We had to let our boy, Nathan, go today.

Nate was a family dog. First adopted as a rescue to be my sister’s dog before she left home.

Nate was a dog of the highest order. A sweet, kind pup.

1/

Nate adored my son. And my son adored him.

Nate followed him around the house, kept him company, slept at the foot of his bed.

2/

When my son was still small enough to squeeze in next to me on the recliner and fall asleep, Nathan would too.

He was a kind, sweet dog.

Just a gentle, patient companion.

3/

His life had been long and healthy until yesterday. Collapsed last night.

I scooped him up and he just laid on my chest and put his head on my shoulder as if to say “I am old and tired and it is just my time.”

4/

Per the vets, he was very sick and ultimately incurable.

Sometimes what can be done isn’t what should be done.

There comes a time when it is the most loving to let go.

And so we did.

We will miss you, Nathan. We already do. You have been the very best of dogs. Rest well.

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