IN MEMORIUM

95312-AIBC 5/30/89 to 2/24/03

Past member of OVBCC

Officially she was described as an "intelligent, gentle, tri color Border Collie pup". In reality, Belle proved herself to be a hyperactive, fun-loving, sensitive, loyal companion and a cherished member of the Passfield family.

When Belle joined our family in November 1989, she adopted the whole community. She was welcomed into the local elementary school to demonstrate her obedience skills and to teach the children how to approach and respect our K9 friends (that is, after she learned that the children were not sheep to be herded into a corner).

She taught the mailman how to throw a frisbee (the tennis balls were a bit too slimey). Indeed, in his final week before retirement, the mailman brought his wife out to meet "the border collie he kept raving about".

Belle was a really good goaltender for street hockey and soccer. The kids would play "rock, scissors, paper" to draw for the border collie to be on their team.

On her morning walks, Belle had the knack of drawing out the most reclusive neighbors to bid her "good morning" and share her energy and enthusiasm for a new and exciting day.

Flyball was another popular activity. Belle hosted a Flyball Street Party one February for all of her flyball buddies (who might be in danger of suffering from cabin fever). The dogs effectively closed off the street, and entertained the neighbors for a day. (Belle would give up a bone to go and play ball.)

Most of all, Belle was a sensitive and faithful friend.

Thank you Belle, our dear little friend, for thirteen beautiful years of loyal companionship.