Emma’s health has been failing and these past few weeks have been pretty tough. Cancer got to her. So Jer, Jack and I went to the land yesterday to spend some time with Mom and Dad and of course, Emma. When we got out there Dad was outside with her, hanging out and throwing her tennis balls. She loved her tennis balls! We took some photos and played, as much as she could. Tough, tough day.

Today was not any easier. Dad and I took her to the vet and had her put down. I think she knew. It was definitely time and it was the right thing to do, but that doesn’t make it any easier. We sat on the floor with her, pet her, talked to her, told her how great of a dog she was and Dad held her when she passed. I pet her and she looked into my eyes when she died. And we cried… a lot. It was hard to leave her there… It really does feel like we just put down our best friend! And I can’t believe she is really gone.

Emma was part Beagle and Black Lab. She was born in September 1997 from my good friend’s dog Abby the Beagle! I brought Emma home while Mom and Dad were on their 20th Wedding Anniversary trip. They were not happy with me, but fell in love with her anyways. A few chewed up shoes and picture album books later she became the perfect family pet. So much so that Mom and Dad kept her when I moved out less than a year later.

Now, Emma really became my Dad’s best friend! She was the kindest and sweetest dog. She loved being out at the land with my folks. And she loved my Dad so much so that she would wait for him to come home and was always at his side. Wherever Dad was, Emma was there too.

Well, that was our day. We said goodbye to a beautifully sweet dog and friend. We miss her very much!