He didn’t start out as my dog – I was never even one of his favorite people. He belonged to my in-laws, and they doted on him, spoiled him rotten, and made sure he stayed as perfectly white and fluffy as a stuffed toy.
And then, suddenly, our lives changed dramatically. First my father-in-law passed, then, just a few months later and very unexpectedly, we lost my mother-in-law too. It was brutal for my husband – so much grief and heartbreak all at once. And there was the dog. The crazy, hyper, insane little Sam Nash. Where would he go? What would become of him?
We smuggled him into the hospital in a cardboard box to say goodbye to his first person, Nana Sarah. I’ll never forget that day. The ride in the elevator, Kevin and I holding our breath that this little maniac of a dog would stay quiet. How excited he was to see Nana Sarah, how he nuzzled her, studied her, how after a few minutes, he made his way to the foot of her bed where I was sitting. How he understood that she was leaving us, leaving him. How he laid down, rested his head on my knee. My dog now.
We had just over 10 years together. I called him my little white shadow. He followed me everywhere, gazed at me like I was the Mona Lisa, and drove me absolutely out of my mind. In an attempt to calm him down, we started walking – miles. He loved going for rides in the Starship Dancercize – he quickly became my shotgun road buddy. We took him to every national dance competition. We took him up north when we visited my family there. We took him to the mountains, to the beach, to visit my daughter Olivia’s her first dorm room. Instead of keeping him groomed like a puffball, I gave him the most wretched home haircuts. Out of love, always. But bless – I couldn’t manage his hair any better than I’ve managed my own.
Sam Nash went from being the pampered prince of two retirees to being a part of a loud, rowdy family full of kids and other dogs and cats. Sam’s first doggy best friend was Annie – the bestest rescue dog ever. Annie belonged to Rachel, the daughter of my late best friend and the daughter of my heart. I have a feeling it was Annie who first greeted Sam as he crossed the rainbow bridge this morning.
Sam Nash had kitty best friends – Larry Munson was the bestest. In the past few days, as it became more and more clear to us that Sam was struggling, Larry Munson began bringing his “babies” to Sam, dropping them one by one into his bed. Animals know. Animals know before we do. I didn’t want to believe what I was seeing, didn’t want to believe that time might be so short. Watching how Sam’s cat family was reacting to him, I had a sinking feeling. Animals know – and they were trying to tell us as best they could.
We took him to his vet – the same vet who has cared for him since he was a puppy. We wanted her to tell us that he was just an old man and not to worry. I think you know now that it went another way. With broken hearts, we held him and we loved him and then we had to let him go.
This crazy little dog that decided to choose me, this insane little mop of high-octane insanity, became my most constant companion. And, since Covid, my daily coworker. I don’t even know yet how to move through my day without him.
Losing a beloved pet is its own kind of grief. So many of our routines are shaped by their needs. So many of our memories are filled with their goofy antics, their soulful eyes, their sheer presence. It’s hard and it’s awful and I know you know.
When I think of Sam Nash, there is one day that I will always remember. It was the day we took him with us to the beach at Tybee Island in Georgia. It was a stormy, windy afternoon and the beach was deserted. I let Sam off his leash. For the very first time in his whole life, he had absolute freedom. He ran and ran and ran. Circled back, ran and ran some more. His plumy white tail flying like a flag…his little beard blown back by the wind…that doggy smile as big as I’d ever seen it. We had a lot of hilarious adventures and so many laughs – but seeing my little white shadow flying back and forth across that beach was one of the coolest and most joyful moments ever.
Love them while you have them. It’s never long enough.
I’m so sorry for your loss, Sheri. I know it’s difficult for you, sending you hugs & good thoughts. ❤️
Sobbing as I read this. I haven’t listened to the show this week because I’ve been obsessed with an audiobook series. I just got the newsletter. I had no idea. I lost my heart dog on 12-22-2022. I’ve not been the same since. I can’t get another dog. I keep trying, but I can’t. My heart absolutely breaks for you.
Oh Sheri!!! I’m so sorry Sam Nash had to cross the rainbow bridge. Our fur babies are family. They are not animals at all. They become our children. May God bless you and your family at this time.
I am bawling! I loved hearing all about Sam Nash. All my love to your family!
Sorry to hear about Sam. You gave him the bestest life. SO hard to lose our little buddies, but so worth the love they bring into our lives!
I’m so very sorry for your loss.
I’m so sorry to hear that Sam Nash has crossed the rainbow bridge. I enjoyed hearing the many stories of your shared adventures over the years. Please find comfort knowing you gave him such a great life. My heart is with all of you…
I’m crying with you, I’ve listened to you guys for so long I feel like I lost Sam too!! I’m so sorry, and I want you to know that I believe Sam is running on the beach with his besties, in the sun, with the breeze in his hair, having the best time ever! You gave him the best life, with all the love one little dog could ever hope to have in his life. Cheers to Sam Nash!
O Sheri, It says quite a bit that you took him into your home and loved him like you did. You gave him a great life. Sending you a virtual hug!
Oh Sheri, I’m so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. And you are right—it’s never long enough. 🙏🙏🙏💜❤️💙
Crying now
You are so right, Sheri, and I am so sorry for your loss, and also happy that Sam had you and your family life.
So sorry for your loss Sheri. Sam Nash and my Eddie are having a big time across the rainbow bridge.
Sheri, I’m so sorry to hear that Sam has crossed the Rainbow Bridge. Just as you knew you would take him in, you knew you had to let him go. Little Guy is running free, free of pain and age and buzzing. Thank you for sharing him with us.
Sheri, I weep for you and Kevin on the loss of Sam Nash. Those of us that love our four legged babies know that the day will come when we have to say goodbye, but it surely does not make it any easier when that day does come. One thing I’m counting on when it’s my turn to cross that bridge also is that all of our furbabies will be there to greet us too! I’m counting on it! Rest happy, Sam Nash and rest easy, Sheri, knowing you made sure that doggie had the rest of his days as the best of his days. Love and Peace…..
I am so sorry for your loss. Our fur babies are the best babies. I inherited my son’s dog when he passed away in 2020. Blue spent two wonderful years with me. I believe he was sent to me to help heal my broken heart.
So very well said. Such pure devotion and love.
Beautiful letter Sheri. RIP Sam Nash, you have many friends that will miss you . 🙏❤️
I’m so very very sorry for your loss.
I will miss all the stories you told about him over the year on the radio. May God Bless you and your family.
This is such a beautiful tribute, Sheri. Thanks for writing it. I hope you are comforted by your memories.
Sending you the best thoughts and feelings in coping with the loss of your shadow. LIke everyone, I enjoyed hearing about all of your Sam Nash adventures. Losing a pet is like your soul being gutted. I dont know if i thought of it independently or saw it somewhere, but my best offering is “Loved in life, Remembered with Love.”
My sympathies Sheri & Kevin. We said goodbye to our dog Chloe April 26th. She had an enlarged heart and we’d been cautioned that the “quality of life” talk would be in our future. Chloe lived a year after that warning. It’s always difficult to lose a pet, but this one had been combative with another of our dogs, so I’ve tried to view it as a mixed blessing. I miss her sweet, cuddly moments.
Sheri, I’m so sorry your loss. Remembering the love and fun times will help ease the pain. Sending hugs and comfort.
I’ve dreaded this post. You & Sam Nash remind me of me & my Reilly. Take care of you, Sheri and know Sam Nash is a running ball of fluff in Heaven ❣️❣️❣️
It’s very difficult… they are so woven into our days… My thoughts are with you.
Sheri, I cried while I read your words about Sam Nash passing away. I have small crazy, white and black fluffy haired dogs that are zany, crazy and the loves of my life!
I know how sad and heartbreaking it is when it is their time to leave us. You gave him such a wonderful life and he really knew what he was doing when he “chose” you!! Animals DO know, they really know a lot of things we don’t always give them enough credit for! Take care Sheri, I know you will remember all the incredible times, his special antics that made him the way he was!! My heart is sad for you as well because I know what it feels like to not have a loving 4footed, furry little shadow around anymore. 🩵🩵🦋🩵🩵
This post echoes my own thoughts and words to a T, except I have beagles. You spoke what so many of us are thinking! I know we are crying and laughing with you Sheri. Much love and sympathy.
My heart bleeds for you and Kevin about the loss of your beloved Sam Nash! I loved reading your tribute to him and continue to cherish the years Sam Nash spent with you and your family!
I’m so sorry! I’ve been through that with two of my fur babies and still miss them. I’ve loved hearing his stories over the years. Run like the wind Sam Nash!
Girl, I’m so sorry. 💔
Oh no! We all loved Sam Nash. So sorry for your loss. Besties Sam and Annie are running to their hearts content.❤️
So sorry for your loss Sheri, I know from listening for years that Sam meant the world to you. I had never seen my own Dad cry in all of my 56 years until the loss of their Polly a Shitsu mix that went everywhere with my parents for 15 years, they even have her name engraved on their tombstone along with us four kids. Pets can become a bigger part of our lives than we realize. Sam is running free again on that sandy beach.
Oh Sheri, I’m so sorry for your loss. Our fur babies give us such unconditional love. It’s never easy saying goodbye, but the memories are so special.
Sheri, I am so sorry for your loss. It is like loosing a family member. My doggie, Manny, is 13. His joints hurt just like mine. He is hard of hearing, just like my husband is sometimes. Like you, I don’t know what I will do when my buddy crosses that bridge.
Oh Sheri, I am so sorry for your loss of Sam Nash. I lost my 16 year old toy poodle, Tony, last summer. He was my daughter’s dog. I had given him to her for her birthday. I got him back when she became ill with Mesothelioma, and died 4 months later. My heart was absolutely broken, and Tony helped me through a horrible time. I also had a hard time letting him go. It was like losing my daughter all over again. I swore I would never get another dog. Instead of bringing him to the vet, I had the vet come to my house where I could hold him and talk to him while he quietly went to sleep forever. Just last week, I found a rescue dog, a fluffy white PooChon… Poodle/Bichon mix, who reminds me of your Sam. I absolutely love his curly tail and he is the sweetest dog I have ever met. His name is Jamison. Now if only I can get him potty trained he will be perfect!.
Rest well dear Sam Nash, you were so loved. Maybe you will find Tony and share your stories.
Much love to you Sheri
So very sorry Sheri, I truly enjoyed your stories about him. It was like he was everyone’s dog.
I have a black mal-sji that is wild too! But alas he’s an ankle bitter! Kept many stranger away! Sorry for your loss! Love storm
We’ll this just made me ugly cry in the dermatologist office. I’m very sorry about your loss. Sam was a special boy for sure.
I’m so sorry. Cry your eyes out and know he will be waiting for you at the pearly gates. Believe.
So sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed your Sam stories! Sending love and prayers to you and your family. ❤️
So sorry Sheri and Kevin. You gave him so much love and happiness💕🐾
So sorry to hear this, Sheri. Losing a pet is definitely one of the hardest things to do in life. Sam had the best life possible with all you. Hugs to you all.
So sorry for your loss, Sheri. It’s tough losing a pet. Sending hugs and prayers.
Sorry for your loss, Sheri, beautifully written eulogy.
I am sitting in my office with tears rolling down my face after reading this. I feel such sadness for you as I know Sam has been your bestest friend these past ten years. I am so very sorry for your loss and I pray your pain lessens as the days go on.
Sending lots of hugs. Pets fill a special place in our hearts and are irreplaceable.
So sorry for your loss! I know that grief all too well! Prayers…🙏🙏
My deepest condolences to you. Our 17 year old female Havanese died last year. To this day, I think about her in some way every day. I got sick and went on dialysis for 6 years and she became my dog. We bought her as a bribe to our 7 year old so she would move to Vancouver without a fuss and she became the center of the family. She got old and crazy like Sam. We even tried the diaper thing but she got out of every one. I think she thought it was a game. In any case, I am sorry for your loss. You and Bob and Max bring joy to me every day.
Dear Sheri. I’m so sorry to hear Sam Nash has passed. With so many funny stories and the love and care you had for him was so special. My thoughts are with you today in this difficult time. Sending hugs.
I’m so sorry about Sam 😢 Just remember, you gave him a beautiful life that might have turned out a lot differently if you had not welcomed him into your home and heart ❤️
I am very sorry Sheri I know how difficult it is to say good bye to one of our family members, thanks you for giving him a wonderful life.💜😳
This had me in tears. Sam was such a good boy!! Thank you for sharing Sam Nash with us over all the years. He will be missed by all of us but most of all you and Kevin. Thinking of you as you grieve and adjust. ❤️
I want to cry just thinking about it… Sheri you gave him the best life he could possibly have. You and Bob are like surrogate parents to me, in that way I also heavily feel the weight of this loss. I hope for peace for you and your family. I know the adjustment will be hard… be patient with yourself : ) I know you’re a social worker but sometimes we social workers forget to apply the wonderful things we learn to ourselves. It’s weird from a stranger but I love you and Bob dearly and I hope you can support each other in the loss of your fur babies. You are both amazing and those fur babies were lucky to have you!
So sorry to hear this, Sheri. I loved hearing about Sam’s antics, and seeing him during Happy Hour shows. Thinking of you all!
Omg. I am heartbroken at this news. I will miss the Sam Nash stories. I am so sorry for your loss Sheri. They are truly family members. I’ve heard the expression that dogs are responsible for the best and worst days of your life. The best is when you get them and the worst when you have to say goodbye. RIP Sam Nash. You provided joy to a family and we can all say good boy.
I’m so very sorry, Sherri. I’m sending love to you and your whole family. The loss of a pet is brutal, yet our loves would be so much less without having them—even if o Ky for a short time. Know you are loved and being thought of now. Hang tough.
Oh Sheri, I’m so sorry to hear about Sam Nash! I have loved hearing your stories about him. They have made me laugh. I cried while I was reading this. I know it is a huge loss for you. Just think, he is running wild and free in Heaven. Hugs and prayers for you all. Today has been 2 years since my husband Bill passed away unexpectedly. I have Bill’s fur best friend still with me, Chico. Take care.
My heart aches for you and your family. You obviously love your “babies” like we do and it is such a loss. Sending much love and prayers your way.
Take care
Sheri, I am so sorry for this loss. First Kiki with Bob and now Sam Nash with you? Too much grief all at once. I know how much you love your fur babies. I hope you are able to have some time to grieve. {{{ hugs }}}
I’m so very sorry for your loss. I keep saying this is the last one and then one day your daughter brings home another one and you just cannot say no. Yes it is the memories that keep us going. He was very loved and had a great life, that is the best we can do.
I am so sorry for your. It appears Sam Nash was well-loved. Last October we received the devastating news our 4 year old Homer had cancer. Nothing was going to help him. We chose to forgo needless medication and went the best life he could have. So far, he is still with us.
OMG.. crying! Inoove hearing your stories about Sam Nash.. I know you and your family are heart broken.. I’m sure you are so thankful for all the crazy lovely memories .. they will carry you through.
Oh Sheri my heart breaks for you and your family. Your words had me crying remember the dogs I lost while growing up and with my own family in my adult years. We grieve them as hard as we grieve any of our loved ones that are with us no longer. Although I never met Sam Nash, I feel like I knew her through all the stories you have shared with your listening family throughout the years. Sincere condolences. You gave him the best home ever.
Sheri, I’m so very sorry for your loss. They don’t live long enough you are right. I’m hoping your kitty best friends helps with the healing process. Sending prayers your way.
Oh Sheri. This just breaks my heart. I know how you love that lil old guy and my heart hurts thinking about this painful “see you later Sam.” Sending love and lots of light to all of you. I’m so very sorry you lost your dear little friend. ❤️
Oh Sheri, my heart aches for you. I’m all too familiar with the pain of losing them and how grief comes in so many waves, for longer than we can imagine is possible.
He was so loved by you guys, he got to have so many adventures and was got to be family his whole life 💙
May memories bring comfort and go ahead and let yourself grieve as long as you need to- surrounding yourself with people who know that love is love and pain is pain- it feels like the loss of a family member because it is- anyone who has really loved a furry one will be right there for you 💙
Loosing our fur babies is so hard, been there done that. I hope you have several photos of Sam!
I’m so sorry Sheri, saying good bye to the furry family members is never easy. Prayers and hugs
Been there a few times, so hard to lose a furry family member. Love the way you put it into words.
Crying as I read this, I’ve had cats and dog for 53 years. It is never long enough and it never gets easier no matter how long you have them. I’m so sorry for all your losses.
I’ve been listening to you for about 15 years, you are the BEST.
Oh I am so sorry! I’ll miss the stories of this poor anxious pup that was loved so much! He had a wonderful life with you all! You did good❤️
I’m so sorry, Sheri. Sending you and your family all the love.
Sheri, my heart goes out to you. He loved you more than you loved him, they always do.
I’m so sorry Sheri & Kevin. We lost our 13 year old dog, Xena, in March and I’m still not right. Cherish the memories💗
“How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard”
A.A. Milne/Winnie the Pooh
Through the tears of another who loves their little furry companion, I share in the grief you are feeling right now. Grief is the inevitable conclusion of the love affair we have with those bundles of perfect, unconditional love that treat us far better than we deserve. Listening to your stories over the years of that sweet bundle of hair with a head full of bees, we have all come to love Sam Nash from afar. As your days go forward, I pray and know that the tears that seem unending will be replaced by smiles and laughter as you recount memories and stories of Sam, but for now your grief and tears are your testimony to your love of you share. My heartfelt condolences.
Animals teach us about unconditional love, if we stop and pay attention. They tiptoe on little paws into our hearts and carve out a place where they stay, even after they’re no long physically around. I’m so very sorry for your loss. Sending love from Topsail Island (you and I spoke in 2018 when I moved here from Charlotte) where I can just picture Sam Nash running carefree on the beach.
I’m so sorry Sheri…I’m sitting here sobbing over a puppy that wasn’t even mine. What a beautiful tribute.
I’m so sad to hear that!!!! Praying for you guys!
🙁 So very sorry for the loss of Sam Nash. I loved hearing stories you’d share from time to time about him on the radio (I listen to you and Bob every morning in Pennsylvania). My son and I lost our oldest of 4 cats back in November and you’re so right about the grief being different. Many prayers as you navigate through this difficult time.
Nooooooo. I remember when you got Sam. My favorite Sam Nash story was when you had the consult with the pet physic, who said Sam’s head was full of fuzz. 🤣
It’s beyond sad when they leave us, far too soon no matter how crazy or fuzzy-headed they are. I am SO sorry! 😭
I have been where you are, and I know how it hurts. No, he wasn’t just a dog he was Sam Nash, take comfort knowing you gave him a wonderful life of love and adventures.
So sorry Sheri about Sam Nash. That is a pain like no other. Hang in there.
Aw, Sheri…I’m so sorry! Sending so much love to you and Kevin and the rest of the family—humans and quadrupeds alike. You’re so right…it’s never, ever long enough. Rest well, Sam Nash, and know that your tribe loves and misses you much. ❤️
I am so, so sorry. Tears as I read this. We love them so much, and it is devastating when we lose them. Know he had a great life. My deepest condolences.
Like so many others, I read your story of Sam Nash with tears streaming. You, Bob and Max have had your share of grieving a beloved pet so very recently. Losing them is never easy, as they bring so much love and joy to our lives. We are ever changed by their love. Keeping you all in my prayers.
Cindy
I am so sorry Sheri for your loss. I loved seeing and hearing all about him.💔🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Oh Sheri, I’m so sorry for your loss. Sam Nash was quite a dog. My heart breaks for you. I know in that big heart of yours, there will be another. Hugs
Burgundy Vice
Sheri, girl, you made me cry like a baby! I’ve had many pets that I’ve had to let go and some of friends that weren’t able to take them for their final ride. I was the designated driver and substitute Momma. Please keep sharing pictures and stories of Sam Nash (I can’t say it without saying his whole name – it just doesn’t sound right). I have a dog like Sam Nash – her name is Gigi LaRue and she goes everywhere we go. If we are planning to travel and she can’t go – we don’t go. I’ve never left her at a kennel and never will. She’d be an anxiety-ridden mess when I returned and would NEVER forgive me.
We just lost our Mom in December. She had a dog, Toby who passed before her. I promised I would have him cremated and send him with her when she was gone. And I did just that. I took him to the funeral home when we were making the arrangements. Went through all the usual stuff, obit info, hours, service, etc. and then came the question….Can I put something in with her? The gentleman said you can put anything you’d like. I said that’s great while I whipped Toby’s wooden box from the bag and handed it to him. He’s her dog and he’s going with her. I was fully prepared to shove that box deep into the casket at the last second if he had said No! My siblings were anxious because they knew I would do it and were afraid. I’m kinda the wild one and they are scared of me and my ways. I don’t care! I’ll get my Mom’s dog with her whatever it takes. I love you to pieces, love the show, Bob, Max, Doc, Larmar, Heather. You all are great and we are friends on FB. I’m the crazy one in Columbus, Ohio that wants to have drinks/dinner when you come back to visit your son at OSU. Be sure to get ahold of me.
I am sorry that your time with Sam has passed. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. I know his kitty friends miss him too.
Oh, Sheri, I am so sorry to hear about Sam’s passing. I loved hearing about him over the years. I know how much you and your family will miss him, but he will always be with you in your heart. What a great life he had. Bless.
Sheri, I’m so sorry for the heartache you feel over losing your pet, your friend and family member, Sam Nash. Your story is so similar to mine, in that we both “rescued” our dogs, due to life changing events in their dog lives. And oh what blessings they became in both our lives. Sam Nash became intertwined in your life, and became so much a part of you and your everyday life. Our pets are such loyal companions, that love us unconditionally!! My dog Ellie, has become such a huge part of my life, i can’t imagine life without her, whenever that time comes for her to cross over. Sam Nash has left his paw prints on your heart forever, and I know there’s nothing myself or anyone can say to help with the hurt, emptiness and heartache of losing a pet/companion/friend. God bless you for taking care of him when your in laws passed away. Sam Nash was lucky that a special person and family, gave him a happy and loving home for the remainder of his life. If dogs could talk, I know Sam Nash would thank you for all you did for him and with him. I’m sure you touched his heart, every bit as much as he touched yours ! Thanks for sharing this story. May God bless you and give you peace in the days ahead.
Hey Sherri I know all too well what you are going through. I had to put my 16 year old dachshund Odie to sleep the day before my birthday in April. I was so heartbroken. I got a new dog a few weeks later. Too quiet in the house. I love my puppy but I still miss my Odie. Thank you and Bob for making my morning a little brighter.
So sorry to hear of his passing. Our fur babies become some of the best companions we will ever have. Lots of love to you and Kevin.
So very sorry for your loss, Sheri. A dear friend of mine passed away and left me his dog. He was my buddy. I lost him 6/17. Never enough time. Your post is a beautifully written tribute to Sam Nash. Sending love to you, Kevin, and the girls.
I am truly sorry for your loss, Sheri! I have been a longtime listener for several years and heard your stories of Sam through the years…..I am an animal lover, especially dogs and cats. I know your heart ache and wish you blessings and wonderful memories always of Sam!❤️
I am so sorry for Sheri and your whole family. You have a fantastic way with words, and tell the most amazing stories. I am sure you went through an entire box of Kleenex writing this. My prayers are with all of you.🙏🙏🙏❤️❤️❤️
I am so sorry for the loss of Sam. Toughest thing ever and I’ve had to say goodbye to our Lhasa’s as they’ve crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. Loved them to pieces and still miss them.
Sheri, I am so incredibly sorry for your loss. Cried reading reading your post. I know how heartbreaking it is to say good-bye to a fur family member. I always loved hearing about Sam Nash. My heart hurts for you & Kevin. RIP sweet Sam Nashed. You were well loved & will be deeply missed.
Sorry for your loss
So so sorry to hear this we lost one of ours a few years ago and still cry and remember him as well as remember the fun we had with him… my thoughts are with you !!!
This brings back the memory of having to say goodbye to our last kitty, General Sterling Price. I can’t even type for the tears. So hopefully you can read this. Our fur babies are so special and love us unconditionally. I’m so sorry you had to say goodby to Sam Nash. I know you will miss him. We now have two 20 week old ninja terrorist kittens and in some ways they fill our hearts and in other ways I wish to hell they couldn’t fly and land on the curtains without touching the floor. Or jump straight up in the air 8 feet. I know you have many happy memories to cherish. ❤️
They are most loving members of our families & their loss leaves such a hole in our hearts. But someday… Our deepest condolences for your loss. Holding you in our thoughts & prayers.
I am so sorry for the loss of your beloved pup. I have had many pets and the loss of each one is devastating. Sam was a very lucky dog to have been a part of your life.
Oh Sheri! I am so sorry for the Nash Family! I understand completely. Thinking of your family! I loved Sam Nash stories. I have listed to y’all since the early days and I truly believe that everyone at Bob and Sheri are family. When one of my family members are in pain , I share in that pain as well.
I’m so sorry for your loss. My Daisy is a female look alike to Sam Nash. She is 11. I couldn’t love a human more than I love her. One day she will cross the rainbow bridge too. My heart will break, but I can’t imagine not having had her in my life. She is pure love. 🐩💐❤️
Oh Sheri! I am so sorry for the Nash Family! I understand completely. Thinking of you all! I loved Sam Nash stories. I have listened l to your show since the early days, and I truly believe that everyone at Bob and Sheri are family. When one of my family members are in pain , I share in that pain as well.
I an yso sorry Sheri!💔💔
I’m so sorry for your loss, Sam definitely knew you needed some loving in your life! I lost my girl almost 2 years ago and there are still moments that I find hard, especially when I just want a snuggle at the end of the day. They certainly make us appreciate the little things in life. Hugs to you.
Sheri,
I am deeply sorry for your loss. I too am Mom to fur babies. I am facing the same thing with my oldest Jack, aka One Eyed Jack. Love and prayers for you all.
Oh Sheri! I’m crying and feeling so heartbroken for you. What a loss. I’m glad you two had each other and I’m so sorry you’ll now miss him so very much. We animal lovers all know that the pain of loss is connected to the great love and joy we get from them, but it always comes too soon. Thank you for sharing his silliness and joy with us for all of these years – he’ll be missed by many.
I am so sorry for your loss. He had a great life because he was able to spend it with you.
I am so sorry for your loss. I feel as if I’ve lost one of my own. May you be comforted by all you’re fun and fond memories with Sam.
So sorry for your loss!
So sorry to hear of the loss of Sam. I lost my dog Valentine’s eve 2022 and I still have days when I think of her and I feel a great void in my life. She was a tricolor cocker spaniel named Cassidy and she was part of our family for over 15 years. Seems like a long time but when you loose them you realize it wasn’t long enough. ❤️
💔💔 So very sorry for your loss. 💔💔
I’m so sorry for your loss Sheri. We just put our 19 year old cat “to sleep” yesterday. It’s heartbreaking.
Sheri, I’m so sorry to hear about Sam. Tears are running down my cheeks. Remarkable about Larry bringing Sam little toys. I believe pets know before we do as well. I have loved all of your stories about Sam and all of your cars. You’re a great person Sheri. I have listened to you and Bob for years so when something happens with one of you my heart hurts for you all. Sending you a big hug.
My prayers are with you! So hard!
Sheri, my wife read me this sad and tender saga this evening, and blubbered her way through it. It was sweet and glorious and painful, and I know full well how these little furballs make castles in our hearts and in our homes. I’m sorry for your loss; I share with you this poem in the hopes that it might bring you a small measure of comfort as it did me. Thank you for sharing your story with us. https://www.petloss.com/poems/maingrp/housedog.htm
Oh my Dear Sheri, I began crying as soon as started reading your note on Sam’s passing. You made Sam’s personality come alive every time you spoke of him on the show. All of your animals within your Radio family have become part of the discussion on a daily basis. Worrying about Max’s dog and Bob and Mary’s Kiki recent passing has touched us all. It made it doubly hard to read because I to just lost the love of my life Cody, a 14 yr old 110 lb goofball Lab. We were getting ready to go on vacation and I was worried he would pass away while we were gone. I swear he knew. a week before leaving he had a normal week, walk the day before, ate breakfast the next morning nothing out of the ordinary. I came home from Yoga and he greeted me and laid next to me by the computer. Then suddenly took one deep breath and he was gone. I had never had a pet die in front of me and yet it was a calm, quite, sweet good by. So I’m still grieving and missing him so much. So I feel your pain and loss. Sorry I made this about my loss but you touched a deep part of my heart. Thank you for that.
Pat Stevenso, Eugene Oregon, listener for over 22 yrs.
Oh Sheir and Kevin,
I am so very sorry to hear of Sam Nash’s passing. I loved hearing stories about him and his antics. He was a loved puppy no doubt and will be dearly missed. Pets come into our lives and scratch around until they find just the right place in our hearts. Sam certainly did yours. My heartfelt sympathy.
Oh Sheri and Kevin,
I am so very sorry to hear of Sam Nash’s passing. I loved hearing stories about him and his antics. He was a loved puppy no doubt and will be dearly missed. Pets come into our lives and scratch around until they find just the right place in our hearts. Sam certainly did yours. My heartfelt sympathy.
I am so sorry for your loss. I loved hearing you talk about him. I have an older dog that looks like Sam and I know his time is coming.
I am so very very sorry.
I’m so sorry for your loss!! Your post has touch me deeply. My Great Dane just turned 6 and I know as the days go by the shorter time will be with him. I try my best to show him daddy loves him and help him enjoy his time with us. I send my thoughts and prayers to you and your family during these hard times and send u a hug and shoulder to cry on. I don’t know Sam Nash or you, but can already tell you the Sam Nash was probably the happiest lil dog ever and is looking down smiling with the same big smile he gave you while on the beach.
I’m so sorry! This brings tears to my eyes. ❤️
Sheri I’m reading this heartbreaking post with tears rolling down my cheeks. Our pets are our family and when they chose their person they love with all their whole hearts. The words you wrote were beautiful. Sam is with his 1st chosen person and they are smiling down on you knowing how much you loved him, all the adventures he had and one day you too will get to drive him around again. You, Kevin, your family and pets are all in my prayers. 💔
Beautiful tribute, Sheri. If you know, you know. Hugs to you. <3
TEARS! It’s never easy having to make the right decision for the pets that become part of the family! We’ve been through it 3 times. What a heartfelt, well spoken, loving tribute to Sam Nash! I am heartbroken for you and all of Sam’s human and animal family’s that loved him! He had the BEST LIFE!
~I have always took comfort in the words of the late Rev. Billy Graham, with whom I believe is highly favored by GOD third to JESUS and John the Baptist. But he was once asked the questions if there would be animals in Heaven and his response se is what I hold dear to my heart.
His response:
~ God will provide us with everything we need to be happy in Heaven — and if animals are necessary to make us completely happy there, you can be confident He will arrange for them to be with us.
Some Bible scholars have pointed out that the Bible suggests there may be animals in Heaven — but without the aggressiveness and dangers that are part of their lives now. The prophet Isaiah saw God’s coming Kingdom as a place of absolute peace, where even animals that had once been enemies will be friends. He wrote, “The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them” (Isaiah 11:6).
Over the years, my wife and I have had many pets, and I understand your grief; we are always sad when they die. I sometimes wonder, however, if God isn’t using them to remind us of a far greater reality — and that is the reality of our own deaths. Life is brief, and it can end in an instant. The Bible says there is “a time to be born, and a time to die” (Ecclesiastes 3:2).
I hope this some how eases your 💔
I have an 11 year old Pit Bull named Thor who was originally my oldest sons birthday present at eighteen years old, whom he left when he moved out shortly after his 18th birthday. This dog has absolutely imprinted in me!💕
His time is coming to an end, he has a tumor of unknown origin but my family has explicit instructions that if I die unexpectedly he is to be put down and buried with me!!! Hey will need to buy a bigger casket because he’s 200lbs by himself but it is what it is. I plan on seeing him in Heaven! GOD knows I need him more that he needs me! 🐾 ❤️
Love you Sheri thanks for the years of making me laugh!
Oh Sheri. I can’t even see to write this. But I do know. We all do. Hugs.
Ellen
So sorry for your loss. But as a daily listener I know how loved Sam Nash was. He’s gone over the Rainbow Bridge now but he will surely always be watching over you and waiting patiently for the day, far in the future, when you’ll be there once again to take him for bye-byes.
Much love, Sheri to you and your family!
So sorry for your loss. Our furry family members bring so much unconditional love to our lives and leave a huge void when they are no longer with us. Hugs to you and your family🐾🐾❤️
Sheri, I’m so sorry for your loss. It has always been evident that you loved Sam so very much. I hope his memory will bring a
love filled smile every time you think of him.
So sorry for your loss. Same to Bob for Kiki lose of a pet is tough.
My heart breaks for you. I truly believe my lost beloved pets are waiting for me and one day we all be reunited and I really will be the crazy cat lady.
Prayers for you. Pets are such a wonderful gift.
Dear Sheri,
I am so deeply sorry about your sweet Sam Nash. I loved the stories you shared about him over the years. Nothing compares to the unconditional love from a dog. May he run in Heaven as free as he did on Tybee Island. Prayers and love to you,
Laurie Fulleb
Very sorry for your family’s loss of one of its special furry members. This might be the most heartfelt and beautiful tributes I’ve read regarding the trip over the rainbow bridge. Thank you for sharing. 🌈💜
I’m so very sorry Sheri. 😢 If love could keep them here, they would live forever.
So sorry for your loss.
My heart breaks for you and your family losing Sam Nash. Especially on the heels of Bob and Mary having to say goodbye to KiKi. What an adorable sweet furry baby. A lot of what you said brought back memories of my beloved furry baby who we lost last year. Still hurts. They’re the purest of hearts imo. I wish they could out live us all.
Sheri, I recently lost my 2 senior pups (18 1/2 years old) back to back. One in February and one in May. I am crying for you, for me and for all who have lost beloved pets. It’s so hard and just this morning I woke up and still looked for them on my bed. Please know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.
So sorry. Loved hearing about Sam Nash. Hugs❤️
You have my deepest sympathy Sheri and Kevin. It will be like a phantom limb syndrome around the house for awhile – glimpses out of the corner of your eye; the shock that you must have forgotten to do something! But then, you know, as we all do
So sorry for your loss this made me cry it’s so true our beloved pets take a piece of us with them
Oh my goodness. I’m so sorry for your loss. I feel like I knew Sam personally, hearing you talk about him on the show. My eyes are not dry.❤️💔❤️
Oh, hugs to you all.
I took in Lola Bean …a white Chihuahua. Lola was my niece Kara’s doggie. Kara passed on May 8th 2020….Lola has transitioned to Rona Bean. ( The COVID years) She was was a lone animal with Kara. When I pulled her from under Kara’s kitchen table she was so scared.
She now is in full charge of our home. The cats lives have changed. Artie’s the most. She will turn that poor huge putty tat on his back and rip out a mouth full of hair. Just awful. My coondog cries when she snarles at him. But……she has claimed me as her own. We love her. And when I sit. She sits. At my left side. Only my left side, lol…
Again, condolences on the passing on Sam Nash… Love y’all
Robin from Millmont Pa
I wish our fur kids could be with us forever. I will miss hearing new stories about his crazy antics and his joyful oblivion.
Sheri. We lost our dog recently, and then my parents, lost their dog at Christmas, and I am sitting here crying for a dog, your dog, that i didn’t know, but that I loved as if he were my own as well. Thank you for sharing such a poignant story and I know he was also playing now with my Ripley and my parent’s dog Aussie over the rainbow bridge in doggy playland. Bless you and your family and you were the very best thing for him, he chose you with his love and blessed you as you blessed him.
I’m so sorry for your loss Sheri!! My heart is breaking for you! Hugs and prayers!
My gosh, I’m bawling. They are partly tears of joy in reading this lovely tribute, as well as the loving thoughts of my own fur-friends that I have had to let go. They are also tears of sadness that hopefully take a drop of your grief and mix with my own to ease your loss just slightly. Thank you for caring for this little guy and for sharing your love with all you meet (human and superhuman alike).
P.S. Your hair is awesome.
Sorry for your loss! I’m on my first dog as a pet and he hangs pretty close. I can’t take him in many places, but he behaves (mostly) he is part black lab and part chiwauwau , he is about 35 lbs and won’t be any bigger. Definately not a lap dog.. they just seem to grow on you and they know who they want to be taken care of, he knew you were special and he could trust you!
Oh this is such an amazing story of Love and Loss. Sam Nash lost along with your husband those who loved him. He knew the you all were the perfect examples of love by bringing him to say goodbye to his person. So you became his person. You gave him a life filled with excitement, travel, fury family, joy and Love. You were his twinning messy hair angel. We lost two of our kitty fur babies in 6 months. Our routines changed our tears flowed and they are still loved. Hugs to you and all those who loved Sam.
So sorry to hear Sheri. Sam has been part of many lives thru your words. He will be missed. ♡♡♡
Oh, Sheri…I’m sobbing reading this. You g went above & beyond & gave him the best life he could have hoped for. It’s so heartbreaking to lose our furry companions. I can only offer empathy ♥️♥️
What a wonderful life, full of adventures that you gave him. Peace for the grief in your heart.
Heart broken for you and the Sheriff. Sam Nash not only changed your lives, but you changed his with all of the adventures you gave him and his new besties in your home. He had a great life with lots of love and companionship. Sending love and hugs to you guys as you adjust to the change.
So very sorry to hear of the loss of your sweet Sammy. Our pets fill our hearts with love and laughter every day…and then break our hearts when they go💔 But we wouldn’t miss it for the world 💖 Sending love and many hugs 🫂
Sending you love and peace during this difficult time. We lost out baby of 14+ years last week. The vet told us she had never seen a dog fight so hard to stay. None of us knew how she was still here as she was a skeleton with fur. The vet could not find a vein to give her the meds to assist in her transition. Once the process was made, we held her and said our tearful good byes and told her to look for Ellie, her best buddy, when she crossed because she would be waiting.
Words can’t express the sorrow when I saw this headline. Well written memoir. Sam was lucky to have such a wonderful, loving second family when your in-laws passed. We all know Sam doesn’t want you to be sad, and wants everyone to know how thankful he is
Beautifully well written and what a wonderful soul he chose.
Big hugs to the Nash family.
Oh, Sheri. I’m so sorry to hear about Sam. I always loved hearing your stories about him. You are right. Animals know. And they also know the right person to choose to be “theirs”. Sam chose you. Just like your fans will always choose you. Sending hugs and love.
I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending my love and prayers for you and your family during this difficult time. I understand what you are going through, I’ve lost two of my fur babies.
So Sorry for your loss Kevin & Sheri. It’s Extremely difficult to lose a beloved dog, especially when you’re so close to them and they’re with you everywhere you go. My wife and I will be married 18 years this December. She visited me ifrom Sweden in 2005 and then I went there and we were married in Sweden. I brought her 2 dogs back with me to the U.S. while we were waiting for her green card to be approved. When she came to the U.S. we ended up going to the Humane Society in Davenport, Ia and fell in love with a Malinois (Belgian Sheppard we named Shadow). So we rescued him and then had the 3 dogs. After Digger (black German Sheppard & Golden mix) & Fannie (Dalmatian mix) passed, we of course were devastated. Then 2 years later Shadow was having some serious issues with going potty, so we ended up having to put him down at only 11 years old. 😔 That really hit me hard because I really Loved Shadow! We now own another rescue dog which we got from a place in Cedar Rapids, Ia which rescues dogs bad neglected homes, etc. He was only 8 months old when we got him. His b
name is Alfred and he is a Black Lab mix with a beard. Probably looks like a larger version of Max’s dogs i would guess? We Love him more then anything! Sorry this is so long! Just wanted to say i don’t know if I believe in reincarnation, but it’s like all of our past 3 dogs are in this one. Personalities, the way he acts, the way he stares into our eyes. It’s really comforting because it feels like we have all of our dogs back again in Alfred. He will be 3 yrs old this month and he is Extremely Loved. So like you said Sheri, cherish every moment, which we are totally doing! I believe you and Kevin will see Sam Nash again in possibly another form… Take care, Steven
Oh Sherri,
I am so, so sorry. The only bad thing about dogs is that they don’t live long enough. Sam was lucky to have you. ❤️
Marie
Sheri, such a sweet tribute 💞
I am so sorry to hear about Sam Nash. I have enjoyed years of stories about him!
Sherri, I enjoyed the story of your sweet little Sam Nash,laught and cried at the same time, it is the hardest thing to let them go, i held my little Seppie, Schnauzers to go to the other side, a part of my Heard went with him, he was the best little boy ever. So sorry for your loos. Sending hugs and good wishes.
Sheri
I heard for the first time this morning, i cried, deeply. . He was part of our lives also. Wish I could share my crazy dog’s antics lol. Yes, love them while you have them!!
My deepest condolences for your great loss. I’m still crying so I can’t imagine what you are going through.
Sheri,
So sorry for your loss. Such a well written statement about Sam Nash.
A touching tribute that perfectly captures how special this pup was. He was blessed to have you in his life as well.
Sheri, very well written and thoughtful; thank you for sharing. It is a reminder of how great the four legged animals (and others) with whom we share our lives truly are, and how little we deserve them. So sorry for your loss. If it helps. please know you are not alone in your grief.
With cats, been there and done that.
I’m so sorry for your loss 😞
I’m so sorry Sheri. I’ve lost too many furbabies. He had the best, most exciting time with you I’m sure. He had his kitty best friends too. Hugs.
Oh Lord, this made me cry at work. So beautifully written…reminds me of my beloved Pumpkin Louise. You know it’s going to happen someday: but not that particular day. And my Lilly Einstein: who believes the sun rises and sets with me and spends hours gazing adoringly at me. My daughter says that when It’s Lilly’s time: my face will be the last thing she sees. Wow: now let’s think of happier things! Love you Sheri.
Sheri, our first dog was a chubby puppy when we rescued her. We named her Cassandra, though we called her Cassie. Shortly after she came to live with us, we decided we had to add a middle name; she became Cassandra Pestilence; that dog could be upstairs and whenever the front door was opened downstairs, she somehow made it down and out the door before we did. She’d look at us and tease, keeping just beyond reach, then run off again. Thank goodness she loved riding!
I’m so sorry for your loss, Sheri. It’s the hardest thing- having to let our fur-babies go. You gave him a good second life, after Kevin’s parent’s died, and they would thank you for that if they could. I’m a long-time listener. Thank you and your crew for decades of entertainment on my long, dark morning commute in Northern Maine. Love you all!