Diego, My Puppy Love

by Jessica
(Ohio)

Diego, you were the best dog ever, at least for me. You were my best friend, my protector, my companion. I will miss you so much because I loved you beyond all things. I am so sorry, my beautiful boy.

While I never got to see you as a puppy, I imagined it many times. All giant paws and ears. It was easy to imagine because even at 11, when you got excited (so excited you couldn't contain yourself) you still ran to me like a puppy. Front paws splayed wide with the biggest doggie smile, and then you would jump up, putting your paws on my shoulders.

I loved to lay down on the floor and wait for you to come over. You would stand above me and then put your head down next to mine, leaving your butt in the air. You would start to wiggle until you flopped over next to me (no one could accuse you of being graceful, my love).

For the last 6 years we spent time walking in the woods together. Every day we walked, no matter what the weather. I loved those hours in the woods. Just the two of us.

Diego was a German Shepherd mix. He died early last Friday morning. He was a rescue that came to me when he was 5. I was lucky enough to have him with me for more than 6 years before he was taken from me.

Diego was hit by a car. Even though he was 11 years old, he had years to go yet. I tried so hard to make sure he was safe, happy and healthy, and I failed. I wasn't with him when he was hit but I was with him in the end. He was suffering from a broken back and internal bleeding.

For him the pain is over now. I didn't get a chance to see him either as an old man or a puppy, but the impact he had on my life was immense. I don't know when I will stop mourning his loss but I can't imagine it will be anytime soon.