Dogs are too good for us; they show us unconditional love. If they were people, they would be the type that ask you how your day is going and actually care about your answer. So it makes sense the day they leave hurts so bad. My dog Dixie was one of the most stubborn, loyal creatures you have ever met. I feel like dogs are the greatest, most selfless creatures on this planet. I didn’t get to say goodbye. Yes, I am fully aware that dogs can’t read; just humor me, please.

I hope you sleep sound, Dixie.

I hope you chase all those cats walking across the top of the fence.

I hope it always smells like bacon and pancakes, and that you’re never hungry.

I hope it never rains, or thunderstorms.

I hope your food bowl stays filled with all the sandwiches you stole off my plate when I put it down for ONE SECOND.

I hope your ears stay floppy and they never turn inside out.

I hope someone scratches that spot behind your front legs.

I hope you find a good spot with endless sun for all the naps you can take.

I hope you find the largest, fluffiest pile of stuffed animals.
I also hope you eat their eyes.

I hope your days are long, and your naps are great.

I hope you can eat all the chocolate you want.

I hope there is no open body of water, because I know how much you hate water.

I hope that you find a friend.

I hope you find a couch you can lay on and not get shooed away.

I hope you find as much grass around a fence to eat as you can, you weird omnivore.

I hope you can lick your paw at night without being yelled at.

I hope you can get as many bones as you want.

I hope you can eat all the tomatoes off a garden vine that took me forever to grow.

I hope you can chase squirrels on walks and not drag anyone (me) across the road.

I hope there is wet dog food every night, and every morning is scrambled eggs.

I hope you don’t forget me.

I hope it didn’t hurt.

I hope you get some rest.

You fought for so long, and I’m so sorry I couldn’t make it home in time to say goodbye. You are such a good dog. I’m so sorry I didn’t come home for you, and I know I should have been there for you. I want you to know that you will always be my best friend, and I want you to know that you are my Dixie girl. You taught me so much: how to be forgiving, that people do mean well, that no matter how big I get I can always fit in a space I shouldn’t. Thank you for your time with me.