Chloe

Chloe was a one-of-a-kind, a true character. All her life I heard people say, “I never really liked little dogs, but I like that one.” She did what she wanted. Even when she knew she was “bad,” she’d give this look as if to say, “what are you REALLY going to do about it?” And then she’d do it again the next time. Like getting into food left available, wandering off following her nose, or assisting a past “sister” get in the garbage. She’d never initiate getting in the garbage but she was a willing accomplice. As she got old, she expected to be taken care of. And of course we did. She got special treatment, got to go with us when the others didn’t, got to sleep on the bed before bedtime. My work takes me out of town for about 10 weeks per summer and she spent her last several summers during those times at my parents. She’d sit outside and wait for me, but also hang out with my dad and go for drives with them. My work schedule allowed me the rest of the year to hang out with her almost all the time and I’m so grateful for that. I think she was too.

She had back surgery when she was 3, followed later by liver issues and a Cushings diagnosis, but she just kept going. I’d hoped she’d live forever, but at 16.5, her heart finally gave out and there was nothing left to do. She went quietly in my arms.

I will love Chloe forever and always be grateful to have had her in my life.