“Bitsy” Ms Bits  Itsy Bitsy  Bitsy Ann

It is with heavy heart I share with all my family (personal and dog ) my little Bitsy crossed over the Rainbow Bridge today.

It all started with a little puppy they called a singleton, weighing 8 oz. Well let’s back up a little bit. I moved to San Antonio, Texas in September 1990 with my 12 year old mixed terrier, Bootsy Boy (my dad called him Turkey dog- I don’t know why). Living in an apartment in a busy city I needed Boots to listen to me, come when I called and keep him safe. So, I began taking private lessons and enrolled in a novice obedience class at Roby Cary Kennels and Training School. Boots was getting older and began having a few “senior” medical problems. I started looking for a puppy that Boots could help train and be his companion.  At Rob Cary, I met Lynn Trevino and Ruth Ann Ford (Ramsey). Lynn had a cute little dog, Razor, a Papillon. I had never heard of a Papillon and could barely pronounce it correctly.  I began visiting with Razor and asking many questions. Ruth Ann loaned out her precious Papillon books and I read them cover to cover. Of course, sparking more questions. Jan 1992 Ruth Ann called stating her female “Tude” had delivered a girl. It would be several weeks before I could see the puppy. I spoke with Ruth Ann almost on a daily basis. We had discussions on her progress, the contract (something very new to me), the payment plan, and my goal of pursuing obedience. The day finally came, I saw her for the first time when she was approximately 6-7 weeks old. Oh my gosh, she was so tiny. Everyone said she was huge and I did not understand, too me she was like a premie baby. {Reflecting back, I understand what they meant by “she is huge.” An average weight for a newborn Papillon is between 3-4 ounces and Bitsy weighed 8 oz and she was the only puppy.}

The time finally came when I could take her home and I needed to come up with a name. I have never named a dog with papers. So the challenge was on. Not knowing what or how to name her, I leaned on friends to help with her AKC name. It had to start with a “B”. Barbara, Boots and Bitsy - it fit into my family. I finally had her call name, Bitsy. I immediately enrolled her in puppy and novice class and our obedience career began.  It happened so quick and we entered the dog show. Bitsy was an extremely bright little girl and received her Companion Dog (CD) by the time she was 11 months old on 12/6/1992 with Bonnie Baker as the judge.

I remember our first dog show in Novice A everything was going well until the stand for exam. I tried to remove the leash with a lankard clip and the steward told me “you are doing fine just give your leash to me.” I responded “I can’t get it off.” I finally removed the leash and we continued with the exercises. I really don’t remember being in the ring except for that brief moment. As we took our position for the heel free exercise I do remember the judge stated to “take a deep breath” – of course I obeyed – the judge told me to do it. J We qualified! We received our first green qualifying ribbon and was hooked. This is fun and to be able to play/work with my dog.

After her CD I wanted to pursue her CDX (Companion Dog Excellent) and wanted to keep her happy while learning. I tried the ear pinch on taking the dumbbell, but her tail dropped and I wanted a happy dog. By this time I was a member of the Papillon Club of America and with Ruth Ann’s encouragement I called two members concerning how to train Bitsy. I was so pleased to hear what I wanted was right in the training world. So, after several months of looking and the new knowledge from other Papillon owners/trainers I continued the pursuit of a trainer. A new obedience training school opened and the owner Barbara Johnson worked with positive strokes and different rules for different dogs. I began working with her and became good friends. Through determination Bitsy and I earned her CDX title on 8/21/1994 under judge Ms. Joanne Johnson. Other obedience owners were entering obedience trails in United Kennel Club (U.K.C.) and we found another avenue to continue having fun. The UKC obedience is slightly different and in some ways more challenging with another dog in ring while we are performing the exercises. Bitsy earned her CD and CDX through the UKC on 8/3/1996 and 6/20/1997 respectively. She is titled before and after her name. We are having so much fun!

In 1999 Bitsy was registered through Delta Society Pet Partners to visit hospitals. Bitsy enjoyed people and looked forward to visiting with them. She knew when her "hair was washed and nails trimmed" she was going to work the next day. She woofed and strutted all the way to the car and into everyone's office telling them good morning. She is a special little girl!

Sep 2001 Bitsy became deaf after a minor surgical procedure which ruptured both ear drums ending her career in obedience. In a way it helped her in her visitation as a Delta Society Pet Partner. Everyone was very careful to approach her head on not to scare her. Bitsy continued to enjoy visiting people and children which was her "job". Sept 2006, she is slowing down. Bitsy visited with the military members at Sheppard AFB in Texas a few times. She always brought a smile, memories of home and gave kisses to several of our military members.

December 2007 Bitsy had an anal tumor. The anal gland tumor was removed after much discussion about her medical status. Bitsy sailed through the procedure with flying colors and became active like a puppy for several weeks. She bounced back and even played with the younger dogs more than ever. She began skipping one of her meals. She had always been a great eater and this was a change.

Last night, July 7, 2008, I found a growth / lump/ swelling under her right eye. A tumor was between her cheek and teeth. It was hard, firm, non-movable and caused her pain. This growth came up quickly – since Thursday. She ate her food this morning(she has lost all most a pound since December).  I called for an appointment as I have expected and have a gut feeling of the worst outcome. I came home, gave her a bath, dried and brushed her hair. Took her outside and let her do her business and took a few photos in case the news was bad.

This is the worst day and decision I have ever had to make! The results of the mouth tumor was squamous cell carcinoma. I didn’t want my Bitsy to suffer or hurt any more and deserved to be free and play the way she did as a young pup. So I cradled her in my arms, gave her kisses and told her she was a good girl and to go, run and play. She has a whole bunch of Papillon family members to meet her at the Bridge. Our Lord God smiled on her for all her work on earth and she is resting at his feet and giving him kisses – I am sure.

Rest easy and remember I love you very much little girl – Miss Bits. 

Momma loves you so very much.   Daddy too !!!