Last Friday morning we had to say goodbye to our dog Dexter and let him cross over the rainbow bridge. He has been my best little buddy for almost 13 years, always by my side through good times and bad. This dog has been such a gift and a blessing. He taught me how to love unconditionally and helped me through the hardest time in my life 9 years ago by just being there. Dexter taught me the power of love. Through him, I learned that it only matters that we love someone regardless of whether they love us in return. (Although he showed me every day in many ways how much he loved me.) Love is the most powerful emotion there is and having him to love got me through the worst time in my life. He also taught me the importance of being present. Dogs don’t think about tomorrow or yesterday. They only live in the moment. I cherished every moment I had with him because I knew there would never be enough.

Dexter was a real little stinker as a puppy. He had a huge personality, and boy was he full of mischief. He grew up to be the sweetest and most loyal companion I could ever ask for. He was mama’s boy from the first day I brought him home. He was my shadow, following me everywhere I went, always wanting to be near me, and constantly wanting all my attention. Although my heart aches, it’s worth all the love and joy he’s brought into my life for so many years. There will never be another one like him.

Dexter died peacefully in my arms with my husband Jerry by my side, knowing that we were there with him, and that he was not alone. He knew he was deeply loved and cared for. I told him I would never leave him, and I kept my promise to the very end. His mama never left his side. Instead, he had to leave us and cross over the rainbow bridge. He gave me the gift of peace knowing that I did right by him, and I will forever be grateful.

Rest in peace Dexter, my sweet baby boy (10/20/2009 – 8/26/2022). You will forever be in my heart. No words can express how much you’ve meant to me. I will always love you more than you will ever know.

 “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” – Josh Billings

“My sunshine doesn’t come from the skies; it comes from the love in my dog’s eyes.” – Author Unknown

“A dog wags his tail with his heart.” – Martin Buxbaum