Deep breath. This is one of the hardest things I’ve ever written.

I had to let Piper go this week. Though she was 12 years and 3 months old, until the last week or so she never showed her age. Most people would never guess she was 12. And that’s exactly how she loved it. She was proud.

She got a little gray on her muzzle, but she never lost a step. She was as sharp witted as ever. Knew all of her tricks. Still stellar at stealing food. Never failing to make me smile with a spirit that soared. And of course beautiful – in every way imaginable. I suppose she tricked me. She always seemed invincible.

Piper was my first “on my own” dog. Not having a dog in college was torture. So as soon as I graduated and got my first job, I saved every penny I could for what would become priceless.

From the moment she arrived into my life – she introduced me to so many incredible people. And because of that we both found positive training, which became not just a method or a tool, but a way of life. It filled us with hope, understanding, motivation, fun and purpose. She did that for me. And I tried to repay her with every glorious moment we spent together. We never wasted a moment. No regrets.

We went to so many places and did so many things together. She was by my side through four different jobs and five different addresses. I think she visited every single place I worked – and only one actually allowed dogs. She made things happen. She had a way about her that made everyone take notice. It was this perfect concoction of confidence, intelligence, hilarity, spunk, independence and so much love.

No matter how bad things seemed or what chaos was happening, she always kept her cool and figured out how to make things work in her favor. She never let anything get her down, and she would hate that tears are streaming down my face as I’m writing this. But Phenom is licking them away. And Vega is sticking close. I know they miss her too. Her presence was big.

She was my rock. She carried me for 12 years and 3 months. And on our last walk together, she almost made it back home, but then I carried her the rest of the way. It was the least I could do. We were a great team and though I will no longer be able to see her or hug around her fluffy fur – she will be with me. I will hold her tighter than ever before. She will be in my heart until I see her again one day.

Here is a video of just a few of the moments we shared. I cherished them then – and now. And I know Piper would want to send her love to all those who were a part of our lives and helped us make our journey one I’ll never forget. https://vimeo.com/93694169

Piper Tribute from Margaret Bond on Vimeo.

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