There was a girl. And the girl loved dogs. One day while in college, the girl came across a pair of the most beautiful dogs she had ever seen. They were majestic and alert, calm but reserved. She knew she would have one of these lovely animals one day. She searched and searched, and found the perfect breeder. A veterinarian in Oklahoma who had an upcoming litter. She was the lucky recipient of the only pet quality ridged male in the litter. Imperfect in the eyes of some, with his wily ridge, but perfect to her. His brothers went on to achieve championship titles in the ring, he was busy winning over hearts. A plump puppy, giant paws, too big for his body. Shy and cautious at first, he would grow to love you and forever remember you after a few encounters. Stubborn but submissive, he had a hearty appetite and was very easily taught a full repertoire of tricks that entertained and brought smiles to many. A wedding and a move to Dallas. A good running buddy he made. Miles and miles logged. A bit of a straggler, but he would make it through. Time passed. A few gray hairs appeared. Hours spent sunbathing. The dog loved the warmth of the sun on his red fur. Predictable. He would come running when he heard the last of the yogurt container being scraped. He knew it was his to lick. A gentle giant he was, some of his best friends being creatures much smaller than him. A Westie, Phoebe. A Scottie, Sophie. He loved enticing them into a friendly game of chase. Brother to an ornery boxer. He kept him in check while always letting him think he was in control. More years passed. A single white whisker appeared. Long walks in the neighborhood. A baby girl joined his family. He wasn't sure what to think at first. But he soon grew to love her and enjoyed lavishing her with the occasional lick on the face. The baby grew to love the dog. Happy shrieks and smiles would pour forth when she happened to gaze upon the dog. This made the girl very happy. Months passed. Something changed. The big red dog who loved his food suddenly wasn't finishing his meals. He no longer greeted his beloved owners at the door, tail wagging, ears pulled slightly back in a show of affection. The girl and boy were worried. Off to the vet the big dog went. Tests run. Something wrong. Liver enzymes and white blood cells and platelet counts off. Specialists seen. Scary words thrown around. An outing to the preserve. Time passing quickly. The majestic dog getting sicker. The boy and the girl were ever more worried. One awful night. Many tears cried. Pain seen in the eyes of their faithful friend. A teary phone call to the vet. A decision was made to let go. Sweet friends cried with the boy and girl. One dog, full of heart, he gave all that he had, but he was ready to go. Arms around him whispering sweet words of love. He left them, no longer in pain. Tears tumbled forth, they cried for the loss of their wonderful friend. A quiet house. No more footfalls from the big dog are heard. Memories all around. Tears spring forth. We loved him so. Always in our hearts. The story of Dodger.
