for all of these years.

[Kate]

Martha, I am sorry to hear about your pets passing.. I myself had to lay to rest my BEST FRIEND Angel of 15 years.. So hun, my heart goes out too you n all who have lost such a precious friend. God Bless you Martha n a friend always from Vermont, Kate

[Kim Tardif]

Dear Martha,

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of your beautiful boy. I, too, lost my beautiful pet just shy of his 14th birthday (in Feb). He was a blissful, blundering yellow Lab named Murphy and touched our lives like no other pet. We miss him terribly as we know you will miss Pawpaw. If you have not read the book "Marley and Me", I suggest it as a great read about the life of a lab and his owner and the trials and special times they shared.
Sincerely,
Kim Tardif
Londonderry, NH

[Kate]

One more thought Martha, sorry... I just need to say that your beautiful pet PAW PAW was a very beautiful dog. I recently went a got a new puppy we named Sneaker, after a year of Angels passing. But it will never be the same. I am glad though I took a year off if you will before getting Sneaker. I never wanted to feel as if I was trying to replace my Angel (she was n is irreplacible) Thank you so much for sharing your personal side with us friends here all over the woprld. I know I appreciate it n consider it a honor. Be blessed always and I know God up above is watchin over your precious Paw Paw n my precious Angel. tc n in friendship, Kate

[Karen Harmon]

Martha, I am so sorry for your loss. I can sympathize, as we lost our miniature schnauzer, Pepper, this past February. He was almost 15 years old. I still cry every day, he meant so much to our family. We now have a miniature female schnauzer puppy named Stevie. She is a handful, and a forgot how much work a puppy is, but she is doing very well. Dogs are so smart (smarther than most people).

The loss of a pet can leave a very big hole in your heart, which can only be helped by having another.
Please take care, and God Bless you and Paw Paw. I know he is at Rainbow Bridge, playing and running, young again and waiting for you!

[Mary Ann]

Dear Martha,
I was so sad to learn of the passing of your beloved Paw Paw. He was so beautiful and I enjoyed watching him on your show.
As a proud owner of 2 labrador retrievers I know you must be missing him terribly. I haven't always had dogs in my home as I was always deathly afraid of dogs as a child and into adulthood. It was only when we got "Sonny" (our 12 year old lab) that my fear of dogs seemed to fade away. I just love dogs and can only imagine what you must be feeling.
My thoughts and prayers are with you during this time.

Mary Ann
North Royalton, Ohio

[Karen Dale]

Dear Martha: Words cannot express the sadness I feel for your loss and to all of the people who were touched by PawPaw's presence. I have 4 dogs and other pets as well and it is never easy when they are such a part of your life and your heart to have the love, strength, courage and unselfish ability to let them go. I hope you take the time to grieve and relax, as it is an emotionally draining experience. I know Paw Paw is in a wonderful place, probably doing all the wonderful things dogs love to do when they are young and healthy, and sniffing all the fabulous smells there is to offer. I cried yesterday when I first heard the news and read the beautiful memorium to Paw Paw, and it didn't change when I read it again today. Our thoughts, prayers, and blessings go out to you and everyone who is sadded by his passing. Take care - - Karen, Paul, Heather & Nicholas Dale

[Bill Bryan]

Dear Martha, I know that you will miss PawPaw dearly. There was always so much love in your voice and eyes when you spoke of him and so much love in his eyes for you. I have lost pets in the past and it just hurts so hard. You are so lucky to have all of your memories to help you through this time. While looking at the photos of you & PawPaw I had tears running down my cheeks. Love and best wishes to you and to PawPaw as he rests for eternity. Bill Bryan

[Lisa Anne]

My deepest, deepest sympathy to you Martha on your loss. I know that losing your beloved Paw Paw was not just losing a pet, but a beloved furry child. I grieve with you but I know that he will always be with you on the other side and that your mom was undoubtedly there to greet him.

[Pat Phillips]

Hi Martha, I am so very sorry you lost such a precious part of your life. I never was a dog person till a year ago and I'm 48. My husband got me a pure white Siberian Huskey with blue eyes, she's a big (spoiled) part of our family. I named her Blizzard. Had her since a baby and I honestly don't know what I'll do when her time comes. Martha try to think of all the happy times you shared as I know you shared so many. I know Paw Paw was Blessed having your loving care and sure he knew it. He will be missed! Pat Phillips Chattanooga, TN

[Callie from Wisconsin]

You are a beautiful soul, Martha. We can see that from your pictures of you nuzzling Paw Paw. I know you will continue to be a caring advocate for our animal and plant friends. We will all miss seeing Paw Paw on your show.

[Billie]

I am so sorry to hear about PAWPAW. They are members of our family, and it hurts so bad when something happens to them. My thoughts and prayers go out to you!!

[Melissa]

Martha,

I feel for you, i really do, i to have a chow, partly because i used to watch paw paw on your shows growing up, and i loved how he was a teddy bear. I know the deep love and loyalty that chows show for their family. My teddy bear chow "Jack Black" and I send our love your way.

[SHIRLEY]

MARTHA, Paw Paw was a wonderful friend and I'm sure you will miss him so much. We only have things we love for a short time but he is in heaven with Big Martha. He went to keep her company. Much love Martha and our prays are with you.

[Curtis Perez]

Dear Martha,

I am so sorry for your loss, I know what it is like to lose a loyal friend and companion. I too had a Chow Chow, his name was Barkley. The pictures you posted are priceless and remind me of when Barkley passed. Thank you for sharing Paw-Paw with us.

God Bless.

[Gigi]

Dear Martha,
I was so sad when i opened your blog this morning.  Paw Paw was a wonderful dog and I send you and Sharkey and Francesca my deepest sympathy. You gave him a wonderful and full life. My thoughts are with you. 

Gigi from Massachusetts 

[Kathlene Lentz]

Hello, Ms. Stewart, my name is Mi Ping and I am the founder of the Angel Kitty Gang. We are a group of kitties and puppies (and a bird!) dedicated to making things easier on new arrivals on our side of the Bridge. We have gathered Paw Paw into our heart and are helping him adjust to life after life. We want you to know that he is doing well. He now has his youth back and is able to run and play like a puppy. He chases the kitties across the beautiful green fields and enjoys himself immensely. We know that you are missing Paw Paw terribly, but we want you to know that even though you can't see him, he has not left you. If you stand really still you will feel his presence and the kisses that he is blowing on the wind will waft onto your cheek as gently as the brush of a butterfly wing. My Mom would be honored to add Paw Paw to our website where he will be honored as all our members are honored. There you will be able to visit him and leave comments, if you like. If you do not want Paw Paw on our site, we will understand and we will still keep him close and take care of him forever. Silent Purrs, Mi Ping Angel Kitty

[Lynn]

Martha,
this is your chance to give another wonderful animal a loving home. There are many loving animals ready for adoption at local shelters everywhere. May you find it in your heart at this difficult time to help another animal.

xoxo.

[Vicki]

Martha,
When I tuned in to your show this morning and heard you talking about Paw Paw I was so sad. Having just lost our 12 year old Gordon Setter in January, I know how hard it is and how they are missed. Paw Paw had a wonderful life with you and seemed to be healthy until the end. You have wonderful memories to help your heart heal.
Vicki, Delray Beach, FL

[Andrea]

This is one of the most touching experiences, I'm at work reading this and as I tear up I feel so touched that you shared this. Thank you! May God be with you at this time as I'm sure you will need his comfort! My prayers and thoughts are with you.

[Alison]

Martha, my deapest sympathy for the lose of a special family member. I have always said, sometimes it's as hard to lose a pet than a family member b/c they give you unconditional love and no back talking! I also lost my Boston Terrier Mick last year and after reading about Paw Paw it brought it all back, however now after time I can smile when thinking of him instead of crying. Thank you for sharing your story and letting us all be a part of Paw Paws life. Bless you and the rest of your extended family. With love....

[Heather]

I am so sorry to hear about Paw Paw. My Chow Chow Lacy just passed as well. She was also 13 years old. I have grown up with Chows my whole life and they are the most wonderful breed. Actually, Paw Paw looks identical to our Chow Kodi that passed several years ago. May God bless our wonderful dogs and we will love them always.

[Theresa-Zephyrhills Fl]

Dear Martha,Iam truly sorry for your loss,it has hit so close to home.My 13 year old Chow-Chow Willow is beginning to decline and my heart is breaking, every day is a god send my heart is breaking for you in your loss of your beloved Paw-Paw.My 2 year old Chow-Chow Apollo my birthday gift 2 years ago from my best friend Carol is our rock hes all he can be.Again my heartfelt love and deepest sympthony to you in your loss the pictures are a wonderful memory he will always be in your heart with love.

[alc]

Dear Martha,

I'm so sorry to hear of your loss. I lost my beloved cat last year, and think of him every day. It is so hard to lose pets - they are as close and beloved as family members.

[Angel Garcia]

Martha, I am so very sorry to hear about your dear Paw Paw. I also have a doggie who is very dear to my heart, so I understand what you must be going through!

Regards, Angel Garcia

[Gaye Bisignaro]

Martha,
I am so sorry for the loss of your dog. I was just watching your show and learned about it.
On the same day April 12,2008 my brother lost his Akita at the age of 13. My mom and Dad helped him bring Lucky to the vet that day. We all feel for your loss, and as a tell my brother these dogs were so loved for their entire lives and blessed to have owners like you. Our thoughts are with you. Gaye

[Pauline Levesque]

I am so sorry to hear about Paw Paw's passing. I am sure that he had a lovely life while he was here with you, and I believe our pets are happily playing on the other side and waiting to see us when we cross over. I still mourn my precious cat whom we had to have put to sleep 5 months before the death of our only child, Anne, at age 24. I like to believe that Penny was there to greet Anne when she crossed over, and I will see all my passed loved ones, human and animal, when it is my time.

{{{Hugs}}}, Pauline
Nova Scotia, Canada

[Amanda]

Martha, I'm so sorry for your loss. I love dogs and to hear about paw paw, broke my heart. We will all miss him. Take care,

Amanda

[Eva Sikora]

Dear Paw Paw,

You are and will always be a beautiful dog. My heart sank and my eyes welled up this morning when I read today's blog and learned about your passing. You may be gone from this world, but your presence and memories will always surround and shine on everyone who ever knew and loved you in this lifetime especially Martha. I will miss you very much.

Martha:
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Please accept my deepest condolences for your loss.

Love,

Eva (New York City)

[Linda Kapala]

Dear Martha....how brave you are in the passing of your beloved Paw Paw.Nothing is harder than losing your best friend who was always there for you no matter whether you are are having a good day or a bad one....always there to greet you with a wagging tail and kisses.I am sure Paw Paw is watching over you and will be eager to greet you when you meet him above. I have lost best friends too and my little Shih tzu is now ten and as I look at him and see the start of cataracts etc. I am reminded of his aging too. Your loss has shown me I must appreciate him every day as you must your other two bebies...thinking of you and Oprah in her loss of Sophie.....take care Linda

[Ed]

Dear Martha:

I have made a donation, in Paw Paw's name, to the NY Restoration Project. A tree will be planted, in his memory, in NY for all of us to enjoy.
My condolences.

[Carolyn]

Dear Martha, My condolences to you on your profound loss. Thank you so much for sharing these beautiful last photos of your beloved Paw Paw. I know how much you will miss seeing him every day and how much your other animal companions will miss his company too. I look forward to seeing what wonderful thing you knit out the the chow fur you had made into yarn. He will never be forgotten. Sending you my love and prayers.

[Jessie]

I am so very sorry.

[myra callan]

Martha~

I was deeply moved by your beautiful post about your beloved Paw Paw's final days with you. Paw Paw truly seemed to be a part of your family, a friend. As a dog lover, I can sympathize with your loss, and truly respect and admire your poise and eloquence through such a difficult time. I know Paw Paw was loved and will now be in "doggie heaven" dreaming of bones, and squirrels, and his wonderful owner and friend.

All best,
Myra

[Karen Dale]

As animal lovers as a whole, but especially dog lovers, (we have 4, our heartfelt and deepest sympathies go out to you and to everyone who's life was touched by PawPaw's presence and grace. I lost a dog 10 years ago who was 17, and I still sleep with her picture on my nightstand. They are such a wonderful, loving part of our life that teaches us to slow down a bit and enjoy life's little moments. Please take the time to do that for yourself as you grieve, and know that our thoughts and prayers go with you. Isn't it funny that no matter how many animals you have and love, every one holds a special and different place in our hearts all to themselves? They are truly God's special creatures. God bless - Karen

[Shannon]

Dear Martha,
As I read and looked at the beautiful pictures of Paw Paw, I couldn't help but cry. My dear Sidney left me and my husband last February. She was a dear Chow Chow. She was 13 and had been with us since we were married in 1994. I am sitting at my desk in classroom full of students trying desperately to hide my tears. So moving for me as this reminds me of my "SIS". I pray you will find some comfort in knowing how I feel your sadness too.

Sincerely,
Shannon

[Rick Steadman]

What a wonderful memorial to Paw Paw. May he rest in peace in the beautiful gardens that surround your home.

[Linda Sutphin]

As the tears of sadness roll down my face I think of what a grand life you gave Paw-Paw and how he must have been happy when he passed from this life to the next..I adore ALL animals and my husband and I try to feed those that don't seem to have enough..My heart goes out to you..Paw-Paw was indeed a sweet friend...You were both lucky!

[Anita]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I know how you're feeling as I'm still grieving the loss of my cat. Only pet owners can truly appreciate the comfort and love that a pet gives to its owner. There will only ever be one Paw Paw but you will have many fond memories to look back on.

[Victoria Reidelberger]

Martha and Paw Paw

The first time I seen a chow I thought it was a Lion, and they are just as majestic. My heart goes out to you, I loved to watch her everytime she was on your show. Remember the memories.

Victoria R

[Linda Sutphin]

Martha, As the tears of sadness roll down my face at the loss of yet another gentle pet,I realize what a grand life you gave him and that he was happy when he passed from this life to the next..How we love and care for our pets is so important and you did a wonderful job..I love ALL animals and cry even at those killed on the roads..God bless your heart..You and Paw-Paw were lucky to have each other..

[Kelly]

Martha,
I'm sitting here tearing up while reading your blog. I am so sorry for your loss as I am an animal lover like you. Paw Paw was an amazing animal as seen over the years on your t.v show. My thoughts are with you, Paw Paw and her other animal friends.

[Angie]

Martha, I am so sorry to hear about Paw Paw. He seems like he was a wonderful pet and and even better friend. I know how it feels to have such a close family member pass away. My prayers are with you and all of Paw Paws grieving friends.

[Karen]

Dear Martha-

I am so very sorry for your loss. I, too, have a furbaby that is a senior (she will be 12 in October) and I have noticed she is sleeping more and acting her age more. I cannot imagine the depth of loss I will feel when she is no longer with us.

I know Paw Paw was blessed in life for having you, as you have been blessed with having him. I'm know he led a very charmed life and was so happy to be a part of your family. He was a beautiful dog and I know you will miss him greatly. Remember him fondly.

[Katie]

I am so sorry to hear about your losses recently, Martha. It is quite clear Paw Paw was very much loved here. God bless you with comfort and peace.

[Karen]

Dear Martha-

I am so very sorry for your loss. I, too, have a furbaby that is a senior (she will be 12 in October) and I have noticed she is sleeping more and acting her age more. I cannot imagine the depth of loss I will feel when she is no longer with us.

I know Paw Paw was blessed in life for having you, as you have been blessed with having him. I'm know he led a very charmed life and was so happy to be a part of your family. He was a beautiful dog and I know you will miss him greatly. Remember him fondly.

[Caroline .N.C.]

i was so sorry to hear about Paw PAW. I bred chows for 12 yrs. they are great dogs. i also owned one for my pet for 13 yrs and still get tears in my eyes when i look at photos after10 yrs. i watch your show every day and love it. stay strong love ya

[Randi]

I was so sad to hear of Paw Paw's passing. He seemed like such a sweet soul and I was moved to tears seeing these pictures and captions. What a wonderful life you all shared together.

We recently lost our youngest dog, quite suddenly and the loss is still difficult.

Someone told us about Rainbow Bridge and I like to believe that Paw Paw and our Sammy are frolicking right now just waiting for us.

Be well and know that you are in my thoughts.

Randi

Here is a poem about Rainbow Bridge:
http://www.petloss.com/poems/maingrp/rainbowb.htm

[Julye Bakos Gomez]

Just heard of Paw Paw's passing - my heart goes out to you. Treasure the countless beautiful memories you have of your loyal furry friend. I also have a chow who is appoaching the end of his life and has become a seizure dog in the last few weeks. It is very difficult but giving him (and my other two elderly animals) a kind retirement is the most important thing I can do right now.

Thank you for sharing Paw Paw with us all - he brought joy to many.

Take care Martha.

Love and peace to you,

Julye

[KK]

I write this with tears in my eyes. My heart breaks. I found much comfort during the lose of my beloved Hattie from the quote, most often attributed to Irving Townsend: "We who would choose to surround ourselves with lives even more temporary than our own, live within a fragile circle, easily and often breached. Unable to accept it's awful gaps, we still would live no other way.
We cherish memory as the only certain immortality,
never fully understanding the necessary plan." What a loving, beautiful tribute & such peace to know Paw Paw was surrounded by so much utter love during the final moments.

[Sandra]

I am so sorry to see you have lost a member of your family. I can see in one of the photos you could not hold it in and was crying. I hope that all the love and happyness that he brought to you will over whelm the sadness death brings when you lose a part of you that can never replace.

[Lynne]

Dear Martha
I just learned of your loss of Paw Paw just this morning. I know many tears have been shed for him by yourself and all who love our pets. I know the deep heartache that it brings. I suffered the sudden loss of my IG and was heartbroken. My little pom Sugar helped to heal the hurt. None can ever take the place of a beloved pet but the joy that that comes from the other pets help ease that pain.

I pray that the rest of this year brings you much joy and no more sadness. This is Spring and the time of renewal of life. Paw Paw is now a part of that. He was a very beautiful Chow and certainly helps to dispel any misconceptions of his breed.

[Lynn]

Oh Martha, I'm so sorry to hear of your loss of Paw Paw. Reading this post has brought tears to my eyes. I will carry you in my thoughts.

Thanks so much for sharing all the pictures. Lynn

[(Mrs.) Chris Ealing]

Martha,
Animals are the "people" who love us unconditionally. I am sorry for the loss of your precious companion, Paw Paw. When our beloved dog "Sam" died at age 13, we cried for days. I got up in the middle of the night and wrote the following. I know you will understand.
He was just a dog…..
but when he was new, he’d curl up in the small of your back or nuzzle in that part of your neck where all small things find comfort….
And you cherished his warm puppy breath and quiet contentment;

He was just a dog…..
but he kept wild animals (like neighborhood cats) at bay and made vain attempts at catching houseflies, lest either threaten your well-being…..
and you felt compelled to acknowledge his vigilance and bravado;

He was just a dog…..
but each time you let him in, he tore through the house and slid across floors in a bizarre display of appreciation…..even though he’d only been outside for five minutes……
and it was hard to discipline him when you were laughing;

He was just a dog…..
but his ecstasy moved beyond tennis balls and weekend hikes to raw vegetables and peanut butter and patches of sunlight…..
and you carefully stepped over sunlit siestas, bought more peanut butter, and let pieces of vegetable slip off the cutting board;

He was just a dog…..
but as he grew older, he didn’t always hear you coming in time to jump off the forbidden sofa…..
and you pretended not to notice because you were sure you saw him smiling in his sleep;

He was just a dog…..
but his tail pounded out a Morse Code for joy every day of his life, and there was never a time he wasn’t there to share in whatever came your way…..
and you almost took that allegiance for granted;

He was just a dog…..
but he was our dog….and he died today.
And our hearts are aching.

We are left with thirteen years of treasured memories….of incomparable companionship, our shared existence, and his unconditional love.

Perhaps that’s why, to us, he was more than…

…..just a dog.

Chris Ealing c. ealing/1999

[Robin Ball]

Paw Paw, we honor your spirit today with the presentation of many chewies in your name to homeless dogs. Rest in Peace. The Montana Daschunds, Baron and Tessa

[Jana]

I'm so sorry Martha to hear of the loss of your Paw Paw. I also lost my darling boy Wilbur on the 8th March. He came to Canada from Australia with me to live in British Columbia .. he was thirteen and had a wonderful life with me here. I cry each day for him and miss him terribly. I get through the days by remembering what a wonderful life he had .. and what joy he brought to those around him. Your Paw Paw also had a wonderful life...bless him he'll be now keeping my boy company for sure. Sending you a hug. from Jana

[Nicki]

Dear Martha,
I too know how you feel. I lost my beloved Kanicki's Iris Dirl Dogdy on March 31, 2008. She was a Miniature Pincsher. We had to let her go with the help of our vet. She was diagnosed in January with a meningioma tumor. It isn't a malignant tumor. She weighed all of 6 lbs. Surgery was not an option for her. She was 6 years 5 months and 13 days old. But upon reading these tumors are common in cats and dogs, especialy dogs with long noses. She is now on the other side with our other Min-Pin Rexx whom was just 6 days shy of his tenth birthday when we had to let him go due to liver failure.
The easiest way for me to deal with the loss was to sit down and write a tribute to my dogs and I included the little things that they did that would make us laugh and a few pictures. I haven't yet decided if I will adopt another dog, I still have my two stray cats and they have been such a comfort in this loss.
Healing hugs to you during your time of grief too.
Sincerely,
nicki

[Kay Sparrow]

Martha, I am so so sorry, I know how much you loved Paw Paw. I too loved him through you.
My heart is just broken.

[M.B.]

I'm glad Paw Paw gave you so much love and warmth and loyalty over the years and that your devotion and comittment to him will live on forever through your love of animals.

[Chris]

Martha--

I always admire your professionalism through tough personal times. You really are an amazing woman. Your bond with animals is also a testament to who you truly are. In addition, your sensitive side is apparent to anyone who is paying real attention.

[kelli]

may GOD BLESS you Martha in your time of joy, not sorrow because paw-paw is in a better place he in the hands of his creator, GOD created all things, animals, man woman,etc. He created it all he knew paw-paw before he was even born, GOD knew him before he knew his self and we knew him, so i am praying that you stay strong and know that GOD has him under his wings. I don't want to face the time my dog passes away I have a toy poodle his name is cocoa, very spoiled he is 12 years old doing very well praise God, but when he has to go with his creator I will admit I will be sad, cause i'm use to him sleeping with me and every thing, but I will also rejoice cause i know GOD got him under his wings. to be absent from the body is to present with the LORD. AMEN. YOU BE BLESSED I WILL KEEP YOU IN PRAYER.

[Nancy & Little Lulu & Tubby]

Martha, So sorry to hear about the loss of your special friend Paw Paw. He always looked like a fluffy teddy when on your show and such a good natured dog. You gave him a good life and I hope your many wonderful memories will be of some comfort to you. The photos are excellent especially the ones in the pachysandra "He was outstanding in his field!"

[alisonmaude]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry to read about the passing of your beloved PawPaw. It is so difficult to lose a pet. They are so a part of family and often become a best friend, always loyal and by your side. What a wonderful tribute to your friend.

[jamielynn073]

i think this is just beautiful.
it pains me when some people fail to understand or underestimate the amazing love and companionship that our pets choose to bestow on us, and the void that follows their passing.
this must be harrowing for you. you have my condolences in spades.

[Kyrra]

Dear Martha,

Your tribute to Paw Paw made tears stream down my face. I am so touched by your loving relationship with your dog. What a gentle, sincere heart you have. The photos and loving care you showed truly demonstrate what a wonderful life Paw Paw had with you.

I have two cats, and I cannot imagine what it will be like when I have to say goodbye to either of them. Reading about your goodbye has given me inspiration that I will be able to honor them gracefully and with the importance they have held in my life. Please know that your Paw Paw was so lucky to have lived his life with you, and he is resting, peaceful and always with you in spirit.

My kindest thoughts are with you.

Kyrra

[Jani Goodrum]

Dear Martha~
At such a sad time, precious few words can convey the sympathy in my heart for you.
My Bichon, Bailey Anne has been told time and again:
"I couldn't love you more if I 'borned you,' because I 'borned you' in my heart.
I bet Paw Paw was the same for you.
Godspeed little fella, gentle journey.
Sincerely,
Jani Goodrum, WI

[Christine Fran Connallon]

Martha,

I am heartbroken for you. I've always admired and loved seeing Paw Paw on your show and in your magazines. Your photo tribute on your blog is glorious and powerful. Thank you for sharing your beloved pets with your fan family. I wish you peace and the best memories of Paw Paw to keep you company right now.

Best,
Christine

[Britta Hild]

My sincerest condolences on your loss. Having lost several beloved pets over the years, I sympathize greatly with your loss. I enjoyed the pictures of Paw Paw. With so many abused animals in the world, it is always heartwarming to see those who are loved and well cared for.

[Donna Granat]

Dear Martha (and friends of Paw Paw) Your beautiful tribute to your precious pet brought me to tears. Thankyou so much for the thought and care that went into posting that wonderful set of pictures. The love and happiness you brought to each other is so very evident. There is a saying "To live on in the hearts of those we love is not to die."
Donna Granat

[Lori Salyer Hudson]

So very sorry to hear of your loss. Your tribute moved me to tears. This is something I will be facing soon with my 14 year old golden retriever, Emily. But, when my co workers asked me what was wrong, I couldn't tell them "because Martha Stewarts dog died." I would have never heard the end of it.

[Kristie]

I am so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in knowing that you will meet again someday.

The Rainbow Bridge

There is a bridge connecting Heaven and Earth. It is called the Rainbow Bridge because of its many colors. Just this side of the Rainbow Bridge there is a land of meadows, hills and valleys with lush green grass.

When a beloved pet dies, the pet goes to this place. There is always food and water and warm spring weather. The old and frail animals are young again. Those who are maimed are made whole again. They play with each other.

There is only one thing missing. They are not with their special person who loved them on earth. So, each day they run and play until the day comes when one suddenly stops playing and looks up! The nose twitches! The ears are up! The eyes are staring! And this one suddenly runs from the group!

You have been seen, and when you and your special friend meet, you take him in your arms and embrace. Your face is kissed again and again and again, and you look once more into the eyes of your trusting pet.

Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together, never again to be separated.

-Author Unknown

[madeleine]

Martha,

My heart goes out to you. It is never easy to say good bye to a beloved pet, but I believe that all dogs do go to heaven. You chose a wonderful place for his final resting place and I am sure that he feels the warm embrace of the earth now. He was a wonderful dog, and the two of you shared something very special. Though I never met him, I share your sadness, while offering you thoughts of springtime and hope.

[Paul]

I cried at my desk reading this. I lost my bulldog Milo a few years back, and I know how painful it is to go through.

[Mrs. Span]

Martha,

I have been following your careers for years, and have always enjoyed Paw Paw's appearances in your ads and on your television show.

May the ground lie lightly upon Paw Paw, and my thoughts are with you during your mourning.

Mrs. S

[Jennifer]

Sorry for your loss Martha. I'm thinking good and healing thoughts for you and your family!

[Lisa]

I'm so very sorry for your loss. You made such a beautiful tribute to him here; you moved me to tears. My kindest thoughts are with you.

[Christine Farnell]

Martha: Your memorial reminded me of the last days with three of my Chows and brought a flood of tears to my eyes and overwhelming love to my heart. Paw Paw is a legend just as you are, and we will love him always for being the best ambassador of Chows. I shall think of you today and of Paw Paw and wish you bright memories, tender love and the breath of spring to encourage good thoughts to help you get through your next few days without him. The memorial for him is beautiful... he lives with us in passing as well as he did in his life. We will miss him as we tend to miss all of our beloved Chows ... he is special... always will be...thank you for your generousity toward us by letting us share our sorrow with you.

Sleep well, dear PawPaw...

Your friend,
Christine Farnell Canada

[Pagan Ivey]

Martha,
The loss of a dog, especially one so close to one's heart is always a hard thing to go through. I remember my chow chow I had when I was a child, I knew her from the day I was born and she died 2 weeks after my 15th birthday at the age of 16. My heart goes out to you and your memorial to Paw Paw brought tears to my eyes. I wish you well in the days to come and while we never lose that place in our hearts for our beloved companions we know they are in a good place.

[Kaity Fehr]

Hey martha so sorry about the passing of paw paw i have a little yorkie named Teddy and i am so scared for that day when he dies but it will probably be in a while he is only a year but yeahh sorry about paw paw he looks so cute you must really miss him.

[Alice Seidel]

Oh Martha, I know just how you feel! Our beloved dalmatian, Chelsea, who was also almost 13, died so suddenly on March 26 and we are so heartbroken over her passing! It has been so difficult without her and she went away with little warning. I cling to the thought, as you do, that Paw Paw & Chels were loved and cared for to the very last! Take care!
Alice

[Holly Hampton]

Thank you, Martha, for sharing Paw Paw's life with us over the years, and through her final days. You have done a beautiful job honoring her here- it resonates within me deeply, being a pet owner and lover myself.
I wish you happy memories of your baby always. It's sad to have to say goodbye, but our loved ones always live on within us, which is where it counts. You're a great pet owner, and an inspiration to others who care for pets, be it their own, or other's. PEACE.

[Ed]

Dear Martha,

I'm watching your show at this very moment now in Malaysia. I think they bought your previous few years back show as I still saw Paw Paw on the show. It was sad to know that Paw Paw is not around anymore. Paw Paw will be remembered and always will.

[Danette Purtell / Dante Chows]

Dear Martha ,what a wonderful blessing you have been given sharing the last thirteen years with PawPaw he was your special boy he looked so peaceful, even in death he was a gentleman, I am so thankful he did not suffer he just went to sleep the Bible states the lion shall lay down with the lamb ,in heaven we will all be together once again with our beloved pets and our Lord enjoying eternal peace.
May you find comfort knowing you
had all of Paw Paw's love and loyality.
Danette

[Laurie]

Dear Martha

So sorry to hear about the passing of Paw Paw. We recently losted one of our own. As I sit hear and cry and think of her and Paw Paw my heart goes out to you. They are not just animals they are our family. He will be missed. He seemed like such a wonderful dog. He was so beautiful.
My thoughts are with you.
Laurie, IL

[Stuck N Middle]

Goodness what a beautiful companion he must have had for you. So glad you have plenty of pictures to remember him by.

[Elizabeth]

His life was enriched by you and your life was enriched by him.

God Bless
Elizabeth

[David Patrick Jones]

Martha-

It is because of Paw Paw that I now have 2 Chow Chows. I love my dogs and I loved Paw-Paw. He was a beautiful dog that always made me smile whenever I saw him. I shed an extra tear fro you because I may have to put my 13 year old Chow, Gabby, down this week. Thanks to you and Paw-PawI will always have a Chow in my life....and a new Frenchie coming this summer as well.

[Tammy]

What a lovely tribute for Paw Paw. Please accept my condolences. Losing a beloved pet is so difficult. His memory will live on!

[Andrea and the Weimaraners]

.

DEAR FRIEND OF SO MANY,

I WILL WEAR GOOSE BUMPS THROUGH OUT ALL OF THIS DAY FOR YOU.

SIX WEIMARANERS AND I WILL CLOSE SHOP FOR THE AFTERNOON. WE WILL TAKE OUR SADNESS FOR YOU ON A LONG WALK INTO THE HILLS.

DEEPLY, SO SORRY,

andrea, butterfly, jericho, shakespeare, noah, spencer, moses and . . . professor in the sky with diamonds.

.

[malley]

Dear Martha,
Blessings to you and your dear ones that miss PawPaw. He will be dearly missed and I'm thankful you have shared him with us over the yrs.
Your photos of his last days are so sweet and full of the love you shared..

[Allie]

I remember the first day I saw Paw-Paw – on the Martha Stewart tv show… it was the first time I’d ever laid eyes on a chow dog in fact. I couldn’t believe it was a dog; it looked like a little lion or bear. That day I fell in love with chows, since he was such a perfect poofy little specimen! He was the most adorable dog I’ve ever seen in my life and I will never forget that moment when I first saw him and the subsequent shock when I found out he was actually a dog! Thank you for this discovery and may you rest in peace Paw-Paw – you will be missed.

[Linda Wilsey]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss of Paw Paw. I encourage you to use his passing to help millions of dogs and cats that are sadly much less fortunate. By vowing to adopt your next dog or cat from a shelter or rescue group, you would be setting a wonderful example to the rest of the nation, and would be a hero in the eyes of so many who tirelessly work to make the world a better place for all dogs and cats, whatever their pedigree.

Gratefully,
Linda Wilsey
Animal Friends Rescue Project
Pacific Grove, CA

[Arlene Margolis]

Martha,
I extend my condolences for the sad loss of your wonderful friend, Paw Paw. I hope that in time, your sadness will fade and the beautiful memories will remain. I am an avid dog and cat lover and advocate. Thank you for showing such displays of kindness, care and loyalty to your four-legged kids, at a time when there is rampant neglect and abuse directed toward innocent animals. I lost my first kitten, a beautiful and sweet tempered calico named Miranda a year and a half ago, so I can imagine how much Paw Paw's friendship has meant to you. Your devotion to Paw Paw and other furry angels is obvious as is, I am certain, theirs to you. They do know how much you love them.

[karin]

Miss Martha - my grandmother, who passed away in 2005, loved Paw Paw. While growing up in the 1920's, she had a Chow of her own and Paw Paw brought a sweet smile to her face. He will be missed. Maybe he's playing with my Gram right now. :)

[Roxanne]

Dear Martha,
I am truly sorry to hear about your beloved Paw Paw. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Sincerely,
Roxanne

[Kenzi and Murphy]

I'm so sorry to hear of Paw Paw's passing. I have a chow mix who is now thirteen years old and as his final months approach, I can truly identify with your feeling of grief and rememorance. I can only say how wonderful it is that you were able to capture Paw Paw's soul in pictures and have been able to do so throughout the majority of his life. Your Paw Paw was so very photogenic and a true friend to all.
This post is a wonderful tribute and celebration of his life.
Kenzi
and Murphy (woof).

[Sandi]

I was so sorry to read about Paw Paw's passing. I lost my beloved 16 year old West Highland White Terrier, Morgan, almost 10 years ago and not a day goes by that I don't miss him. I have not had the heart to get another dog because I was so heartbroken when he died. I don't think I could go through that again. But your tribute to Paw Paw was touching and I offer you my sincere condolences on your loss.

[Kelly]

Dear Martha,
It's heartbreaking when a gentle little soul passes. You gave him a beautiful life and he was a bright spot in yours. Remember him that way.
Your both in my thoughts and prayers.
Respectfully,
Kelly

[Tracy]

I am so sorry you lost your friend. My best friend was also a chow and he has been gone for a while but I still think about him every day. I hope every day that there is some sort of afterlife so I can meet Gerry there. Paw Paw looks like he was such a sweet boy. Maybe they have become friends.

[Theresa]

OK... I didn't expect to be needing kleenex after reading this, but...

RIP Paw Paw... you absolutely adorable bundle of fur. Your mmommy took some beautiful pix of you and your buddies.

[Carole Gentry]

Martha: My heart breaks for you. It is apparent how much you love your animals and are always crusading for animal rights. And of course, your beloved Paw Paw was beside you.

I too lost my beloved Captain Trips (a German Shepherd mix) who was an incredible dog several months after my mother passed. Before she died, I begged her not to take my Captain as she too also loved him, but alas four months later he crossed the "rainbow bridge."

Our animals are so special and they bring us so much joy. I believe they grace our lives with more unconditional love that we can ever imagine. I'm certain you take comfort in knowing that Paw Paw lived quite the charmed and joyful life being your constant companion. Sharkey and Francesca will miss him too.

My tears are rolling and my heart feels so sad, it feels like I've lost a good friend too! I can't wait to see how your beautify Paw Paw's resting spot.

The only words I can offer with certainty are that you will one day be reunited with your faithful Paw Paw.

Take care!

[Joyce]

Dear Martha - I am so sorry for your loss. Your photo tribute was beautiful. My yellow Labrador is nearly 12 and I'm dreading that day. In the meantime I've made a photo quilt with her pictures from puppyhood to date and it makes me smile everytime I look at it.

Joyce Fendrick - Toronto, Canada

[stacy]

Martha,
Thank you for sharing your gorgeous pictures of Paw Paw. I've lost 2 beloved cats in the past year and will always miss them. Paw Paw was a lucky dog and I'm glad to know he is at peace. Best wishes to you.
Stacy Friedman
Columbus, OH

[Lisa Vizza]

Martha,

What an amazing tribute to your faithful and devoted friend Paw Paw. If only every being on this planet could pass on as peacefully and surrounded by so much love and warmth as Paw Paw.

Peace.

Lisa

[Melissa]

Dear Martha, my daughter Caitlin and I had the distinct honor of meeting you, your mom, Paw Paw and Teeny at your property in Westport. Please accept our prayers for you and your family. Your inspiration is such a positive influence on your viewers' lives and now, we are supporting you at the time of your loss.

[james spivey]

i am so sorry about pawpaw i love him he was a good dog i hate to see him go my chow live until she was 16 years old i know you will miss him hang in there and get you another chow chow i remmber watching you show when you had the black chow and the red chow together i will miss him too that why i watch and read your blogs because of your chow chow now he is in doggie heaven where he is having fun with his freinds

[ShopLittleGifts]

We will miss you too Paw Paw. We loved watching you on tv. Dogs are truly human's best friends. They have so much spirit in them, quietly expressed through their loyalty and love.

[Grace]

Paw Paw is an amazing spirit and will be with you, part of yourself from now on. I too, love Chows and have my third barking in the backyard, wanting back in the house. Off I run to get her in.

I always enjoyed watching you and Paw Paw together, as all your other precious loves.
Thinking of you at this hard time,
Grace and her wonderful furry family.

[Arlene]

I only today learned of the passing of Paw Paw. How truly sad. I lost my beloved "Amanda" of 13 years on January 30, 2008. She left a terrible void in my heart and my life as I am sure Paw Paw has to you. But how truly blessed we have been to have such wonderful furry friends enter our lives and bring us such joy and happiness. I wish you many wonderful, happy memories!.....Arlene Berry

[Gloria Blackstone]

Martha! So sorry to hear about Paw Paw! It warmed my heart to see him on your shows because he was so beautiful and "dignified" just like our Chow, Bear, that we were fortunate enough to have for 21 years! I had to shed a tear for Paw Paw and you in sympathy. I know what he must have meant to you. I'll miss him too.

[Linda Bostwick]

I was so sorry to hear about PawPaw.I am a dog lover and love seeing Paw Paw and your other animals over the years.With tears running down my face while typing this I know how much you will miss him.But he is in a better place.My thoughts and prayers are with you.Linda Bostwick

[lyn]

thank you so much for sharing him with us. he seemed to be such a sweetie and will be missed by so many. if all pets could be loved even a fraction of how much he was loved - the world would be a better place!

[Tanya]

I am very sorry to hear about Paw Paw's passing. This past weekend, I lost my "Kitty" (who was only 6 years old). It is refreshing to see someone who is comfortable grieving about the loss of a pet, who more often than not, becomes a part of a family. I have encountered few people who seem to understand that the grieving process is not just for humans. Too many times, I have heard "it was just a cat", "get over it" or something similar. Comments like that minimize the loss and no good can come from them. I loved your pictures of Paw Paw and having visual documentation of his last happy moments, will hopefully offer some respite from the grief. Maybe Paw Paw and Kitty will meet up and play a game of chase in the high grass.

[pamela]

I can't imagine life without a dog. I feel for everyone who loved and cared for Paw Paw. What a wonderful way to leave this world, in the comfort of those who loved and protected us. Rest In Peace Paw Paw, rest in peace.

[Anna]

i cried as i read this post. you and paw paw were so lucky to have one another. we lost our english bulldog in december and it is still very painful. my thoughts and prayers are with you.

[eileendonlon]

Dear Martha,
In our life time there is also one "special dog" - thank you for sharing Paw Paw. I lost my greyhound Leo last year and dearly miss him. Eileen

[Michaele]

My sincere condolences. This post brought me to tears, reminding me of when I lost both of my beloved Dobermans, Spock and Timber, who passed away within weeks of each other. What a tough time this is. God bless you for your love and devotion to Paw Paw.

[Jeannie Kuehl]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of a very close and loyal to you(like member of your family)Paw Paw. When I get a chance, I have sometimes seen Paw Paw, in pictures and on your programs. A beautiful looking dog.May God bless Paw Paw and please take care of yourself.

[Stephane Aarseth]

Dear Martha,

You've suffered so much personal loss in recent months. Instead of crumbling under the burden, you seem to gather strength from your experiences--demonstrating to all of us of what it means to live a good life, with grace and dignity.

Please accept my most fervent wishes for continued inner peace and fortitude... and lots and lots more of life's "good things."

[Anne Weremblewski]

Martha,
Even tho there may be rain in your heart now with the passing of your regal fella, he will always be with you. There is nothing like the love of a Chow Chow. I have been captivated by the breed for over 30 years and as we Chow folks are apt to say: Once a Chow person - always a Chow person. The breed is so unique you will settle for other. A Chow does not give his heart freely...but once he does - he is YOURS forever. Sleep softly sweet PawPaw!!

[Amy Foley]

Dear Martha,
I sit here reading about your beloved Paw Paw & viewing the beautiful & peaceful pics of his last hours with you & I just cry for your loss. But oh how lucky to have such a loyal & loving friend for the time you had him. I know he will always be in your heart & memories as I have my girl Shelby whom I lost last May. It has been almost a year & I still miss her so. I have no human children but my dogs are my children & I love them so dearly. I hope that all your fond memories with Paw Paw will help you get through yet another difficult time in your life. Paw Paw is now at peace & waiting for you without pain & will be so happy to see you again someday.
You are in my thoughts & prayers
Sincerly,
Amy Foley
Weston Fla

[Barb H]

Martha, I wanted to say how sorry I am at the loss of Paw Paw. We have a 7 years old chow named Rogue, who looks so much like Paw Paw it is amazing. When I look at him now I will think of Paw Paw, and your happy thoughts of his presence in your life.

[ann costa]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I love seeing your animals and how much you care for them. It's not easy to lose a pet, sometimes I think it's harder than loosing a relative because they are so in tuned to you and love so unconditionally and are so protecting and loving. Thank you for the photos they were wonderful. I've lost several pets through my life time and I still miss them but their memories are always with me. I know yours are with you.

[Aimee from Canada]

I have tears in my eyes. I'm so very very sorry for your loss Martha. Paw Paw was a very handsome dog. *sending you hugs*

[Cathy]

My heart goes out to you for your loss. I lost it when I saw the photo of Paw Paw wrapped up in white with the other dogs. When I buried my beloved German Shepherd Ruby, I wrapped her up the same way with a floral pink silk Indian sari cloth. I wanted her to know how special and loved she was. If anyone has to dig up that space in the future and finds her just with a shred of silk on her, they'll know,too. Take care.

[Frank Rock]

Dear Martha,
Look to your memories for comfort... to your friends for understanding... to your faith for hope and peace. God bless you martha for your loss with Paw Paw. From my kittys, Abigail, Buddy, Buster, Blossom, Daisy & Kitty Boy. I will pass that love on through Paw Paw. Our pets deserve the very best we can give. I loved the pictures you put togeather in your blog for us. Rest in Peace Paw Paw, we all love you.... Frank Rock ...Portland Oregon

[Erica]

Dear Martha,

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful tribute to Paw Paw. It was so sweet and heartfelt it made me cry. I always loved seeing Paw Paw on your show or in MSL, so much so that I decided to adopt a Chow Chow from a rescue organization once I graduate school and settle down.

Paw Paw will undoubtedly be missed dearly by all your fans and readers.

[Kathy Vondra]

Martha, I am so sad to hear about Paw Paw. Thanks for sharing this loving tribute to your dog.

[Tony And Linda Couto]

Martha I was sadened to hear about your loss. We lost our dear pet this Saturday as well. I'm sure Paw Paw and our pet Minpin Sadie will be waiting at the gates for both of us.
I understand your pain and know what you are dealing with, it hurts to lose a pet especially because they give unconditional love.

Our pets are our childrens be cause my wife and I were not able to have kids. The pain is unbearable.

With deepest sympathy from the entire Couto Family

[Anne Marie]

Martha,
Hold dear good memories and happy times. Paw Paw had a long and very happy life with you and his two little fur buddies (and his chow friend who passed before him). He is not gone but just living on a different plain... he will always be with you...in your heart. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this difficult time. He is a good boy and we all know how much you love him.
Take care,
Anne Marie

[Sara from CT]

Martha, I am so sorry for your loss. I can relate to what you are going through, I lost my Bichon Bogey about 2 months ago to kidney failure. Today the 16th, would have been his 16th birthday. Its been the saddest time in my life, but the good memories help. May your wonderful memories of 14 years with Paw Paw be of comfort to you too.

[Sheri Porter]

This is the hardest thing to endure. My family lost our 16 year old devoted chow Baby Chewy about 3 years ago. We knew the day was coming but didn't want to endure the pain of losing her. She was the protector of our home and children. She loved her children (our children). We will always have fond memories of Baby as I am sure you will of Paw Paw. Thank god for those precious memories. My family and I have always admired Paw Paw. Because it was an uncanny resemblance to our Baby. We like to think of them in much better place.

[Michele Garcia]

Dear Martha,
I really feel your loss and watching you this morning talking about her last day - so similar to my Brandy's last day - it brought tears. I went thru the same thing almost 4 years ago. My Brandy was also a Chow Chow who would have passed as twin to Paw Paw. They looked identical. Whenever I saw your Paw Paw, it always brought fond memories to me. It was as tho I was seeing my Brandy. My Brandy passed at the age of 18 years old. She was the sweetest pet and I dearly miss her. She is also buried on our property. Thank you for sharing your life and your pets with all of us. You are a very special person.
God Bless you and your dear Paw Paw.

[Doris Wedige]

Dearest Martha:

Thank you for sharing Paw Paw's final moments with us.

May you find peace and joy in your fond memories of your dearly loved companion.

Doris

[Jenn Daniels]

Dearest Martha,

May God be with you and the rest of your family during the time of healing for the loss of a family member pet. Paw Paw was one of a kind and will be missed greatly. I NEVER wanted a chow until I saw your show but when I saw Paw Paw I knew he was something special. You're in our thoughts and prayers and that includes the rest of your furry brood.

God bless,

Jenn Daniels

[Susan]

HI MARTHA,

I AM SORRY FOR THE LOSS OF YOU'RE BELOVED FAMILY MEMBER PAW PAW...AS A FELLOW DOG LOVER, I KNOW IT'S HARD TO LET THEM GO.

JUST KNOW, YOU HAVE ANOTHER "ANGEL" TO WATCH OVER YOU!

WHEN WE LOSE SOMEONE WE LOVE, IF WE REMEMBER THEM IN OUR HEARTS, AND IN OUR MINDS, THEY NEVER TRULY DIE...

BRIGHT BLESSINGS!

[Becky H]

Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss. Paw Paw was a loyal loving friend. He will be missed by all of your Tv friends.

[Lori Robbins]

My heart is sad right along with you. I had 2 pets pass away within a week of each other. They are a tremendous blessing to our lives.

[Joyce]

I miss my Nicholas (who passed away 2 Januarys ago) - he was a husky/australian shepherd - who lived a full and happy life with us for 13 years. I am so sorry to read about Paw Paw's passing... take care. Hoping Nicholas and Paw Paw have meet and relaxing under a big beautiful tree.

[lori h]

Dear Martha,
just heard about Paw Paw's passing. The expression "they leave paw prints on your heart", is so true. Thanks for sharing your memories and pictures! we'll be thinking of you!

[mp]

I am so sorry for your loss. I think my groomer recently groomed Paw Paw for a TV segment and told me how sweet and wonderful he was, despite not being in the best of health. My sincere condolences.

[Bonnie & Dave]

Dear Martha,
Please accept our sincere condolences for your darling Paw Paw, a sweet and wonderful doggie. We have loved and admired him for years. 11 years is a good long life for a chow. Much love to you, Martha.

[Stephi Luken]

God bless you and Paw Paw, and his siblings who most certainly miss him also. Hopefully you will see him again at the Rainbow Bridge.

[jenny]

I know how much I love my dog, and it just breaks my heart to hear of paw paw's passing. my thoughts are with you. the last pictures of him were beautiful, how special to have those moments in pictures to remember and cherish always.

[amber]

I am so deeply sorry for your loss. Your pictures and discriptions have moved me to tears.

[Barb Shabert]

Dear Martha,
My deepest sympathy to you in the loss of Paw Paw. I enjoy your show, everyday food, & that pet show that was through your company. I'm sorry, I forget his name but it was a very imformative show.
I lost a pet not long ago to cancer. It is like loosing a child. I feel your grief. Take Care and God Bless.

[Diana]

Here's a prayer from the chaplain of the Maine Game Wardens that I always say when a dear pet passes:

Please, dear God, bless the beasts and singing birds,and guard with tenderness all things that have no words

[Barb Shabert]

PS: Paw Paw was a beautiful dog. The kind you love to hug.

[JEANNE HENRY]

MARTHA AS I READ THIS BLOG MY HEART GOES OUT TO YOU...I AM RIGHT NOW TRYING TO KEEP MY 4 MONTH OLD VIXEN (PART RAT TERRIER, CHICHAUA) WHO HAS BEEN SICK SINCE SUNDAY...IT IS BREAKING MY HEART...SO I CAN SURE FEEL YOUR PAIN...MY PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU AND I DO HOPE THINGS WILL GET EASIER FOR YOU SOON...JEANNE

[Karen Kramer]

It was because of you and your beautiful chow dogs that we had six wonderful years with our red chow chow, Red Gee Jack'song (my husband was a big fan of Redgie Jackson). He died way too young and we miss him terribly.

He, too, was so kind and gentle and a huge ball of fur. First meetings of him, by strangers, were always a little timid, due to stories of the breed; but never once did we have to be afraid of how we would react to strange people and strange animals. He was a lover boy and boy did we love him.

It's so hard to lose them.

[Delilah]

That totally breaks my heart. The pictures of him with the other dogs around him is so touching.

[NW CHOW CHOW RESCUE]

What a classy & regal Gent Paw Paw was. His zen-like quality shined through in his videos and pictures. I never failed to bring me a smile and the desire to smell his sweet chow scented forehead. What a gift it was to have the honor of Paw Paw's presance for 13 years. With much grattitude to both you and Paw Paw for showing the world how gentle and kind this lovely breed really is.
Luanne Alomair
NW CHOW CHOW RESCUE

[Pat Wasiczko]

We are sorry to hear about PAW PAW. It is never easy losing a pet. Recently when we lost our home to a devastating fire we lost Beethoven who was 10 and our cats Cinnamon and Snickers who were 3 and 2. You must read "Dog Heaven" by Cynthia Rylant. It is a children's book about losing your dog. She also wrote "Cat Heaven". I am sure these books will make you smile.

[Marilyn]

Dear Martha,

I say this through my tears after looking at the beautiful pictures of Paw Paw and your comments about him. What a wonderful pet he was and what a wonderful life you gave him. Take comfort in that precious time you had him, and he will be one of your angels watching over you now.

[Kay Haines]

Dear Martha,
I have to be honest with you I'm not really a fan of yours. However I was flipping through the channels today. And saw that you had lost your friend Paw Paw. I am a friend to animals myself, {have 2 daogs & a cat}. I just wanted to pass on my sympathies, as to your loss. My 'kids' mean the world to me. I can not begin to think how I will deal with it when the time comes. Just remember Paw Paw as he was, your loving friend.

[Karen Howard]

I am so sorry to hear about Paw Paw. I know exactly how you feel because I lost my beloved dog, Sadie, on April 5 of this year. She, also, was 13 years old and my constant companion. I never knew someone could grief so deeply over the loss of an animal. I, too, have another dog and I love him deeply, but he's not my Sadie. I know there are many people who understand how you feel about my grief is still so new that my heart just broke when I read about Paw Paw.

[Sharon]

Your tribute was very beautiful and touching. My heart aches for your loss; let each tear remind you of the wonderful and happy times with Paw Paw. Paw Paw is smiling down on you from Heaven always.

[Nancy]

Martha,

I am sorry for your loss. You will always rememeber Paw Paw.

Nancy

[Diane R. (from NC)]

Martha,

What a beautiful and moving tribute to your dear friend, Paw Paw. He was certainly special, and I know you will miss him terribly.

I remember seeing Paw Paw on your TV shows, and how lovingly you always spoke of him. How fortunate he was to have such a wonderdful life with you and the rest of his family.

God Bless you,

Diane

[Neogrinch]

What a beautiful and moving tribute. He seemed such a sweet soul and wonderful friend. I have no doubt The Martha will have no troubles beautifying his final resting place.

[Bob M]

Very touching tribute to a beloved dog. The pictures of his grave made me think of the final lines in Willie Morris's lovely book My Dog Skip ; " they had buried him under our elm tree,they said - yet this was not totally true. For he really lay buried in my heart"

[David Lawver]

I too have a red chow, well she is a chow/wolf hybrid named Abbey. Your discriptions of Paw Paw behavior reminds me so much of my pup. She has always loved to go on long cross country road-trips and one of her favorite things to do is pounce through creeping greens. I think they would have been fast friends and kindred spirits for sure. Peace to you Martha

[Judi Ferrara]

My thoughts and prays are with you. So, sad to hear about your loss; we lost our girl on All Saints day, 11.1.07.

We hope you find peace, like we have, in believing that over the rainbow's bridge Paw Paw waits for you ...

[Byron Devillier]

Dear Martha, I'm so sorry for your loss. I know how much animals mean to us. They are our friends and are with us in good times and bad. Thank you for sharing your love of life with us. Please know that your sharing brings us all closer as human beings. Love, Byron

[The Ulshafers and our Virginia Schnoodles - Tarzan and Jayne]

Sweet Dreams to your sweet pup! May precious memories stay vivid with you always!

[kim]

i am so sorry to hear of this great loss....i am crying.
I will miss the little comments about him on your show.
Aren't we lucky to be blessed by these sweet souls in our lives?
blessings, kim

[Lisa Burks]

*HUGS* to you, Martha. Thank you for sharing your loving reflections about Paw Paw and his final days with you and your family, and his final resting place. What a lovely send off. My heart goes out to you.

[Janna]

I'm so sorry for your loss of such a wonderful companion and loyal friend - for both you and your other pets. Thank you for sharing your memories of Paw Paw with us.

[Cindy Foster]

What a beautiful and fitting tribute to a wonderful pet. You are a generous person bring your wonderful animals into our homes through the TV and your magazines. I adored Paw Paw and I know he adored you.

[Jack Myers]

Martha

Our beautiful pet and best friend
Greta Marie (a dachshund)was
12 years 9 months died in my arms early Monday morning October 29, 2007. I still miss her so much. Martha I know exactly what you are going thru. Hurts so much. Paw Paw was such a beautiful friend of yours. I will keep Paw Paw and you in our prayers. The day Greta Marie died our lives have never been exactly the same. Martha I wish you all the best while you go thru your grieving. Paw Paw will always remain part of your heart forever.

Jack and Sarah Myers
Columbia, S C

[Susan]

Martha,
My sincere condolences for the loss of your pet dog. I also lost my pet last weekend, my beloved cat. Tisha passed away due to cancer on Friday, April 11, 2008. I know that our pets received the very best care, love and home any animal could have.
Susan

[Gene]

Martha,

My heart breaks for you. Nothing in the world can replace the love and companionship of a beloved dog.

As a long time fan, I can recall many of Paw Paw's appearences on your shows and in your magazine and was always struck by his beauty and nobility.

People who aren't "dog people" just cannot understand the ways in which they enrich our lives and make us better people.

I know that mere words are of little comfort during this difficult time, but please accept my family's condolences on your loss.

Gene

[Sue W.]

Martha, I am so sorry..your beautiful tribute brought me to tears. I lost my beautiful Black Lab last April and I feel your loss. I know Paw Paw is with your Mom now, is good hands, just as my Heidi is with my Mom, too...

[Rosemary Hardesty]

I am so sorry for your loss. Animals give such un-conditional love - we as humans have so much to learn from them. They are truly angels sent to us from God and now one of yours is going back - if you get the chance read the poem from Rainbow Bridge - it really does describe how I imagine it to be for them. Bless You and your angels.

[Luwanda Gildersleeve]

Dear Martha,

I am so very sorry for your loss. I am writing you with tears streaming down my face, I so know what you are feeling! I just lost my very best and loving companion to the very same diagnosis on April 9. He was a wonderful and loyal friend as your beautiful Paw Paw was. My heart feels for you during this very dark time. Much Love!

[Peter Friesen]

Dear Martha,
I'm so sorry to hear about PawPaw passing on. He was so fortunate to have so much love right to the end. I hope you'll not be offended if I say that I believe that our beloved animals will be with us in heaven. The Bible doesn't speak to this. I just believe it. We lost our Schnauzer Tootie over three years ago, and day never goes by that I don't miss snuggling her. I've attached a poem I wrote to help me deal with my feelings of loss. This poem is just for your eyes here Martha. I hope it will help with missing dear Paw Paw.

Waiting With Tootie Girl

Your going has ambushed the heart of me.
Gone playful gallop to catch a ball
and happy flip-flap of the door-in-wall.
I’m angry there’s little time you see.
Your calming rhythm still warms my side.
Little toes poke my ribs at a flutter pace
while joyful chirps declare a dream chase.
But we lay in the dark with qualms I can’t hide.

Like smoke memories rise and swirl.
Before dreams can shield the night
I see when everything was all right.
All was well with me and my Tootie girl.

Once you leaped so lightly to my head.
I only needed to pat upon the mattress there
to snuggle a pillow of downy hair.
Now carefully I cradle you upon the bed.

My Schnauzer dragonfly pegged her prey.
Your enchanted glance a flash of light disapparated popcorns in mid-flight.
How quickly this magic went away.

Yet our angels gifted a twist it seems.
Your searching eyes in peppered hair glow with that earnest emerald stare.
And you still see clearly in your dreams.

He who loaned you has prepared you a home.
For now his angels form ethereal air
into our common dreamscape lair.
They make a meeting place for us to roam.

Our Father knows our frame completely.
We’re so tired and the hour is late
so we’ll share dreams tonight and wait.
You’ll come running up to me.

[Leslie Cook]

Martha,

What a beautiful tribute and as the owner of three dogs, know that you will miss Paw Paw dearly. May he rest in peace.

[Juli Greenberg]

My thoughts are with you, Martha! Paw Paw was such a beautiful dog and it is clear that you loved him very much. I hope you take solace in the good memory of your time together.

[Laurie]

I just heard the very sad news. I had to put my 18 yr. old Poodle down many years ago and it was such a sad day, but I have to remember that she led a fabulous, well-loved life and will never be forgotten! You can tell that his siblings sensed something was happening, just by looking at the pictures. You are in my thoughts today!

[lois ann dawson]

Dear Martha
I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your beloved pet, Paw Paw. Your tribute to him was so moving and brought tears to my eyes. I feel that a pet occupies a special place in our heart and remains with us forever.
Thank you for having a kind heart and loving animals. This makes you very special.
May God bless you,
Lois Ann Dawson

[Karen S]

I am very sorry for the loss of your precious Paw Paw..my 18 yr old dog is buried in my yard as well as my dear cat next to him..they are family to us..thank you for the great photos that you shared..

[Nina Brooks]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss. The tribute to Paw Paw that you done was so beautiful, he is now looking down watching over you, he knew he was loved when he was here and he knows now that he will never be forgotten by you and all the people that have seen him on TV, he was a very beautiful dog. All you can do is take your loss day by day and never forget the great memories you have had with Paw Paw. Take care!

[Dana MacArthur]

I'm so very sorry for your loss. I lost my golden retriever General on August 8, 2005 and not a day goes by that I don't remember and miss her sweet, silly ways. I also lost my Mom this past January and it's a very small comfort knowing they are up there together playing endless hours of fetch. What a beautiful tribute on your blog - thank you for sharing such a personal experience.

[Stefanie]

Oh, dear, I am so sorry and sad to read of Paw Paw's passing! Your sweet picture tribute to your beloved friend made me cry. I know how hard it is to lose an animal friend--my condolences to you...

[Christine Caito]

I'm so very sorry for the loss of your friend. How lovely that you have such beautiful pictures to remember him by. I lost both a dog and a horse last year myself. I had each of them 13 years so I know how much you will miss your Paw Paw. Some pets just touch your heart in a very special way. I know mine did.

[Bryan-Anthony]

Martha,

Nothing can ever ease the pain when a loved one passes. We must try and remember the good times and take comfort in the love that was shared.

I am sure he is watching you from Heaven, smiling and wagging his tail, proud of you and the rest of his fmaily.

Much love...

Bryan-Anthony

[Chelsea]

Wow. Paw Paw was beautiful and dignified in every way. At first, when I saw my mother's email with a link to this, I thought, oh god, please don't send me anything about a dog dying. But your pictures of his last day were so sweet, beautiful and touching. He was such a cutie with his paws out and his head resting on the floor between them. And your pain, Martha, was palpable, in the photos. I dread the day I have to say bye to my boys, I tell you. But I can only hope to give them as lovely a tribute as you have, wrapped in a beautiful blanket for burial, with hugs and sweet goodbyes from animals and humans alike. Thank you so much for sharing this, Martha. For those of us who love our animals with all our hearts, this is incredibly meaningful and humanizes you in a way nothing else could. My heart goes out to you during this difficult time. I hope you can find some comfort from your other dogs, who most definitely sensed Paw Paw's passing and are mourning him as well.

[Dana MacArthur]

I'm so very sorry for your loss. I lost my golden retriever General on August 8, 2005 and not a day goes by that I don't remember and miss her sweet, silly ways. I also lost my Mom this past January and it's a very small comfort knowing they are up there together playing endless hours of fetch. What a beautiful tribute on your blog - thank you for sharing such a personal experience.

[Clarence]

Martha,

I am sure no words can soothe the pain in your heart. When a member of your family passes, all that can seem to help is the memory of the love you shared with each other. I'm sure you know that you gave Paw Paw a wonderful life, but certainly no more wonderful than the one he helped give you.

I pray that the requisite sadness in this beyond-awful experience is quickly supplanted by the joy of the realization that only the physical part of your faithful companion is gone; the love you have for him will endure with you til your last day.

[Helen]

I just heard about your loss today on your show. I'm so sorry, and understand how painful a loss of your dog can be. As time passes, the pain will slowly ease, but Paw Paw's memory will never fade. Our pets are truly blessed gifts from God. They show us what unconditional love is really all about.

[Joyce Bendishaw]

Martha,

Please accept my condolences for your loss of Paw Paw. I lost my beautifuly mixed lab Gracie last August who was approaching 14 and I understand the loss you feel. Our beloved pets provide us a unconditional love that is so overwhelming........... I miss our Gracie but her ashes rest on our shelf to mix with ourselves once we pass for an eternal reef. www.eternalreef.com is an organization that supports nature and our passion for diving and the life that exits within our oceans:)

Please accept our deepest condolences for your loss........ Our thoughts and prayers are with you!

Warmest Regards,
Joyce

[sher]

My thoughts are with you Martha. Paw Paw was a marvelous dog, I always loved looking at him. I lost my own dear feline companion a month ago. It's a hard thing to see them leave our lives--but what beauty they give us while they are alive.

[Helen]

I just heard about your loss today on your show. I'm so sorry, and understand how painful a loss of your dog can be. As time passes, the pain will slowly ease, but Paw Paw's memory will never fade. Our pets are truly blessed gifts from God. They show us what unconditional love is really all about.

[Brenda]

Oh no! What are we going to do without PawPaw? That face, those eyes, his expression of "Yeah, that's right I'm cool". My heart is broken. Somebody hand me a tissue.

Thank you, Martha, for sharing him with us and making PawPaw our dog too. Now we share your pain upon his death.

Sweet dreams, PawPaw. You have been a fabulous surrogate dog and I shall miss your sweet face and way cool doggy attitude.

[sharyn whiting]

Dear Ms. Stewart,
I know exactly how you feel.
Your pics are priceless memories.
I lost my yellow Lab at the same age as Paw Paw. She had moved to ca. from our beloved England with us. To this day I mourn her and wish I had taken more pic of her the last days. I was so broken up after I left her at the vets I sat in our courtyard for hours not knowing what to do or say.
We have a baby girl Jemma who is american lab so at least we are not alone. But no one can ever take our Samantha's place.
Take care of yourself.
Bless Paw Paw and your self and your other darling dogs.
Cheers
Sharyn Whiting

[Barbara]

Dear Martha,

I am a great fan of yours. You have my deepest sympathy. I have two beloved pets and dread the day that you just experienced. Again, you have my deepest sympathy. It was a beautiful tribute you gave Paw Paw, the pictures are beautiful and touching.

[Chelsea]

My friend gave me this poem when my dog passed:

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 who 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, someone who was 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 begins to quiver. Suddenly, he breaks from the group,
flying over the green grass, 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 those trusting eyes, so long gone from your
life, but never absent from your heart.
Then you cross the Rainbow Bridge together...

"Author Unknown"

[Jami]

Martha, I learned about this from the CNN website. I am so sorry about Paw Paw. I also admired you that you had chows and loved them dearly, it showed. I too had a chow chow for almost 14 wonderful years and I like you loved to bury my face into his fur. It took me 3 years to get another dog, this time not a chow; too painful still. I am crying at work writing this to you. What a wonderful tribute to such a great pet and it shows what a heck of an owner you are. I am so very sorry for the hurt you are going thru for I too not knowing Paw Paw, but shedding tears of his passing. My heart is with you during this time. What a great pet.

[Chelle Ness]

I am so sorry for your loss. Our pets are a part of the family and when they pass it breaks our hearts.
My Lhasa Apso, Mitzie (18 yrs. 3 months) passed away the end of March 2008.
We are in the process of making a scrapbook of our memories to look back on.

[Cathy Leonard]

Martha

I heard the sad new about Paw Paw today and immediate tears came to my eyes. My best friend is Tahji Silk and she is a beautiful cinnamon chow chow. Tahji was always called into the living room to see Paw Paw on the tv when you had him on the show. I have always admired your chows, over the years it was so nice to see them in your magazine. They were always so wonderfully kept. My heart goes out to you. Throughout the years I have had six chows and it most certainly tugs at your heartstrings when their time comes to pass on. Like your Paw Paw, I am sure that is where he will always remain.

I am glad you have your Sharkey and Francesa to hold on to at this time.

God Speed Paw Paw, you will be running around at the rainbow bridge with all your friends and my girls and their brothers. Rest in peace you beautiful chow. You will never be forgotten.

Sincerely,
Cathy and Tahji Silk

[Dianne Harrah]

Martha, I offer you my sympathy today as I read about PawPaw's passing. I am heart-broken for you and your other dogs. My husband and I just recently (March 10) lost a dear, faithful friend, Beau, our almost 13 year old dachshund. We are still grieving for him as is our 8 year old chihuahua, Max. We are somewhat dreading the warmer weather as Beau loved to be outdoors. Our home is so quiet now and we really miss him. Bless you and your family and may you be blessed by your memories. With sympathy, Dianne and Dan Harrah, Hurricane, WV

[Fred & Beverly]

Dear Martha:
We would like to send our condolences. Our little four-legged child Romeo of 17 years went to Rainbow Bridge the day after Christmas. We know once Romeo meets Paw Paw they will become good buddies. Remember the good times.

[Kate]

Martha, I am so sorry for your loss. Losing a pet is always difficult, as they are truly giving creatures that lighten our lives. My thoughts are with you.

[Mike Courtemanche]

Dear Martha,

I was saddened when I heard of your Paw Paw's passing...Paw Paw was such a beautiful dog and I enjoyed seeing him on your show.

Thank you Martha for sharing his photos with us....You are in our thoughts and prayers....

[Nancy]

I'm so sorry to hear that your beloved Paw Paw has died. It's heartbreaking to lose a pet. They ask so little of us and yet give us so much in return. Take care, Martha. Rest in peace, Paw Paw.

[Patt Perry]

Martha,
So sorry for your loss of Paw Paw. You had such a wonderful memorial for him remember he is always by your side. It is amazing how his housemates stayed right by his side till he passed. Remember the good times forever. Hugs to you.
Peace and Take Care,
Patt

[Shelly Nunn]

Martha,
I am so sorry and sad for your loss. I felt like I knew Paw Paw rom your photos and reading about him in your magazines and seeing him on TV.

I am very very sad and know how hard loosing a pet is - they are our children. It takes a special person to understand the love and joys in life we get from our pets and I am sure that Paw Paw is resting peacfully with many great memories of love and happiness. He is resting in a beautiful looking down waiting to see his mommy again some day.

Our time with our pets is short, but filled with so much joy. I hope you get through this tough time and take conform in the fact that you are not alone. You have many wonderful memories to live with.

[Alorinna]

Warm thoughts to you. We have two german shepherds, and they mean the world to us.

**hugs**

[Dayami]

Dear Martha,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I TiVo your shows and just now I found out about your precious Paw Paw.
Your lovely Chow kind of became our Chow too and we enjoyed him so much in all the videos and TV segments. He will be so missed.

The "good thing" is that Paw Paw lived a healthy and wonderful life surrounded with love.

Hugs,
Dayami

[Donna]

I am so very, very sorry to hear about Paw Paw, I know how you feel I have lost many of my babies. Please take comfort in knowing you will meet again and he is no longer in pain, I know the pain that is in your heart.
I know he had a wonderful life and he was a very lucky dog to have you in his life because I know he was loved.

Donna

[Sheila Rich]

Martha~
What a sweet, kind, fun dog that will be very missed by everyone. Paw Paw was a real "icon" for me. I will miss him as well. Best wishes and take care

[Joe]

Martha,
I'm terribly sorry for your loss. As a fellow animal lover (I have 7 cats)- I do relate. Paw Paw gave you unconditional love and you gave him a wonderful tribute. Paw Paw will be proud.

[Vito]

Dear Martha,
Please accept my deepest sympathy on your beloved Paw Paw. He was soooo beautiful and loving. You could just see it in his face. I loved seeing him on the show and whenever you mentioned him, I'd have to smile because he was just the cutest dog. We put our dog down a few years ago so I know the feeling. I'm sure Paw Paw is watching over you. God bless you for taking such great care of him and all of your wonderful animals.
We love you Always!
Vito~!

[Susan Mc]

I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved Paw Paw. Such a beautiful dog and such a good friend. I always loved seeing him on your show. He will be missed very dearly.

[Marjorie]

Dear Martha. I was so sorry to hear of Paw Paw's death. The pictures you posted were so beautiful. You gave Paw Paw a happy life and he returned that to you ten fold.

Paw Paw, rest in peace.

[Ginger (Stewart) Rohloff]

I saw your show this morning councerning PawPaw. I lost my little Nikki last June (tiny Poodle- 16.5 years old) and i am still grieving. They get into your heart, never betray you, and don't care what kind of mood you are in. They still love you. As one Stewart (maiden name) to another, I just wanted you to know that I will keep you in my thoughts. I don't know when it gets better, it still hasn't for me....

Ginger (Stewart) Rohloff

[Mike Bourke]

WOW! What emotion you shared and brought back to me in my own heart. When my dog, Alex, a beautiful black pug died in her 14th year I wrapped her in my very best Irsh linen tablecloth, tied it with a bow and burried her in my garden; your pics brought back that pay so vividly in my memories! Thank you.

[Corey]

Oh my goodness, this brought me to tears. What a gorgeous man he was!!! I am so sorry for your loss!

[Susan]

Tears fill my eyes at your loving tribute. There is no friend like a dog friend. Condolences.

[Michele]

I lost my beloved cat almost 2 years ago now and know just what you are going through. He is in a better place and had a long and wonderful life with you. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

[Jay Doubleyou]

Oh Martha!

Sorry you lost your "Paw Paw". May you find peace with your other animals and may you never forget your special bond with your "special one".

With sorrow for you,

"Jay Doubleyou"

[Jennifer]

Our hearts go out to you on the loss of your beloved Paw Paw. We have 4 dogs (3 Dobes & a Pit bull mix) My heart breaks just thinking about losing any of them. They become such a part of the family. He will always live on as long as he is in your heart and I think at times when he is looking down from Heaven and smiling at you, you will feel his warm fluffy fur and his nose gently nuzzling you to say thank you and let you know that he is happy and ok and that he still thinks of you too.

[Kathleen]

Dear Martha:

My thoughts and prayers are with you...I know how much it hurts to have your best friend leave you, but I picture him lying at Big Martha's feet with a big smile knowing he will now rest in peace with her forever. You gave him a wonderful life.

[dsn]

Dear Martha,

I am sorry for the loss of your beloved pet. I have a 13 year-old sheltie who currently is in renal failure. Everyday is a blessing that she makes it through. But, I know the time is coming soon.

What a beautiful dog PawPaw was and now is up in heaven.

[Kathleen]

Dear Martha:

My thoughts and prayers are with you...I know how much it hurts to have your best friend leave you, but I picture him lying at Big Martha's feet with a big smile knowing he will now rest in peace with her forever. You gave him a wonderful life.

[melissa]

martha,

Thank you for sharing the love you have for Paw Paw. I think this blog will help me in dealing with the loss of my beloved Gracie. She is a 16 year old chow mix. She has brought me so much love and joy. I still have her here with me but I know not much time could possibly be left. I am just going to love her every lasting day!

[Erin]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss. I remember seeing paw paw on Tv for years and thought he was one of the most cutest dogs on tv. His memory will live one through all of his fans and people like me who became interested in chows through him and have thier own becuase of him. Mine is named Bear. Thank you for sharing your paw paw with the world.

sincerly,
Erin

[ANNA SEMPLE]

Dear Martha..what a heartfelt tribute! It truly touched me that you shared it with so many of us you don't know, but who know and love you through television. I can't imagine the sorrow being a dog owner myself. They are without a doubt, our best loyal friends. This quote from Rachael Hales book, 101 Salivations,by J.R. Ackerley, is perfect, "A dog has one aim in life...to bestow his heart." I know Paw Paw did just that. Take care Martha,Anna

[melanie (scotland)]

this is the first time i have read your website and can sympathise with your loss. when you are an animal lover they are part of your family and always will be, dogs are like children they need cared for and they love you right back.
paw paw looked such a handsome and friendly dog.

[Barbara]

I'm so sorry for your loss. As someone who said goodby to my dear Zachary in 2006, I hope the good times will remain in your memory and you can laugh at all the fun you had with Paw Paw. He was beautiful.

[Helena Ng]

Martha:

I can totally imagine the pain of losing the dearest pal who has been accompanying you for years, sharing your joy and tears. It would live on in your heart with his sweetness. And I am sure the dog has spent his happiest moment with you in his life.

Me and my husband have the same pain overall the death of my beloved pet, Meowc who is a lovely cat. It happened in June 4, 06 but I am still missing him and have pain when thinking of his adorable attitudes.

take care and my time heal your saddness.

Helena from Toronto

[Cindy LaFrance]

Martha:

I am sitting here reading your blog and the tears are running down my face. We had a chow for 12 years and he passed away. He was my baby. I know exactly how you feel and my heart goes out to you. We lost our chow 3 years ago and now we have 3 chows all siblings with a wonderful temperment. I wish you the best and remember Paw Paw is in a better place.

[Vicki Maynard]

I am reading these tributes with tears in my eyes.. I too lost a dog a couple of years ago and Jake is still with me and I miss him every day. (and I have 3 more dogs and 10 cats.) each one is special.. I , too , will miss seeing that beautiful boy on tv .. just as laid back as all get out.. he was so calm on tv. what a personality.. Thank you for sharing his last days.. in pictures..

[Nancy]

My heart aches for you. I know he is up in heaven, chasing butterflies, waiting for you.

May your heart heal quickly. We are all thinking of you!

[Pamela Sosnowski]

Martha,

I am so very sorry to hear about the passing of beautiful Paw Paw. I will miss seeing him on your show. I just had to put one of my cats to sleep a couple of weeks ago and sympathize with how painful it is to lose a pet. Hope your fond memories and knowing that Paw Paw is out of pain and happy will make the healing process go quicker.

Pam Sosnowski
Andover, MA

[Katie Gerwien]

Dear Martha:

I am so sorry you have lost Paw-Paw and your mother so close together. As a viewer of your shows, I have admired your mother so much. As a dog-lover, I have enjoyed watching Paw-Paw on your shows. My dogs gave me the ultimate gifts of their love, their companionship and their devotion to my well-being. I know Paw-Paw gave you the same.

My God bring you comfort as you mourn these recent losses.

Sincerely,

Katie

[Miriam Layne]

Dear Martha,
I'm so sorry to hear that Paw Paw has died. We all are going to miss him.
Miriam

[Mary Y]

I just want to express my sorrow and send prayers to you and yours on the passing of your beloved Paw Paw. It is so hard when our fur babies go, they love us unconditionally but you gave Paw Paw a life full of love and enjoyment that I am sure he felt every day of his life right up to his last. He is now in every sunset and every flower and will be forever in your heart.

[Lisa Marie Garrison]

Dear Ms. Stewart,
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 who 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...I wish you peace in this time of great sorrow; but believe that you and countless other pet-lovers/owners will be reuinted with their beloved pets/children later. God bless.

[Diane]

Martha--

I am SO, SO sorry to hear about the loss of your beloved Paw Paw. I went through the same thing a few months ago and I know how horrible it feels to lose someone so close to you. Wrap yourself tightly in the good memories--Paw Paw will always be with you.

My thoughts are with you, as are those of my new kittens, Benjamin Stewart and Katherine Martha (Ben and Kate).

Diane, Benjamin, and Kate

[Janet McConnell]

Martha, My heart and prayers go out to you at this time of your loss. I too, lost my bestfriend of 13 yrs.,'Mandy', my golden retriever,last year on April 10th. The last 3 months of her life were a struggle to walk. I built her a ramp to ease her potty walk outside and used a dog swimvest to help lift and guide her. On April 10th, 2007 I knew we had to put her down. I was waiting for my husband to come home to take her to the vet. I was distressed in letting her go and for hours my face was down and my hands gripped together in prayer, praying that the Lord would give me strength. At 11:58 a.m. I gave Mandy her last drink of water and love. I went back to praying and while I was praying and waiting for my husband, a still, small, voice whispered in my ear "She's gone!" I sat up and looked at the clock it was noon. I went to Mandy and she was gone! I now know that she is with the Lord and that Mandy knew she was loved up to the minute she left. It seems that PawPaw was too. The Lord couldn't have done it any better for my spirit. I didn't want to put her down. Mandy's ashes are spread out over a field where her mother's are also, where horses run and play. I am telling you this to assure you that all good dogs go to heaven.

[Katie Gerwien]

Dear Martha:

I am so sorry you have lost Paw-Paw and your mother so close together. As a viewer of your shows, I have admired your mother so much. As a dog-lover, I have enjoyed watching Paw-Paw on your shows. My dogs gave me the ultimate gifts of their love, their companionship and their devotion to my well-being. I know Paw-Paw gave you the same.

My God bring you comfort as you mourn these recent losses.

Sincerely,

Katie

[Natalie]

My condolences to you on the passing of the beloved and sweet Paw Paw.

[Kristine Marquez]

Oh Martha, I you have my most sincere condolences. I am so sorry to hear about Paw Paw. He always had such a sweet expression on his face. You can tell a lot about a dog from the look in his eyes, so I know Paw Paw was wonderful. Again, I am so sorry. Take care.

[Pamela Dubois]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved Paw Paw. I know that you love him and will miss him terribly. I have two dogs and my oldest is Bagel (my beautiful beagle). She is 13 years old and was recently diagnosed with Cancer. I can't even imagine what my days and my life will be like without her. Dogs are amazing creatures! They don't care how much money you've got in your bank account, if you've brushed your hair today, or even if you have garlic breathe....they just love you no matter what! Just remember all of the great times that you had with Paw Paw and he will always be in your heart. Take care.

[Kim]

I am so sorry for your loss! The photos as beautiful and very touching. Its funny how a dog that I never met can make me so emotional. You and your other dogs are in my thoughts and prayers!

[Jodi]

I am so sorry about the loss of Paw Paw. What a great animal you were so blessed to have.

[Tracey]

Martha,

So sorry to hear about Paw Paw's death. We just had to put our Chow mix, Mira, down a couple of weeks ago, so we feel your pain.

Paw Paw was a handsome dog, and I know that he will be missed. Having two other furry children will help.

Perhaps Paw Paw and Mira will meet on the other side of Rainbow Bridge.

Tracey and Reece

[Liz]

Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss. I lost a beloved Maine Coon Cat several years ago, and I couldn't stop crying for a week. I still tear up when I read the card that the vet staff sent me on his passing. You were a great "Mom" to PawPaw and we will all miss seeing him on the show and in your magazine. Be Well!

[nick]

Martha,

I was instantly saddened when I read about Paw Paw's passing. It's hard for many to understand the relationship between a human and their loyal pet, but you somehow managed to, eloquently, put it into words.
Be sure to give Francesca and Sharkey an extra hug everyday.

[SJ, WI]

Dear Martha,

Your post brought me to tears. You and Paw Paw are in my prayers. I know that Paw Paw will always be watching over you. Take comfort in the fact that he is resting peacefully and that you will see him again someday. Take care.

[Miriam Layne]

Dear Martha,
I'm so sorry to hear that Paw Paw has died. We all are going to miss him.
Miriam

[Debbie]

Martha,

I am so sorry for your loss. I too recently lost my beloved pet of 14 years and I miss him terribly. Rest assured he was well taken care of and had a wonderful life with someone who cared.

[Heidi]

My thoughts, love, and hugs for you.

[Dawn]

Martha--
My heart goes out to you. Paw Paw was in all our homes and we feel a special bond with your pets. My tears streamed down my face while looking at all his pictures. I can't imagine a day with out my animals! You take such wonderful care of all your furry friends. Paw Paw had a wonderful life. Its just never long enough that we have them in our lives. Take care! We are all there for you.

[homer]

Martha, I'm sorry to learn about your loss.

[Jolene]

I read about your loss and wanted to extend my condolences to you and your family. Its so hard to say good-bye to these dear friends, isnt it? 12 or 13 years is just not long enough... Seems as tho your dear Paw Paw had a happy life filled with love - the pictures are precious. Paw Paw is now well and happy and running free and waiting for you all at the Bridge.

[Michelle]

Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of your dear friend, Paw Paw.

[Mike]

Dear Martha,
I am so sorry for your loss. Paw Paw was a beautiful dog, and I know he had a wonderful life. Thank you for sharing his story and his life with the world.

[Debralee]

Dear Martha, Please accept my deepest condolences for the loss of your constant companion Paw Paw. I lost my precious Chow Chow Budboy nearly three years ago and I miss him each and every day. Your beautiful photographs serve as a reminder to all of the irreplaceable bond we have with our devoted friends. Rest knowing he's joined my beloved Budboy in a glorious place they will share eternally. Peace be with you, Debralee & "Pippa" (Budboy's new Sister)

[glenda leighton]

martha,
hi,i'm sorry about paw paw he was beatiful, my prayers are with you and your family.
pets are like family.

glenda leighton

[Angie]

Martha,

I am deeply sorry for your loss. I have admired Paw Paw for years in your magazine. He was a beautiful dog and sounds like he was an amazing friend. My thoughts are with you, your other pets, and friends of Paw Paw.

Tearfully and fondly,
Angie

[Emmy]

Martha, your pictures and blog were so moving. I am sitting right here crying my eyes out, as if Paw Paw was mine. He was so beautiful and gentle. I'm sure he'll have a special place in heaven. Thanks for sharing him with us all these years.

[Marcus Franklin]

Martha,

I lost my 14 year old Sheltie, Rocky last week to renal failure. We gave him IV fluids the last few weeks of his life. He went to sleep and never woke up last Tuesday night. I really feel for you and all that loved Paw Paw. I know my dog is waiting for me one day, just like yours is waiting to greet you. I'll keep you in my thoughts. Hang in there.

Marc

[Ann W.]

Dear Martha,    I really feel your deep pain and sorrow with Paw Paw's passing. I send this with tears in my eyes and my Muffin (Sheltie) and Ginger Red (Cocker Spaniel) at my side concerned that I am crying again. You see, we just had to say good by to our McDuff, a large 7 year old Sheltie taken long before his time with lymphoma on March 25,2008. I miss my angel boy every day as you will miss Paw Paw. Faithful companions who are always unconditionally there for you become part of your life and are not easily forgotten. My best to you.

[Julie McCarthy - a devoted dog lover]

Martha, I'm so very sorry for your loss of sweet Paw Paw. I've lost precious dogs myself...so very heartbreaking. I'm sending a hug to you and Francesca and Sharkey as I know you will all be mourning your friend. I have always suggested that it is "good thing" to write down all the special little things that you loved about the pet that you lost...things that are unique to only him. As time goes on, it's easy to forget his special "essence." I did this for my old Sophie, best dog in the world. Peace to you all,
Julie in Maine

[tea time and roses]

Hello Martha...

I am so sorry for your lost...Paw Paw will be missed, but knowing how beautiful and full his life... I hope will make it a little easier for all who loved him.

Beverly

[Melis]

Ms. Stewart,
Your message about your beloved dog brought tears to my eyes. As a pet owner I dread the day when I will have to face a minute without my precious pup.
Your little guy and all your animals are very lucky to have such a caring "mom".
You are in my thoughts!
Melis

[Alicia Ross]

Dear Martha,

Seeing all those wonderful pictures of pow pow gave me tears in my eyes. You will have wonderful memories of him for as long as you live! It is never easy to lose a pet even more so when one has been in your life for so long. my thoughts and prayers are with you and your other dogs as well, they will miss him as well!

Alicia Ross
Graham WA

[Elaine]

My heart goes out to you. It's always so hard to part with a beloved pet. I always loved seeing him on your show, he was such a gentle-looking, beautiful boy. I hope we all see our "babies" again someday.

[Rena Walsh]

Pet's are given to us for a short while so that we can experience a perfect love. God may take them back but we are better people having had them in our lives. Hopefully Paw Paw is with my 2 girls who left me last year. Even though it hurts I wouldn't trade that love for anything.

[Emmy]

Martha, your pictures and blog were so moving. I am sitting right here crying my eyes out, as if Paw Paw was mine. He was so beautiful and gentle. I'm sure he'll have a special place in heaven. Thanks for sharing him with us all these years.

[Fran]

Dear Martha,

I'm sorry to hear of Paw Paw's passing. We are blessed with our dear canine companions for too short a time. May you find peace and comfort in the days ahead.

Sincerely,
Fran

[Jacqueline Propps]

Bright Blessings to you and your family of friends - Paw Paw was so dearly loved and well-cared for while on this plane. Now it is his turn to give back to you - always vigilant - watching over you and yours.

My dog Bravo is half chow and the same color as Paw Paw - I've enjoyed following his exploits and we both send our most heartfelt thanks to you and Paw Paw for enriching our lives with your truths.

Bravo.jpg

[Joan Hajek]

Martha,
I was sooo sorry to hear about Paw Paw's crossing over the Rainbow Bridge. As a fellow dog lover, I know how our little creatures become such an intrigal part of our lives. I know how sad you must be. You have honored him with his final resting place and I know you will have it pretty before summer is here.

[Catherine]

Dear Martha: People refer to pets as our animals, but we all know they're really our children. We love them and we love Paw Paw's memory. My little Abby and I am sorry for your loss. May Paw Paw watch over you and keep you forever safe!!
Catherine and Abby

[Tonia]

Dear Martha:

I am so sorry for your loss - your beloved Paw Paw. My heart goes out to you as I know how hard it is to lose a wonderful canine companion.

I so enjoyed seeing him in your magazine and show. He was so beautiful and displayed his wonderful temperament in the recent segment when pampered and groomed in NYC.

I hope you find comfort in your memories and knowing that he is free of all illness.

[Diana V.]

Oh Martha, my heart breaks to hear of Paw Paw's passing. He was truly a gentle giant and a joy to watch on your show. What a magnificent specimen! Im grieving the death of my own cat on Easter morning but I'm consoled to think of our pets frolicking at the Rainbow Bridge. Restored to health and vigor,free from pain, and awating our final reunion.

[Betty]

Sorry about Paw Paw. My dog recently died of the same thing. Chewie was 1 week short of her 15th birthday. My son is a senior in high school, and all he wanted for graduation was for Chewie to live until he graduated. Now he wants to trade in his pick up for a car.

[Claudia Cosgrove]

Dear Martha,
Prayers are being said for you and all of those who loved your beloved Paw Paw. What a wonderful gift from God he was to you and yours and all your viewers and fans. Thank you for sharing him with us. Rest in God's arms during this difficult time.
Sincerely,
Claudia in Kentucky

[JoAnn Presley]

From Sir Walter Scott: I have sometimes thought of the final cause of dogs having such short lives and I am quite satisfied it is in compassion to the human race; for if we suffer so much in losing a dog after an acquaintance of ten or twelve years, what would it be if they were to live double that time?

RIP PawPaw. Say Hi to Peanut for me would you? She'll be the 11 lb Chihuahua standing in the corner of Heaven who thinks she owns the place. My thoughts and prayers are with your momma. JoAnn

[Johnie Vereen]

Dear Martha
My wife Jane and I send our love to you. We have two Maltese and know that part of your heart that must be missing. Your wonderful, so loving and understanding friend is gone and there will never be another personality like Paw Paw. They are always glad to see you and their only requirement is love and nourishment. They sit by your side, they run at your side, they sleep at you side, loyalty that there is not equal to, something no friend, no lover will ever do. If you look right in their eyes you can see that bright loving soul that always and forever loves you, just you. I wish I could take some of the hurt away. May God bless you and your family. You have already suffered things that should never have been thrust on you.

Respectfully
Johnie & Jane Vereen
Shea and Jean Luc ( our Maltese children )

Mayor Oak Island NC

[suzanne tickler]

I was watching your show today and you were telling about paw paws passing and i was thinking you were so brave to be able to talk about it and not cry, i cried for you. i lost my kitty a few months ago, and every time i think about him and look at his picture i still cry. paw paw was so beautiful! and i love the pictures of your other pets too. love your show alot!

[Patty Blanchard]

I too lost a beloved pet recently my 14 year old Westie. What an unbelieveable joy they bring to us. I am tearing up reading these captions as I too know what those last few days can be like. What a splendid long life. May the fond memories of him bring you many sweet smiles.

[jerome]

Dear Martha,
Thank you for sharing these tough times with us. I'm sure Paw Paw led a very happy life and that he will leave you and your loved ones with a legacy of many memories to treasure.
Animals deserve only love and respect, and you clearly show that you care.

Thank you.

[Carol Williams]

I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved dog. I had to have my own dog put down on March 11th and I know how hard it is to let go. My heart is still breaking over it. We had him cremated and his ashes are on my mantel next to his picture. I'm sure PawPaw had a wonderful life. Thank you for caring enough to give it to him.

[Eli in DC]

Martha,my condolences on Paw Paw.
He is now with my girl Kyd playing in Heaven.I loved seeing him on the show. He is at peace now but he will always be remembered as a sweet wonderful dog.My prayers are with you.

[Sue Blackwood]

Martha,
I cried mega-tears while viewing your blog about Paw-Paw. We lost our beloved toy-poodle-daughter on 4 Mar. She was also 12 years old. We miss her so very much. My heart goes out to you. It was time for Paw-Paw to rest, but the memories and his essence will always be with you. I was so touched by your pictures and tribute to your beloved pet-family member. It is beautiful.

[Carol Williams]

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 who 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....

(I found a lot of comfort in this poem when I lost my dog)

[Denise]

After reading your blog, and seeing your beautiful baby Paw Paw, I'm trying my best not to cry here at work. I am so sorry for your loss. Our little Tasha girl passed last August (15 years old), and her best friend Tipper (11 yr old Chow Newfie mix) hasn't played with her toys or rawhides since Tasha left us. We miss our Tasha so much. And I've no idea how I'll survive when Tipper joins Tasha...
You have our most sincere condolences.

[Barbara]

Martha, I am saddened by the passing of your wonderful dog Paw Paw. Pets have a special place in our hearts. Their unconditional love is something that is a gift from heaven and I pray that your sweet memories will help to ease your pain in time. God Bless Paw Paw and keep him safe in heaven.

[EdaMommy]

What a moving and honorable post. All my love and prayers....

[Glenda]

I am so sorry about Paw Paw. He seemed like a sweet dog. I lost my dog Lily, last August and reading your story just made me cry all over again for her.
I miss her warm nature and big brown eye's. She was ever so sweet.

Glenda

[Teresa Scott]

Dearest Martha,
As I try to gain control of the lump in my throat and the many flowing tears, I can't express how much sorrow I feel for your loss of a wonderful friend in Paw Paw. Truely know my thoughts are with you at this time.
Sincere regards,
Teresa Scott - Granite Falls, WA

[deb macneil]

my dear martha
i turned on your show today as usual, and was very saddened to hear of the passing of your beloved paw paw. he had the most gentle temperment ive ever seen in a dog. i know how youre feeling right now, because i lost my beloved duder(a gorgeous grey tabby cat)5 years ago this sept.11. altho i now have 3 wonderful fur person companions, i had duder for sixteen years and ten days and i still miss him, as you will always miss paw paw.but he will always be in your heart. i hope you know how many people love you and grieve with you. thank heavens you have francesca and sharkey and all the cats to comfort you.

your biggest canadian fan,
deb

[Hope]

My heart goes out to you. The love Paw Paw felt for you will always remain.

[Michael Perry]

Martha,
I am so very sorry for your loss. I read your story about Paw Paw's last days and such, then took some time to look at photos of my beloved companion, Midnight, that I lost this year. I know how you feel dear.....I'm grieving too. All you can to is continue on with the good critters you still have.

Michael Perry

[Melissa Sullivan]

So sorry to hear about precious Paw-Paw. We put our Bulldog Dudley down in October. We had him for 14years (a very long time for a bully). Your Frenchies will help you get through it.

[MaryAnne Latham]

Dear Martha,
I am terribly sad that you have lost you're dear friend and companion. My heart goes out to you.
I have a precious wirehaired dachsund who I love more that anything or anyone. She will soon be 7. I don't know what I will do when it comes her time.
Best wishes,
MaryAnne Latham

[Janice]

Miss Martha, my heart goes out to you. I've had two loving dogs myself for 10 years, and I cannot imagine life without either of them, though I know it's coming. My deepest sympathies to you.

Dog is God spelled backwards.

[Melanie]

I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved dog Paw Paw, the pictures were very touching, I could tell that you really loved him and he loved you too.

My cat Dottie died last year, she was very old and frail. I found her 8 years prior in our neighborhood looking very sick and in distress, I could tell no one took care of her. I rushed her to the vet and nursed her back to health, she was my Dottie ever since. It is sad to lose a pet, they give you love and cheer so freely, truly little angels. I hope you feel better in the coming weeks, God bless.

Melanie
Rancho Palos Verdes,
California

[kathy]

Dearest Martha,

PawPaw was the most beautiful dog I've ever seen. I'm so sorry for your loss.

Kathy

[Natalie in North Carolina]

My deepest condolences, Martha, in the loss of your beautiful and beloved companion Paw Paw.

I have long believed that our animals are great spiritual teachers. In their unconditional love, their ceaseless loyalty and never-failing forgiveness they model the Creator's desires for our lives.

Having shared my life with pets since early childhood; then countless beautiful Himalayans beginning at age 16, three devoted and wonderful Old English sheepdogs, and now "Gracie" the Newfoundland, "Solo" a Bluepoint Himalayan and "Piewhackit" a pumpkin-eye colored Tortoise Shell Persian, I count myself blessed for the many lessons they've taught me in such gentle fashion.

Whenever my heart aches for one of my animals who has moved on, I remember that love never dies. As they steadfastly loved me while living, I shall, just as I suspect you will too, ever love them and keep each close at heart.

May Paw Paw's legacy remain close to you and the others with whom he shared his love. Rest peacefully, Paw Paw!

[Kerry]

My heart is breaking for you. I'm very sorry for your loss. It seems like you and PawPaw were lucky to be in each other's lives.

[Lynne]

Martha,
My thoughts are with you and Paw-Paw, and the frenchies, too. Paw-Paw was a real treat to watch on the show, and we will all miss him. Your photos of his last days in your blog are beautiful. I hope you find peace soon, and God Bless. I love you Martha!

Oh Martha...I am so terribly sorry to hear of the passing of Paw Paw. It was very obvious how much you loved him and how much he loved you. I feel kind of silly...I have been crying ever since I found out. Crying for a dog I never met and for his heartbroken owner I hope to meet someday. My sister passed away recently at the age of 38 for an accidental overdose. I hope Paw Paw will find her and keep her company from time to time. She loved animals so much. Take care Martha and if there is anything I can ever do...just name it.

Love,
MaryEllen Kocher
Pennsylvania

PS
Is there an address I can use to s