Dear “Pup,” “Dog,” “Best Friend” or whatever ridiculous name I may call you; this letter is for you.
Ever since you became a part of our family, you have been loved. Although we might have yelled at you, bothered you when you were sleeping or have made you try on “doggy” outfits know that it is a token of the love we have for you. You are the constant bond between this family. From venturing on long walks to getting us wet when we gave you a bath, you have helped us shape many memories. Memories that would not exist if you were not a part of our family. You have been there for us on our worst days, when you would let us cry on your shoulder. You have spent every single school day waiting for us kids to come home and when we did you always greeted us with welcoming eyes and an excited bark. You have helped us, our family, be the family we are. There would be no us without you. Our family’s history and future would not and will not be the same without you.
I have to be honest. When you first came home to us, I did not think you were going to be anything special. You were just a dog who had happened to be free. We took you in with no expectations. I have to say now that you exceed any expectations we may have had. All your weird quirks make you so unique such as your breed, your name and your likes / dislikes. Although we may say how much you annoy because of your bark or your whine when you want attention, we would not have it any other way. When you pass and our family begins to think about another dog, nothing will be able to replace you. And that is okay, you should not be replaced.
With every year that passes, you get older. Your activity level decreases, you develop white spots on your once black coat and your bark becomes deeper. Although these things may change with each passing year, your love for all of us does not. That is something I am so thankful for. You have been a tremendous dog for our family. You were exactly what we needed and God brought you to us. I want to thank you for everything you have taught me -- learning to be patient, finding a laugh in every situation and that an old dog can learn new tricks. I am so excited that you have a few years left of life in you because honestly, I don't want to think about what life will be like when you are gone. I can’t wait to spend the summer with you by driving you around in the car, going on our daily walks and watching TV with you. Thank you for being the dog that you are.
Unconditionally,
Your Best Friend
