In Memory of Bea Star
1995 - December 21, 2004

Gentle, devoted & courageous to the end.

Bea was an FBRN rescue dog (“Louisiana Bea”) who came to me in August of 2003 as a foster when she was 8 years old.  In spite of having been severely neglected (and suffering from a myriad of physical ailments), she trusted me instantly - and I cannot adequately express how deeply that moved me.  Eventually I had the privilege of officially adopting her.

“Bea-Star” was my shadow.  Because of neurological and spine problems, she had trouble walking (dragging her back feet), yet if I left the room she would manage to get up and follow me - never wanting me out of her sight.  She could be lying in her bed sound asleep, but if I gazed at her, she seemed to know it and instantly her eyes would open and she'd be looking right at me.

Bea taught me so much about living life to the fullest.  She never gave up.  That wasn't even an option to her.  She found ways around her physical handicaps.  She was always gentle and even-tempered - with me and with every other living being she met.  She had an aura of serenity about her, and I was so touched by her valiant spirit and quiet determination.   After she'd been here for a few months I discovered that she had chosen to become my “protector."  If my other dogs were getting too rowdy, she would step between them and me and just sit.  Bea was the most beautiful Frenchie I've ever met.

My precious Bea was only able to grace me with her physical presence for a little over a year.  Finally her poor body just gave out.  I miss her terribly, yet I rejoice that her spirit is finally free.   The connection between us is so strong that to this day I feel her constant presence….

Kim Stevens
Florida

Kim, and from left to right, P-Beau, Bea, and Max, with Bouli in front

Bea and her wheels

Bea and Kim. September, 2003 Adoption Photo

Little Bea staying warm. Photo taken oneweek before her death