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In Remembrance of Bella, the Family Dog

On August 16th at 12:38 am, my sweet Bella passed away right before my very eyes. At the time that I’m writing this, it’s only been two days since she’s been gone, and I feel the pain of her absence in everything that I do. Every time I put Sophie in her bed, I remember Bella and Sophie taking a nap together just one day before she passed. Every time I go into my bedroom, I see the spot where my Belly-Bells took her final breath. It’s one of the hardest experiences I’ve ever been through, and it hurts just as much as when my family members passed. I guess this makes sense because Bella was family. She is family.

Bella passed away from kidney disease, which caused her other organs to shut down. She couldn’t walk very far because she was weak, and we had to feed her baby food and give her water through a syringe because she wasn’t eating and drinking enough. But, even in all of that, she still wagged her tail and was happy to be around us. Thankfully, the vet said that she was very comfortable and not in any pain, and because of that, we were able to enjoy her company for a bit longer.

I remember several years ago, probably about eight years ago now, my dad found her abandoned in the snow right outside of our apartment. You could tell that she was abused by her previous owners because she was scared of everything and everyone, especially children — but she was so sweet, even then. My dad wasn’t going to keep her at first because he had so much going on, but thankfully, he decided to take her in as his own. In all of the years that he’s had her, she’s helped all of us tremendously.

When I was going through a really dark time in my depression, I would ask my dad if I could take Bella home with me for a week or two. She was just such a joy to be around, and she’s made me laugh and smile so much. I think it’s safe to say that she was a major factor in bringing me out of my depression. I don’t know where I would be if it weren’t for Bella, and I’m so grateful for her love. In all that she’s done for me, it was such an honor to care for her while my dad was out of town in what would unknowingly be her last days. It was an honor to be with her in her last final moments.

To my Belly, I love you more than words can ever express. You will always be loved, you will always be remembered, you will always be cherished.

Thank you for everything you’ve done for us, Bella.

To my former and current pet owners, please drop your favorite memory of your pet in the comments. I’d love to read some hilarious/adorable stories about your pets!

“I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me, they are the role model for being alive.”

– Gilda Radner

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