Dear Poochie,

Words can’t describe how much I wish I could go back to that day when you were untying my shoelaces in the pet store and I told Dad we needed to get you out of this store and into our home. I was only five years old when you arrived at our home, and I named you after my favorite stuffed animal. You were the absolute best dog to grow up with.

When I was little and energetic, you were little and energetic. I used to love teaching you how to do tricks and giving you treats when you accomplished them. I know you hated when I used to put you under the blanket and make you find your way out, but you still put up with it so I could laugh.

You always took care of me and did whatever you could to make me happy. When we got older, I had to start taking care of you, but I didn't mind that. These are just a few things I wanted to thank you for:

Thank you for playing outside with me and keeping me company.

Thank you for eating all of the food I didn’t eat at the dinner table.

Thank you for snuggling up with me when I was sick and always making me feel better.

Thank you for not getting mad at me when I stepped on your tail.

Thank you for putting up with squeezing you a little too much sometimes and dressing you up in ridiculous outfits.

Thank you for being like another sibling.

Thank you for always making me smile when I came home to you.

Thank you for always knowing when I was sad and giving me kisses.

Thank you for being the friendliest dog to my friends and the rest of the family.

Thank you for letting me take your picture almost everyday.

Lastly, thank you for being my best friend and the best dog I could ever ask to grow up with.

I am so happy that Mom and ad decided to let me have you. They knew it would be a big commitment, but also a long companionship. You changed my life for the better and I will always be eternally grateful for all of the memories I have with you.