in memoriam Ch. Shalimar's Top of the Mark, CD, SDHF "Arsey" 11/12/93 - 7/5/02

Arsey was a very special dog.  Not only was he an AKC champion in conformation...  not only did he hold a title in obedience... more importantly he was the beloved companion of Laura Finco of Argus Kennels. He was a sweet-natured, energetic, happy dog who defied the odds  to win in the show ring, despite being more "field" than "foo-foo,"  earning his rightful place in the Show Dog Hall of Fame. But Arsey was special for another reason:  he sired our Gemma as well as other wonderful Golden pups -- including Gemma's littermates Cooper and Caliber.

Arsey playing tug  with his teenage offspring, Gemma,  Sunol Regional Park,  January 1998

Gemma frolicking with her littermate,  Cooper and their dogdad Arsey (in his orange field vest)

Father & Son: Arsey  with Cooper

Arsey and Gemma  "share" a bumper... (check out Arsey's raised eyebrow!)

Then on July 6,  Laura wrote this post to let us know of Arsey's passing.

"Am/Int CH Shalimar's Top of the Mark, CD, SDHF quietly passed in his sleep on July 5, 2002 after a five month battle with cancer. He was surrounded by his family, Keegan, Rikki, Derby, and son, Augie. I was holding him as he took his last breath.

Arsey spared me from having to make the decision.  He wanted to be home.

Arsey is now reunited with his brother, Maverick -- the other half of the 1995 GRCA National Specialty Best Brace in Show -- and both his doggy parents.

The sky is a little brighter these evenings with the placement of a new dog star.

When you look up, you might just see it."

HAIKU FOR ARSEY On Earth your shining smile brightened up our lives,  so twinkle on, Star!   We will miss you,        -Suzanne & Gemma

Laura & Arsey

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