Sally, my best friend

by Robert
(Birmingham, England)

I got my dog Sally from the dog's home in Birmingham, UK, in May, 1997. At the time I was recovering from depression after a series of personal and professional failures, disasters and disappointments. I needed something to cling to and my dog Sally was it.

For twelve years we went everywhere, walking in the roads and fields near my home, on the tow-path by the local canal (where she used to chase the ducks off the path into the water!), having coffee in the local shopping centre, where we were a regular sight.

There was a downside. You can't just jump on a coach for a day trip etc., because a dog is like a child. You have to arrange a baby-sitter!!

But, the advantages massively outweighed this -- the company, the walks, the affection. A dog just loves you, a dog is love on legs. I used to tie her up outside the local shops while I went inside and she would bark until I came back-- as soon as she saw me she would stop barking and everything was OK.

Unfortunatey, she developed a brain tumour, confirmed by an MRI scan, and she was put to sleep on Friday, 12th June, 2009. I just can't get over it. The emptiness in my flat is unreal. Everybody loved her.

I miss her terribly. I've done nothing but cry since she was put to sleep. I think I'll have to get another dog sooner or later, because I need something to love, but not just yet--I have to dry my tears for the best friend I've ever had first.