by Sandy Booth
Twinkie was a 5 pound apricot poodle who entered my life unexpectedly. He was running through a busy intersection with the odds againstt him. I begged my husband to stop the car so we could save him. The mangy little thing ran right into our arms uninjured. He was malnourished, barely had strength in his little legs to stand, and was definately mistreated. He had cigarette burns on his skin and had no trust in humans. Through years of gaining his trust and giving reassurance, he became my lap companion for many years to come. He went with me every where I went and always managed to bring a smile to my face, even on the gloomiest of days. He loved me unconditionally and stood by me in life. I can still hear his yip of happiness when I arrived home from work. Twinkies health began to dwindle at age 10. I spent thousands of dollars in medical bills, but no amount of money could have replaced the happiness he had given me. Finally, at age 12, Twinkie was diagnosed with congestive heart failure and given less than a year to live. 8 months later, Twinkie passed away. There was no more I could do for him without holding on to him without pain. I had to do what was best for him, let go. The day at the hospital plays in my mind just like it was yesterday. He was laboring for breaths because fluid had built up around his heart, he was suffocating. I knew the drive to the hospital was the last time Twinkie and I would be in the car together. In the exam room, Twinkie remained beside me until the time cae to say goodbye. Watching Twinkie's pain ease as the vet administered his injection was such a peaceful and serene moment. He looked up at his mom and dad as if he was saying thank you. As hard as it was to let go, I knew Twinkie was in a better place. I always wonder if the life Twinkie lived with us for 12 years, soothed any of the abuse he endured before joining our family. There will never be another Twinkie that could impact so many peoples lives and bring smiles to everyone who met him. Two years after his death, he still appears in my dreams running like a puppy into my arms. I wake in the morning crying because of this. I'm not sure if it's sadness or tears of joy, because he always seems to appear letting me know, he's still around. Twinkie will always be with me. I love you Twinkie. Thanks for all the joys you gave to me!