Today is the anniversary of Izzy’s passing; I have been dreading the approaching holiday season Knowing that this time in 2021, her health was failing and our time together was running out.

She departed on a day very similar in weather as today, overcast with some rain. The hardest part of opening your Heart to a dog is knowing that the day will come to say ‘goodbye.’

I am building a new relationship with Sox, who arrived in March of this year. Still, I feel her loss.

You no longer greet me

As I walk through the door.

You’re not there to make me smile

To make me laugh anymore

Life seems quiet without you.

You were far more than a pet.

You were a family member, a friend

…a loving soul I’ll never forget.

It will take time to heal.

For the silence to go away.

I still listen for you

And miss you every day.

You were such a great companion

Constant, loyal and true.

My heart will always wear

The paw prints left by you.

Poem by Teri Harrison

Kathleen Crisley, Fear-Free certified professional and specialist in dog massage, rehabilitation and nutrition/food therapy, The Balanced Dog, Christchurch, New Zealand