September 8, 2016

Saying Goodbye to Your Pet



Almost three weeks ago, my fluffy little Mini Goldendoodle, Riley passed away.  It was completely unexpected and he was only 10 years old, which seems pretty young to me.  Unfortunately when my parents went back after dropping my brother and I off at college, they picked up our dog and he was clearly not feeling well.  Later that night they brought him to the animal ER and had to say goodbye.

When we first got my dog, I was 10 years old and absolutely terrified of any dog I saw.  I'm surprised my parents even thought getting a dog would help me overcome my fear.  Though the little puppy we picked up from West Virginia was cute, I still continued to be terrified of him.  It wasn't until he was about three or four months old that I finally decided to give Riley a chance.  We still have a picture of the first time I ever held him-- it was pretty funny but definitely too embarrassing to share (5th grade Emma was definitely an awkward phase).

He was such a good dog.  Seriously the best! But everyone says that about their own dog, right? This past summer he slept on my bed for the first time ever, which made me so happy, because he normally would not leave my mom's side (even at night).  I'll certainly miss having him sit right next to me at dinner hoping a piece or two would just so happen to fall under the table.

It's sad to hear that something that has been a part of my life for the past ten years isn't here anymore, and I almost feel like I've taken the past few years with him for granted.  I so badly wish I could give him one more squeeze or get him riled up with a toy one last time.  But unfortunately we don't get the privilege of knowing if and when the things in our life right now won't be here tomorrow.

Losing Riley has taught me to cherish everything that is here today because life throws many unexpected curves our way. So, hug your pets a little tighter tonight (and maybe give them an extra treat or two).










6 comments:

  1. I'm sorry to hear about your dog. It's always hard when a pet passes away. My cat passed away Christmas Eve of last year, and it was really difficult because I was at an internship in Florida at the time. She had been a part of my family for about twenty years, so it was really rough, and I know how you feel. Sending love your way!

    Bryn || The Wine Chronicles

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  2. This is so touching. I'm so sorry for your loss. Riley obviously had a great life here on earth and was very loved. He's looking down on you and wagging his little butt.

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  3. Hello! I have been wanting to pop over your blog for a while now since we connected via IG-Awe, I am so sorry to hear about Riley-Honestly, it's the worst thing. I experienced this almost 2 years ago with my 16 1/2 yr old yorkie-poo.
    Looks like you have many found memories and pictures to remember sweet Riley.
    ~Katelyn
    www.theyellowspectacles.com

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