Most students can agree that leaving your pet behind is probably the hardest part of college. Whether your pet is a dog, cat, hamster, rat, snake, bunny, or fish, the feat of saying goodbye is not one for the weak.
Although my home is not far from my college, being away from my pet isn't easy. The following is an open letter to my beloved beagle of 10 years:
Dearest Luci,
I am missing you more than words can express. Or in your case, barking can express...
I hope you know I think of you whenever I wake up, for there is no cheery face to greet me and lick my face in the morning; and at night, when my head falls on my pillow to cast myself into a sad sleep, one without you there for comfort and security.
I love my friends at school, but none of them can match up to you. Oh Luci, you and I have a bond that no one could and ever will replace.
I miss ranting about my problems to you and having you blink back at me as if you understood. It's thanks to you that I don't feel like a lunatic who believes her dog can comprehend English.
I even long for your bark, which never ceased to simultaneously impress and annoy.
I find myself hearing conversations in the hallway and rushes of wind outside, wishing it could be replaced with your vocals. I stare out the window, in hopes of seeing you walking by.
Wandering around campus sometimes makes missing you worse. It's like I'm waiting to spot your white tail peaking out of the bushes, stuck on a scent that has taken you all over the place.
Oh, how I wish we could roam around campus together – sun or rain, I'd gladly do either!
When I come back to my dorm, I unlock the door and open it, thinking you will be there to greet me. Alas, there is no frantic whining or anxious barks. Just silent white walls.
It's all wishful thinking...
Your anxiety with separation and loud noises can be quite a lot for me to handle, but our anxiety is what has given us such a strong bond these years. It's why you're my best friend, and why I miss you so evidently.
I must admit, I am worried about how mom and dad are treating you. I know they don't love you as I do, and they can't seem to connect with you the way that I have.
Are you getting your 60 minutes of belly rubbing per day? What about your walks that consist of 90% smelling/investigating and 10% walking? Your daily peanut butter treat (or two)?
Please do tell me if they have failed to do so, I must discuss this with them if it's a problem.
I won't be letting anyone treat you less than the best!
Can't wait to be around your stinky stench again.
With lots of slobbery love,
Joanna
