Why My Dog is Truly Amazing

I recently was thinking about how much time has passed since I got my dog, Coco.

It’s been six years. I couldn’t believe it. After years of begging for the perfect dog I got one and the years flew by. Coco stood by me when I had to adjust to a new school, the braces and the pimples, as well as all the drama that I went through with grades and friends. I grew up a lot with him by my side.

I always like to tease my dog by poking him and hiding his favorite orange ball so that he would get mad at me because his angry expression is so cute. He always hid under the bed with his toys just so I can’t take it away. My jokes annoyed him.

Then a few nights ago, while I was running around with Coco, he had to stop and coughed for a very long time. It frightened me, but my parents reassured me that it was because he ran so suddenly he had to catch his breath.

I cried at the idea that he might possibly be sick and wondered what my reaction would be when he passes away one day. I couldn’t imagine it. In my head I knew he wouldn’t be here forever but in my heart it was hard to process it.

Usually, my dog likes to snuggle on the sofa with my Dad every night, but that evening, I really wanted him by my side. I tried to pick him up but he growled, indicating that he doesn’t feel like moving.

I tearfully just walked away and stared at him sadly. With one eye open, he stared at me back. I walked slowly upstairs and I stared at him at the top of the stairs. Then I walked back to my room and shut off the lights to go to bed.

I heard the slight pitter-pattering of paws walking carefully up the stairs and open my door. I opened my eyes and looked over to see Coco quietly sleeping next to my bed.

He has grown up too over the past six years with me by his side.