Just before we left to go on a camping trip with friends, this past weekend, we found out that Riley, my parents’ dog, had died. I have tears in my eyes writing this post because he was such a good dog and a great companion to my parents. The boys have absolutely loved Riley from the moment they could chase him around and I know they will miss him fiercely too.

About two weeks ago, July 2nd in fact, we had the opportunity to host Riley at our house while my folks went to a wedding near Portland, Oregon. In hindsight, it was a great goodbye opportunity. The weather was good and we took Riley for many walks. The boys fought over who would get to hold the leash so we had to set distance limits and trades. In his old age, Riley had mellowed and he walked about the same speed as the boys. It was so cute to hear Nicholas and Dexter utter the phrases “Come on Riley. Let’s go Riley. Good Riley.” They gave him treats and lots of petting. I wish we had taken pictures of those walks but all we have are memories. He seemed very content that weekend (even if he did miss my mom) and didn’t let on that prostate cancer was ravaging his little body and had spread to his lymph nodes. It wasn’t until last week when my parents went camping that Riley let them know that something was wrong. My mom took him to a vet as soon as they got home and then to a vet hospital. After many tests, they told my mom that he had just a few weeks to live. In order to spare him any more pain, Riley was laid to rest. And now, we get to figure out how to tell 3 year olds about death.

Riley, you were a very loved dog by everyone who met you. Thank you so much for loving us in return.

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