by Carol Okkelberg
When I saw you all snuggled up in that basket that snowy March day I knew I was hooked. Three pounds of black, curly hair and a little nippy bark that said, "Look out ~ you're gonna fall head over heels for me!" And we did!! Since we weren't blessed with children we were blessed with you, Missy, our 5 pound Tiny Toy Poodle. Oh my, what a blessing. I am wheelchair bound and on oxygen so Missy was my constant companion. ALWAYS by my side, 24 hours a day. My little girl knew what I needed before I did. For 16 years, Missy, you gave and never asked one thing in return. Just a hug or throw a toy, that was all. Then that dreaded night I heard you gasping for breath. A sound I KNEW because I had felt it myself. Quickly we took you to the hospital. That oxygen cage gave you some relief, but you were suffering. I knew how you felt. You were so brave my little one. Never a complaint or a cry. Faithful and loyal to the end. We could not allow you to suffer for one moment. You had given us such joy and pleasure, how could we be so selfish. The doctors told us that there was no hope, your little lungs were filling with fluid and breathing was becoming so labored. We let you go Little Girl, we let you go on ahead. One day, real soon, you watch for us, I promise, we will come. Your little paw prints are still on my heart. I would never let them go. You still fill every nook and cranny of this old house. Oh, how I miss you! Watch for us Missy, I love you girl!