More Than a Puppy, More Than a Friend

Rocky was with us for 9 1/2 years. A friendly loving dachshund.

I remember when we brought you home, you wre small and cuddly, with tiny paws and soft fur. Little did we know those paws were wrapping around our heart.

As you grew you developed a personality all your own. You knew what you wanted and just how to get it. "Come" meant we come to you, "stay" was "catch me if you can."

As the boys left one by one, you became our Rock from the empty nest syndrome. You loved the family and had a way of trying to make them feel guilty for leaving but you were always forgiving when they returned.

You loved camping, fishing and life. You cuddled, you loved unconditionally. When we came home from work you were always there wagging your tail as if to say, "welcome home, I missed you."

When we sat down you loved to wrap onto our legs and rest your head, or bark till I went and cuddled on the floor with a blanket or hold your treat for you. Licking was your favorite and you did so, bathing us with your love. Christmas, you loved to unwrap presents and always knew which ones were yours.

You possessed more human qualities than some people do. Everyone said you were a mama's suck. I guess you were, you had me wrapped around your paws.

Then came the day we knew something was wrong. For two weeks we tried to do everything right for you, but nothing worked. We knew in our hearts the time was drawing near.

You fought on with all your determination and strength. The vet even said you were a fighter. You were named after Rocky the fighter, and you were one. That last night, I stayed with you in bed, on the floor, anywhere to try to keep you close to me and comfortable. I cried and asked you if you were in pain.

Morning came and we knew. My biggest fear was you would go alone, but you held on. With all the family who loved you by your side, I held you, blinded by tears, and you closed your eyes.

The house is quiet now, no toys, no welcome home, no licks, no you.

You taught me so much -- unconditional love, how four little paws can be so human, so devoted, so true. You have left a hole in my heart but my heart is bigger because of you...

I miss you and Love you Rocky. More than a puppy, more than a friend, loyal and loving right to the end.