Eels

36 days.

Thirty-six days wasn't long enough.

This was Peaches.

She greeted the world with the biggest smile, the softest eyes, and a tail that never seemed to stop wagging. She took treats as gently as if she knew to be careful. She sat so proudly when you asked. Every time I walked into the shelter, I couldn't wait to see her face.

She brought joy so effortlessly.

Peaches was euthanized for space.

My heart is broken.

She wasn't broken. She wasn't "too much." She was perfect. She deserved to grow old in a home where someone would laugh at that smile every single day. She would have been someone's very best friend.

Thirty-six days wasn't enough time for the world to find her, but it was enough time for her to leave a mark on so many of us.

You may recognize her from my Reiki fundraiser flyer for July 16th. I'm not changing it. She deserves to be seen. She deserves to continue smiling from that flyer, reminding people why this work matters and why these animals matter.

And another pup is in her kennel today, another favorite—Frosted Doughnut— waiting inside. Waiting just like Peaches did. Hoping someone will stop. Hoping someone will choose her. It's a heartbreaking reminder that while we're grieving one beautiful soul, another is already waiting for their chance.

Run free, sweet Peaches.

Thank you for every gentle treat, every perfect sit, every wag, and every smile.

You were loved.