LOVE IS… A TAIL WAG

“Dogs come into our lives to teach us about love. They depart to teach us about loss. A new dog never replaces an old dog, it merely expands the heart.” – Erica Jong

I first met Captain Jack Sparrow—Jack Jack, as we fondly call him—in 2022. My now-husband introduced him to me with a warning: “Don’t try to pet him; he’s known to bite. And here’s a slice of cheese to win him over.” Then, this scrawny, white, black, and gray dog appeared with teeth that could stop traffic. And it was love at first sight (Or maybe it was the cheese? Seriously).

The fact that he didn’t try to bite me right away made my husband realize I might just be “the one” (haha!). But honestly, I wore it as a badge of honor that he simply chose to like me… and I like to believe that he loved me too, just as much as I love him.

Jack Jack is probably a terrier mix of sorts, but honestly, whatever his breed, he was a cranky, adorable, food-driven, scruffy little mutt that we loved to pieces. Adopted from a shelter almost ten years ago by my husband and his roommate, he’s since lived a life of comfort—home-cooked meals, cheese, and, of course, bread with butter and bacon (shh, just tiny bites when no one is looking, I promise). He was carried around in a doggy sling whenever guests visited (his tendency to bite was the reason, although his underbite made it hard to land a good one). And let’s not forget the countless sleepovers on our beds. In his mature age, he became the best dog anyone could ask for—chill, always there for you, and the perfect silent companion. He’d sit or lay next to you just to say, “Hey… I’m here. I got you.”

Everything was going well until we noticed Jack Jack was breathing heavily even without added activity. A visit to the vet revealed he had an enlarged heart, and the doctor gave him only a year or two to live. He was prescribed medication to help maintain his health, which made him drink a lot of water—leading to more frequent bathroom breaks. This meant more walks, more meds, and regular vet visits to keep him stable.

For a while, it seemed like he was doing okay, with no obvious signs of worsening. But then, in November 2024, on Thanksgiving Day, we noticed he was once again breathing heavily and tiring out much faster than usual.

After consulting with the doctors, we knew the decision to let Jack Jack go was the right one, though it was incredibly difficult. CK, his roommate (Jack Jack’s co-parent), and I made the choice to spare him the pain of further health decline and suffering. While everyone else was immersed in holiday festivities, the three of us focused on making Jack Jack’s last moments filled with cuddles, walks, treats, and endless love. We took tons of pictures and videos, trying to capture him alive, even if just for moments we’d hold dear and look back on forever.

That day was one of the hardest and heaviest moments of my life—especially watching my husband say goodbye to his best boy. Seeing the person you love deeply hurt in such a way is a pain unlike any other. Watching Jack Jack’s life fade away in front of you is a grief that’s hard to explain to anyone—because for some, it’s “just a dog.” But it’s never just a dog. Jack Jack was a member of our family—he lived, played, ate, slept, and went on adventures with us. He was more than just a dog. He was the BEST BOY.

Perhaps the best words are by my husband (as I asked his permission to share this with you all):

Weirdly, after that day, life had to go on. We went back to our daily routines, trying to pretend nothing had changed (though, in reality, everything had). With heavy hearts, we pushed through, trying to enjoy the holiday season while making sure Bowie, Jack Jack’s sister, was never alone. We feared she might get depressed, as she had always known a life with her brother—they were adopted together, after all.

One day, as I was heading to work, a friend suddenly asked, “Hey Pen, do you want to adopt a Frenchie?” She showed me an online post of an adorable puppy with the saddest eyes, and I couldn’t help but think, “I need to ask my husband.” In my heart, I feared it might be too soon, but at the same time, I knew this dog needed us. So, I sent him the picture and gave him a call. I explained how this poor puppy had been neglected, was only 11 months old, and looked so lonely. But I didn’t want to push too hard, knowing how deeply my husband was grieving Jack Jack.

To my surprise, he was the one who insisted, “LET’S GET HIM.” I had to play the voice of reason and asked, “Are you sure? Is it too soon?” But he replied with total certainty, “YES, I’M SURE. Look at him! He needs us.” And so, we did.

And BOOoyyyyy did we luck out! Meet Cookies and Cream (or just Cookies for short).💖

He has truly been the best decision we’ve made (right after deciding to marry each other, haha)! Cookies is the cuddliest and snuggliest boy, and he came potty-trained (which is a huge bonus)! He’s calm, adorable, and just so freaking cute. Though his neglectful past came with some health issues, we’re thrilled to share that he’s now 100% healthy, according to his doctor! YAY!!! Seeing him bring so much joy to my husband warms my heart every single day.

I truly believe that Jack Jack sent Cookies to us. As CK would say, it was serendipitous. Jack knew I loved to cuddle, so he sent me Cookies. He knew his dad would love and care for him just as he did for Jack. Though my tears fall as I write this, they’re filled with gratitude—grateful that I had the chance to love a dog like Jack and now, to love a dog like Cookies.