In Loving Memory of Baxter

13 Years of Unconditional Love

Baxter was so much more than just a dog. He was my best friend, my baby, and my son—just with four legs and fur. For 13 wonderful years, he filled our home and our hearts with a love that words could never fully describe.

Baxter helped raise 10 children and even took on the role of a loving protector and companion to his cat siblings. He was there for every milestone, every family moment, and every adventure. He loved to play, run, and romp through the snow. Whatever our family was doing, Baxter was always right there with us. He was never left out because he wasn't just a pet—he was family.

One of the most special things about Baxter was the love and devotion he showed our children. He was there when our youngest was born, watching over her and protecting her as she grew. He had a gentle, loving heart and a special way of making everyone around him feel safe and loved.

Baxter was my constant companion. Wherever I went, he wanted to be right by my side. Even in his final moments, when I should have been the one comforting him, somehow he was still comforting me. That was Baxter—always giving love, even when he needed it most.

I'll never forget our final moments together at Celina Animal Hospital. As we sat together in that room, waiting for everyone who loved him to arrive, Baxter gently rested his head on top of mine. It was as though he knew how much my heart was breaking and wanted to comfort me one last time. Even though he was so weak that he could no longer stand, he somehow found the strength to get up one final time to say goodbye to everyone he loved. That moment will stay with me for the rest of my life. Even at the very end, Baxter was still showing us just how much he loved his family.

I will never forget the day I adopted him. I held him in my arms and promised to give him the best life I possibly could. I loved him, spoiled him, and gave him everything my heart could give. Thirteen years later, I held him in those same arms as he took his final breath, surrounded by the family who loved him so deeply.

I held Baxter in my arms when his life with me began, and I held him in my arms when his life came to an end. And when he took his last breath, a piece of my heart went with him.

There is comfort in knowing that Baxter is no longer hurting, that he is finally at peace. But that doesn't make saying goodbye any easier. Our home will be quieter, our days will feel different, and there will forever be a missing piece of our family.

Baxter was the most wonderful, beautiful, loyal, and loving dog anyone could ever hope to know. He gave us 13 years of memories, laughter, companionship, and unconditional love. And while his time with us was never going to be long enough, the love he gave us will last forever.

Baxter, I love you. Our entire family loves you. Thank you for growing with our family, protecting our children, being my best friend, and loving us with your whole heart.

I held you when our journey began, and I held you when it came to an end. I would do it all over again, a thousand times, just to have you in my life.

Rest easy, my sweet Baxter puppy. Run free, play in the snow, and know that you will never, ever be forgotten. You weren't just part of our lives, Baxter. You were part of who we are, and the love you gave us will remain in our hearts forever.

Until we meet again, my baby. A piece of me went with you, but a piece of you will always live in me. We love you forever. 🐾❤️