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Harley McGuire’s Final Journey

Harley McGuire, Star SedonaEye.com Four Paws Up Pet Columnist

Harley McGuire, Star SedonaEye.com Four Paws Up Pet Columnist crossed the Rainbow Bridge today.

Sedona AZ (August 14, 2016) – It wasn’t without resistance this brave little dog finally gave in to a battle he realized he could not win.

This gentle little dog, having lived in his Sedona forever home for the past nine years, came from an unknown background except for a few scant facts.

Having been hit by a car, he struggled his way to the front yard of some unknown folks who, fortunately, took pity on him to secure the proper care. After ads had been place in an attempt to identify the owners of this little dog, no one stepped forward so the process of finding placement began at the Lone Star Shih Tzu and Lhasa Apso Rescue in Pinehurst, TX.

It was after his broken back and jaw had substantially mended that he was offered for adoption, and the procedure was intense and somewhat frustrating but, oh so rewarding.

SedonaEye.com Star Four Paws Up Pet Columnist Harley McGuire's Rainbow Bridge

SedonaEye.com Star Four Paws Up Pet Columnist Harley McGuire’s Rainbow Bridge

He was flown to a foster home in Glendale, AZ, which was where, in spite of the rigorous process, at the age of approximately five or six, his new adoptive mother picked him up and brought him to what, for sure, was his forever home. But forever didn’t last long enough because some unknown power made the decision that at age fourteen, or possibly fifteen, his adventures were to take him on that final journey across the Rainbow Bridge.

True he had been failing for the past few months. But heck, that even happens to us humans (like it or not). But the process accelerated the past couple of weeks and the ultimate departure was sadly becoming a reality.

So, again with tremendous resistance, little Harley McGuire kept his dignity and struggled to defy boarding that train until very early on Sunday, August 14, 2016. Shortly after midnight, he sweetly and silently made his departure.

Always loving and congenial (except if anyone messed with his wired jaw, toe fur, or nails) this little guy could go anyplace and remain well behaved. He loved people’s attention and rarely, if ever, rejected another furry four-footed friend.

He was one of a kind, as are all creatures on this earth. But the question being asked by his Sedona Mommy is: “Why didn’t I go first?” Not even The Shadow can answer that one.

Have a happy journey, Little Man. You will be missed more than you could possibly imagine.

paw prints for harley mcguire columnLovingly,

Harley McGuire’s Mother

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 all day with each other.

Safe journey, Harley McGuire.

Happy journey, Harley McGuire.

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 or her 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 . . .

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Read www.SedonaEye.com for daily news and interactive views!

59 Comments

  1. Cole & Mandy Families says:

    We loved our Harley and enjoyed his many columns. Having lost Cole & Mandy in 2014 within a few scant weeks of each other, brother and sister together every day of their lives on earth and not to be without each other for very long before joining together over the Rainbow, we know your Harley is romping with them now and waiting until we join them once again.

    Harley McGuire you will be missed. And we took your advice and took in Abby and Maggie, one in Cole’s house and one in Mandy’s, and these two remain next door to each other like their departed brother and sister had always been.

    Dear Harley McGuire’s broken hearted mother, our love to you.

  2. RingaDing says:

    sorry to hear this

  3. Norma says:

    So very sorry to hear. Love you forever Harley, one special puppy.

  4. J. Rick Normand says:

    @Harley McGuire,

    R.I.P. little one. I was just getting ready to go off the political track and write a short story entitled “Harley McGuire, Meet Little Rosie!” Rosie is a 5yr old 10lb white Chihuahua who belongs to Sedona’s Ernie Moreno. Ernie is a big strapping body builder friend of mine who is never seen without little Rosie caressed in one of his very big arms. And, I mean never…they’re always together and she visits every office where Ernie provides maintenance service. Women, in particular, just have to stop whatever they’re doing to pick up Rosie and pet her. Such petting is always returned with a kiss from Rosie. Same with guys if they’re interested. I should know because I often doggysit Rosie who sleeps in my lap while I’m at my computer keyboard. When she wakes up, I get the kiss…every time. Rosie should be appointed Sedona’s Roving Ambassador. She is known all over Sedona…never barks, bites, or growls. She just loves friendly humans and wants to play with everybody. In the winter, Ernie always has Rosie outfitted in a little Chihuahua sweater or body stocking. I know of no dog who brings more joy to so many people in Sedona than Rosie. She and Harley would have been great mates. What an ambassadorial feat they could have accomplished together to welcome visitors. Together…so cute, so loving, so trusting, so in need of giving love to anyone who would want it.

    JRN

  5. Auntie Lea & Skipper says:

    We will miss you!
    Till we meet again. HAPPY “TAILS”

  6. Axelrod says:

    hamsters everywhere salute you in passing Harley

  7. Ruby Slippers & Goldie Beacon says:

    Arizona Dachshunds thought you were tops! RIP

  8. Mojo, Nikki & Linus says:

    We are so sorry to see you leave the human world, but know that you are writing funny, wonderful articles for the Rainbow Bridge News. You will be sorely missed but we’ll be waggin’ our tails for you. Although you can never be replaced, we’re sure that Poco D will help fill the huge hole you left in your Mom’s heart. You will always be one of a kind…kinda funny, kinda sweet and oh so smart.

  9. Boo & Napoleon says:

    We will miss you very much sweet Harley McGuire. Rest in peace. You are forever in our hearts.
    Love your pals,
    Boo & Napoleon.

  10. Dave, Virginia, Diego and Bandit says:

    So sorry to hear. Our Diego is starting to slow down too! But Bandit is still a pistol!
    Rest In Peace, Harley. We’ll miss you!

  11. WSR says:

    @JRN

    That’s really CUTE Ricky…..now your extensively writing about a dog….What a guy

    You can’t even do that briefly. Funny stuff

  12. Sobe & Bettye says:

    Our deepest sorrow to Harley’s Mom at this sad time. We can say things like ‘what a great life You gave Him’, ‘What a wonderful long life He lived’, and ‘How many lives the two of You touched’, and even though this is all true the pain of loss, We’re sure, is still there.

    We read someplace recently that the Pain of Loss is equal to the Love that was Given.

    I’m sure Harley is free of pain and old age, and running with all His Buddies that have gone before Him through the meadows, hills and valleys in the lush green grass, while taking breaks to sit at the side of Your Husband for a scratch. We’re pretty sure that that’s how is works.

    Love to You Both,
    Sobe and Bettye
    (We’re not going to tell Baby Raven yet)

  13. Karin (mommy to Bonnie & Clyde) says:

    Oh, Harley’s mommy; so very sorry to hear about his passing. Also sorry I never got to meet him. Please check your “trash” in-box as I sent you an email last week. We also had our family dog cross over the Rainbow bridge a week ago today; sweet Shadow, approx. 14. We were with her when they euthanized her. You didn’t go first, my dear, because Poco needs you. You still have lots of love to give to other creatures and humans alike. Harley was blessed to have you. My condolences to you, Eddie. Giving you a big hug now, hope you feel it. Love you.

  14. Inoch, Huddy and Dominic says:

    Harley Mcguire We are all very saddened by your passing and will truly miss you. Hope to see you someday when we cross the Rainbow Bridge. Rest in Peace!

  15. N. Baer says:

    Vinny and I mourn your loss as well as Harley was your “right hand man.” I read recently that the grief experienced by pet owners when their pets cross over is equal to that caused when one loses a human. This piece struck me as so very charming http://www.dogheirs.com/tamara/posts/5044-dogs-never-die-they-are-sleeping-in-your-heart because the notion of my past pets sleeping in my heart sure beats the perception that something with whom I shared my love is gone forever.

  16. Laurel Romm says:

    I’m so sorry to hear about your beloved Harley. You didn’t go first because there is no one else on Earth who could have given Harley the special loving care you gave him in his final days. May your memories of him bring you joy.

  17. Mary C says:

    I feel for you. I lost my much loved Fluffy a month ago. After some searching I found Flower, a pup who looks just like her. While I will deal with a pup’s issues, Flower seems to be a worthy replacement, with a youngsters joy and activity.

    Picture the scene from Bambi, ” You can call me Flower if you want to.”

    No relationship lasts, enjoy every moment.

  18. Diamond says:

    God bless you Harley and Mother.

  19. Buster says:

    Dang it, Harley! And we never got to meet :-(

  20. Sherman Oaks Lassie says:

    sorry old boy, you did your family proud

  21. Martha says:

    Just read the sad news that my dear friend,
    Harley McGuire had taken his final journey.
    I didn’t realize he was an older boy, but we
    like to remember those we love as forever young.
    I know there is a big hole in your heart now
    that HM has crossed the Rainbow Bridge, and
    you will miss that sweet little man so very much.
    I know many will miss his articles in the paper.
    Just know that loving thoughts and prayers are
    coming to you from me.
    Martha

  22. Munch & Slim says:

    adios lil pard & happy trails from Oregon family readers

  23. Chip says:

    Harley, I will hiss (miss) you.

    Hugs – Chip and his mama!

  24. Harley McGuire's Mother says:

    To those who took time to comment, send e-mails, and make phone calls, thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support has been helpful and much appreciated during this sad and difficult time.

    Happy trails, Little Man. I miss you.

  25. Ginger says:

    Oh how sad this is. It’s two years now and I’m still not over the loss of my “Panda” but encourage Harley McGuire’s mother to keep the faith and continue to foster and embrace Poco D., Harley McGuire’s new brother. He came into your life for a reason.

  26. B. B. says:

    Sorry sorry to hear about your loss. RIP Harley. Thanks to Harley McGuire’s Mommy for sharing him via the articles.

  27. Message to SE Publisher says:

    What a fabulous photo of “Harley McGuire’s Rainbow Bridge.” A superb touch of class that added magic to this very sad event. Thank you.

  28. Lola & Wookie & Duran Duran says:

    bye Harley take care

  29. Poco D. McGuire says:

    Oh, Harley, I’m missin’ you terribly. We were only together for a couple of months but that was long enough for me to get in the habit of followin’ you and learnin’ to do the right thing, like usin’ the doggie door. I keep lookin’ in your beds and crate, sniffin’ and then wondering where you are at dinner and treat times. It ain’t all that much fun bein’ the only child here. Please come home . . .

  30. Toby in Florida says:

    RIP fella

  31. Eileen and Abe says:

    Our little Hudson crossed the Rainbow Bridge yesterday and joined his special buddy,Harley. wE MISS HIM TERRIBLY…One of our friends sent us this poem that captures our feelings at this time…

    A DOG’S LAST GOODBYE BY GENE kELLER

    It’s alright my human friend;
    You’ve done the best you can.
    There’s no denying what must be.
    Life’s end is in God’s plan.

    And thought the sadness breaks your heart,
    Somehow we both just know,
    We can no longer wait, and pray;
    It’s time for me to go.

    So when they take me from your arms,
    And one last look we share,
    Think not of loss, but gifts we gave,
    With boundless love and care.

    And when they bring my final rest,
    And Heaven asks me in.
    I’ll wait outside; sit by the gate;
    Until we meet again.

    ALL DOGS HAVE A SPECIAL PLACE AND A PASS TO GET INTO HEAVEN

  32. Harley McGuire's Mother says:

    Thank you Eileen and Abe for sharing the painful event of the loss of your sweet Hudson. The lovely poem you offered is another tribute to those sweet pets that add so much pleasure to our own lives even though it hurts so badly when they make that final journey. My thoughts are with you and I truly wish I could say it gets easier but it never, ever will. Cherish the moments you have with Inoch etal.

  33. Renee rice-Claybon says:

    Thank you Harley for your inspiring words. Rest with love

  34. Mandy & Daisy May says:

    Oh, I don’t know how I’d handle it if I lost my Daisy May (I’m Mandy – her forever human mother and she is my life.) I’ve heard of therapy for people losing pets so maybe someone has information about that. Guess I should enjoy my little girl and not worry so much, but she is 10 years old now and – oh – reading about Harley McGuire sets me to thinking the day will come.

    Blessings little Harley McGuire and wherever you are never forget the goodness you provided in your brief life on this earth.

  35. Rainbow Bridge says:

    The photo really is amazing.

  36. J. Rick Normand says:

    @Harley McGuire and Poco D. McGuire

    See this link…

    Re: The Power of a Little Dog’s Friendship

    Disney Offered a Job to the Student That Created This Animation:

    THE PRESENT

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WjqiU5FgsYc

    JRN

  37. J. Rick Normand says:

    @All Readers at The Eye and @Harley McGuire and Poco D. McGuire,

    For some reason the weblink to the sweet video in my comment won’t open from this blogsite. Actually, it’s really easy to see this marvelous little clip just by going to YouTube Search and just typing in “The Present.” Just click on any of the video choices with an animated picture of a puppy with a red ball or the choice with a blue background and the graphic that says “The Present.”

    It starts off with a horrible wartime video game being played by a kid. Don’t let that put you off. You’ll love the finish.

    JRN

  38. Andrea says:

    Mine opened, J. Rick. Try again. It was beautiful. Bless you, Harley et al.

  39. Poco D. McGuire says:

    Hi Mr. J. Rick Normand. Well, guess what? Mom opened the thingy and sure enuf, it was a spine-tingler and started out sorta sad but oh my, as Missy Andrea said “It was beauteeful!” Thank you for making our day brighter. And, BTW (that means by they way) how is Rosie?

    PDM

  40. J. Rick Normand says:

    @Poco D. McGuire,

    Well, little Rosie isn’t as good looking as you are Poco but she is blessed with a million dollar personality. Of course, you may be both ultra handsome and have a million dollar personality, too. But, Rosie could be your best buddy. Together, Mommie Eddie would have a ball watching the two of you play.

    JRN

  41. Poco D. McGuire says:

    Well, ya see it’s like this Mr. J. Rick. I may be good looking (if ya say so) but I ain’t very worldly. Sort of not on the friendly side, if ya git what I mean. People skeer me as do other dogs. Mom is trying to socialize me but I ain’t too cooperative. Now Harley McGuire, my brother, was my role model and without him now I gotta learn stuff on my own – with Mom pushin’ and shovin’. So sure, maybe little Rosie will help bring me out of my shell.

  42. Village Pals says:

    Harley, we miss seeing you at the park out here. Always friendly and a sweet little fellow. So sad – it just isn’t the same.

  43. Poco D. McGuire says:

    Hey, Harley Bro, how didja manage to pull off that fast one with Auntie C yesterday? Ya know, the trick with Mom’s lunch tab? Well, man, I miss you more than you know ‘cuz of how smart you still are. I need ya to keep me in control and not bark so much. You were and are my role model but I needs on-the-spot training. Oh, and the note – well, it made Mom and her friend cry.

    We miss you,
    Poco D. McGuire

  44. Harley McGuire's Mother says:

    This is but a simple and humble acknowledgment of appreciation for the various tributes to Harley McGuire over and above the kind comments appearing under this article. Today I received yet another notification of a generous remembrance. How gratifying to know my Harley McGuire touched the lives of so many. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

  45. Publisher and Editor 10/3/16 says:

    Today, we paid our respects at Harley McGuire’s final resting place. His ashes are surrounded by the cherished memories of a well-lived life, held in the perpetual care of the one who loved him best and for all time.

    Brother Poco Diablo McGuire is doing his best to comfort. He misses your wisdom and guidance and, like your loving mom, is deeply saddened by this much too soon walk across the Rainbow Bridge.

    Goodbye, dear Harley McGuire, our SedonaEye.com Star Four Paws Up Pet Columnist. You were a gentle soul, a kind heart, and a constant good natured companion.

    From your SedonaEye.com family, many local, national and international fans, thank you for the memories.

  46. Sheri says:

    Rest in Peace beautiful Harley McGuire and thank you so very much for finding your wonderful Mom that special Poco McGuire boy. You have always known how to care for your Momma and you continue to do so.

    Digger
    Ellie
    Foo
    Casey
    Sheri

  47. Poco Diablo McGuire says:

    Well Sedona Eye Publisher, Editor, Digger, Ellie, Foo, Cassey, and Sheri – Mom wasn’t very happy with me by the end of the day. She already scolded me for biting at the Publisher/Editor’s heels and then discovered later on that I’d peed in the bedroom. Wow – she aint a happy camper. I’m not sure why I did that cuz I knows better but ya see, it gits her attention but not in a good way.

    And I knows my job is humungous to fill that vacancy left by Harley McGuire, and fer sure Mom knows we’re very, very different, but I jest don’t like her giving tention to anyone but me. Harley, of course, was OK cuz he taut me stuff and was my role to foller.

    Anyways, by telling ya all this is my way of letting ya know that Mommy loved your messages and when Mommy’s happy, EVERYONE is happy!

    Lovingly,
    Poco Diablo McGuire

  48. Me Bad says:

    Seems I jus’ can’t do nothin’ right cuz I don’t always spell right – like insted of Casey I put Cassey and now I’m bald out for that and in my version of being in the dog house which means time out of the bedroom. Yep “she” shut the door and I can’t get in there even to sun myself in my favorite spot!

    So, Casey, my friend, puleeze accept my apologie for not spellin’ yur name right. I’ll try to do better in the future – that is, if I even have one which looks less likely every day. Oh well.

    Adios,
    Poco D. McGuire

  49. Casey/sheri says:

    Hey buddy Poco – Foo and Me have your back. These transition times are the worst and tough to get through. My advice to you is have patience, be Good and give your mommy some time to heal…..as you Stop peeing in the bedroom (even We don’t do that no matter what happens) and just love her! You both are needing to get used to each other as the times have changed and now, little friend, the big job is up to You – and Foo and Me think you can do it and all will be well…just love her and quietly snug with her and you will have her heart as she has yours.

    Hey Poco – I don’t care how you spell my name just as long as you call out to me.
    Casey,Foo,Sheri,(Digger and Ellie)

  50. Poco D. McGuire says:

    Casey, Foo, Sheri, (Digger and Ellie) – Did I doo it rite?

    YU ALL LITE UP MY LIFE. Tanks!

    Adios,
    Poco D.

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