I am writing to let you know that we had to help our sweet RAGOM boy, Kirby 02-064, to the BRIDGE on Friday, June 26.  Kirby had just turned 10 years old in May.   At the beginning of June, Kirby was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and, as ugly as the cells looked, it was determined that the cancer had likely metastasized.  As I think back, I believe he had something going on in December 07, but cancer was not considered at the time.  After the diagnosis, it was decided that we would all live each day as if it were Kirby's last and he would be as spoiled and pampered as possible - I honestly think he enjoyed the "extra" doting :)   Kirby maintained his good spirits and goofy personality until the end.  I took him in for a evaluation on June 21 to see how the vet thought he was doing.  He thought Kirby was doing fairly well, considering.  His fever was gone.  His tail was still wagging in the whirlybird circles we always laughed at.  But, the vet reminded me that we need to take one day at a time with Kirby.  Things can change and they can change fast. The vet shared some tips on how to determine if Kirby was in pain and different things to watch for.   On Wednesday, June 24, Kirby wasn't interested in eating his supper.  This was a huge sign for us as Kirby's second favorite thing in life (his first was to be petted) was to eat.  I followed him around the house (likely driving him crazy) begging him to eat.  Finally, he ate a little bit (probably just to get some peace from me).  On Thursday a.m., Kirby went outside potty with the rest of the pack, but had no interest in joining us in the bedroom/bathroom while we got ready for work.  Thursday night, Kirby refused to eat - no matter how much I begged.  We knew it was time.  Kirby rarely moved, but to go outside.  His breathing became more labored.  We spent the day with Kirby on Friday, which included an Arby's roast beef sandwich and a DQ sundae for Kirby. Kirby wasn't really interested in the sandwich, but he did enjoy the sundae.  Once at the vet, we noticed that the color in Kirby's gums was almost gone.  I believe, now, that he was more sick than I realized.   We said our "so-long-for-nows", held his paw, and wished him peace at the BRIDGE.    We have so many awesome memories of Kirby.  Kirby was our first RAGOM dog, and is the reason I got involved with RAGOM and have been able to help other homeless dogs find new loving homes.  Kirby is the reason we currently have a house full of RAGOM dogs (I think I remember Kevin saying an "extra" thank-you to Kirby for that - ha ha).  Kirby is the reason I have met and made so many friends though this awesome organization.  Kirby's foster mom and I are great friends - we wouldn't have met if not for "our" boy.  I could go on and on about Kirby and our years with him.  He was quite the character and I don't think we could've loved him more.   Rest in Peace Kirby - We look forward to seeing you again one day.  Love You Always.    Here is a recent picture of Kirby doing what Kirby loved to do.  The shaved area is where the ultrasound and biopsy were done.