To some, pets are only pets. Just an animal; a nuisance. To me, my dog Co Co is family. She is the best friend I never had. She is loving, caring, and will steal your heart. She will give you the world and then some-- 75 pounds, curly, fluffy hair and all. Co Co loves cuddles, belly rubs, treats, and going on walks. From the first minute I laid eyes on her 10 years ago at only 7 weeks old, to now, I love spending every moment with her.

Co Co, when you were little, we definitely didn't see eye to eye. You got into mischief, such as tearing up toilet paper, getting into the trash, biting into bars of soap, eating chocolate-covered Oreos, and even helping yourself to a whole chicken dinner before Dad came home after a long day of work. You would nip me, not play with me, and cause trouble. Of course, I didn't like this, but I couldn't get mad at you because of how cute you were. I would look into your hazel eyes and my heart would melt. Somehow, we finally clicked, and have been attached to the hip ever since.

Co Co, thank you for the laughs, being a shoulder to cry on, and listening even though you can't talk back. We're not the same species, but I wouldn't have grown up the same way if you weren't in my life. Thank you for teaching me how to care for something other than yourself, and to love like no other. Having you has taught me not to be so judgmental, but to not be trusting of everyone off the street. Letting my hair down isn't so scary with you by my side. Sometimes all I need in life to be content is to be cuddled up on the couch watching Netflix with you next to me.

I've learned your likes and dislikes. To start off, you will befriend anyone who has food in their hand. You love water, but only go up to your elbows. The lake is where you long to be always, and play dates with your best friends Steve and Dawson are your favorite. You despise going to the vet and getting baths. You go crazy after getting anti-flea medicine. You enjoy car rides, and try to steal my seat sometimes even though you have the entire back seat to yourself. Your eyes light up when we give you ice cream or your nightly Milkbone. You make it hard to leave the house every day because of the pitiful look on your face.

I thank you for being my first and number one best friend, Co Co. You've been there for me when no one else has. It sounds silly to those who don't have pets, but it's an irreplaceable bond. The love I have for her is indescribable. I cannot believe you just had your 10th birthday on June 10th. Where has the time gone? It seems like yesterday you were only 11 pounds and sleeping on your baby blanket. I don't want to start talking about how short your life is because I will start tearing up-- I promise to always love you every second of the day. I couldn't be more thankful for our friendship and your companionship.

Co Co, you will always be near and dear to my heart.