An Angel With Paws

“If you have a dog, you will most likely outlive it; to get a dog is to open yourself to profound joy and, prospectively, to equally profound sadness. ” -Marjorie Garber

Last year exactly 15 years + 1 day after we had brought her home, our family dog, Jojo – a loyal, sweet, fun-loving American Eskimo passed away. At the time I was too devastated, shocked, emotional etc. to write about it. This year as March 10th was approaching I couldn’t help but think of all the amazing memories she left us with.

Often we don’t realize the footprints animals leave in our hearts. Coming home meant me hearing the sound of her nails trot along the tile floor as her bell collar jingled while she ran to greet me. This was her same routine, everyday the same excitement, everyday even more love to give. As my brother and I grew up she was there every step of the way… funny thing is we never thought of her growing up – to us she was always a baby. After moving & getting married I would often wonder how my kids would play with her, how she would just be so gentle with them. Unfortunately, that day will never come. What I will do however is share the lessons she left us with. To care for and appreciate animals, to always greet those coming home with a smile, to love unconditionally, that happiness is about the small things in life and a simple smile (or wag of a tail) can brighten even the gloomiest of days.

As I remember Jojo today, I count my lucky stars that we were blessed to have had her for those beautiful fifteen years. She left us with her love, important life lessons and years of priceless memories.

Rest in peace Jojo. You will always be missed and appreciated.