What can be said about Dakota?

She was my first dog of my own. She was the dog that got me into dog training. She was the dog that started me on rescue. She was the dog that made me who I am today.

Dakota was with me from the beginning. After college Dakota helped me through an abusive, co-dependant relationship. Dakota gave me the strength to step out on my own. It was with Dakota that we moved out - moved on.

Dakota taught me how to be independent. She went with me everywhere - to work, to practice, to games. She traveled on the bus when I coached field hockey. She was so smart she would sit on the sidelines and KNEW that the double whistle meant half time or game over. She never budged until she heard that double whistle - then it was on the field find mommy time!!

Dakota moved with me - 6 times we found a new home together. Never once did I think about giving her up for a nicer place that wasn't pet friendly. I wouldn't go with out her.

Dakota was there with me through my parents' divorce - and later in life, through my own.

Dakota put up with EVERY rescue dog that came through my house. God knows there was a lot of them - more than I can count, although I remember every one. She didn't love them, but she tolerated them with an air of regal indifference. She knew she was special.

Dakota was far from the perfect dog - neurotic, with separation anxiety. She hated the car, or as I always said, she hated going places but loved getting there. She was never as happy as she was at the beach. She was a different dog. All her fears, neurosis and problems disappeared as she caught her first whiff of the salty sea air. Her fear of cars would vanish as she would jump up from her "safe place" (behind the passenger seat curled in a ball on the floor) and shove her nose out the window.

She would run and play in the surf. She would swim out as far as I dared go. She would roll and frolic in the waves, only to come back to dry land and roll over and over until she was covered head to toe in dry, crusty sand. That was the best part - well, that and rubbing on unsuspecting mommy when she was wet and covered in sand.

Dakota loved to play and loved tennis balls - but only her own. Once another dog touched them they were "contaminated". It had to be a new ball straight from the canister for Dakota's mouth only.

Dakota, I miss you so much already. I know you're waiting for me and Dodger is with you. Keep her in line like you always did. Tell her I love her and miss her too. I will see you again. Stay safe, stay out of cars, leave the trash can alone.

I'll be there soon.