Sydney, My Very Best Friend

by Lisa
(Phoenix, AZ)

I rescued Sydney from "death row" at the pound when I was in college. I remember the day I first met her. I was in desperate need of some family and a friend. I had recently lost my mom (my only family) and was 3000 miles away from my home at a new college.

So, I decided I'd get a dog. I went to the local pound to look around. And there she was, emaciated, covered in ticks, and looking at me with eyes that seem to say "please help." When I asked the employee about her, he told me she was not up for adoption and would be put down that weekend. "Why,", I asked, "is she sick?" "No, she just isn't adoptable because ofhow she looks." I asked to see her anyway.

Out of her cage, she leaned on me, stared into my eyes, and wagged her little nub. I knew she was the one for me! It took some convincing, but they let me adopt her. When I brought her home to the house I shared with other students, they couldn't believe that was the dog I picked. One girl was convinced Sydney would die (given her state). I assured them she would be fine, given some decent meals and love. And sure enough, Sydney was fine.

To get over her fear of cars, we took short trips to the drive-thru of Macdonald's, where I would treat her to a burger. Once she gained some weight, we started doggie school. She was so smart and did great! She was the perfect dog! And was perfectly what my heart and soul needed. I needed family.

Sydney and I spent many, many happy years together. We were for certain best friends. We spent countless holidays together, just the two of us. She was with me when I graduated college, got married, and eventually had my two children, whom she guarded and protected with her life. She was their best friend, as well.

This past March, my sweet Sydney passed away. She gave me 14 amazing years of unconditional love. I loved her more than I have most people.

Thank you baby girl. I will never forget you.