In memory of Rieley

When I was a puppy

I was very much afraid

Then I met you

And I knew I belonged to someone who would always care

When I was a young dog

I did some things to try you

And you would sometimes get angry, but in the end

You never stopped loving me.

When I was a grown up dog

Oh, the fun we had!

I think I loved the hose no, the ball, no, agility class

Well, it all was so wonderful, to spend my happiest and best days with you.

When I was a middle aged dog

You understood when I could not do the things I once could

When I would tire on a walk

How I loved to be carried home safely in your arms

When I became an older dog

I could see my whole life in your eyes.

You were so loving and patient

And I loved nothing more than to just lie quietly with you

When I became a sick dog

Oh the sadness we both felt

But how you cared for me

Oh, that I will never forget

You’d wipe my eyes, and clean me up

And never once got angry

When I would lose control of my body

Your patience and understanding were what let me keep my dignity

When I was a dying dog

You never once left me

Although it was hard for you to watch me as my life came to an end

You did so out of a love stronger than I had ever known before

As I lay in your arms

My whole life flashed before me

And I saw that it was a good life, filled with wonderful memories to last me over the bridge … and beyond

All because you were my person, and I was your dog 

(Author unknown)