Bella Abdog Marino: RIP, Nov. 20, 2007

Bob Marino, president of NYC Dog led the successful campaign to legalize off-leash hours in New York parks so dogs can socialize and exercise together.

Today Bob lost his extraordinary Bella Abdog to cancer. I have been there, and it hurts like hell. Bella has been his constant companion for 11 years. The two of them: great huge Bella with her gentle soul, and Bob with his endless supply of treats for every dog they encountered, have been inseparable. Love to you Bob, and thank you for everything you've done to make New York one of the top 10 dog-friendly cities in the world.

Bob told me in email: "I would like to start a campaign to raise funds to get a tree planted in Central Park that would be a memorial tree for all dogs lost... we could hang a pic of our dog when s/he passes and at the holiday, photos of all dogs lost that year would be hung." I love that idea. I'll be happy to help.

I want to share with you part of Bob's message to members of NYC Dog. It's as lovely a Thanksgiving message as you'll hear anywhere:

"My mourning will pass but the memories of happier days will remain.

I wish you each a wonderful Thanksgiving. With most of the world living in dire poverty, we have much to be grateful for. Many of our own neighbors live lonely lives without friends or family. And some of those receiving this note bear silent burdens that would crush weaker beings. Our problems appear miniscule when put into perspective.

Share the joy of your day with those whom you love (2 or 4 legged) but please remember to do whatever you can to help those who are not as blessed. Say hello to a homeless person and look them in the eye. Call someone who might be alone. Donate time not just on Thanksgiving but when the crowds are gone but the need remains. Volunteer at an animal shelter to walk dogs that live 24/7 in tight cages. Donate blood so others might live. Or just smile and say hello to a stranger on the street."

From the day they met and Miles peed on Bob's leg, Miles and Bella were inseparable. I will always remember the long walks we took in Central and Riverside Parks - especially the fateful night in the Rambles! Bella was such a loving and yet very protective dog, I always felt safe and confident when she was with us on those walks. I remember the times when fresh young men would try to flirt when I'd walk the dogs alone - Bella would have none of it, and they'd quickly move on! (Where are those sweet young things now?!)
I also remember when Bella would insist that I'd give her a treat and promptly bite me on the butt if she thought I was holding out on her!!
It seems surreal that she is gone, but she is no longer suffering - she is free and giving Honey and Tashmoo fit!
My Mom sends her condolences as does Guzim.

Bella will truly be missed.
Earth has no sorrow tha heaven cannot heal.
Love, Patricia

Bob,
It saddens me to hear of your loss. I heard so many good thing about you from Terry. I remember how I felt when I lost my first dog Kymba after 17 years and how I vowed never to let myself feel that way again. It took me three years but now I have 2 dogs who have you to thank for being able to run and play with their friends at Juniper Park. Remember the joy Bella brought you not the sadness of her loss. I will keep you in my prays and my heart.