Dear Chessie:

I tried to be the best dog mom to you that I could. I am sorry that there was nothing that could be done to make you better. I had to make that hard decision and while looking in your eyes at the initial exam and me thinking I am going to have to end up putting you down, was the hardest thing to do. Getting the phone call from the vet telling me what our options were, but the end result and most comfortable way for you was to put you down. I am glad that I was there and the last person that you saw and was with when you took your final breath.

Sure, I got you as an adult rescue six years ago. Not knowing exactly how old you were and what your upbringing was, but you were a challenge and an awesome one at that. Eating my Kenneth Cole heels, your fine taste in my couch among the other things that you annihilated in the house, not to mention your pee/pooh place in my office and ruining my hardwood floors, rugs and the carpeting in the bedroom. Yes, the carpeting in the bedroom. I was not too fond of the color either, and with you using it as your bathroom at times, made it easier for me to pull it up and get rid of it faster than I wanted. Your craziness with thunderstorms and freaking out trying to get into bed with me, meanwhile, panting loudly/nervously and shaking the bed. Not to mention your digging to China in my closet.

In saying that, you were an awesome dog who let Miles (my nephew) and Tayler ride like a horse. You never left Tayler's side when she was home. You were mothering to Roux (my other dog) although I thought that you two had lesbian tendencies, but I'll stick with your maternal nurturing of Roux.

You were a challenge that I would take and do all over again. You taught me patience and even though I got angry, I did not stay angry at you long. You were very loving and understanding of moods and always there.

I will miss you and I do look forward to bringing you home on Tuesday (ashes). You will always be in our hearts.

xoxo