A Dog’s Last Will: A Farewell to My Humans
Introduction
The day I came home to my humans was one of the best days of my life. They were waiting for me with those wide, twinkling eyes filled with love and hope. Everything was new and exhilarating—the big backyard, the plush dog bed, and of course, those endless belly rubs. As I reflect on the joy, laughter, and unconditional love we’ve shared, I realize I have some things to say, just in case I am ever called to cross the Rainbow Bridge. While I may not have time to pen a formal document like humans do, I want to convey a heartfelt last will to my beloved family, lest they forget the lessons learned and love shared during our delightful journey together.
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To My Beloved Humans: The Family Who Gave Me a Home
If you are reading this, I may no longer be with you in the physical realm. Probably lying in a sunny patch in that heavenly dog park. Please remember me for the crazy way I would dash to the door whenever I heard the sound of your keys jingling, or how I could scare off the mailman with just an exuberant bark (even if my fearsome reputation was a tough act). As you sift through my favorite toys and my colorful collection of collars, know that I left you with more than just material possessions. Here’s my last will, my final guidance to you, dear humans, filled with love, gratitude, and a few essential nuggets of wisdom.
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1. Care for Each Other
Life is a series of impermanent moments. And while I may be gone, you two are still here. My heart swells at the thought of your laughter and love. I want you to remember how important you are to each other. My tail wagged furiously at seeing you share ice cream, or even just a fleeting glance across the room that spoke volumes.
You might find a vacancy where I once lay, and though the spot will feel emptier than a dog bowl at dinner time, you must fill it with love. Remember to care for each other. Do not grieve too deeply; console one another instead. Cherish every shared moment, and allow my memory to draw you closer together. Always take an extra moment to ask how the other is feeling; listen, laugh, and share stories, just like we did on our walks.
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2. Always Keep Treats Handy
Let’s be honest—treats are life. My journey to the great beyond will certainly be colorful, but I hold dear the moments we spent enjoying delectable delights. Keep those treat jars full, not just for the next fur baby who might come into your lives but for yourselves too. Remember how we made a ritual out of “treat time”? Every time you reach for a snack, think of me and give each other a mini celebration for the little joys in life.
If you find yourself feeling sad, reach for a treat—be it a cookie, ice cream, or that leftover pizza. Treating yourself is essential, even after I’m gone. After all, it was my presence that was like icing on that cake of companionship, and I want you to indulge in those bittersweet moments.
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3. Find Joy in the Little Things
One of the greatest lessons I learned (thanks to all my sniffs of the world around me) was to appreciate the little things—a butterfly’s flutter, the scent of fresh grass, the feel of a breeze ruffling my fur. My life revolved around these tiny, delightful moments that palpably epitomize happiness.
So please, take a cue from my simple canine existence. Relish those sunrise walks, savor the sound of rain beating against the window, and embrace that moment when you find an old picture of us and can’t help but smile. Let your joy echo through your day, and whenever life feels too heavy, remember there’s a little spark of joy hiding somewhere, just waiting to be discovered.
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4. Go for Long Walks
Oh, how I adored our long walks! Those simple adventures were my favorite times, filled with discoveries of new smells, friendly barks from fellow canines, and the occasional delightful detour into a patch of flowers. More than that, they were a chance to bond, a moment to connect without the distractions of the day.
When I’ve moved on, I want you both to continue exploring the world together. Visit the parks, trails, and hidden gems that await your discovery. Embrace the fresh air, breathe deeply, and most importantly, take those steps together. Let my spirit accompany you; run with abandon, and let laughter fill the air.
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5. Make Room in Your Hearts for Another Love
While I carry an irreplaceable spot in your hearts, life can be a vibrant tapestry filled with new experiences and relationships. I know it will hurt, but I urge you to eventually welcome another furry companion into your lives. Give yourself permission to love again, to embrace the joy and chaos that another pup can bring.
Adopting a new dog will not lessen the love you had for me; it will only add to the doggy love inside your hearts. Just think of all the walks we shared, the cuddles on lazy afternoons, and the mischief that filled our days. That joy can be experienced again and again in new forms.
Please remember, you will never forget me, but a new companion can help you heal and grow. I want you to have another fluffy friend by your side, filling your days with wagging tails and slobbery kisses.
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6. Keep the Memories Alive
I don’t expect you to put my toys away completely or to abandon my favorite corner of the couch. Keep everything where it is. Create a little shrine of memories where you can proudly display my pictures, my cherished toys, and the collar that holds the residues of our adventures.
Take the time to reminisce about our greatest moments: the time I chased the squirrel (and lost), when I snuggled by your side during movie nights, or the chaotic, happy times we spent at the dog park. Let these memories be a celebration of our time together. Write about them, share them with friends, and let laughter and tears intermingle as you recount our adventures.
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7. Don’t Be Afraid to Cry
Crying will come—you’ve lost your furry friend, and it’s okay to feel the weight of that loss. Don’t bottle it up; let it flow freely. I lived my life with unabashed enthusiasm and the enthusiasm of emotion is a worthy trait to follow. When you feel those tears welling up, remember that every drop is a testament to the love we shared.
There is no right way to grieve, and grief can take time. Lean on each other during the tough moments, share the deep aching of your hearts, and don’t hesitate to reach out to friends and family for support. You are not alone; my spirit joins you alongside your support circle. Wear your heart on your sleeve; let it be a badge of honor for the love we had.
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Conclusion
As I conclude my last will, I hope to leave you both with warmth in your hearts. Though I may no longer be present in body, my spirit will always accompany you—forever bounding by your side, eagerly waiting for your laughter and love. Life has ups and downs, but together, you can transform your moments of sorrow into celebrations filled with joy and laughter, keeping my spirit alive in the fabric of your everyday existence.
Thank you for the love, the adventures, the treats, and the belly rubs. I’ll see you on the other side of the Rainbow Bridge, where fields abound, joy is eternal, and dog bones are aplenty. Until then, keep loving fiercely, find joy in the mundane, and hold each other close. Remember, a dog’s love is never lost; it is simply transformed, ever-present in your hearts.
And always remember to cherish every moment.
Wags and barks,
Your Forever Pup 🐾❤️