To the beautiful dog that stole my heart at the shelter,
It was your big eyes that got me first. The large chocolate covered beauties that seemed to stare deep into my soul and ask me to love you unconditionally. Next, it was your spirit. As we walked you and ran around happily, ignoring the treats I dropped for you because you were just so excited to be on an adventure. You were curious about other dogs without being aggressive, showing how innocent and whole your giant dog heart is. You were like a hug personified, making all of us smile the instant we saw you.
Then we got to play with you. You were so gentle, so kind. You loved to chase the tennis ball we threw, chasing it everywhere, even under the stack of chairs that you were much too big to fit under. You also loved to cuddle. I lied down on the ground and you immediately came over to me, lying down next to me and lying your head on my chest. You didn't know me, I was a stranger in your little world, but all you wanted was to be close to me, to cuddle me the way only a dog knows how. You also loved to give kisses, making my fiancee jealous with your handsome looks.
Then we found out more about you. How you used to be a stray. How you were only a year old and never had a family to love you or take care of you. You were so friendly for having such a hard life; so trusting and willing to be everyone's friend. The minute any other person left the room you would emit such an adorable whine, showing that you grow attached just as easily as I grew attached to you.
It was a done deal. We even bought a collar and leash to come back to get you the next day with. But then reality set in. My apartment is tiny. You're a lab mix, you need much more space than I can actually give you. And I don't have that much money. I was just complaining about not wanting to spend money on shampoo, how could I add dog food and vet bills onto that. I'm also messy and disorganized. My home probably isn't the best place for you. It killed me inside when I realized this, and suddenly, my dreams of cuddling you all the time vanished as hard reality set in.
Baby boy, I hope you don't hate us too much. I hope you don't feel sad because we never came back for you. If I was older, if I had a bigger home and a full-time job and a yard where you could run around you would be mine in a second. I want you so badly, and I want to be your dog mommy so badly, but I know that the life I can give you is not enough. I hope you find a family that will show you as much love as I feel for you, and that can also give you the home you deserve. I love you and you're such a good boy. I'll miss you darling face, and I hope to find another dog soulmate like you one day.
Love,
Your almost forever home
