Dear cuddle buddy, workout pal, and best friend,

I remember the first day I got you. Okay, maybe that is a lie. I like to think I remember holding you when you were just a tiny puppy, but in all reality, I was only four so I cannot really remember things that far back. But, that is half the issue, for as long as I remember, you have been in my life. You were there when I was a child to run around and play, and you were there when I was a teenager and locked myself in my room to cry for hours. No matter what happened in life, you were right by my side.

You taught me how to love unconditionally. You would forgive me right away after I pulled your tail or accidentally stepped on your foot. You never held a grudge, and you always made sure that I felt loved. There are times that you will not want to be around anyone, but your family can help with whatever you need. You were always there for me, so I try to always be there for my family too.

There came a point where I started to realize that you will not be around forever. Maybe it was when you started to bark at the leaves in the yard because you do not have good eye sight, or when you stopped running circles around the house because your small body does not move as well as it used to. The one downfall to pets is that they do not live nearly as long as we do, and no matter how many years we have with them it will never be enough.

I want you to understand how much I love you. You probably understand how much I care about you when I sneak you food when dad isn't looking, or when I spend time petting and playing with you. But, no matter how much I love you, you will always love me more and I cannot thank you enough for that. Dogs are the only things that love you more than they love themselves. Thank you for the times you knew I didn't feel good and you would cuddle up to me and give me kisses. You were there for me through it all, and I promise to be there for you until your last day comes.

Lastly, I will miss you more than anything in this world. Nothing can replace the love we have for our pets, and no matter how many pets I have, you will be special. You are in every childhood memory, and we have grown up together. I cannot imagine what it was like to chase after a toddler and a puppy at the same time. You gave me love when I felt that no one could love me. You ran around with me when I had energy to get rid of. But most of all, you grew old with me.

It is getting close for your time to leave this world, but I will always remember you and will always love you. Thanks for leaving paw prints on my heart.

Love,

Your best friend