"He put an arrow through my heart" Funny how a phrase can have such a turn in meaning. We sometimes think of an arrow through the heart as an endearing romantic Valentine symbol, and yet it can also mean a heart-piercing emotional pain.... And sometimes it is just what it says it is, a heart stopping arrow through the heart.

Someone did just that to our Border collie mix, Peppermint Patty last week, in the woods just outside the Thomaston Dog Park; but the person has not been identified. Our pets are like family, and losing them puts an empty hole in our heart. I do want to say that no matter how precious she was to me, I am so grateful it was not a family member, friend or any human being. These are two important, but very separate losses.

We have been asked by the media: What is it like without her? How does it make you feel?

There are the obvious answers: Every time I come in the door, I expect to see her come bounding toward me. When I lay on the couch, I expect her to come up and cuddle with me. When we finish a meal my impulse is to put the plates down for her to lick them, and many many more instances when you realize she is no longer a part of your life, and you just feel so empty.

Black and white like a Peppermint Patty and sweet as mint on the inside. She was my therapy, a furry face to talk out life situations with, a committed cuddler who made no judgements, and loved me no matter my mood.

But after some thought I realized that the biggest change in my life is that my social circle has been drastically changed.

When I think of those I call my good friends that I see regularly, they are people I have met through owning Peppermint. Whether at the dog park, or neighbors that we take dog walks with, or those who have cared for her when we are away, our bonding interest was the dogs, and it is no longer exists. All of them are so supportive and remain my good friends, but the main reason for getting together with them is no longer there.

To the person that shot her, you have not only pierced our hearts but also others who loved her. The ripple of emotions goes far and wide. Our friend that was with her just before she was shot is so shaken and broken hearted. Our extended family that loved her is very upset and sad. Our dog sitters are feeling a great loss. And the outrage of hundreds and hundreds of Facebook dog owners.

If you are man enough to own a bow and arrow, be man enough to take responsibility for your actions.

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