Dear Amos and Blue,
A dog is perhaps the most underrated member of the family. There are a million and one odes out there about moms and dads, brothers and sisters; but what about the dogs? The dogs are there with you day in and day out. Are they only there to look cute? Sure, no one forgets how absolutely adorable Amos is, but there is more to him than that. He is a big part of my life and who I am as a person. He is an important piece of my family, and he deserves some thanks.
Thank you for helping raise me.
I was really lucky, because I was born with a dog in the house. Blue, you were no longer a puppy when I came into the picture. You had to deal with me crawling and slobbering around, pulling on your tail, and taking the family’s attention away from you, but you loved me anyway. You were there for me through the ups and the downs of my childhood, until the very end.
Thank you for protecting me.
Amos, I remember when we were walking down a little dirt path and a neighbor’s dog jumped out behind a bush, startling me into a shriek. You were on edge at once, growling and stepping in front of me. Even though the dog turned out to be harmless, you were ready to protect me from any predator, and I knew then more than ever before that I could always trust you.
Thank you for reminding me to be excited about the little things.
Sometimes it seems crazy how excited you get to go on a walk. Just hearing the word “walk” stirs you into a frantic frenzy of panting and an aggressively waving tail. To us, something as regular as a walk can become boring quite quickly. However, there is something contagious about seeing my dog being so enthusiastic; and I become just as eager. It lets me know to never lose my excitement for life, no matter how mundane something may seem.
Thank you for making me smile.
It doesn’t matter if I’m angry, sad, or just plain bored. You are always there to add that dash of happiness to my day. Just seeing your adorable face is enough to make me smile, but adding in your excitement as I walk through the door and your need for all the petting, and suddenly I’ve had the best day ever.
Thank you for loving me unconditionally.
“A dog doesn't care if you’re rich or poor, clever or dull, smart or dumb. Give him your heart and he'll give you his. How many people can you say that about? How many people can make you feel rare and pure and special? How many people can make you feel extraordinary?” –Marley and Me
No matter how many faults I have, you will always be there for me.
Finally, thank you for giving me all the fuzzy hugs, face kisses, and love that a girl could ever want. I love you.
