To my beloved Duke,

There was never a problem that didn’t feel less hard with my nose buried in your soft fur – until that problem was the need to say goodbye to you.

We got you as a tiny puppy, and you made us a family. You were our first child, and you patiently taught me how to be a mother. Initially I had envisioned taking you to the children’s hospital with me as a therapy dog, but quickly we realized that you had many, many fears and you were happiest sharing your love with just us at home. Your fears brought incredible Silvia Jay into our lives. Silvia taught us so much about behaviour and relationships and positive reinforcement and was instrumental in shaping us into the parents that we are. Moreover, Silvia taught me to decrease unnecessary pressure on loved ones and leave society-driven expectations behind (something that a perfectionistic, people-pleaser like me needed help with).

We would wake up early to take you to the ocean at Point Pleasant Park in Halifax and to Lawrencetown beach so that we could avoid other dogs. You would zoom across the sand, adoring every moment of playing fetch. You loved to swim and it was a joy to watch you doggy paddle your heart out in pursuit of a ball. You joined on countless adventures, including a multi-day 80km hiking trip where we lovingly pulled 70+ ticks off you. You were the best road tripping buddy and made numerous trips between Ottawa to Halifax with us. When we went on vacations out of country you would sometimes stay at an overnight “camp” that had cameras. We would pop online when we could to watch you (usually this involved watching you follow the people around wherever they went).

For many years, you weren’t a fan of children. We struggled for a long time having a human child and had some loss along the way that you helped us through. When Calvin and Stella did arrive, you were the best big furry brother in the whole world. You took such good care of them, and you were so patient with them – it was so beautiful to see. I hope you know how proud of you we were. The kids will always remember how loving and silly you were – they especially loved when you would jump on their beds and roll around wanting to be patted and played with.

You kept our house so safe from the pesky backyard squirrels. You would howl along with every siren. You would work hard to take the snow off the shovel when we tried to shovel the backyard. You had an impressive ability to stealthily acquire every unattended snack on the counters/table. You loved the cottage and all your grandparents so much. You made us smile every single day.

My heart hurts – I miss you so dearly. I hope with all my hopes that wherever you are there is lots of cheese, millions of tennis balls and a beautiful ocean for you to play in. I will love you forever, my beloved boy.

-Mom ❤️

🌊🎾🧀👯‍♂️