When you were growing up did your best friend have four paws and a tail?

Well that was my best friend, Billie. She was my best friend growing up and I wouldn’t change it for the world. She attended every tennis tournament with my family. She became my copilot when I got my driver license. She made me laugh when I was sad. She never judge and only loved. I can’t remember a moment she wasn’t by my side, and I wouldn’t have changed that for the world.

When you own a dog, they have a way of taking over your life. They teach you to laugh at all the silly things they do. They help you feel confident.  They become a piece of the family. Each dog has a distinct personality and unique quirk that leaves their mark on your heart. For me, Billie’s beautiful pointing is the distinct thing that she did thanks to her old hunting dog training before she failed her training, and I will remember for her for always. However, Billie wasn’t the only dog to leave such a mark on her owner’s life. There once was a dog named Marley, whose claim to fame was being the worst dog in the world.

Marley entered John’s and Jenny’s life like a freight train. He broke screen doors, ate fine jewelry, and other unmentionable incidents plagued their household. He was a 97 pound Labrador retriever that no one could quite handle. (And trust me, they tried!) Despite the struggles and chaos, Marley loved his family and they loved him. He cried with Jenny after a devastating  loss and offered his silent support. He was the model of devotion. His family said the biggest lesson they learned though was that unconditional love comes in many forms.

It seems almost pure how a dog views the world. They love and love some more. Therefore, I can’t help but agree with the Grogans about the lesson their dog and Billie taught us. If you don’t believe me then I suggest picking up Marley & Me by John Grogan to discover the misadventures of Marley and the lessons he taught his family. (Or you can watch the film!)