An open letter to my dog

Kota Bean,

You were a rescue dog. You were so scared and you were shoved in a tiny kennel. I could tell you were afraid and all you wanted was to be loved. When you first saw Sam and I walk around the corner, your eyes lit up and your tail started to wag. You wanted us to come to you, we were the first couple that actually made you react. We were special to you. We pet your head and you just radiated love, and we fell in love with you.

We bought you and put you in the car. You smelled like a pound, you stunk! We took you home and gave you a nice, warm bubble bath, you were so happy. At this point, you had about 5,000 named. Zoe, Colorado, Dakota, Cleo...I could go on and on. But whenever we called you Dakota, we'd say Kota for short. Kota is traditionally a Japanese male name meaning good fortune. You were our good fortune! You had to have this name! Then you got the nickname Bean because you curl up in a ball and look just like a kidney bean. You are so cute!

We've had you now for almost a year. It will be a year on May 7, and that day will be a party. You have a soul, which isn't unusual for a dog...but you have a sweet soul. When you look at me, your eyes are so humanistic and kind. When I speak, you listen. There is a tiny soul inside of you and all you want to do is please people around you. You are the best secret keeper and the best cuddler. I want to give you a happy life. You are only one year old and hopefully you've got 14-15 good years left in you. I promise to take you on adventures and love you unconditionally. I will never leave you alone, I will never abandon you and I will never let you be afraid again. I saved your life from the pound and you became my best friend. I hope we have many happy adventures together. I love you, Beanie!!

Caitlin & Sam