My Dearest Dogs,

I remember meeting you both for the first time as if it were yesterday. You both were so small, yet you showed us from the beginning that your hearts were bigger than your bodies. You loved us unconditionally even though you barely knew us. Whether you realized it or not, that feeling was mutual, and our love for you has grown even stronger over the years. I am beyond thankful to have such joyful and affectionate creatures in my life.

First of all, thank you for never holding a grudge. When I accidentally step on your tails or your paws, I feel as if I should be incarcerated for such ruthless actions. However, you both rush into my arms and lick me as I apologize. That makes me feel a little bit better...

I am grateful to have you by my side to cheer me up when I have had a bad day. When I feel as if the world is swallowing me whole, I always know I can count on you to listen to me even if you cannot understand me. Your presence alone makes me feel better.

Although I might not always show my appreciation, there is nothing better than being woken up to puppy kisses. However, I would appreciate it if you could refrain from waking me up until after the sun has risen.

Thanks for constantly protecting me and the rest of our family. Who needs a security system when you have two loud and ferocious sounding dogs? I am glad to know that no robbers, bear, deer, squirrels, or plastic bags will be entering our house under your watch, and I am even more happy to know that you do not let your guard down when we're sleeping...

I love knowing that I will always have cuddle buddies whenever I am in the mood to snuggle. I am sorry if my desire to cuddle occurs all too often, but you never seem to care when I pet you as we lay together and watch TV. Thanks for laying on me as I write this article, too.

I am grateful to always have someone who is willing to eat any food that I find to be unbearably gross. I am also glad I can share any snacks that are a lot of calories, so then I feel less guilty about eating them myself. You do not seem to mind this part of our relationship either...

Whenever I am sick or injured, I do not have to worry about being lonely because as soon as you sense something is wrong, you are ready to stay by my side until I am better. Thank you for remaining by my side in sickness and in health and for keeping this promise better than any spouse could.

What would my trips back home be like if you did not greet me by jumping on me, licking my face, and wagging your tails a mile per minute? This may seem like a rhetorical question; however, the correct answer is miserable. After being separated from one another for a period of time, I'm not sure who is more excited to see the other — you or me? The truth is, if I had a tail, it would be wagging faster than the speed of a cheetah.

Lastly, thank you for being my best friends for so long. I love you both more than words can express, and if I was allowed to take you everywhere, I would. College is simply a struggle without you, but I guess the separation makes our reunions even more exhilarating. When I am back at school, I will be counting down the hours until we are united again. Try not to miss me too much — I know this task is easier said than done.

Love always,

Your Favorite Owner

P.S. I'll sneak you a treat if you don't tell Mom and Dad that I wrote an article about you guys before I wrote articles about them...