Value your dog like a family member. You will never regret it. The dog loves you unconditionally, and will be with you for the rest of its life; it will never stray and it will always stay. One day the dog may be gone, and it will hurt you not only because you loved them but because you wish you would have loved them harder. I recently lost my dog, Montana.

As much as I loved her, I know that I did not love her enough. I allowed my own life and my own choices to stray me away from being with her.

I feel as if I regret not being with her because she was the one who allowed me to choose the path I have. Growing up, I was privileged to be able to be raised with puppies all around me. Montana allowed me the opportunity because she was a mother of three, and one of her puppies was a mom of eleven. I treasure these memories in my heart as they are the best of my childhood. I still have four puppies today.

I wish that I could thank her, or show her the love she deserved. I know I will always regret it and therefore I will make sure to always love immensely, future pets and human beings alike.