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"I'm sorry, but he's already gone," that reality finally hit me and I realized the precious creature that had given me so much love and brought me so much joy was gone. While my husband stood at the table, where Bailey's tiny body lay, I sank into a chair in the corner and sobbed and screamed out loud. The pain was unbearable. My heart, as well as my life, had shattered.

Since that day, my family has experienced a myriad of emotions. In addition to the grief and heartbreak, we have experienced an enormous amount of guilt. My guilt has come from allowing Bailey to leave my side that morning and for failing to protect him as I always promised I would. As hard as I try to remember only the good times, I still have nightmares about the events that took place that day, and I fear I always will. My oldest son has not only had to deal with the pain of losing a beloved pet, but guilt in knowing that he brought the dog that took Bailey's life to our home. Even though my husband and I have spent countless hours attempting to assure him that nothing that took place was his fault, I know he still feels the burden of guilt in his own heart and mind. My youngest son still cries on occasion, expressing to me his sorrow for not being able to save Bailey. He was the first to get to Bailey that day, and I can only imagine the horrific memories that still exist in his mind.

Only those who have ever truly loved an animal can understand what my family and I have endured in this past year. Life is only temporary, and every pet owner understands that these furry friends are only ours to cherish for a limited time. Bailey was only five years old when his life ended. It is always difficult to say goodbye to a beloved pet but, when it happens in such a sudden and horrific manner, it is even more difficult to accept.

Someone once said, "Dogs are not our whole lives, but they make our lives whole." I do not believe truer words have ever been spoken. Bailey came into our lives and touched our hearts. He asked for so little, but he gave so much in return, and I know that he was truly one-of-a-kind. Thanks to the life of this one little dog, I learned the true meaning of unconditional devotion and love.

I will never forget Bailey and, although I always believed he would be with me for many more years, and although the pain of losing him has been unbearable at times, I will be forever grateful for the time he graced our lives.

Learn more about this author, Jill Eckenrode.
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