I knew from the moment I saw you, you were going to impact my world. And my, that you did.

It was late September when I wandered into the shelter. The smell of urine and the piercing barks filled my eardrums. And there you were. A small black fur ball, cowering in the corner.

I knelt low and held out my hand. You ever so hesitantly pressed your nose to my palm. You raised a little paw and draped it against the mesh barrier between us. I knew right then and there, you were mine.

You were such a sweet, quiet and loyal soul. We had a lifetime of adventures and very few of my memories are without you.

You beat cancer in your early years. When it came back to plague you late in life, we knew this time it would be goodbye. I was never ready for this day, but you were.

Though saying goodbye to you was one of my hardest trials in life, it was also the greatest gift I could give you.

Kayley was laid to rest at home, on her pillow on her favorite spot on the deck. The frogs and crickets sang their evening song. The sky was a crisp blue and the sun sat low in the sky. I stayed by her side until she took her last breath and her heart gave its final beat.

I will forever think of you when I see the falling snow. I will always feel you next to me when I stroll the sandy beach. I still feel you there riding shot gun in the vehicle.

There is a definite void in my heart and home. There is never enough time with a good dog.

Thank you for all the wonderful memories my sweet, sweet girl. Thank you for walking beside me and keeping me safe for all these years.

It was an honor to be your “mom.”

Until our paths cross again.

Xx Katt