When I was 7, the thing I wanted more than anything in the entire world was sibling. Instead, my parents got me a dog (Don't worry, I got my sister the next year). My 7-year-old-self was more than satisfied with this compromise, and I adored my little Cocker Spaniel puppy. After a few months of growing sickness, we had to put my dog down at the impressive age of 14 (or 98 if you think in dog years). Now, based on my Odyssey profile and any conversation you may have ever had with me, you are probably thinking "But isn't she a cat person?" And the people that really know me would be rolling their eyes because my answer to this has always been, "Yes, except for Bailey. She basically has honorary cat status." So, in honor of our 14 great years together, here are a few of the things that I will miss most about the animal I managed to love even if she had the misfortune of not being born a cat.
1. Her Super Soft Ears
This probably doesn't seem like it would be that high up on the list, but these floppy little things were pretty much little clouds sent down from Heaven itself that could help destress you even in the most trying of times with a few simple pats.
2. Her Docked Tail
This little stub somehow managed to constantly be in motion. Since there wasn't a lot there for her to move, this also meant that for the most part Bailey's rear end was in constant motion. This daily sign of energy never failed to make me smile.
3. Her Wise Eyes
Basically anyone that has ever met Bailey could tell you that she was the sweetest dog. I'd attribute this most to her expressive eyes. She just had this way of looking at a person and conveying an understanding that transcended words.
4. Her Snack Prowess
Bailey was no dummy and reigned proudly over the kitchen. She knew if she stood under my feet for long enough, I would take pity on her and throw her a scrap. Although it annoyed me at the time, I have no doubt I will miss constantly tripping over the poor thing every time I tried to make something to eat.
5. Her Exasperated Sigh
Despite her normally calm demeanor, Bailey also had plenty of sass. This always seemed to emerge whenever you were ranting about something trivial. She knew when you were being pathetic and wanted you to know it too. I'd like to think that this expression was always her doggy-equivalent to an eye roll.
6. Her Protectiveness
I was always so amazed by Bailey's ability to listen for strangers outside the house. I don't know if it was voodoo magic or her super keen hearing (OK, probably the hearing), but this dog always managed to differentiate between strangers on the deck and family members. Her legendary freak out always let me know that there was a stranger at the door and not just a family member looking for keys.
7. Her Kindness
This one I can't even try to put into words, but it was always the characteristic that people commented on when they talked about Bailey. She honestly was the sweetest, most docile dog imaginable. And she would have to be. Somehow, she survived the arrival of multiple other pets, three other siblings and countless other changes in our household. Through it all, she remained a steadfast sweetheart. When I return home from school, I honestly can't imagine walking through the door without being greeted by that eager, tail-wagging, kind presence.
