In Memory of Bandit the Biker Dog 12/13/01 - 12/19/08 Rest In Peace My "Best" Friend

 

	12/13/01 - 12/19/08 Rest In Peace My "Best" Friend
San Diego Mayor, Jerry Sanders   "He was a cool biker dog and put smiles on the faces of many San Diegans.  Thanks for sharing him with us over the years.  He will always have a place in our hearts."  --   Mayor Jerry Sanders "Bandit, we love you! It is always exciting for us, the Mayor and his wife to see you at so many charitable events making people smile and giving our San Diego citizens so much joy. Mayor Sanders keeps your picture in his office and all our dignitaries always comment on how cute you are!  See you soon!"   ---- The Staff at Mayor Sanders' Office    Dear Mark, “ It has come to our attention from many areas of your recent plight in both your own hard luck and the emergency situation for your dog Bandit.   In light of all the wonderful work that you and Bandit have done for the community, hospitals, hospice and other organizations, we want to be able to get Bandit the emergency medical care that he needs to keep him out of pain and see if his life can be saved.  We realize that you do not have the funds to be able to pay for these medical services so many animal lovers  have answered our call to help Bandit.   It is the generosity of many that allows us to  give this check to you to help to offset the expensive diagnostic work that needs to be done and hope that others in the community will continue to  join Henry and Tink in donating to help with  Bandit's continuing medical needs.    You and Bandit are a symbol of all that is good in community outreach.  We hope that his life can be saved but know that it will provide you with comfort to know you have done all that you can to help the dog that has helped so many others.” Sincerely, --Catherine Conheim	Special Tribute to Bandit that aired on KUSI news - 12-19-2008 "Thank you KUSI, you have always been wonderful to Bandit"   Rainbow Bridge Just this side of heaven is a place called Rainbow Bridge. When an animal dies that has been especially close to someone here, that pet goes to Rainbow Bridge. There are meadows and hills for all of our special friends so they can run and play together. There is plenty of food, water and sunshine, and our friends are warm and comfortable. All the animals who had been ill and old are restored to health and vigor; those who were hurt or maimed are made whole and strong again, just as we remember them in our dreams of days and times gone by. The animals are happy and content, except for one small thing; they each miss someone very special to them, who had to be left behind. They all run and play together, but the day comes when one suddenly stops and looks into the distance. His bright eyes are intent; His eager body quivers. Suddenly he begins to run from the group, flying over the green grass, his legs carrying him faster and faster. You have been spotted, and when you and your special friend finally meet, you cling together in joyous reunion, never to be parted again. The happy kisses rain upon your face; your hands again caress the beloved head, and you look once more into the trusting eyes of your pet, so long gone from your life but never absent from your heart. Then you cross Rainbow Bridge together.... --Author unknown	Actor, Musician - Mickey Jones   "What can I say about Bandit the Biker Dog.  I have seen, first hand, the joy he brings to every event in which he participates.  I witnessed that for several years as the host of the Mickey Jones CHOC Ride.  Mark Shaffer and Bandit took part with me to raise money for Children's Hospital of Orange County.  It's great that we, Bandit and all the thousands of bikers who took part in the ride, did what we could do for those kids but even more important were the smiles on the faces on those kids in the hospital.  I would bring actors and celebrities to go through the hospital, meet those kids, sign photos and take pictures with the kids but nothing we did ever compared to the moment Bandit would ride his bike into their room.  Who cares about celebrities when you've got the most adorable pup in the world riding into your room on his motorcycle in full biker attire.  Bandit the Biker Dog will be missed by all of us who knew him but none more that those kids.  Thanks to Mark Shaffer for all he did with Bandit to bring happiness to all he touched and please know that our thoughts and prayers will be with Mark in this most difficult time."   --- Mickey Jones, "Home Improvement", "Sling Blade"

**You Will Be Missed, But Never Forgotten** By Gerry Ashley CONTRIBUTING WRITER San Diego, CA - December 20, 2008 –  For over 6 1/2 years, Bandit has been a familiar sight at fundraisers, charitable events, children’s hospitals and hospice centers.  He even spent 3 days at Qualcomm Stadium entertaining children and families who were evacuated from their homes during the 2007 Wild Fires. Through it all, he never asked for anything in return except for maybe a pat on the head.  Now, San Diego’s own Ambassador of Good Will has died from an aggressive and inoperable brain tumor. Earlier this year, Bandit lost an eye to an aggressive infection. Upon his recovery, he continued to appear at numerous events including the recent Mother Goose Parade this past November in El Cajon, CA and the “Nice Guys” Christmas Party for over 700 needy and less fortunate families here San Diego. He’d been tapped to be "Celebrity Grand Marshall" at the Gaslamp’s 1st annual Holiday Pet Parade. However, he had to withdraw as the tumor relentlessly attacked Bandit.   During the past 6 months, Bandit had suffered a number of seizures. Recently, those seizures led to a bout of pneumonia. Bandit’s veterinarian, unable to pinpoint the source of the problem, has referred Bandit’s owner, Mark Shaffer, to a neurologist. The neurologist told Shaffer Bandit needed an MRI and other tests to find out the underlying causes of his abnormal, neurological behavior and seizures.  Says Shaffer, “It was horrible to have to watch Bandit going through all the pain of these seizures, and not being able to do anything about it to help him.  But Bandit's fans, friends and the general public who knew Bandit, and some who did not, came forward and donated money so Shaffer could give Bandit the best medical attention he deserved.  Shaffer says, "I just wanted to save his life".  The generosity of all these people has not gone unnoticed, and Shaffer says "I thank each and every one of you who contributed either by sending money, thoughtful emails and letters". It was the MRI that uncovered the aggressive tumor in Bandit’s brain. Despite the best effort by the medical staff, there was nothing they could do to stop the tumor, and on December 19, 2008, Bandit the Biker Dog was put to sleep to end his suffering. Shaffer shares this story: "As Bandit had a lot of behavior changes recently, due to the brain cancer, one thing that I missed was when I put my face up to his, he would just lick and lick me.  Well, he had not done that in weeks.  But when we were in that California Veterinary Office to see the Cancer Specialist, I was sitting there, holding Bandit. He stretched out a bit, and made this sound, kind of high pitch, as if he was trying to talk; trying to tell me something.  Then he turned his head in my direction and looked at me. I leaned over and he started to lick and kiss me on the face... one more time.  He was telling me it was time, and he had to go.  It was his way of saying goodbye, and that he loved me.” Shaffer continued by saying, "I left the Doctor’s office in Carlsbad around noon.  Instead of going back to our veterinarian, I headed home. I wanted to bring Bandit home where he could be in comfort and in his own environment.  Bandit and I shared some special time together.  I held him the best I could.  Then I made some calls and arranged for a Veterinarian to come to my home, and lay bandit to rest.  It was the hardest thing I ever had to do, but I knew that was what Bandit wanted and needed.  He was not happy, not living the life of, not only "Bandit the Biker Dog", but as a dog.  The doctor showed up about 3:40 pm.  We talked, she then walked me through the procedure, by explaining what she would be doing and what I could expect to see from Bandit.  First she gave him a sedative.  He walked around for about a minute, then laid down on the floor.  Within minutes, he was asleep.  I picked him up, and laid him in one of his many beds.  The doctor gave me time to be alone with him.  I held him, touched him and cried with him.  The doctor then came back in, asked me if I was ready.  I petted Bandit's head gently, and responded "Yes."  She administered the lethal injection.  In a matter of minutes, he had moved on to a much more peaceful and painless place... he was gone and began his journey over the 'Rainbow Bridge." It was 4:13pm.  She then gave me as much more time as I wanted to be with him.  I touched him, petted him gently, held him and cried some more.  Telling him how much I love him and I would never forget him.  I told him that I was so proud of him with all he had done, and all the joy he spread, all the laughs he gave, and all the love he shared. I told him I would miss him."  Condolence messages can be sent to Mark via his e-mail address: execfit@adnc.com.  "I want to take this opportunity to personally thank each and every one who were kind enough to help me cover the expenses for Bandit's medical treatments and those related to his passing.  I really do appreciate that very much. I would especially like to thank  "Henry" , and for getting the word out to all his friends.  Because of all of your compassion and generosity, I was able to provide Bandit with the best medical care and do everything possible to save his life. I also want to thank each and every one of you who have sent e-mails, with all your well-wishes and condolences.  Each e-mail that I receive helps keep me stay strong through this very hard time.  Again, thank you, each an every one of you.  And, thank you for taking the time to visit Bandit's web site."        --- Mark Shaffer   A Letter From Bandit 12-19-2008 (Told through Tink & Henry) Dear Dad, I contacted my friends Tink and Henry to help deliver this letter to you.  We animals have ways of communicating that are beyond what humans are aware of.  I wanted to thank you for being the best Dad in the world. Many animals get lucky enough to be loved by a few humans who are their family.  I got loved enormously by you and that was special beyond anything I could ever have hoped for.   Beyond being the best Dad in the world, you gave me a chance to reach out and heal so many hundred’s of humans in need.  You and I had some gig, me on my little cycle and with my jacket and goggles. What a team we were. I know it has been a hard year for you but never once did you let your hard times compromise your love and caretaking of me.  It was so cool to be able to go to hospitals, hospice, animal fundraisers and other places.  I always loved when their faces lit up when we would come in.  Thanks for letting my time on this side of the rainbow bridge be full of fun and meaning; that is what made me the luckiest dog in the world. I know that you will be very sad without me.  I hope for you that you will soon find another special dog that will help you on your mission to help others. I know you need a dog to also heal your heart.  It is not loyalty to me to not get another dog when the time is right. If anything, it honors the bond that we had proving that loving and caring has no bounds and the heart needs to be open to always making room for another who needs love. It is really cool here on the other side of the rainbow bridge. I no longer hurt, am not afraid, no seizures, it is a fun place where so many animals run and play together. I just wanted you to know that I am fine and thank you for letting me stay at home for my final time on the other side of the bridge.    Know, that from here I will send you lots of loving energy for your own healing.  You did everything right by me Dad, I am proud of you.  Take good care of you, and maybe, there will be a Bandit 2 in your future who will love riding that cool bike you got me as much as I did.  Whatever happens, know that no dog could have been happier to have belonged to such a special man. I am one lucky dog. Maybe what happened to me will help the white coat people understand more so that other dogs might live longer. Take good care of yourself, don’t stop reaching out to others, and when you are curled up in bed, imagine me by your side, sleeping quietly beside the Dad I have loved for my life.            -- Bandit The artwork above is a special gift sent to Bandit from some of his friends in Newport News, Virginia Deb, John, Buddy and Bit  --  Artwork done by "Elms" Below is how I want Bandit to be always remembered.                    ** Bandit's Breaking News As It Occured ** *** 12-12-2008:  Bandit wants to announce as of today, he is going to "retire" and will not be making appearance any longer due to a terminal illness, a brain tumor.  Bandit needs to spend his final days in a peaceful environment, at home.  Bandit's health issues include: 5-22-2008:  Bandit was rushed to the Emergency Eye Clinic for a serious eye infection.  His eye was removed during surgery. 5-22-2008 - Present:  Bandit has experienced numerous seizures, which are believed to be connected to the eye surgery / removal. Some of the seizure have been very serious. 11-11-2008:  Bandit was rushed to the Hospital, as he was found collapsed on Mark's bed, not moving.  He was diagnosed with pneumonia.  (Dr. believes Bandit inhaled fluid after his last seizure when he had vomited, which in turn, turned into pneumonia.) 11-23-2008:  On Friday the 21st, the Vet gave Bandit the OK to ride his Harley in the Annual Mother Goose Parade. It was an honor to have been invited.  Please enter "Bandit's Daily News" for full story. 12-9-2008:  Bandit made a visit to the neurologist, recommended that Bandit have an MRI and other spinal tests done.  Unfortunately, this is not an option at this time, due to the extremely high cost of these tests.  Please say some Prayers for Bandit.  12-10-2008:  Bandit had another major seizure, now on Phenobarbital.  In desperate need of an MRI and other spinal tests. 12-12-2008:  Bandit had MRI...... results are not in.... maybe be a cancerous tumor in his brain. (photo below is after test was complete)                             12-13-2008:  HAPPY BIRTHDAY BANDIT!!!  Unfortunately, we just got a call from the vet and received confirmation,  MRI shows that Bandit has a rare brain tumor. " 12-16-2008:  Received call from neurologist.  As the MRI was "very unusual, abnormal and confusing." Their diagnosis is a form of a cancerous tumor.  It is either "Apendamoma" or a "Chorad Plexus Tumor.  They can not say 100% for sure which one.  Both are serious, both are cancer and both are fatal.  Bandit is on medication now.  Doing the best he can. 12-18-2008:  Bandit had another seizure today.  Bandit will be seen by a Cancer Specialist, Tomorrow, Friday the 17th at 10:00.  He is supposed to be one of the best in the world. 12-19.2008:  BANDIT RUSHED TO EMERGENCY ROOM at 3:00 am.  Bandit "seizuring" and not coming out of it.  Almost lost him!  Taking Bandit today to Cancer Specialist. 12-19-2008:  Bandit has been laid to rest today.  He is on his way over the "Rainbow Bridge"  His journey began at 4:10 pm this afternoon, and crossed over the bridge at 4:13pm.  "God bless you Bandit, and thank you for bringing me more joy then I could have ever wanted or expected.  I will miss you.  I love you Bandit."  Last Photos taken of Mark & Bandit 12-19-2008 Bandit without pain and suffering -- at peace 12-19-2008  Last Photos taken of Mark & Bandit 12-19-2008                                     Thank you all for your support and well wishes and donations.  12-13-2008:  Bandit's 7th Birthday.  I wanted to share with all of you his 1st Birthday photos (below)..... as today may be Bandit's  last birthday we get to celebrate.

Photos taken of Bandit celebrating his 7th birthday (below) at one of his favorite coffee shops, Claire de Lune,
seen here with special friend, Lena' Lewis, after eating his birthday cake........ 6 days before Bandit's passing

Bandit the Biker Dog meets the "Law" (if you do not see a "slide show" of photos, please "refresh' page)        Bandit spotted by TMZ.com, cruising around Robertson Blvd. in Beverly Hills kissing Pamela Bach Hasselhoff. Video was Featured on TMZ Click on Image above to watch Bandit featured on TMZ.com   I want to give a very special thanks to these people, who did everything they could to save Bandit's life, and giving Bandit the highest quality of care they provide.  I highly recommend these Doctors if you ever need them. They all deserve a Huge THANK YOU!  Please keep them in mind if you ever need to give your pet the best medical attention they deserve. "I really appreciate your generosity for all you have done for my Bandit."   ---Mark TAMMY L. STEVENSON, DVM Diplomate A.C.V.I.M .(Neurology) Veterinary Surgical Specialists Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Tufts University, Massachusetts Internship Veterinary Specialty Hospital, San Diego Residency University of California, Davis Dr. Stevenson has extensive clinical training in all aspects of veterinary neurology/neurosurgery. Her special interests include neuroradiology, neurosurgery and inflammatory diseases of the central nervous system. Dr. Stevenson prides herself on her patient care, including proactive pain management and compassionate handling.   Seth Wallack, DVM Diplomate, A.C.V.R. Board Certified Specialist in Veterinary Radiology veterinary imaging center of San Diego   Dr. Wallack received his veterinary degree for the University of California, Davis. He then completed his small animal internship in general medicine and surgery at the Veterinary Specialty Hospital in San Diego. He completed a 4 year radiology residency at UC Davis and is currently on staff there. Dr. Wallack is board certified in radiology and has special interests in MRI, small animal ultrasound and exotic animal radiography. He has published scientific articles and book chapters, and has lectured on topics including MRI, ultrasound, and radiography in both regional and national meetings. His recent publications include MR estimation of intramedullary osteosarcoma extent, normal pituitary size in cats based on MR imaging and ultrasonographic findings associated with bowel infarction. While at UC Davis, Dr. Wallack actively participated in training of pre clinical and fourth year veterinary students   San Diego Pet Memorial Park - "a living memorial" 8995 Crestamar Point, San Diego, CA  92121 phone: 858-909-0009 Mission Statement - "To provide compassionate and dignified services to those grieving from the loss of a beloved family pet." Our History:  In 1962, the Limpus family created the San Diego pet Memorial Park to provide a living memorial to all companion animals.  In this tradition, we maintain a beautiful burial park and cremation facility nestled in San Diego's Carroll Canyon.  Protected under a canopy of our ancient live oak trees, the park has become a sanctuary for many animals indigenous to San Diego.  Deer, rabbit, quail, dove and other wildlife sometimes can be seen while visiting the San Diego Pet Memorial Park.   Dawn Ziegler, DVM, CAC HOME SWEET HOME - Veterinary House Calls "Quality, compassionate pet care in the comfort of your home." Phone:  619-226-7297  E-mail:  petdrdawn@yahoo.com     Bandit's Home Memorial   Best friends....forever "I love you Bandit"   [ Sign My Guestbook] [ View My Guestbook]   Take the journey and visit Bandit's "complete" web site, seeing all that Bandit has accomplished in his short 7 years life Bandit's Favorite Memories   Powered by E-GuestBooks Server. Copyright 2008 All material on this site is protected by United States Copyright and/or Trademark laws.  All rights reserved.  The name "Bandit The Biker Dog"  and all images of Bandit in his Biker Clothing are registered with the United States Patent and/or Trademark Office.  Any unauthorized use of Bandit's image or likeness without written permission by the copyright owner is strictly prohibited. Contact Mark Shaffer with any requests or questions regarding usage of Bandit's image. ©2008 Bandit The Biker Dog | 619-885-0988 |  Contact Us   Home