Ode to Rocko

It is with a heavy heart that I write this, but you meant so much to me that I wanted everyone to know how special you were.

I never wanted a dog in the first place. My girlfriend nagged and nagged until I caved in and agreed to get one. I wanted a big dog like a German Shepard, she wanted a lap dog and a Chihuahua at that. She won out. I was pissed off the whole ride upstate to the breeder's to pick up a dog on that snowy day. The roads were a mess and unplowed the closer we got. The moment you looked into my eyes I fell instantly in love with you. I picked you out of the litter and named you.

That first night you kept crying because you were alone in that training cage for the first time in your short life. I got up and picked you up and laid on the couch. I was afraid to fall asleep for fear of crushing you if I rolled over. You were so tiny. I didn't sleep a wink, but you slept like a champ. That first morning when I went to get the paper I brought you out with me. When I looked around to see where you were, you were inches from my heels. We formed a bond right from the start.

As time went on it was apparent to anyone that visited that you were my dog. That angered my girlfriend because you were supposed to be her dog. When she and I argued you would bark at her. When I asked her to leave she left you behind. I would not have said a word if she had taken you, because after all I had bought you for her. 6 months went by and she shows up at my door with your paperwork and a cop. I told her if she wanted you she would have to take me to court. The cop tried to take you and I told him "you can take me to jail, but you still won't get this dog. He's not a pair of shoes she left behind." I then told them both to get the hell off my property and proceeded to slam the door in their faces. I never heard a peep about the dog again from her.

You slept in my bed, you showed me love and everyone that came in contact with you found you adorable. You didn't have a mean bone in your body and showered everyone with affection. I tried to care for you the best I could. I never let anyone or anything harm you. I loved you more than words can say. I took you everywhere even though at times you were not welcome. You were a part of me and I wanted to include you in mostly everything I did.

When I saw your hind quarters collapse on the floor I knew what was happening. I picked you up laid you on the bed and cradled you in my arms. I whispered to you how much I loved you as I caressed you and kissed you. I watched you take your last breaths and then you were gone. My world changed the minute you passed. You were the best dog a person could want. I will miss you and I will never forget all the joy that you brought me.

Rest in Peace Rocko