Dakota

When I was about 9-years-old, my mom and Kurt bought a yellow lab puppy for the family, Dakota. She has been a wonderful dog. Despite the torture that us kids often inflicted upon her (as all children do with their pets), she never once let it get to her. Dakota was always just as sweet as can be, full of love and concern for her human family! I remember when we were little how much we argued and complained about whose turn it was to feed her and clean up after her. Those days, doggie duty was like the end of the world! Looking back, I see that the benefits of having Dakota in our lives far outweigh the costs. I'm sure everyone in the family would agree that Dakota was worth every poop scoop and more! Sadly, us kids have grown up and our puppy has grown up too. She's reached the ripe old age of 14 and it has really taken a toll on her. After all, 14 is pretty old for a dog, especially for a big dog like Dakota. Unfortunately, ever since winter hit, her health seems to be getting worse and worse. She has really been struggling (poor girl) and, as such, my mom, Kurt, and the vet made the tremendously difficult decision to have her put down. The appointment is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon. It's hard to be positive in such a sad situation, but we all know that this is what is right for her. We're all going to miss our pup very much. We'll always remember her as the happy, silly dog who would jump 7 feet in the air over and over again at the back door, hoping to get some attention or, more importantly, food. Ha ha! We were so blessed to have such a wonderful dog be a part of our lives. We love you Kota and we always will.