it’s taken me more than a week to write this post and “announce” to the world that tony, my best friend and loyal companion, died on sunday jan 15th 2012 at roughly 7:30pm. i loved tony more than anything or any person over the last ten years. he was an incredible dog with a human soul. if you knew me or any of my bands then you of course knew tony. in many ways we helped define each other. if you did have the pleasure of meeting tony then you know exactly what i mean when i say this — he was indeed a different breed and definitely a special being.
on saturday the 14th tony was diagnosed with severe lymphoblastic lymphoma and given a few days at most to live. over the next 24 hours some of his closest human friends came to see him and say goodbye. what all of these people had in common was that he really loved seeing them. thanks to all of you for dropping whatever you were doing and coming to see him. i believe it was extremely important that he saw you so that his tail would wag one last time (and it did) even if he couldnt stand up.
by the morning of the 15th tony could barely walk, wag his tail or lift up his head. he spent most of sunday outside on the porch resting in his bed as if he knew he was soaking up his last few glimpses of the warm california sun. looking back on it, i believe tony had decided that was the exact place where he wanted to spend his last moments on earth. in fact, right after it got dark out and i carried him inside he got up and somehow stumbled on his own just to make it back to that spot. this dog was a true fighter even at the end. watching him get up and walk back to that spot was a testament to just how tough, strong and proud he was. it was gut wrenching. a little while later tony was put to sleep on that porch, on that bed, while i was holding his head whispering “i love you” over and over and over again into his ear. i can’t describe how sad that moment was – as if half of my heart was forever ripped out of my chest.
to the people that have called or left messages – i appreciate it. even if i haven’t responded or don’t end up ever responding i appreciate the thoughts…thanks. if you have a pic of tony please post it on my facebook page as that would be really great to see and definitely make me smile.
the picture above was taken the evening of the 14th during one of the brief moments tony was able to stand up.
i love you tony.
– fran
Fran, I’m weeping for you over the loss of Tony. I fully understand the magnitude of loss of a dog that was both like a child and a best friend. His last moments seem lovely and you really gave him a celebration of his life at the end. Hope you’re doing better – but I know you just never get over it. He was a gorgeous boy.
Tone Dogger…… R.I.P.
To Tony,
I just found out of your passing. I have known you my entire time I have spent in the California Sun (almost 14 years) I spent many hours dog sitting with you when your papa had to leave to tour, I also spent many many hours with you as I worked with your papa….You were a great being and a true friend. The tears I am shedding as I type this are testiment to the bond I had with you…You always lit up and recognized your Uncle Sean when I walked into the room.
I miss you buddy…
Love
Uncle Sean…
Sorry to hear the bad news Fran. I wish I could have met Tony.
D
my dearest Fran…..my heart aches for you and your post made me cry. I know that kind of love. i am sorry i never got to your side of the country to meet Tony but I know he is the best friend and companion and most loving spirit and loved you as much as you loved him. I have a special four legged angel like Tony named Amanda who is also not doing well… I understand the love and passion.
Know that Tony gave you love and happiness and lots of laughter and smiles and his loving spirit will always stay with you. Prayers for you both….
Fran, we are deeply heartbroken and very sorry for your loss. We had the pleasure of meeting Tony, and he was so lovable and playful. He’s the reason why we have a furry family member!
With all your love, you gave him the proper send-off where he will be forever young. I hope it brings some comfort to think of the happier times with Tony and his amazing gift of love and loyalty. His inner light will shine forever.
You’re in our thoughts and prayers –Love, April & Adam Y
So sorry to hear Fran.. for the brief time I got to meet Tony, it’s true, he was a special being. Sending love~
noris
So sorry, Fran. This post destroyed me to read. You gave him a great life and I know he gave you so much as well. I’m so sorry, buddy.