A girl’s best friend

Dear Kane,

It’s been seven years since we adopted you and seven years since I met my best friend.

I won’t lie; I really wanted a cat instead, but momma fell in love with you and, soon after, I did, too. I told my parents that you were too pretty — that classic football player stereotype: beautiful with no brain. To my surprise, you picked up tricks like nobody’s business. I think, truth be told, I was hesitant after Bella passed to trust another dog. How could I? When she was so perfect. But you made me feel safe and Bella would be happy to know you followed her footsteps.

We spent many days running through hallways that were way too small for you, sneaking you onto furniture when my parents weren’t home and sharing snacks together. Lord knows that you’ve heard every thought I’ve ever had and sided with my friends, even when I didn’t want you to, about our arguments. You’re communicative like that — with your eyes. Your stunning, deep honey brown eyes; they always understand.

When I swore that I went through my first heartbreak (I didn’t), you were there to warm me with your 130-pound hugs and listen anyway. When you slept in my room and my parents checked in on us at night, you let them know that you were watching over me.

Kane, you’re turning 8 years old four days after this comes out and I want you to know that it has been a privilege to spend such a pivotal period of my life with you. You only experience 16-23 years old once and I needed your guidance throughout all of it. There were times I thought I wouldn’t make it through school, summers or even life, but you always reassured me that I could. Those times we cuddled in the grass together are moments I’ll never forget. You listened to my secrets all while being the best pillow that a girl could ask for.

So, thank you. Thank you for understanding all the times I couldn’t come home or felt too sick to play with you. Thank you for not being upset with me when I got another dog or when Ron wanted to get pets, too.

People always talk about dogs being a man’s best friend and, truthfully, you made me understand. I think you taught me to be a better person to those around me and to be patient with your little brother when I’m frustrated (I’ve seen you fight your frustrations with Ron enough to know it’s not easy).

I don’t know what I’ll do when you decide to leave me, but please know that when you do, it won’t be the same without you. I know that even after you are gone, you will continue to watch over me. I’ll try my best to keep the reminders you gave me close.

Kane, my best boy, I love you forever and always.

Kelley is a reporter for the Hays Free Press/News-Dispatch. She can be reached at [email protected].