Forgive Me: A Dog Story

I waited where you left me. Two long days. The roar of passing cars terrified me, but I didn’t move an inch. I stayed right there, just as you had left me. I knew you’d come back.

Last night, one of those cars stopped. A woman got out and knelt down, her voice soft and kind. She offered me food, but I couldn’t eat. She invited me to her home, but I couldn’t go. How could I? You might return any moment. I tried to explain this to her, but she didn’t understand. She pulled out a leash and said I couldn’t stay there. I panicked. I barked, growled, even bit her out of desperation. I cried until my body trembled. I even soiled myself, but she didn’t let go. She carried me into her car, and we drove away. I whimpered the whole way, my heart breaking because I knew you’d be worried when you came back and found me gone.

Her house was warm, but it wasn’t home. I cried through the night, howling for you, begging the wind to carry my voice to wherever you were. But you didn’t come. My stomach churned from fear and sadness until I vomited. I was so sure you’d think I had abandoned you. Me? Abandon you? Never. Not in a million years. I love you with everything I am. My soul aches without you.

I don’t understand why you stopped the car that day. Why you looked at me one last time and left me there. Was it something I did? Were you in trouble? I’ve told myself there must be a reason. A good reason. You’ll come back for me—of course you will.

Today, I ate for the first time. My belly hurt too much not to. I even napped on a soft, warm bed, though it felt strange not to be curled up next to you. And, for just a moment, I forgot myself and wagged my tail when she spoke to me. Please don’t be mad. She’s kind, this woman, but I belong to you. She’s started calling me Milo, but I already have a name. The one you gave me. When you come for me, I’ll tell her. She’ll understand once you explain it was all a big mistake.

Because you are coming back for me, aren’t you? Please… tell me you are.

Moral of the Story

Adopting a pet is a commitment, not a convenience, so think it over and do your research prior to making that decision. Animals love unconditionally and deserve the same in return. Choose compassion and responsibility over neglect.