by Bill Yates
He was 12 years old in August. A silly little poodle who was playful and filled my life with such joy. I remember calling him My spinny puppy, cuz he's was so nutty at times. He used to jump and bark if you held your hand up, thinking you had a bird hidden in there.
We were out for our regular walk last night (Dec. 23.) I'd gotten so used to him just sitting beside me while we waited for the cars to pass so we could cross the street. Well, I guess my loving, sweet little dog got too impatient and dashed out onto the road. I blame myself for not holding his leash tight enough, it was pulled out of my hand and he ran into traffic. I'll never forget the sight and sound of the car hitting him. I thought I'd die on the spot. I ran out into traffic after him, not caring one whit about my own safety. The car that him drove off, as though the driver had hit nothing more than a bag of trash. I cradled my poor little Gambler in my arms, sitting in the middle of the street. I was crying and calling his name over and over. I remember feeling his heart beating, and then, stopping. I was and still am totally crushed by his passing. I feel as though something very deep inside has died and wonder how I'll survive this.
I love and miss my spinny puppy so much.
Goodbye my dear friend, I hope to see you when my time comes.