Remembering Daddy (My Friend and Colleague)

By Melissa Jo Peltier

“When Daddy smells a flower, he doesn’t just smell the flower and move on. He goes and smells one petal. Then he smells another petal. Then the next one, and the next one, and he doesn’t stop smelling until he’s smelled every petal.”

That’s what Cesar Millan told me last week about his amazing pit bull, Daddy, who passed away on Friday at the age of 16. Cesar and I had flown up to Berkeley to go meet with the Pine Street Center, a group of researchers who have successfully taught dogs to sniff out cancer in human breath samples. When I say successful, I mean a 90% success rate of detecting breast, lung, pancreatic and ovarian cancer at stages 1,2,3, 4 and even stage zero. Yes, the dogs can detect cancer even before modern medicine is capable of discerning it. One of the scientists there told me, “Science has nothing anywhere near as accurate as a dog’s nose.”

We are working on our fifth book together, Cesar and I, and for it, Cesar wants to meet with people at the cutting edge of dog training (what Cesar does on the show Dog Whisperer, of which I am one of the executive producers, isn’t training at all. So many of his critics get that so wrong. It’s rehabilitation – he focuses his “training” efforts on the owners, teaching them to take responsibility for what they are communicating to the dog). What we learned at Pine Street, of course, is the clinic dogs weren’t really “trained” to smell cancer. They already knew how to do it. What the Pine Street folks taught the dogs was how to tell us when they smelled cancer. This is the kind of dynamic that fascinates Cesar right now. He believes that the future of dog training won’t be finding new ways to teach dogs tricks or human words like “sit, stay, come” and “heel.” It’s really training ourselves how to recognize and utilize the miraculous instincts and abilities that dogs already possess. Really, in Cesar’s mind, our dogs have always had much more to teach us than we to teach them.

I’ve been blessed to have known and loved and worked with Daddy since Cesar first came into the lives of my MPH Entertainment partners and myself back in 2004. In fact, Daddy came with Cesar the very first time the soon to be christened Dog Whisperer walked into our offices. Cesar and his wife and business partner, Ilusion, came into our conference room together, followed off-leash by a tough looking golden pit bull with what seemed like a tiger-sized head. While his appearance indicated ferocity, his demeanor was mellow, gentle and tolerant. During our first conversation, Daddy crawled under the conference table and lay down at my feet. I kicked off my shoe and started rubbing his belly, a distraction he enjoyed so much he soon stretched out on his back to get the full tummy rub treatment. We didn’t know it then, but Cesar always brought Daddy along to business meetings, in order to silently observe his behavior. Cesar trusted Daddy’s innate reaction to people and animals implicitly. If Daddy had reacted negatively to us, Cesar told us later, he simply wouldn’t have done business with us. Flocks of other producers had visited him at his Dog Psychology Center and all it took for Cesar to decide to send them away was to notice a negative reaction from his pack. “You can lie to a human, but you can’t lie to a dog,” he always says.

Working with Cesar over the years and traveling to direct Dog Whisperer episodes now and then, I’ve had the amazing experience of watching Daddy at work. Just like the seeing-eye dog that knows its job is to guide its blind owner across the street, Daddy somehow understood that his job was to help other dogs that didn’t have his serenity, wisdom and balance. A famous science-based animal trainer I interviewed the other day said to me, “I don’t know what you mean by balance.” It may be tricky to explain in words, but I know that anyone who had the good fortune to meet Daddy would understand exactly what Cesar means when he uses this term. Daddy exuded balance from every pore, and I have personally watched the mere fact of his presence turn a fearful Vizla into a courageous walker; a lazy bull terrier into a playful puppy; an aggressive German Shepherd guard dog into a laid-back friend. Cesar learned early in the Dog Whisperer’s history that if a particular case seemed to stump him a little, it was time to call in Daddy to get his insight. By raising Daddy in a loving, peaceful yet challenge-filled environment, around all manner of different dogs and people, Cesar succeeded in channeling the dog’s powerful pit bull energy into something few people think that the breed is capable of: Daddy grew up to be a teacher, a guru, a healer.

About two years ago, Cesar recognized that Daddy – though no less enthusiastic about his canine life’s work - was beginning to slow down noticeably. He took the opportunity to let Daddy himself choose a pit bull puppy who would become his successor, as Cesar’s right hand dog and the new ambassador of this much- maligned breed. I’ve watched this blue pit puppy, “Junior”, blossom from a winsome pup to an energetic adolescent with rippling muscles and forelegs of steel, under Daddy’s tutelage. Having Junior as his adopted “grandson” also gave Daddy an added purpose in life and brought out the still-active puppy in him during his waning years. I saw Junior today, just a day after Daddy’s departure, up at Cesar’s ranch, happily digging in the dirt and leaping about with Cesar’s other dogs. I’m sure he’s got some grieving to do, but like his mentor, his default setting is balance. I have no doubt that he will take up Daddy’s mantle with pride and purpose.

Daddy’s passing Friday wasn’t totally unexpected by those of us who loved him. While we were traveling to Pine Street, Cesar told me that Daddy’s health had been deteriorating rapidly over the past couple weeks since I had last seen him. There was no one thing that was wrong – it was just that extreme old age had taken its toll on his once strong and sturdy body. He was totally deaf, nearly blind, and could barely walk due to crippling arthritis that targeted his front and back legs. For years, Cesar had exercised him in the pool and given him weekly massage and acupuncture treatments to keep that affliction at bay, but even those therapies weren’t helping anymore. Daddy was also showing signs of a canine version of dementia. Watching a fine specimen of dog like Daddy fade away is a powerful reminder that all beings on this planet – even the strongest and fittest among us - are only here on a lease, one that eventually will run out. The last time I saw Daddy, he was able to recognize me and wag his tail, but there wasn’t a lot of passion in it.

There are some animals (and a few special humans) that seem to bring with them into this world inexplicably magnetic souls. It’s like they know they are a part of something larger than all of us, and if we’re lucky to be around them and remain open, we too can taste a bit of that eternity. Whenever I was around Daddy, I felt a palpable sense of peace and serenity. Up at Cesar’s ranch today, I swear I could still feel his presence in the cool, humid air. He will, of course, live on through his television appearances, some of which are in episodes that haven’t even aired yet. Just a couple months ago during a filming, he coaxed a fearful cell-phone search dog out from its hiding place under a desk - just by showing up and offering to lead. He wasn’t “trained” to do this – he just knew. Even in his infirmity, he still carried that magic with him, everywhere he went.

The fact that Daddy never passed a flower without smelling every single petal is a metaphor for his long – in dog years, anyway – life. Rest in peace, my pit bull friend. You changed my life, and I feel so blessed to have known you.

Bookmark/Search this post with:

Average:

Your rating: None Average: 5 (9 votes)

Fri, 08/27/2010 - 4:24am — newfie_nurse

WIth great love and respect

I know my comments are late coming, but my deepest sympathy to you and your family. Recently I joined your website looking for answers. I myself rescued a dog from an abusive situaion 15yrs ago. He to this day lives with my family as my dads companion. In reading your stories about daddy and his passing, I see such similarites. My dog Shawshank is slowly deteriorating and I notice it more and more as I only see him a few times a year as I must travel for work and he is to old to make the trips. Even as a puppy he intuitively knew what was expected of him and needed little training. And to this day when we are together I still see that puppy spirit in him. He is not only my dog, he is my true friend who asks nothing more than to be part of the family. I know he will pass soon, and that day will be the sadest of my life, but he has fostered me to care for others and the relationship they have with their pets. When I hear of someone with issues with a pet I offer to help, as my Shawshank has taught me so much over the years. Not only about animal behaviour but about the need for that greater bond. My friends that I have helped sometimes call me the animal whisperer hahaha. But I see my helping other animals the greatest tribute I can give to my now aged buddy. Your articles about the aging process of daddy have helped me remarkably and have taught me its not an end, its a new begining. I not only rescued Shawshank in a way he rescued me... again with my deepest love and respect for what you do every day.... Jody

Fri, 08/20/2010 - 9:45pm — clhoover5543

Passing of Daddy

Cesar, we are so sorry to hear about Daddy! He was truly a gentle soul. My husband and I cried when we heard about his passing! We loved seeing him on the show. AND, we would love to see a special show about him. Thank you, Cesar, for all you do to help dogs with issues! Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Carla & JIm, Cowen, WV

Tue, 08/03/2010 - 2:48pm — labradorlover

The wonderful and much missed Daddy

I wept when I read of the passing of the unique and so much loved Daddy. I lost my darling old labrador, Albi Einstein, last year and he was a dog with a similar character. I realise when I first watched Dog Whisperer that I had raised my lab on Cesar's rules and ideas without ever having heard of him or them. I and so many others around the world have delighted in the programme and especially the sweet old pit bull who inspired much love and devotion. I feel for Mr Millan and his family very deeply. Junior is another dog with a great future ahead but Daddy will always shine through the years as the once in a lifetime dog who reflected the expertise, experience and deep understanding of his owner which helped Daddy realise his full canine potential and assured him of a wonderful, fulfilled and worthwhile life. Rest gently dear and loved old pit bull. You and your adored pack leader will meet again one day. You leave many sad humans behind and you continue to promote Cesar's wonderful message even after your passing. Stella Bowling. Suffolk. England.

Sat, 07/10/2010 - 4:54am — vwchen

Missing Daddy

maybe it sounds incredible, but as I read these lines, I had the feeling I'd been there. I felt who was Daddy, I felt how Daddy was. I felt the painful farewell to this unique companion and I felt the sadness. Without Daddy is missing something in this world.

Tue, 06/29/2010 - 11:35am — thedote

Daddy

Cesar,
I am truly sorry that you lost your dear friend Daddy.
It was truly inspiring to see the two of you together performing your magic. We have two older dogs too, so we do know what it is like to watch dear friends grow older. Blessings to you and your family. You were truly blessed to have Daddy,as he was blessed to have you.
All the best and deepest sympathies,
Micki
In Ireland

Wed, 06/23/2010 - 1:24pm — littlep3

Daddy

I am so sorry for your loss of Daddy. He truly was one of a kind, just like his owner. I loved watching him on your episodes and how he helped change behaviors of so many other dogs. Even though he is in doggy heaven and playing with all of my special friends that I have lost over the years, he will still be missed and loved every day!

Tue, 06/08/2010 - 1:16pm — freneticmadness

More Daddy!

Thank you for an insider's perspective on what it meant to be Daddy's friend. I've often wondered how he was off-camera, and it seems he was exactly the same: a gentle loving giant. What a beautiful memorialization.

I only recently found out about his passing, and as I was watching last Friday's episode, seeing Daddy waddling through the grass in his disarming way, I was choking up. Reading this, everybody's comments, his very image brings tears to my eyes.

I agree - please, please consider airing a tribute of your beloved co-worker, Daddy. We are all grieving with you, but as you and the Dog Whisperer Crew knew him best, our thoughts and prayers are with you and the Millan family.

What an ambassador! What a champion! He was more than the best - he was Daddy.

Fri, 06/04/2010 - 8:43pm — runner50

Daddy

Melissa, Ceaser needs to do an hour show about Daddy. A tribute to him from his beginning with Ceasar to his last day. We would LOVE to see it. As would all his fans.

Fri, 05/28/2010 - 3:54pm — ezelaplata2001

Daddy is unforgettable

Cesar:Daddy es un perro muy lindo,hace poco que te empeze a ver y la verdad es que no puedo creer que hagas lo que haces.Los perros son lo mas lindo que hay en el mundo.
Cada vez que veo a Daddy en tus capitulos,y se lo que paso,me entristese mucho y a la vez me alegra porque se que hizo mucho por los otros perros,ademas demuestra de que no es una raza mala.
Desde ya muchas gracias por tus consejos.

Eze y Pame

La Plata - Argentina

Perdon por la traduccion

--------------------------------------------

Cesar: Daddy is a very pretty dog, recently that empeze to see and the truth you is that I cannot think that you make what beams. The dogs are but the pretty thing that there are in the world. Whenever I see Daddy in your chapters, and what step, it entristese to me much and simultaneously it cheers to me because that it did much by the other dogs, furthermore it demonstrates that it is not a bad race. From already thank you very much by your advice.
Eze and Pame
La Plata - Argentina

Pardon by the translation

Fri, 05/14/2010 - 3:50pm — joeltstephens

GOODBYE TO DADDY

Dear Millan Family,
I was deeply saddened by the news of the loss of Daddy. He will be remembered as one of the greatest dogs of our age and will live on in our memories with other dogs like Lassie and Rin-Tin-Tin. I am a grown man, a U.S. Army Veteran, but I cried like a baby when I heard of Daddy's death. I am an avid fan of the show and loved to watch Daddy work his magic on other dogs. I will now watch Junior work his magic on other dogs because he was taught by the best.

Goodbye Daddy, you were loved by so many people that you never got to meet. You will be remembered for years to come as the perfect pit bull. For a lot of us you will be remembered as the perfect dog. Thank you, Cesar, for sharing Daddy with us for so many years. We appreciate it more than you will ever know.

Joel Stephens
Decatur, Alabama

Tue, 05/11/2010 - 5:25pm — JudyAnimalslover

A Great Friend

My heart goes out to you and the rest of your family. I pray your memories bring you comfort. Daddy will always have a special place in my heart. I will always remember him and love him. Judy from New Orleans, La.

Mon, 05/10/2010 - 7:58pm — jo go dog lover

DADDY somewhere in time

To everyone who loved Daddy in this world,
I believe very much in the energy Cesar speaks of often on his show.
I think we all feel it daily in our lives here on earth.
We are blessed when we are aware of our energy and use it to
benefit all around us.
Sometimes some of us, human or animal, know our energy from the
day we are born. An Old Soul is the phrase that comes to mind.
Daddy was an old soul, he was meant to be here at this time, to
be Ceasars dog. For this Iam grateful because I think a lot of
good came out of their relationship.
I believe that the energy Daddy had here on earth does continue.
It doesn't disappear, it finds another place and time.
That is the balance of life.
I will miss Daddy.
Jo-Go

Sat, 05/01/2010 - 5:43pm — Joan-Greg

Your Wonderful "Daddy"

Dear Cesar & Family,

Just to say a very very big Thank You for sharing your wonderful dog "Daddy" with all of us throughout the world, my husband and I have watched your show since first shown here in the U.K.,and felt as if we new Daddy, he truely was an Ambassador for all dogs,we lost our wonderful Shar-Pei dog, Max, two years ago just now, and still miss him every day,I do hope the two of them meet up in Rainbow Bridge,keep up the tremendous work you do,and hope Junior follows in Daddy's pawprints,love from all your Scottish fans here in the U.K.
Joan,Greg, & Darcy our Bulldog.

Tue, 04/20/2010 - 11:55am — Sabrina Laura Medina

hermoso

Me emociono mucho....que hermoso lo que contas que olia cada flor, cada petalo. Daddy te vamos a extrañar.

Sat, 03/27/2010 - 1:50pm — mely84

:( DADDY COMENTARIO

no publicaron mi comentario que hice el 24/3/2010, ese que empieza con mi nombre es Melina! Al final de tanto pensar y escribir lo que uno va a decir ni si quiera para saber si al menos Cesar Millan los lee los comentarios, ya se que mi comentario no vale de mucho Porque hablo desde Argentina y los unicos comentarios que veo son de su País.

Sat, 03/27/2010 - 1:27am — Michzero

My Heartfelt Condolences.

Dear Cesar, your entire family and crew of the Show.

I am deeply saddened at the loss of "Daddy". My Golden Retriever "Zero" also passed to the Rainbow Bridge on the 17th of February and I know that he is in great company. I hope they get together.

Cesar - you are magnificent and what you have done for the dogs of the world and there owners is truely something wonderful. I myself have had a terrible year, I have lost everything, Zero being the last to go and I find your shows help me as well.

A safe passage to the bridge Daddy, and we have had candles for you since the 19th, its just taken this long to get the courage to write. I have been crying everyday for an entire year.

I am your number one fan in Australia.

I have donated a large amount to Canine Cancer Research in Australia on behalf of Daddy and Zero.

Thankyou - Michelene

Wed, 03/17/2010 - 8:24pm — Dogmoma

Daddy

I am heartbroken hearing about Daddy's passing....
A fan of DW from the beginning watching Daddy and Caesar work together was a treat. As he showed us his quiet strength and balanced nature every week in our home he became a member of our pack too.
What a privilege it is to share a long life with our dogs, bittersweet as the years change them but such a blessing to go the distance.
As our family anticipates the end for our 'boy' Miles we will look to you, remember Daddy, the love and deep connection between you and not feel so alone.

Our sincere sympathy to the Millans and the entire DW family.

Sat, 03/13/2010 - 9:32pm — sallie roberts

Daddy

I lost our 16 year old pit mix a couple of months ago. She was so much like Daddy. Loving, easy going, loved kids, obident. It was apparent that Daddy was nearing life's end and it came as no surprise that he passed, but I so much enjoyed watching him do his job. I hot Daddy and my Kesha meet up on Rainbow Bridge because they would make a fabulous couple.

Fri, 03/12/2010 - 6:18pm — Tnl203

Daddy

I was so sad to hear of Daddy's passing. He brought a smile on my face everytime I seen him on tv. I really hope he is in Heaven enjoying his new found youth. He will be greatly missed, but may we all get the chance to meet him someday in the golden palace in the sky. R.I.P Daddy

Thu, 03/11/2010 - 2:53pm — takeapaws

Goodbye Daddy

Very well said Melissa. Fortunate is the person who may come across a sweet soul like Daddy once in a lifetime, but in this case it is much more. In a way, Daddy may have helped more dogs than any other dog before him through exposure worldwide to owners of problem dogs. Owners see how issues can be resolved rather than lived with as well as owners admitting they have a problem rather than ignoring it. 16 years is a long life for a dog, but he will continue to help dogs and their people for many years through televisions all over the world. The success of The Dog Whisperer here in Australia is exceptional. It helps reduce the stigma related to Pit Bulls and encourages many owners to seek help for their dogs.
I use to have a cockatoo named Maydee who showed me who I can trust and was uncanny about whom I could not, so it is no surprise that an “in tune” Daddy could do the same so well.
When seeing Daddy and Cesar work together you see a partnership as well as a relationship. It is sad to lose such a good friend but fulfilling that he had a good long life with a great partner.

Sam / Take A Paws Dog Training, Melbourne
www.takeapaws.com.au

Wed, 03/10/2010 - 7:27pm — Barbmqz

Daddy

I am really sorry to hear about Daddy. He will be missed. I always thought of him as your partner. I didn't realize he was 16. I have a sheppard mix that is 16 and just is going to have a biopsy. I'm sorry for your loss. I also have two blue nose pitbulls that I love dearly, father and son. It's because of daddy that I have them and feel safe with the breed. They are so affectionate and loving.
That you for sharing him with so many of us.

Never to be forgotten.

barbara marquez
RIP Daddy
xxxooooo

Wed, 03/10/2010 - 4:38pm — slytlygufy

Loss

I was so sorry to hear about Daddy's passing. In talking with friends who are fellow "TDW" fans, it seems that we all felt that in a way Daddy was part of our family too. Every time Daddy came on screen, my son would yell "Daddy!" like a cheer. I am so thankful that Cesar shared this wonderful dog with us. I guess all dog people are odd in that we take these guys into our hearts and lives, knowing full well we will too soon have to give them up, and deal with the grief. My late father said "losing a dog isn't exactly like losing one of the (human) family, but it's so close I can't tell the difference." Yet I'm sure none of us would even consider not having a dog, even with the heartache.

Condolences and prayers for you and your family, Cesar, and also to all the rest of us who came to love Daddy.

Wed, 03/10/2010 - 9:05am — amandaghammond

Daddy

Our family sends you condolences, as I write I have tears in my eyes for I can't imagine losing our Rotweiller puppy-Sig. Daddy was a true inspiration. He was a beautiful example of how some breeds of dogs have a bad reputations but that is strictly a stereotype. He was proof that it's all in how you raise a dog. Thank you for sharing your love of the canine breed with us and for allowing Daddy into our home. We know that you will miss him deeply, please know your pain is a sign of a great friend reuniting with his maker. You'll be in our prayers. We love you, your show and your "Daddy"-RIP, good boy, your work here is done...

Mon, 03/08/2010 - 2:24am — mrsdragon

Daddy

Cesar,
We just want to send our condolances to you about Daddy. This is my all time favorite program and Daddy will be sorely missed. Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
Josie Wheeler

Sun, 03/07/2010 - 6:22pm — coco2000

Qué penaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa

Madre mia qué pena Cesar. No sé si hablas español, supongo que sí. Aquí en España apenas hemos empezado a saber de ti y de Daddy e incluso con tan pocos días me ha dado una pena inmensa la muerte de tu pitbull. Sé que hay mucha gente que te critica, pero yo creo que tienes un mérito incuestionable, aunque por aquí estamos a años luz de entender programas como el tuyo (todavía la gente se ríe cuando hablas de psicología canina). Ánimo Cesar!!!

Sat, 03/06/2010 - 1:13pm — Flashetta

Daddy Tribute

Dear Cesar and Family I'll never forget the first time I laid eye's on Daddy when he walked into my living room via the television, my first thoughts were, my that boy is awesome, he proved to be a true ambassador for dogs world wide but more so for PitBulls he was a true inspiration especially for me as I have two Bull Terriers and a Staffordshire Bull Terrier,and they have had their moments ...My heart goes out to you all and I share your pain...he will live on in your Hearts and memories as he will mine thankyou for sharing him with the rest of the world..
Much love from here in the UK Linda, Flashetta's gaurdian

Thu, 03/04/2010 - 1:53pm — csawyer21

To you Melissa

Thank you Melissa, for giving us another beautiful insight on this wonderful dog. Thank you !

Tue, 03/02/2010 - 9:59am — barnes11z

Daddy's Life

I have felt this emotion coming on for a few months. I would watch Daddy and see that he was aging quickly. No matter how prepared that one thinks that they are, it still affects us very deeply!

I have loved watching Cesar and Daddy for many years, every episode over and over and over again. I have learned so much. I practice everything that I have learned and have a great pack (4 cocker spaniels). I love working with them every day and it brings such joy to my life. It has actually healed me in many ways!

I love my dogs more than anything. My heart hurts for the lost of Daddy and the pain that causes. Cesar, you are in my prayers. Every day, I really do thank God for your leadership and all that you have brought to my life! You really just don't know the magnitude of blessings that you and Daddy have given to me and my pack. We are eternally grateful for both of you and your shared mission!!

Mon, 03/01/2010 - 7:11pm — bkinnaples

Remembering Daddy

Melissa,
Thanks for sharing your experience with Daddy. He seemed like an amazing Dog and I know it will be hard for the Milan family and everyone at the Dog Psychology Center. I hope everyone will be able to take time to heal and know that Daddy is looking down on us all, along with all the dogs who have gone before him. He had a great life and was truly loved. Sincerely, Kristine

Mon, 03/01/2010 - 7:10pm — bkinnaples

Remembering Daddy

Mon, 03/01/2010 - 11:55am — Juliana Pereszluha

Daddy

Fantástico! A capacidade da verdade que um cão carrega.
I love Daddy the angel pit bull.

Juliana, Brazil.

Mon, 03/01/2010 - 11:53am — Juliana Pereszluha

Daddy and Melissa

Simplesmente fantástico!!!
I love Daddy Pit Bull Angel.

Juliana, Brazil.

Mon, 03/01/2010 - 9:39am — rieloh@verizon.net

Daddy condolence

I'm very sorry about Daddy's passing. It's so hard to lose our best friends, they teach us so much about love, it's just sad they don't live as long as we do. He had a great life with you, his spirit will live on in all the great work he did with you.

Mon, 03/01/2010 - 8:19am — marie- claude

We are sorry for your lost

Dear Ceasar
How Daddy has espired us , we did lost two Rotties we did love deeply 2 years ago . Last summer 2009 we were ready for new dogs . As we watch more & more your show we wanted pit bulls so bad I realy study there behavier trough out your show and Daddy was such a inspiration we loved him and his calmess . August 2009 we got two pit bulls a bro and a sis fawn colors with red nose Thorn & thistle we are so happy to have them in our lives .
I simply want to tell you a much Daddy brough and will still bring good inspiration to the viewer like us .
Ceasar your family and the crew you all do such a good work . Ceasar you are a gifted man who share his gift by distrubuting his knowlege to the world GOOD WORK CEASAR !!

* May your mission continue to be guide from your heart .

Sincerly Marie-Claude Benoit from Rhein,Saskatchewan Canada

Mon, 03/01/2010 - 7:20am — eksommer

Story about Daddy

Your essay about Daddy is beautifully written and so inspiring! Thank you. As an editor, I am always pleased to see good writing on the Web, which can sometimes just be a sea of misinformation, poorly formed concepts, and grammatical nightmares. I look forward to your next book with Cesar.

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 8:17pm — gschattie

Daddy leaving

Ceasar and family,
I am so so sorry for your loss. My prayers are with you.
G Schattie

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 8:14pm — jvan

joan

Some day I hope the tears will stop, The Passing of daddy has effected every one, Thank you for this wonderful tribute to Daddy. Thank you Cesar for sharing this wonderful little Man. God Bless you Daddy for all the good you have done. we will always love you. Joan

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 7:27pm — sonopasquale@gm...

Daddy

I have often thought of visiting Cesar's compound for the sole reason of seeing Daddy. I love watching him on the Dog Whisperer episodes.
Thank God for Daddy reruns.

Pasquale
“I love a dog. He does nothing for political reasons.” —Will Rogers

"The more I see of people, the more I like my dog." Mark Twain.

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 6:50pm — s9702@aol.com

Daddy's Life

Melissa, that was beautifully written and pulled at my heart strings. Daddy was one cool dawg! I am looking forward to still seeing him in action on the Dog Whisperer shows that have not aired yet and on the re-runs. There will never be another Daddy and I know Cesar will treasure having had him in his life for ever more. Sandy D

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 5:24pm — Vickie Bramlett

The Loss of Daddy

You and your organization are in my thoughts. I could sense in your magazine and last shows you were anticipating Daddy's death. That anticipation, though, probably led you to love and appreciate Daddy even more in his last days.
Still words cannot express the loss we feel when we lose a furry best friend. You can take comfort in knowing that Daddy enjoyed a long, fruitful life where he benefited others. You should find comfort in knowing that your diligent care probably afforded Daddy much of the extra time he enjoyed. At best, though, the canine life is too short. To lose a friend is always painful. But it's better to have loved and lost than to have never loved at all. Although he may not be here physically, he will forever be in your heart!
In sympathy,
Vickie

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 3:52pm — sandyhall

Our teacher, Daddy

I know all who learn of Daddy's passing will be affected as I was. I was very sad. It's like he was a member of my own pack. What a wonderful mentor he was for other dogs. I have to say, Cesar and Daddy together helped change the way I view pit bulls. I know they changed the opinions of thousands of people -- how could they not? Because of Daddy and Cesar, many, many pit bulls have been accepted into forever homes. What a wonderful legacy. Daddy has earned his wings Over the Rainbow bridge. You deserve the best in Doggie heaven. Rest In peace little guy.

Sandy in Kamloops, BC

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 3:02pm — highprairiest@h...

Daddy

Thank you so much, Cesar, for "sharing" Daddy with us over the years. Daddy showed the world that false opinions of Pit Bulls created unfairness and fear where there is only misunderstanding by humans. We will all miss Daddy, but none more than you, we know. His greatness will forever be honored by the dignity and beauty you allowed him to display over the years. The many dogs he helped in restoring to balance is indeed a testimony to his wisdom and inner beauty.
We thank you again for sharing him with all of us.

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 2:03pm — tmarmolejo69@sb...

Daddy

Melissa, I must tell you that was the most beautiful tribute I have ever read! Thank you for letting us know a little more about Daddy's passing. It gave some comfort to those of us out here who feel we knew & loved him too. Cesar, may you have the peace of mind knowing that now you & Daddy not only are helping save many dogs & giving them a new start, but now you will in the future with your new project be saving human lives. GOD is smiling down on you for all your work & Daddy is sitting right by his side with a smile too. You & Daddy have changed our lives with the way we handle our own animals now & my daughter & her hubby are now starting to do rehabilitation on red zone dogs here. Its all because of you & Daddy. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts. God bless you & yours.

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 11:52am — dskunz

Daddy Is Not Really Gone

Dear Cesar and Family, I wish to share my deepest sympathy in the passing of your wonderful faithful friend Daddy. Though it has only been a litte over 1 year since I've been watching The Dog Whisperer, I feel blessed by what I have learned and try to apply to my two girls Lucy & Samantha. They are Siberian Husky mix. I keep reminding myself that I have to be calm and assertive in order for my girls to be calm and submissive. It really does work! They are 13 years of age and like Cesar said, it doesn't matter how old your dog is, it's not to late to get rid of bad habits. The thing that amaze's me is I've learned the most important lesson from Cesar and that is me as a human and a dog owner have to learn first in order to be able to teach my dogs right from wrong. I would have never thought about Energy. How your energy really reflects upon your dog. WOW - what a valuable lesson - thank you Cesar! And to have seen Daddy, how he carried himself and the energy that flowed from him to other canins was truly a wonderful site to see. I've always believed that Pit Bulls and Rottweilers have been misunderstood and get a bad rap. Some people just don't realize, your dog is a product of it's environment, just like your kids are. Though unfortunately, there could be those as an exception to the rule. I feel if you truly try the best that you can in achieving a goal in life no matter what that may be, that goal will be achieved!

Daddy is not really gone, he just took a vacation and is waiting at Rainbow Bridge for the rest of us to join him.

Big Hugs and lots of luv from Sharron, Lucy and Samantha - Woof, Woof from Ontario, Canada.

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 11:45am — ebcreations@hot...

May Daddys memories bring you comfort.

Wow, I can't put into words how sorry I am that Daddy has passed away. Daddy had a great life, loved by everyone and helped so many, including myself not to be afraid of pit bulls.
My husband and I lost our beloved German Shepherd a year ago and are barely coming to accept the fact that she is no longer with us. Dogs are so faithful and true. Their devotion is unconditional and that's why we get so close.
Cesar and family please take comfort in knowing how great and how lovingly you cared for Daddy.
Melisa's words are just beautiful.
I have read all your books and watch your show faithfully. I've given so many of your books to new owners of puppies, you wouldn't believe. They have all come back to thank me and passed on your books to other new owners.
God Bless You at this time and always,
Elsa Brodeur

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 11:00am — pamrojo

Daddy RIP

When I turned on my computer last Saturday and learned that Daddy had passed away, it was as if my heart had been placed in vise. I remember watching him in the most recent episodes of Dog Whisperer and smiling at his 'waddling' gait. Our Barney passed away in 2006 at 15 years of age and I remember when he walked the same way as Daddy. Barney had hip displasia his entire life. Daddy was one of a kind and although Junior is his protegee, he is earning his own place in our hearts - just as Daddy did. Daddy always seemed to smile and his demeanor was one of peace and tranquility. We all learned from Daddy - not just how to work with our dogs but how to find our own inner peace. Daddy's crossing over the rainbow bridge was not one he made alone. There were thousands upon thousands of tails wagging in greeting. Their friend had come home. God Bless you (Cesar and Family) in your loss.

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 9:19am — Karon Brandt

Daddy the Pitbull

Daddy will truly live alongside the memories of Lassie and Rin Tin Tin. All dog lovers who have ever lost a pet know the intense feelings of loss and grief. Perhaps we can learn from Daddy that our pets cross the Rainbow Bridge with peace, calmness, and a natural acceptance that we could learn only from them.

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 5:57am — ilovebo

Daddy

What a beautiful tribute to Daddy...he was one of those wizened beautiful souls. Like the other person who posted, I was not surprised to hear of Daddy's passing...he had been on my heart for at least 2 wks prior but nonetheless, saddened at the passing of such a regal soul. Thank you Daddy...you are loved by many. We love you!

Sun, 02/28/2010 - 5:57am — Karen Wild

Losing a dog

Losing a dog feels unbearable. Even a new dog cannot replace our old friends. My old dog Pepper worked with many aggressive dogs and just had the right skills to settle and calm them. When I first got him from the rescue shelter, he was aggressive himself. So, he was also properly trained by me with what you might call science. We worked well as a team for 15 years. He was 17 when he passed away and I miss him even now, so I can only sympathise. I know how it feels to lose such a part of life.

I am relieved and glad to hear that Cesar (and you) are now choosing to become educated about the science of training dogs. This is such a breakthrough. I hope you enjoy and learn from your journey and I look forward to hearing about and of course seeing Cesar's new approaches as a result so that others may follow this better example.

Karen

Sat, 02/27/2010 - 10:35am — Gunngee

Watching Daddy on the dog

Watching Daddy on the dog whisperer confirmed how I felt about dogs and the stereotype of the pit bull breed. I always suspected that it was all in the owner but like most people seeing is believing. I now believe. My wife and I loved watching the show but every time Daddy made an appearance my wife and would enjoy the show that much more. We were upset to find out about the loss of Daddy and our thoughts are with Cesar and his family.