Wednesday, May 1, 2013

How Riley Changed My World


Two weeks ago, my fiance and I put Riley, our amazing 11 year old, orange, fluffy, lionesque border collie mix, to sleep.

The word "heartbroken" has never felt so shallow.

Riley was the happiest dog. His previous owners called him "smiley Riley" and a wave of his curvy, fluffy tail drew you magnetically from across the room. He would gently lay his head your lap if you sat beside him. I was teaching him to "give kisses" before he got sick.

I still expect to hear his collar jingling up the stairs when I come home.

Riley reminded me of a pet's power to change our world.

He reminded me why I'm a vet.

In his memory, I'd like to share 3 lessons Riley taught me.