Today, I had to do something I never thought I’d be ready for. I said goodbye to Oreo. His cancer had grown rapidly, and earlier today, before the vet put him to sleep, we did an X-ray. The results showed that his chest was filled with metastasis—his lungs, stomach, and so much more were affected. Knowing that, it was clear he was suffering, and as much as I wanted to hold on longer, I couldn’t let him endure that pain.

He passed away as the vet gently put him to sleep while I held his little face in my hands, whispering to him how much I loved him. I kept telling him what a good boy he was, and how he had been the best part of my life.

I wanted his last moments to be filled with love, even though it was the hardest thing I’ve ever done.

The emptiness I feel now is overwhelming. My heart is shattered, and everything around me feels quieter, like a part of the world has faded away without him here. It’s strange how a little soul like his could fill such a big space in my life. He wasn’t just a pet—he was my shadow, my comfort, my constant. I’ll never forget the way he’d nuzzle into me when I needed it most, or the excited little barks when we’d go on our walks. I’m going to miss those quiet, simple moments the most.

Making the decision to let him go was the hardest thing I’ve ever faced. The logical part of me knew it was the right choice—he was suffering, and I couldn’t let that continue. But the emotional part of me still wanted to fight for more time, to hold onto the hope that somehow things would get better. In the end, I realized the kindest thing I could do for him was to give him peace.

I’ve cried more than I thought I could, and I know this pain will linger for a long time. But I keep reminding myself that he’s no longer in pain. He gave me so much joy, and I hope, in some way, I gave him the best life I could. I just thought we had more time.

I’ll miss the little things—his playful energy, the way he’d look at me with those trusting eyes, and even the quiet moments when we’d just sit together. He was more than a pet; he was family, my little companion, and saying goodbye feels like losing a piece of myself. But I’m so grateful for every moment we had, for the unconditional love he gave me every single day.

For anyone who’s ever had to let go of a beloved pet, I now understand that nothing really prepares you for the pain of that moment. But I’m grateful I got to hold him, to love him until the very end.