Stitches (my Dalmatian)

by Marie
(Orlando, Fl)

It has been almost a month since Stitches died in her sleep near the bottom of my bed. I am still grieving for her.

Stitches came into my life in the year 1993. My mother put her dog into a kennel to be taken care of while she was away. My Mom told me to go check on her dog maybe once while she was gone to see how the dog was doing. I did and that was where I first saw Stitches in a cage with nothing blocking the sun from her and lying on a hard cement floor.

I went to the owners and asked if I could have that dalmatian that was in the back. They said Yes, if I was willing to breed her. At that point I said yes just to get her out of that place. Never did breed her or see those people again.

I got her and bought her home. She was a little scared of me but still would wag her tail every time she saw me. I spoiled her so much that she always slept on my bed and had to have pillows to sleep on. Also on cold nights she would steal my blankets if I did not have them tucked under me.

She grew to become my best friend in no time and we would travel together on trips out of town. She would always know when I was going on a trip. When she saw the suitcase she would put her bone in it as if to say "Don't forget my things and me."

I will never forget you, Stitches, and how you got your name. I was told you had to have Stitches when you were a pup because your mother cut you with her nail. I will never forget your dance you did with your tail when I came home each day, and all the smiles you gave me, as you do know Dalmatians do SMILE.

Stitches you always did smile for me. Thank you for a wonderful 15 years with you beside me every step of the way.

I love you and miss you so much, Stitches.