I want to share a few thoughts about the life of my close friend, Snowball the Dog. No, she was more than just a friend; she was a member of the family. I met Snowball nine years ago when I was picking up our Cocker Spaniel at the vet. The vet had two white German shepherd and Russian wolfhound puppies that were found on the road; they were two white balls of fur that had not been adopted and were on the way to the pound. They asked me if I wanted to adopt them, I was very hesitant until Snowball walked to me and we instantly became friends. The family fell in love with her and she stayed with us as we later moved from Chicago, IL, Cincinnati, OH, and Fort Worth, TX.

Snowball was a blessing from God. She gave us so much love and required very little in return (sometime snackers). I believe that she is a great example of God’s love in the world. She was a great protector, loving and faithful friend. I never had to worry about my family when Snowball was home. She was a large dog, 90 pounds with a big chest and a strong bark. Repair men, UPS delivers, solicitors knew who was in charge when they came to the house. She loved to go to the park for a walk and chase squirrels. When it was time, she would pick up her leash and say it’s time to go.

As I left for work, Snowball and my wife would be at the door saying good bye. When I returned that night, I could hear her bark when I opened the garage door. She would love over me, bark and lick me. Then it was time to go the refrigerator for a treat.

Snowball liked to sing. When we sang “Happy Birthday”, whether it was on the phone or in person, she barked the whole time. Everyone enjoyed her “singing”.

Unfortunately, Snowball right hind leg was giving her trouble and she began having seizures. We took her to the 24 hour emergency pet hospital and they diagnosed her with brain cancer and only gave her a maximum of three months to live. I was crushed and took her to my vet for a second opinion. He gave her medicine for about two months and she seemed to get better. We prayed to God asking for a miracle, but she started to decline and died on August 5, 2007. It was awful seeing her go. My family was with her to the end. I still can’t talk about her without crying. I miss her very much. She truly was a blessing from God. Our lives would not be the same without her. I can’t put away her food bowl and water dish yet.

I know that if there is a place in Heaven for dogs, Snowball will be there. She will be with my Dad, who also loved dogs. My Dad passed away in March of this year; he was a WWII Veteran, a prisoner of war for 3 ½ years, in the Philippines and Japan. I am looking forward to going to Heaven so I can see Snowball and my Dad.

Thank you for the opportunity to share my story. God bless you and your family.

Your friend,

Ruben from TX