Our ancestors enjoyed the company of various pets and different animals. We may not know all the details, but we can rest assured that pets were part of our family’s past. My grandfather on my mother’s side enjoyed the company of a horse named Dan, and he loved his dogs, who kept watch at night. My grandfather on my dad’s side loved his honey bees. He would talk to them and, at times, even sing to them. They were his companions. My dad loved his dogs, named Queen and Pete. The first time I witnessed tears from my dad was when Queen passed away. Our pets are treasures that we cherish and love. I have also enjoyed the friendship of various pets all through the years. One day, my dad brought home a puppy for me when I was seven. I named him Buster, and he was my best friend for twelve years. When Buster died, dad helped me to bury him, and for years, I couldn’t think about getting another dog.

In 2007, a picture of a skinny dog appeared on Facebook. He was picked up by animal control a week earlier and on schedule to be put to death the next day. His photo spoke to my heart that day. The look in his eyes was fearful, and I reached out to the shelter, which was four hours away from my home. The staff at the animal shelter named him Shelby, and through a network of friends, I was able to save him and transport him hundreds of miles. He arrived scared, skinny, and frail, but within a few days, he was eating well, playing, and exploring his new home. I kept his name as Shelby, and we became fast best friends.

The adventures we shared through the years are preserved forever in my heart. Shelby listened to my conversations and greeted me at the door when I came home. He loved music and playing in the creek. I have mentioned Shelby several times in our videos on Piedmont Trails. He loved to walk the steps up to the attic and hang out with me as I researched or worked on a project. He was a constant companion for nearly sixteen years. This past Friday, December 16th, Shelby passed away at 5:38 am. My husband, Marty, and I were both with him. His passing has been difficult to bear, especially with Christmas so near. Our Christmas cards included Shelby’s name, and I mailed the last ones the day before he left us. We never knew Shelby’s birthdate, but we know he was near one when he came to us. At the age of 105, in doggie years, Shelby lived a good, long life. We miss him so much.

Thank you all for allowing me to share Shelby’s story with you today. He was a big part of Piedmont Trails in so many ways. We are still hurting and adjusting right now, but Shelby will always be in our thoughts and hearts. He is resting now, and I pray that one day, I’ll see him again in heaven. May GOD Bless you all.