I held my beloved Angel Dog as he took his last breath today. As ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ played, I stroked his head and whispered in his ear, “Good boy,” as he left this earth to run on streets of gold. He was a part of my family for 13 years and was a faithful companion who brought us great joy. I am enormously thankful for every minute that I had with him and will treasure so many memories, as well as many blogs that I wrote about him through the years. I saw God in so many of his shenanigans. I will miss him.

In his dying today, I was reminded of God’s faithfulness and goodness. I was reminded of how important it is to love the moments that we have with our loved ones, even those furry four-legged family members. As I explained to my 3-year-old grandson that God had entrusted Angel Dog to us for a short time and now was calling Him back home, I felt such comfort in knowing that he is truly in better hands.

I was also reminded of how important it is to show up for one another in times of loss and grief as the texts, phone calls, faces, and flowers brightened a sad day. Hugs, pictures, and memories were exchanged. Life was celebrated, and loss was embraced.

I love you, my Angel Dog. Rest in peace. Thank you for so many happy days! I can’t wait to see you again.