How will I handle the day that you leave? We've been together so long it's hard to believe.

I remember when we first day we met, I knew you were a great working dog, but I never realized you'd make such a great pet.

A month or two later we were inseparable, and being without you will be unbearable.

You've been by my side for over ten years, through good times and bad times and even some tears.

You seem to understand me, like no one else has. You've been a great listener, and never let my words pass.

You never let me down, you never complain, you never ask for too much, even if you're in pain.

Whatever I ask of you, you do. You never question why, or need a reason to.

You trust me with your life, and would give yours for mine. But as much as I love you, we're running out of time.

I know you'll soon leave me and I'll never see you again, but I want you to know, you've been my best friend.

I'll never forget you, or what you've meant to me. I won't forget our time together, as long as it may be.

The day you leave I'll begin to search for another, I know this will be difficult, like losing a brother.

I will have to be strong, and not look for only his wrong. Even though it won't be you, I know he will need my love too.

I will always compare you to him, and I promise I will try to let him in, to that part of my life I reserved for you, because I know that's what you would want me to do.

I am sure he won't be exactly like you, but I know he will have his good points too.

Though it won't be the same without you here, I'll always love you Hero, and keep you near.

You're a part of my life that will never die, and the day that you leave I know I will cry.

With what's left of our time, we'll continue to play, and I'll try not to think about that day.
The day that you leave me, and go far away, the day that my Hero flies away.

By: Greg Bowser for K-9 Hero
August 4, 2006