Paws In Heaven

Bella, Bells Smells, Smelly Girl

How do you say goodbye to someone who has been a part of your family for 17 years?

Bella wasn’t just a dog, she was family. From the very beginning, she filled our home with joy, loyalty, and unconditional love. She loved rides in the car with her head out the window, long walks, jumping, curling up on our laps for a good snuggle, chasing intruders (rabbits, snakes, moles) out of our back yard to keep us safe, and always enjoyed a good Starbucks pup cup. But more than anything, Bella loved all of us.

She truly was the best dog. Loyal, loving, and always by our side. She welcomed two more dgs into the family, but was always the ruler of the pack, even though she was the smallest. She gave us 17 unforgettable years of companionship, laughter, and comfort. Our hearts are broken, but we also feel so lucky to have had her in our lives for so long.

We’ll miss you more than words can say, sweet girl. Thank you for everything. Love you forever!

Bear, our big black Australian Shepherd, who tipped the scales at 113 pounds. He was one-of-a-kind and brought us endless laughs and love throughout his life.

Bear loved having his hair clipped and combed as if he were headed to the show ring like a prize steer. Dog toys never really interested him much, but give him a comfortable spot on the back patio or a place on the couch, and he was perfectly content.

When Bear was happy, he’d wag his little nub of a tail and snap at the air with excitement—a signature move that always made us smile. Every Halloween, we’d dress him up as Superman, even though being a superhero sounded like far more work than he was interested in doing. Unless, of course, he was chasing a deer through the backyard or taking off after a random car on the gravel road.

Bear was a foodie through and through. If food was involved, he was paying attention. The UPS driver, Amazon delivery guy, and trash man were all convinced he was terrifying. What they didn’t realize was that behind all that barking was a dog who was simply excited to see them, wagging that little nub as fast as he could.

He was a good boy—funny, stubborn, and deeply loved by everyone. Our home and our hearts are better because Bear was part of our family, and we will miss him forever.

Foul-Mouthed Frankie (legal name) a Dudley yellow lab unlike any other, she left a mark on every person lucky enough to know her. With her striking yellow-green eyes, a soft pink nose and belly, and the most beautiful golden coat, Frankie was as stunning as she was unforgettable.

She never had enough pets and never met a toy she was willing to share, so don’t even think about it. When she had a tail, it never stopped wagging, and even after she lost it, her whole body carried on the job, wiggling with the same unstoppable joy. Frankie was, at her core, a happy girl.

She loved nothing more than being off leash, sniffing every inch of Scrivner Conservation Area, or diving into any body of water she could find. Personal space wasn’t her thing, and neither was timing, especially when it came to her unapologetic and often ill-timed farts, which she somehow found fascinating herself. Equal parts lady and goofball, she kept everyone laughing.

Frankie had a natural instinct for hunting and a love for birds, but her true calling was as a loyal companion and devoted house dog. In Frankie’s world, it was always dinner time. She never turned down a bite, but she was endlessly gentle with the nieces/nephews and especially with Hayes. The bond they shared brought nothing but smiles, giggles, and plenty of kisses. Frankie never stopped licking. Her love language was constant, enthusiastic affection.

She was a daddy’s girl through and through. Rob had her from just six weeks old, and the two of them shared a bond that ran deep and true. He gave her the very best life, and she gave him unwavering love in return.

Frankie was simply the best girl. Though her body failed her too soon, it never dimmed her spirit. We take comfort in knowing she is free from pain now, running, swimming, and soaking up all the belly rubs and love she could ever want. She will be deeply missed and never replaced.