An Ode to Prince

For twelve years I had a best man named Prince. He was my constant pal and was there for me when many others had walked in and out of my life through the natural passage of time. Prince never expected much, just the occasional embrace and a game of tug of war. My family called him the dog of a million kisses because no matter what, whether it was a good or bad day, you could always count on him to be faithfully affectionate.

During Prince's younger days, he spent most of his time standing on his two back legs whenever possible. I can still remember him running through our hardwood hallway in Radford desperately trying to get traction as he chased his blue and green bouncy ball up and down the hall. He usually ended up crashing into the front door but brushed it off and brought the ball back ready to play again and again. Prince always played hard and when he turned eight it caught up to him, forcing him to slow down dramatically.

Nevertheless, Prince was my protector and companion. He always hated every boyfriend I ever had and showed it by growling at them whenever they came to door, no matter how many times they'd been to the house. In his older age, Prince was never content unless he was in a lap: whether I was on the computer or relaxing on the couch, he could be found stretched out across my lap.

For the past few years I have been dreading the day that I would lose him forever. As an adult, I knew that all things die eventually and that unfortunately dogs don't go to heaven, although I still hope Jesus made an exception for such a fine specimen of a dog. Three weeks ago Prince broke his hip and had to have surgery. Unfortunately he was not strong enough to make it through his surgery and my parents had to say goodbye to him without me.

As an only child Prince wasn't just a dog to me. He kept me company when I got off the school bus and later comforted me when I had a broken heart. He was the perfect dog and I felt I was finally ready to honor him with a post memorializing the special time he spent with me.

For my small audience reading this, I hope that your family will someday be blessed with such a fine addition to your family.

Forever in my heart Prince. I love you always. Your pal, Cass.