We rescued Beni in the spring of 2004. Reputedly, he was born New Year's Eve 2000, and came to us fully trained unfortunately in Arabic. He quickly became an important member of our family, my constant companion, and protector to my young son. The following year he was joined by Lia, another German Shepherd we rescued a Memphis, Tenn kill shelter. who also became a permanent member of our family. Over the years, we have fosterd many dogs. Beni was always kind and tolerant of what we candidly refered to as "rentals". He kept them in line, and showed them the ropes in becoming adoptable and adorable. And each time one of our "rentals" went to their new forever home, we give up a little piece of our heart. Today we are grieving the loss of a big piece of our hearts in the passing of our beloved Beni. After a brief illness, on Sept 5, 2009, our Beni passed away peacefully in his sleep, here at home, with those who loved him and those he loved most close by. We like to think he knew the end was near, and held on long enough to give a lick and a wag of his tail to his little boy. I knew he was too weak to play frisbee, but he insisted on trying anyways. Right to the end a loyal and beloved friend, Beni took away the painful decision I was facing, and passed quietly in the night. Gone but never to be forgotten. Taken from us before we were ready to say goodbye. Beni was rescued by us in the spring of 2004. He came to us as a stranger, but departed as treasured member of our family. A better dog and friend one could not ask for. If you or someone you know is looking to add a dog to their life, please consider giving one of our rescues the second chance they deserve. http://www.petfinder.com/shelters/preciousrescue.html He's gone to heaven so I've got to be good, so I can see my Beni when I leave this world............ Bye for now, Beni. See ya on the other side, my boy.