There’s never a good time to say good-bye to the most faithful companion of 8 years. For the past 8 years, we have had the privilege of having Sam in our lives. From the moment that Cliff and I laid eyes on him, we were in love with him.

We adopted Sam when he was about 6 years old from a family that was moving away to the UK. They were sad to see him go, but they were happy that Sam found a good family. Cliff and I were ecstatic to bring Sam home. We’ve been wanting a dog for a long time, and finally felt like we were at a place in our lives stable enough to bring in a dog.

We went for long walks and hikes with Sam. He had the most personable and relaxed personality. He went to work with Cliff everyday, and quickly became the loveable resident dog. We took Sam everywhere we went. We were inseparable.

When Joshua was born, Sam welcomed him with sniffs and licks. There was never a moment of jealousy or competition. When Savanna was born, he spent countless hours curled up at my feet every time I nursed her.

Sam never asked for anything. He gave us everything he had–all his love, all his attention, and all his heart. He never demanded anything in return, and never kept a record of wrong. Even though he never said a word to us, we knew we couldn’t have asked for a better friend.

Today, Sam passed away peacefully in our arms. We are completely heart broken, and we cannot fathom life without him.

Sammy, thank you for showing me what selflessness and unconditional love means. You have taken a piece of my heart with you, and I will forever be thankful for the love you have shared with me.