Every once in a breeder’s lifetime a very special dog comes along and is called back
to God much sooner than we wish.  Spirit was called to his final reward on
Monday, 25 October 2010.

We were faced with making the difficult decision of whether to do what was right
for Spirit or what was good for our emotions.  We choose what was right for Spirit
and let him go over the Rainbow Bridge to once again be with his mother SEXY.

Spirit was admitted to the working vet hospital at Cornell University in New York
State and after a full work up it was determined that Spirit was dealing with a very
rare anomaly;blood clots were being released from the heart and travelling to his
hind legs.  This is only the third case in dogs seen by the Cornell  staff.

 We visited Spirit on Monday afternoon were told  there was no guarantee any drug 
or surgical procedure would effectively break down the clots without the worry of 
them travelling to his lungs, heart or brain.  Due to the clots moving to his hind
quarters Spirit could not stand without a sling under his belly.

We are still in shock at losing Spirit at such an early age and know all the veterinarians
who worked on his case did their very best to give us back the Spirit we knew and
loved. Spirit was a vibrant dog who loved to show off whether in the show ring or in
the back yard playing with his family.  He epitomized the title, King of Dogs and had
a following of admirers from around the world. To know him was to love him. All we
have now are the memories which we will cherish for a very long time.

Spirit will be missed by Ed & Johanna Granger (Nachtmusik Afghans) and
Jan & Scott Plank (Simoon Afghans).   Go with God and rest in peace “BIG BUDDY”.

From Jan Plank his other mom and handler:

The Great Spirit above lovingly took you away too soon.  No one could understand the
power, movement and grace or beauty of you.  The silly antics, the hurry up and catch
me mom look that you gave me.  Once in a lifetime you are handed a great gift that
teaches you the true meaning of love, the bond of friendship and the beauty of life.
The warm summer days in the pasture you and I lying on the grass, me rubbing your
belly and watching the eagles flying above and dreaming together.

To take Spirit’s lead in hand and show this magnificent dog was truly an honour. 
Thank you Ed & Johanna for the chance of being Spirit’s other mom and handler. 
The joy and fun we all shared can never be replaced.  My heart is truly broken as
is my husband Scott’s.  Rest well my loving friend.  I’m sure I’ll see you at the 
Rainbow Bridge with liver and brush in my hand.

Scott & Jan Plank
Simoon Afghan Hounds