I love how there are so many people who described their pet as the perfect pet. The connection between humans and animals, especially dogs, is amazing. Lex was my perfect pet. A little over twelve years ago on a hot July day, I went to the animal shelter with my boyfriend (now husband) to just look at the dogs. When we got there we found a litter of the cutest little mutt puppies. Some of them hunker down in the back of the cage and wouldn’t approach us. Others would lick us and then run around, fumbling over each other. Lex stayed by the front of the cage giving us his full attention. In a way, he picked us.
Soon after we brought Lex home, we brought him with us on a beach vacation. It was so much fun to watch him run through the sand, excited and intrigued by all the new noises and smells. One evening, while we were sitting around the campsite, I was surprised to watch my three-month puppy sit back and share his food with my 10-month-old niece. I was amazed at how great he was with her without any training or previous experience with kids.
As Lex got older, we enjoyed bringing him to dog parks where he could run free with other dogs. With his short legs and long body it was comical to watch him race around and under larger dogs.
Lex loved being with us and enjoyed all of our favorite pastimes just as much as we did. He even helped my husband propose by bringing me my engagement ring on his collar on a hike in North Carolina.
Most of my memories over the past 12 years include Lex. Whether it was going on vacation, doing yard work, or laying on the floor playing board games as a family, Lex was always close by.
This past year, despite his failing body, he continued to be full of life and his presence was comforting.
It is difficult to see his favorite spots empty. It is difficult to come home and not be greeted by the clitter clatter of his toenails.
I am thankful that Lex was such a huge part of my life. He brought me and my family many simple joys and he will always be remembered.
It is so difficult to lose a fur-baby. What a wonderful tribute to Lex. I love the engagement ring story. 💚
Thank you. He was my first baby. I had a lot of time to prepare myself but it still doesn’t feel real. I’m glad I have so many wonderful memories with him.
My condolences. It’s so sad to lose an animal because they are part of the family. Lex was very lucky to live with you and your family. It seems that he had a lovely life.
Thank you for your kind words. He was family.
He sounds like a lovely dog – you were all lucky to have each other. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Thank you. He was.
It’s never easy to lose them because they become family. I lost my Leroy in January, on his 11th birthday. I still expect to see him at the door when I come home. Sending hugs your way!
Thank you. I’m sorry to hear about Leroy. I think I’ll be expecting to see Lex for a while as well.
Oh, Suzanne, thinking of the pain you must be feeling hurts my heart. I’m sure your entire family is grieving. Pets are so important because they can give us a glimpse, or many glimpses, of unconditional love. It’s so hard to let go of that. Blessings to all of you in healing this loss. 🌞
Thank you for your kind words, Lisa. Each day it has been getting easier but it still feels so strange that he is gone.