We walked into a garage full of rambunctious barking puppies,
and you were sitting by yourself in the corner farthest away
from your brothers and sisters. I knew instantly that we were
kindred spirits. Even as a pup, it was clear that you were an old
soul. Always stand offish with others, your love and loyalty for
the few of us you took as your family is something we will
always cherish. My road partner on many trips out west, I still
sometimes feel your muzzle or paw on my right shoulder
during a long drive. When you got sick we tried everything
possible to slow the cancer, and when the end drew near you
never questioned my selfish need to keep you here. Letting
you go was one of the toughest things I’ve ever done, but I
know that somewhere, someday we’ll hike the canyons and
mountains again.
Mark Blackburn
