The Best First-Dog I’ll Ever Know

Growing up, I was never allowed to have a dog.  If you know me today, you probably can’t imagine me without a cute little white dog in some sort of shitzu form.  Harley was my first dog and I cannot imagine a better first dog.  She was one of my best friends and traveling companion during the many trips back and forth between Houston and Lubbock during my years at Tech.  It’s hard to remember what life was like over seven years ago prior to me adopting Harley because I simply can’t imagine my life without her.  Now, I have to find out.

We found Harley last night/early this morning and much to our shock she had passed.  We aren’t completely sure why, but I did notice yesterday that Harley wasn’t feeling well and that her stool seemed a bit soft.  I had planned on taking her to the vet tomorrow if it didn’t get better.  In the past I have waited much longer before booking a vet visit for symptoms much worse.  I wish I would have known that we wouldn’t have time to get to tomorrow (which is today) for that vet visit.  I’m sure that thought will haunt me for some time.

This has been one of the longest nights/mornings of my life.  It’s almost 5am and I haven’t had a bit of sleep.  I can’t sleep.  I have a headache from crying and am completely heartbroken.  It’s amazing the things you find yourself googling when a pet has passed suddnely and unexpectedly in your home.  Those questions never cross your mind when you’re adopting a dog.

So, why am I writing about this incredibly depressing news on our blog where I like to keep things light and happy?  Well, simply put, I can’t sleep.  And in the past I have found writing to be somewhat cathartic for me.  I know that some people won’t get it.  That they’re “just dogs,” but for me that’s not the case.  Our hearts are broken.  Mine is aching.  I’m going to miss Harley terribly.