Lexi

It is an impossible task to try and sum up infinite, unconditional love into a few short paragraphs. Our sweet little Lexi was larger than life, but somehow was contained in a tiny 9 lb frame. Her personality was over-the-top from the second she burst into our lives and as Dr. Liz can attest, was present up until her very last moments. Without the ability to use words, Lexi was a communicator. Even as we sat crying, knowing our time was drawing to a close, she still managed to give us a few last "awoos".

For fifteen years, Lexi was the most loyal and precious companion a girl could ask for. The pain of losing her is all-encompassing, but it is a testament to the privilege of getting to love so deeply. And Lexi loved deeply. She had a special connection with every family member, every friend, and every neighbour that she encountered. Even in the days before her passing, we were stopped on the sidewalk and asked "how many months old is your puppy?"

Lexi could sense what we needed. In moments of sadness, she would cuddle a little deeper. In moments of laughter, Lexi would put on a show. On Christmas morning, Lexi would rip open gifts and toss her new toys into the air knowing she would get a reaction from everyone watching. Going through the hundreds of pictures and videos brings a mixture of laughter and sobs. The duality of gratitude and grief is a difficult thing to balance; there was never going to be enough time.

Lexi loved life. Even when her body began to betray her, she pushed forward. She did not understand that she shouldn't jump up stairs two at a time, or that leaping from a chair to a couch would give her Mom a heart attack every time she did it. Lexi would demand that her walks be longer, and she didn't see herself slowing down, or the limping. We were so fortunate to have a puppy trapped in a senior dog's body, even if it made the decision to say goodbye even harder. But, we had the privilege of making that decision; one that we did not take lightly, and ultimately saved my sweet girl from any suffering. Lexi left us on top, with dignity and wrapped in love

We would like to send our heartfelt thanks to everyone at Sunset, especially Dr. Liz who treated Lexi with such compassion and care. Lexi gobbled treats in her final moments, before drifting to sleep being held by those who loved her in a place she felt safe and secure. That is a gift that I will be forever grateful for.

I will miss you forever and a day, my sweet Looey Girl.