Our beautiful black Labrador Retriever Buddy crossed the Rainbow Bridge at home comforted by the De Antonio family and welcomed by those loved ones who predeceased him.
He was a typical Labrador who loved to swim and participated in Splash Dogs, Inc. dock diving, scoring his best ever distance of 13 feet in his second year of competition.
Buddy hosted annual K9 pool parties where working dogs specializing in arson/ accelerant detection, narcotics, therapy and career-change guide dogs for the blind shared the pool and toys. Civilian dogs from local fire department families joined the fun, often numbering more than a dozen in the pool. Everyone had a blast and savored Frosty Paws for dessert. Buddy was the best host!
One of his favorite activities was riding in the motor home with his K9 family and mom. He was an excellent traveler and served reliably as a guard while on the road. His massive, deep bark was unmistakable, but he never showed any temper, even to his bratty rescue pit bull sister Pinkie. Buddy enjoyed regular attendance at “dog church” in the basement of the Presbyterian church in Idyllwild with fellow Labrador attendee Charlee. He was well known in his neighborhood for his daily strolls, accompanying his mom on her scooter.
He was mischievous and could never resist stealing shoes or socks for a game of keep away. Cherry tomatoes were his favorite self-serve garden treat.
Left to cherish his memory are Susan De Antonio, Pinkie and Idyllwild friends. Our hearts and home feel empty while we adjust to his absence.
