Dear Doggie

As I type this at 9:20 pm, my 11 year old dog is outside my window barking at whatever's causing her alarm. We've had our English Springer since my oldest daughter was just two years old. We got it on video; this little toddler seeing her very own puppy for the first time. It was so adorable! And our second daughter was a baby at the time. She has always known this dog for as long as she can remember. We've had this dog for three years longer than we've had our son. This dog has a big place in our lives. And now...well it's hard to even say.

She's losing her hearing and her eyes are bad. She barks constantly because she's confused. She's begun to use our garage as her own personal bathroom. But the worst of it is, she's begun to bite people. Which can only mean one thing. Sad to say, we are going to have to have her put down. As my mom puts it, we've got to give her her dignity, as well. She has been a wonderful dog for us. It's not planned as to what day yet, so we still have some time with her. For now we're keeping her confined to our family and loving on her lots.

Dear Doggie,
You've been the best doggie that a family could ever hope for. We love you and will always love you. We will never forget you. Thank you for loving us unconditionally. Thank you for all of the belly laughs, the sentimental moments, the hunting trips, the night watch, the table-scrap disposing, and the comforting that you have given us.
XOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOXOX

Love,
Your Family