To anyone who has lost their beloved furry friend,

First of all, I understand. Just last week I had to say goodbye to my best friend in the entire world and the last fleeting memory we had together is forever engrained into my mind. When you first begin the discussion about getting a pet, you never think about the fact that their lifespan is not infinite. You begin forming memories from day one, and your emotions never really reach the ground from there. My dog was a source of happiness for me. He was absolutely with no doubt in my mind a part of my family, and definitely my mom's favorite "child". It's hard to imagine the thought of ever having to say goodbye. But after news of the pet's days coming to a close, you attempt to mentally prepare yourself. You're not ready, and you'll probably never be ready. Sometimes, it even may be unexpected. The love a dog has for its owner and the reciprocation you give back is unwavering.

That is one of the first lessons I learned from my dog growing up. I could make countless mistakes, and my dog would still be there for me at the end of the day. I've cried into his fur, accidentally stepped on his paws and been frustrated with him more times than once, but a dog continues to love day in and day out. Aren't family pets just the greatest? Due to the fact he was the only dog I had growing up, him passing away also represented a feeling that my childhood was coming to a close. All of the scrapbook photos, Snapchats, and great memories in my life were all centered around my dog as my source of entertainment and my friend in a time of need.

Upon saying goodbye, I had to accept the fact that my life from here on out would not be the same. I would walk inside the house and miss hearing the sound of his paw prints against the hardwood floor. I would miss him laying underneath my chair at dinner because he knew I would always let him have a bite. I missed letting him outside and continuously checking to make sure he was still out there. All these actions that seemed like everyday events and sometimes even monotonous routines began to make me realize how much I miss him. I've cried for several hours, gone through a roller coaster of emotions, and I wonder when the passing of a childhood pet gets any easier.

If you've gone through the process, you can probably relate. Unfortunately part of life is coping with loss. At the end of the day, I can't imagine my childhood without my dog, but it is comforting to know he is in a better place.

To my dog, Kirby, I hope you know that I think about you daily. I love you and miss you so much. Thank you for teaching me several life lessons and showing me unconditional love. I can't imagine growing up without you. You were truly part of our family and gave us so many tears and laughs.

Rest In Peace

Kirby Puckett

May 25, 2003 - November 22, 2017

Liked: hedgehog toy, tug-of-war, popcorn, cuddling

Disliked: baths, hot air balloons, peanut butter