We're told that dogs are man's best friend and I truly believe this with my whole heart. Recently it was the anniversary of my dog passing so here goes nothing....
Dear Tigger,
I still remember when my mom finally told my brother and I we could get a dog and the two weeks I spent looking for the right one. What other 7-year-old do you know that would spend two weeks looking for a dog? I was extremely excited, to say the least, about getting a dog but little did I know the impact one animal would have on my life.
The day we got you goes down as one of the best days I’ve had to date. We got to the adoption event and there was a long line of cages with dogs. I was determined to find the cage that he was in. My mom even says that I went down the line and kept saying not you until I found the right one. I finally found you and I was the most excited 7-year-old ever.
We brought you home and immediately started thinking of names for you. You were nameless for about two weeks it was to the point where your name was almost Face. One day we decided on Tigger and it stuck mostly because when you were a puppy you used to hop like Tigger from Winnie the Pooh.
It didn’t take long for you to become a part of the family. I mean how could you not be with you cute little face and just the pure happiness that you radiated. So many memories made, like that one Christmas you got a huge bone and it was so big that you couldn’t carry it throw the doorway. Or like when you used to run and slide under the couch then one day you tired and only your head fit. And we can't forget all the times I would cover you up with a blanket and give you a pillow before I left for school. You were there for everything, from birthdays to Christmases to Graduations, so many memories that you were there for.
I remember the day I left for college and being the first time I had to say goodbye to you. I spent all morning avoiding it because I knew I would cry the whole time. But when I finally did I gave you the biggest hug and assured you I’d be back. That I did and every time you were there to greet me at the door.
Fast forward to that summer, the end of May to be exact. I knew this day was coming but I still wasn’t expecting it. The day I had to say goodbye to you for a second time but this time it was forever. Through the 11 years, you had been with us, you were my cuddle buddy, my protector but most importantly my best friend. You taught me so much about life and so much about friendship. I know that you're in a better place now but even after two years I still miss you more than I can explain. You'll always have a special place in my heart
I love you forever.
ps. Here's one of my favorite pictures of you