Goodbye To My Dog Tyler

Dear Tyler,

My heart is heavy. I had to let you go. You just couldn't do it any more. I know you tried, but you just didn't have the strength any more. The cancer that we found almost a month ago, got the best of your almost 16 year old body. We hoped that it was just an infection but, because I loved you, I was not going to torture you with any radiation or chemotherapy. I opted for the antibiotics and antiinflammatories and hoped. The vet said you would let me know when it was time and you did. You picked a day that I was around and available to put you out of your pain. It was hard to say good bye to you. I loved you as much as any person could love a dog. It was easy to love you. You were a great dog. You had a zest for life and I know you loved me with all of your heart. When I rescued you from where you were 14 years ago, you knew to come with me without hesitation. You knew that a great life with me was ahead of you. I felt your love when you caught a frisbee like a top NFL receiver catches a football and brought it back for more. I felt it when I took you up to Northern Michigan and you swam out to fetch a water toy at the dog beach in Harbor Springs and brought it back for more. I felt it because you let me know that your favorite place was always next to me. You welcomed my wife, Teri into our pack and then our son. You showed both of them almost as much love as you did me. I know that you are now gone forever and I cannot bring you back. If I could, you know I would. So, over time, Tyler, when my crying stops, I will focus on the great times that we had together. I will always love and miss you.

Love, Lee