Golden Bond Rescue of Oregon

Crossed the Rainbow Bridge June 3, 2005

Eric Schuman and Lorn Folsom announce the passing of Sweden (#0002-BN), the love of our lives for the past 11 years, on June 3, 2005. Sweden was placed with us by Golden Bond Rescue founder Jennifer Bondley, in March 1994. He was surrendered to Rescue by a 4-H family who had been raising him for Guide Dogs for the Blind, but he was unable to serve as a guide dog because of chronic skin problems. With the exception of his health, Sweden was the perfect dog in every possible way. He had no bad habits and learned whatever he was taught in little more than an afternoon. Sweden loved nearly every person and every dog he ever met.

He adored hiking and swimming in the mountains, running on the beach, chasing tennis balls, being loved by his family and anyone else who would share affection with him. The only dislikes he expressed were being banished to the back of a canopied truck (representing isolation from family) and a diet of rice and cottage cheese prescribed by a well meaning vet. He had a marvelous sense of humor and loved to make us laugh.

Sweden had a hard life and suffered much physical pain. He had four surgeries performed on his spine and was unable to walk normally after the age of 8. He suffered from chronic skin infections, and in the months prior to his death became deaf and developed eye ulcers. He never complained.

Sweden was featured on two Golden Bond calendars, including the cover in 2002 (picture upper right). We will miss him terribly. Our hearts go out to all volunteers and adopters who have lost a golden retriever.

Eric and Lorn