by Garry Pugh
Zoe is my best friend. I found her at the local shelter on a day which was scheduled to be her last. She had been abused and mistreated. It took weeks for her to trust me. As our relationship grew I found out just out special she was.
No other pet or person has ever given me the unconditional love that she did. She was with me through the lean times, the lonely times, the times when life for me was otherwise was just unbearable.
I took her to several obedience classes. She was always the best in the class, I never needed a leash as she would watch my every step and not once did she leave my side.
She followed me when I cut the grass, rode in the front seat of my van wherever I went, never EVER caused me a problem. Even as I write this she is lying not 2 feet from me.
In her later years I would take her to my office at work because she needed to go outside more and more frequetly. About a year and a half ago she had a stroke, she receovered but has had several more minor ones since that time. I don't think she is in pain but she can't hear, can barely walk and her eyesight is poor.
Soon I will have to take Zoe for her final trip to the Vet. I am trying to prepare myself but it may be the hardest thing I've ever done. I just can't seem to let her go but I will not let her suffer.
I know this site is primarily for pets who have already passed over but I'm afraid that time is near, for that I ask your indulgence.
I truly wish everyone could experience what this dog has given me. She taught me much more than I ever taught her.