Hi,

I started this essay by describing my beautiful Akita named Fletcher. She recently turned 6 years old and she is a wonderful, loving girl who is as smart as could be. Shortly into writing it though, I realized that writing about her, was not fair to her sister, my 7 year old chocolate lab named Kayla, who is just as much a part of me and my life as Fletcher. You see, they both have been with me since they were puppies, and have been there for me when I was sick, tired, sad, and of course, through all the good times as well. While I know there are many dogs that save lives, sniff out drugs, and perform amazing tricks, my 2 girls just offer that unconditional love that all canines offer and ask for just shelter, food and love in return. A few years ago, I bought a cabin far away in Vermont, mostly for them. They love getting away and being out in the woods with me. As soon as I bring out the overnight bag and start packing, they both know that means that we are heading up to VT. They love each other and they have their own little games that they play together. When I get home from work, they do this thing that I call the double-decker bus where they are sitting in this living room chair, Kayla on top of the chair, and Fletcher in the seat, just watching out the window waiting for my arrival. When I open the door each day, it is like they havent seen me in months. They run around, grab a stuffed animal, and continue to run around with such joy. You see, these 2 girls are my first dogs and I can't even think about ever losing them. I realize that cloning does not duplicate personalities, but would still represent a part of them living on. I also realize that writing about both of my dogs disqualifies me from the contest, but I still had to write to let you know how much I love them, both of them, and how much they love me. Dogs live too short a life. The years have flown by already so fast and on their Birthdays, I celebrate by buying them a steak, but also realize that it is a year older for each of them. I hear stories about people who have gone onto icy lakes to save their dogs just to fall in and drown themselves. I can only too easily understand how this can happen. My girls, like any canines, are the best gift to mankind even if their lifespan is so short. I know that in the end, while the loss will more than devastate me, I will still cherish the friendship, warmth and caring that my 2 girls gave me. Thank you for reading this.