Recently, my wife Linda and I had to say goodbye to both of our precious doggies—Happy and Annie. For 15 wonderful years, they filled our home with endless joy, laughter, and boundless affection.

Happy, our soft-coated Wheaten Terrier, truly lived up to his name. He wasn’t just happy—he was a four-legged burst of sunshine, his tail spinning like a little propeller whenever he saw us.

Annie, our Shih Tzu, on the other hand, was a sweet and tiny, gentle soul, always ready to offer kisses in exchange for a head scratch. Her eyes said thank you with every blink.

Every morning started the same way: I’d wake them up with a little song before heading outside, and then we would enjoy breakfast together.

Throughout the day, they were Linda’s devoted shadows, hanging on her every move as she chatted with them like they were her little children—her “people,” as she lovingly called them.

Evenings were special. When it was time to settle in for our favorite shows, I’d call out, “Places, everyone!” and like clockwork, they’d take their spots—Happy resting his head on my leg, Annie curled up in her blanket beside Linda.

In those quiet, cozy moments, all was right with the world.

We are deeply grateful to Doctors Bill and Evan Magehee at Castle West Animal Hospital in San Antonio and their compassionate staff for the care and kindness they showed during this difficult time.

Happy had been bravely battling a large tumor that made breathing an uphill fight, while Annie faced dementia, mini-strokes, and other health challenges. Though our hearts ache, we find peace in knowing they are free from pain.

Happy and Annie were never just pets—they were family. They were our furry angels, our steadfast companions, our daily reminders of unconditional love. Though they are no longer by our sides, they will live on forever in our hearts.