A loving tribute to Bailey, a cherished Papillon mix remembered with love by Alyse.
We adopted Bailey over the July 4th weekend in 2011 from the Second Chance Animal Adoption Center. She had been found alone in an alley with a broken front paw. Looking back, we should have known right then just how tough and determined our little girl truly was.
Bailey was incredibly smart, endlessly sweet, and had a gift for turning strangers into friends. She understood more words than most small children and had more attitude than a teenager. When she didn’t approve of something, she’d let us know with an unmistakable sneeze.
She loved visiting her best friend, Snickers, at Grandma and Grandpa’s house, where she could race in and out of the doggy door whenever she pleased. Though fiercely independent, Bailey always knew when to lean on Mom and Dad when she needed comfort or care.
Because her life began with hardship, Bailey made it her mission to enjoy every comfort possible after adoption. Blankets, rugs, pillows — if it was soft and cozy, Bailey claimed it. She wasn’t particularly interested in “being a dog” outdoors, despite our encouragement. Instead, she preferred lounging in one of her many beds, surrounded by warmth and love.
In her younger years, Bailey loved the dog park, chasing balls, and neighborhood walks filled with fascinating smells. Retrieving the ball, however, was never part of her plan.
Her fluffy tail spinning in circles was the sure sign of her joy whenever she saw someone she loved.
Bailey was fiercely loyal, deeply loved, and left an unforgettable mark on everyone who knew her. She especially cherished her Dad for his protection and care, and her Mom for endless love and affection.
She knew she was beautiful — because we made sure she heard it every day.
Bailey truly was the best dog of all dogs, and we will miss her more than words can ever express.
