My beloved companion,

I honestly don't have the slightest idea what I'd do without you. Some people think that makes me crazy, but they haven't met you. You came into my life when I needed you most, and my life hasn't been the same since. Because of you, I have truly felt what unconditional and unfailing love is. When I feel weak, you remind me I'm strong. Every time those eyes look up at me, they see me as perfect. There is no doubt in my mind that you're an angel sent by God to get me through this crazy thing called life.

You know something? I think you're perfect, too. Chipped tooth, sideways ear and all. You're a dork, but I absolutely love that about you. You make me laugh more than any human can. I wish you knew how funny you really are, especially on the days I need to smile the most. Somehow you can sense when I'm sad and just need your head on my lap. Or even better, you know when to lick the tears off my face (which is actually pretty gross, given the other things I've seen you lick, but I don't mind). I'm so blessed to say that I never have to be alone in my troubles because you're always by my side; I'll never need someone's hand because your paw is right there for me.

Thank you for being patient with me. I know listening to my rants can't be the most exciting thing for you to do. Who needs a therapist when you have a dog? Thank you for making me feel whole. It's crazy what you've done for my self-esteem. On the days that I feel like hating myself, you always give me the extra love I need. My heart has never felt so full. Each morning I wake up, I strive to be the person you think I am. You motivate me to be as loyal, selfless, and positive as you are. I mean seriously, you even give me the best greetings. Every time I walk in that door you act like it's been days since you've seen me, and trust me, that will never get old. I don't think anyone has ever been that excited to see me, and you are every single day.

People don't understand why I basically have to get you either a treat or toy every trip I make to the grocery store, but they don't know what a good dog you are. You're the best dog ever, of course I'm going to spoil you. If I could give you the world, I would. You deserve it all. The love and compassion you've shown me are priceless, though. I hope you know how much you are loved in return. What did I do to deserve you? You resemble every good thing there is in this life. Through you, God has shown me the closest thing to Heaven on earth.

So, this one goes out to you, my four-legged friend. I can never thank you enough for being the thing that keeps me going. I can't fathom ever losing you, and I pray that day just magically never comes. I'd be lost without you, best friend. So thank you. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You don't realize how much you mean to me. The happiness you've given me and the lessons you've taught me I will forever hold close to my heart.