The End of the Leash

2/20/25

I went to the park today for the first time without you. Immediately I saw your paw prints almost permanently imprinted in the path we created. As I started on our typical route, I caught myself looking down beside me to make sure you were doing ok and enjoying yourself. It felt so empty and I tried not to cry. I always knew going to the park made you happy. A nice break from laying in your bed and the rowdy cats bouncing off the walls (literally) to be in the fresh air and have the sun shine on your face…although I know you preferred it to be overcast or even snowing.

I missed seeing you by my side, stopping to smell all the good things for long periods of time and asking you do you feel like going this way or are you in the mood to go that way? You always had quite the opinion. Especially when you stopped at the end of the driveway on those rare occasions you didn’t want to go to the park.

I loved our conversations about the beautiful day, meeting new friends, and telling people you were almost 15 yrs old. When they asked what kind of dog you were I would always respond 100% Good Boy - because you were. The look on their face was always happy when they saw you it was like they were cheering for you. I didn’t see any of our typical friends today. I’m sort of glad because I didn’t want to have to tell them you were gone.

Even though you still thought you could put it in 4-wheel drive on the dirt paths, I was there to pick you up and remind you that we’re more in the 2-wheel drive these days. When your back legs gave you trouble, we walked at your speed (no matter how slow or how long it took us) and picked you when ever you stumbled. We walked on whatever side of the path you wanted. I often told people you were from England and was used to walking on the wrong side…even though you’d never been there. I just didn’t want them judging us or giving us the side eye. It was your walk, we were all just to make sure you enjoyed it.

The park isn’t the same without you. But I know you’re free of pain and reunited with your brother. I’m also sure you’re going to the park every day where ever you are - I hope you have all the snow you can eat and never fall down again. We’ll miss you.