Adopting a Shelter Dog - Part 3

Remembering Jack: The Best Dog In The World

There are some dogs who change your life forever. For me, that dog was Jack. From the moment I first saw him, with his bright eyes and boundless energy, I knew he was special. Jack wasn’t just a pet—he was family, my constant companion, and a source of comfort through life’s highs and lows.

Today, I want to share his story and how I made one of the hardest decisions of my life: saying goodbye.

Jack’s Crazy Spirit

Jack was not for everyone - he wouldn't let anyone touch him except me, my husband, and a couple of close friends. But the the way he greeted me at the door with his tail wagging, barking like crazy, or how he’d lean against me leg during tough days, he had this natural gift for love and loyalty.

He loved long walks, chasing squirrels, and curling up beside me during quiet evenings. Jack wasn’t just a dog; he was my best friend, protector, and therapist all rolled into one.

The Journey of His Health

As the years passed, I noticed Jack slowing down. His steps became a little stiffer, and his playful energy turned into long naps near where ever I was located in the house. Then came the vet visits, the medications, and the constant worry over whether he was comfortable.

Despite everything, Jack’s spirit remained the same. He greeted each day with a gentle wag and bright eyes, reminding me of his incredible resilience. But over time, I began to see the signs—he was tired. He was hurting, even if he tried to hide it for my sake.

Making the Hardest Decision

No one ever prepares you for this part of loving a pet. Jack trusted me with his whole heart, and that meant making a decision I never wanted to make. After talking with our vet, I realized that holding on would be for me, not for him.

Letting Jack go was an act of love. It was my way of saying, Thank you for everything. You’ve been the best boy, and now it’s time to rest.

Saying Goodbye

The day we said goodbye Jack was wrapped in my husbands arms. He rested his head in my lap, and we held him close, and I whispered all the things I wanted him to know—how much I loved him, how much he changed my life, and how grateful I was for every single moment. I sang little songs that I had been singing to him all his life.

He slipped away quietly, surrounded by love. In that moment, my heart shattered, but I also felt a deep peace knowing he was no longer in pain.

Jack Finneas

Honoring His Memory

Jack may be gone, but he’ll always be with me. His favorite toys still sit in their basket, and his paw prints are forever stamped on my heart. I see him in the little things—sunlight streaming through the window where he used to nap, the quiet jingling of his old collar, and the memories of countless adventures we shared.

Jack taught me about unconditional love, patience, and joy. He made me a better person, and I’ll carry his lessons with me always.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever had to say goodbye to a beloved pet, you know the mix of heartbreak and gratitude that comes with it. Loving Jack was one of the greatest privileges of my life. Letting him go was the hardest, but it was also the kindest thing I could do for him.

Rest well, sweet boy. You’ll always be my best dog in the world.

Jack in Louisiana 2014