Last week we lost our dog Chester. It has been a hard week, coming to terms with it all and letting go. He was such a massive part of our lives and had been there through so any significant parts. It’s hard to explain, especially to people who don’t own pets, just how much they can impact your life.
Chester was the best dog I could of ever asked for. He was so well behaved, like he truly understood whatever was asked of him (except ‘shake’ and ‘roll-over’ those were beneath him). He was also the cutest looking boy, with his little hidden ears and smiling face. Everyone who saw him or met him fell in love instantly. He gave us ten years of love and joy, and for that I’ll always be thankful.
His passing is a harsh reminder of how fragile life can be. How it can be taken away at any moment, for any reason. How we are never guaranteed tomorrow. And yet as humans, we constantly seem to forget this, letting anger linger too long or stubbornness get the better of you. Having death constantly on your mind is no way to live, but taking that extra second to give your pets a cuddle before you leave the house could be the last time you touch them. I know it was for me.
I will always be thankful for having such a loyal and loving companion who stuck by me through everything. I have reminded myself that he lived a blessed life with so much love, that many animals don’t get. Even though I didn’t get to say goodbye to him, I hope he knew in his final moments how much I would always love him.
Even as I write this, tears burn hot in the back of my eyes. I think animals make us realise how flawed we are. They show us unconditional love, instant forgiveness, constant joy over the smallest things. These attributes of selflessness are what make dogs truly a man’s best friend.
So, to my sweet boy Chester, you will forever be in our hearts. We loved you more than you could ever know, and would do anything to have one more kiss from you. We take comfort in the thought that you are up in doggo heaven, having the best time and waiting patiently for your owners to meet you up there too.
We love you so much Chester. To ‘The Goodest Boy’ that ever lived.
Chester Heathcote-Brew 26.10.2011 - 09.08.2021