To my most beloved little boy Trooper, you have touched my heart like it's never been touched before. You've been through so much in your life and you were strong and brave through it all. There were days when I just couldn't imagine how you managed, but you did. It wasn't time for you or for me. Together we gave a good fight with your illnesses, but after a while as age creeps up on us, the fight gets harder and even the strongest grow weak. You gave us so much love and you were loved by so many you can't even imagine. Oh Boops, the pain is so bad I want you home. But although the pain of not having you here to hold hurts more than I can possibly speak of, knowing that you are able to run and jump like never before is what keeps me going. You were so very brave in the last two years never showing any discomfort and always showing so much love and happiness. My heart aches so bad and there are times when I walk through the house and yard waiting and hoping to see you. I know that in this lifetime it will not happen, but I do know that there will be a day when we will be together again. And when that day comes, I will meet you at the gate, but for now I am leaving your nightlight on so that you can find your way home.

On the day you passed away I received this from a friend:

A Dog' s Plea
Author Unknown

Treat me kindly, my beloved friend, for no heart in all the world is more grateful for kindness than the loving heart of me.
Do not break my spirit with a stick, for though I should lick your hand between blows, your patience and understanding will more quickly teach me the thing you would have me learn.
Speak to me often, for your voice is the world's sweetest music, as you must know by the fierce wagging of my tail when your footstep falls upon my waiting ear. Please take me inside when it is cold and wet, for I am a domesticated animal, no longer accustomed to bitter elements. I ask no greater glory than the privilege of sitting at your feet beside the hearth. Keep my pan filled with fresh water, for I cannot tell you when I suffer thirst.
Feed me clean food that I may stay well, to romp and play and do your bidding, to walk at your side, and stand ready, willing and able to protect you with my life, should your life be in danger.
"And, my friend, when I am very old, and I no longer enjoy good health, hearing and sight, do not make heroic efforts to keep me going. I am not having any fun. Please see that my trusting life is taken gently. I shall leave this earth knowing with the last breath I draw that my fate was always safest in your hands."

I love you and miss you so much. From my heart to yours,

-Mommy