Hunter, you came into our lives one June day and stole our hearts.  Your silly puppy antics made us laugh and laugh.  Your zest for life was unending.  Every day, you jumped out of bed and were ready to go – anywhere, everywhere!  That’s how you changed our lives.  You made us want to get up and go with you.  And so we did.  Because of you, we suddenly became friends with neighbors we had never met.  Your stubby tail and long body never stopped wiggling.  What a happy fellow you were.  Through the years, wherever we went, you came and smoothed the way for us to meet so many people and make new friends.  You made us want to walk and run and be healthy. 

On the day that we had to let you go, I know that I lost a piece of my heart because I can still feel the emptiness there.  I know you would have stayed if you could have.  Six years was not long enough.   They say that others come and go in our lives for a reason.  I know why you came, but I’m still not sure why you had to leave.   I’m sorry for what happened to you.  I’m sorry that your life wasn’t longer. I’m sorry that I couldn’t save you.  Most of all, I’m sorry that your life was less important than money to the people who killed you. 

If you can, come back to me someday and make my heart whole again.  I’ll love you forever.