Whenever people come and go from your life, there is always at least one thing that stays consistent. A lot of times that one thing is a dog. I cannot count the times that my dog, this four-legged, fluffy creature has been there to pick me up when I’m down. Some people might think it sounds crazy, but they probably do not know the love a dog gives.

While I’ll never understand why my dogs feel the need to bark at our mailman who comes at the same time every day, or continue to bark when people they know walk in the door, I wouldn’t trade those millions of barks for anything in the world. Besides all of the barks a dog might give, dogs do way more than we give them credit for.

Here are a few things I think I need to thank my dog for.

1. Thank you for always coming and snuggling me whenever I'm sad.

Seriously, it's like you can actually sense when I need extra doggy snuggles and then boom--you're there.

2. Thank you for getting so excited every time I walk in the door.

Nothing makes me happier than coming home to you wagging your tail at the door.

3. Thank you for waiting by my door for me to wake up every morning.

As much as I wish you'd stay with me every night, I constantly look forward to waking up and seeing you out there.

4. Thank you for being the cutest little thing in the world.

Seriously, between the greetings, the endless amounts of kisses and how excited you get whenever you're about to get a treat, there's nothing cuter than you.

5. Thank you for laying with me whenever I'm sick.

Forget chicken noodle soup, a dog's love is all you need to get better. Just trust me on that one.

6. Thank you for always taking afternoon cat naps with me.

Even though that phrase is probably pretty repulsive to you.

7. Thank you for making me laugh whenever you run around in circles and scratch on the furniture to get your nice, comfy spot all set up.

Or when you start running so fast to go chase your toy and end up sliding halfway across the kitchen floor.

8. Thank you for being my very best friend.

Call me lame if you want, but I don't know what I would do without my dogs. They mean everything to me and are always right there whenever I need them. That's a true best friend, am I right?

Really, there are a million things I could thank you for. But the main thank you that you deserve is for sticking with me. You could have ended up with anyone and brought anyone the same joy you bring me. But somehow I was lucky enough to get you and I couldn’t be more thankful. No matter how many times I might be busy and not give you all the attention I usually do or all the attention you deserve, you are always there the next time I need you or want to play. Thank you for all the joy you’ve brought me, everything you’ve done for me and everything you will do. I love you both so much.

Love,

Your favorite sister