We lost our first and beloved Ridgeback, Jake, on Monday; 18 days before his 13thbirthday. This most wonderful creature never met another dog or person he did not like. We were blessed withhis companionship and unconditional love for more years than one can expect from this wonderful breed. Jake was an enthusiastic courser with heart and his share of talent. He rarely left a bunny uncaught and frustrated a long line of lure operators over the years in their attempts to keep the bunny away from him. Jake may have been the ultimate cheater after he achieved his ASFA Field Championship. The sight of him straddling the line waiting for the bunny to come to him is something we will never forget. A family joke was that Jake did not always win but he always brought home dinner. He leaves behind Zuri and Suni plus our youngster,Wylie, whose exuberance he managed to tolerate in his old age. This shaggy haired old gray gentleman joins his long time companion Kili over the Rainbow Bridge. Watching the two of them course together was a fine exhibition of Ridgbacks hunting. Jake was always loved and will be terribly missed.His ashes will be returned and will occupy a special place in our home.
We lost our beloved Kili to cancer in May 2008. She bounced back numerous times after her surgery on January 14; even chasing squirrels with Suni in February. After that, she had good days and bad days with the last night being the worst.Kili was a dear creature to all; serving as great mother and disciplinarian to her puppies, peace maker in her pack and a gentle, loving companion to us all. Although she won two points in her first show, Kili never liked the ring. Her passion was outdoors in the sun. In her time, she was terrific at lure coursing; finishing with a Best in Field and in the Top 20 twice. She loved the chase.Kili left her buddy, Jake, and all of the puppies of both her litters. She produced three confirmation champions, lots of field champions, a few bests in field and all great companion dogs. Thank you all for your thoughts over those last few months we were lucky to have with her. Her ashes were returned and occupy a special place in our home. Our hearts are broken. She will always be missed.
