8 of 428

Write now Article Tools

Ginger is a brown-eyed angel on earth. I have had the privilege of knowing her for the past fifteen years, and though cataracts dim her eyes and arthritis slows her down, her heart is as full of love as ever.

Working at a veterinarian clinic, I have seen many heartbreaking things. One day a man brought in his six-month-old puppy to be "put down" because she grew bigger than he expected. This beautiful cream colored pup with a pink spot on her nose looked up at me with the most soulful, intelligent eyes I have ever seen. I tried to fill out the paperwork for the man to end this lovely animal's life, but I suddenly couldn't do it. I asked if he would mind if I found a home for his dog. He was only to happy to be rid of her. That, to this day, I will never understand.

When I walked around the desk to take the leash, Ginger wagged her tail politely and touched her nose on my hand. I knelt to tell her that she would be alright, and she looked into my eyes with an intensity that warmed me to my soul. I knew she would be coming home with me. This dog was meant to be part of my life.

Over the years, Ginger has always known when I needed some extra love. If I am crying, or just feeling down, she is there leaning on my leg or crawling up beside me on the couch. She helped me through a divorce, the deaths of my parents, and the loss of my three pregnancies. She celebrated with me the completion of my teaching degree, my marriage to my wonderful husband, and the births of our children. Ginger has adopted my babies as her own, sometimes just watching them with love, as a mother does. She will fall asleep with her head cradled in my toddler's lap, and touch my baby's cheek with her nose if he is crying.

What does my dog mean to me? She is my heart, my family, my warm furry angel. I only hope she knows that the love she gives is returned to her a thousand times over.

Learn more about this author, Sheri Bertaux.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Memoirs: What my dog means to me?
We want to hear your view. Write now!