A dear friend lost her dog this weekend. He escaped from her backyard along with their other dog. Although not a normal occurrence, the dogs tended to do this from time to time. Once, they disappeared for a couple of months, only to be discovered in a shelter in New Braunfels. Needless to say, my friend was thrilled to have them back. After all, these were two very unique dogs.
I remember when she got Dante. He was this tiny little thing wrecking havoc through out the apartment. Then he grew into this massive beast with a tender heart. When Dolce stumbled into their lives, it was like they became this perfect little family. And as dogs tend to do, Dante and Dolce were inseparable.
And apparently Dolce stayed by Dante’s side after he was hit by a car. She didn’t leave until it was no longer safe for her, and fortunately she found someone to take her home, broken tail and all.
I’m heartbroken for her and my friend.
It’s easy to say that these are just dogs. Why mourn over a being that isn’t human. And yet there’s a reason they’re labeled as man’s best friend. They’re companions with personalities meant to match our own. They make us laugh, and they make us yell. They love us and protect us. What more could anyone ask for in such a precious friend?
When I got the news I immediately thought of Ravi. I came home and promptly hugged him. And maybe he could tell that I was sad because he plopped himself by my knees, and didn’t move until I was ready to move.
Man’s best friend indeed.