Layla (1994-2009)

My companion of 15 years passed away yesterday. For those who haven't experienced the unconditional love of a dog or haven't yet experienced the loss of one, it's hard to understand. Her life was no less important than any other member of my family. I can barely remember life before Layla. She's always been there and no matter how we treated her or how frustrated we got, she loved us so unconditionally. I truly believe that God and dogs are the only ones who understand what true faithfulness and unconditional love is. It's been a rough two days filled with so many tears. I would give anything to have one more day with her. But I know it wouldn't matter because I want her every day after that. The bible doesn't seem very clear on the topic of if animals go to heaven or not but I know that heaven will be filled with everything that brings joy to my life. I can't imagine God not reuniting us again. But I also, unlike a lot of people, believe that dogs have souls. You can disagree with me, but my heart isn't going to change.

"For those who love dogs, it would be the worst form of a lie to call any place where dogs were banned 'Paradise.' Certainly no loving God would separate people from their canine friends for eternity"

-Stanley Coren, dog psychologist

P.S. I know it's been almost 2 months since I last posted. It's been a couple months filled with more chaos than I can even explain. But I'm back.

These photos of Layla were taken this last June...