10/01/2026
On Saturday, September 26th at 8:58 PM, I said goodbye to my best friend, Cooper. He was diagnosed with spleen and liver cancer on Friday, September 18th, and the vets gave him just two days to live. But Cooper was a fighter. We spent every day together doing all his favorite things—eating his favorite treats, showering him with love, and cuddling as much as we could. Remarkably, he never showed any signs of discomfort. He was the bravest pup I know, and I love him so much.
Cooper passed away in my arms, in our bed, surrounded by the people he loved most, without fear. He was not just a dog to me; he was my baby, my soulmate, the greatest love of my life. Ten years doesn’t seem long enough for such a pure and innocent soul like his. I am incredibly grateful for the week we spent together before he left this earth.
I got Cooper when he was just eight weeks old and I was 17. We grew up together, helping each other grow in countless ways. We knew each other through and through. He was more human than dog, always knowing how to lift my spirits when I was sad. He could anticipate my thoughts and knew exactly what I needed before I did. Our bond was truly incredible.
I feel so lucky to have spent those ten years with him, and I am grateful to call myself his mom. Cooper was playful, smart, sensitive, gentle, loving, stubborn, fearless, protective, and the most loyal dog. Once he accepted you into his pack, he would do anything to keep you safe and love you forever.
His favorite thing in the world, besides his family, was playing in the snow! And most of all playing ball. He wasn’t just good; he was a master at it! He was fast and agile, often helping his sister, Ellie, find her missing balls in the yard or retrieving them when she would lose them in the creek, often ending up across the street in the pond. He also loved going on walks and hikes, and the occasional nighttime walks. Long car rides, kayaking, swimming, helping me dig and plant in the garden, riding bikes and visits to Grandma’s were also his greatest highlights.
Thank you so much for all the memories we created together, Cooper. I’m going to miss waking up to your nose pressed against mine in the morning. I’ll miss coming home after a long day to your joyful greeting at the door, our cozy snuggles on the couch, and your sweet kisses on my face.
I find comfort in knowing you’re on the other side of the rainbow with your pals Yankee, Jax, and your brother Carbon. I hope that when my time comes, you’ll be waiting for me. Losing you has been the hardest thing I’ve ever faced, but I will carry you with me forever.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported me through this difficult time. To my clients, thank you for your understanding, patience, and empathy. To my family and friends, thank you for all your words of encouragement. To my mom, who drove down to hold my hand day and night, and to my partner, Josh, thank you for never leaving my side and caring for me when I felt hopeless. I couldn’t have done this without you and wouldn’t want anyone else beside me while going through this. I love you so much; you were the best dog dad Cooper could ever ask for, and we are incredibly lucky and grateful for you.
Cooper, I know you are watching over me. I love you so much, baby boy. You’ve earned your wings, and now you can fly high and play forever. Thank you for everything. Goodbye for now, sweet boy.
