Dear Winnie,

It has been four lonely nights since you have left us. On Sunday, June 4th, 2017 you were taken by angels. Our house is silent without your bark, the foot of our beds are empty, and when we drop something on the floor, no one is there to snatch it up.

It's funny because I never actually wondered what life would be like without you because you have been by my side for so long. Thirteen years to be exact. I remember the day we took you home. You had come all the way from Pennsylvania and you were the runt of the littler. You were a mere five pounds! Your white soft coat was smooth to the touch and your eyes that looked like black marbles were filled with excitement.

You brought joy to our lives like no other. As an only child, you were the closest thing I ever knew to a sibling! We would play in the yard, go on walks and I loved to dress you up in cute little sweaters in the winter time. You were more than a pet, but a member of the family.

When I moved away to college you were nine years old. I missed you dearly and looked forward each time I came home to you, with front paws on the side of the couch, ears back, tail wagging with an enormous grin.

As college went on, as I would come home for breaks I could tell you were becoming less playful, quieter and not as energetic, simply because you were getting old. Just like us.

As prepared as I thought I was, I wasn't. Not at all. Losing a pet is like losing a member of the family, and their absence stings. I will keep your leash and collar. I will keep pictures of you, and I will never forget the look on your face after being apart for the entire day. But most importantly, I will never stop loving you unconditionally.

I know you are in a better place, chasing the squirrels and taking all the naps in the sun that you want.

You taught me what it means to love.

I will never forget you my Winifred Lillian.

Love Your Favorite Nap Buddy,

Isabella