Gator was my trusted companion and beloved Pocket Beagle. I was blessed to have him for slightly over nine (9) years.

He was so lovable and had a wonderful, outgoing, and friendly personality—unbelievably cute, with a mischievous streak a mile long, which made him fun to have around.

I’ve never seen a dog so beloved. He brought joy to so many, from toddlers to seniors and everyone in between. When he was still a puppy, while out on our near-daily walkies, it was a common occurrence for a stranger to scoop him up, pat and hug him, and kiss him on the top of his head.

I proudly share these couple of stories about Gator, for they help show just how popular he was.

The dad of three young daughters, all under the age of six, once told me that he always knew when his wife and girls met up with Gator while we were all at our nearby parkette. This was because the girls talked about him all evening long. He further added that, “Gator had rock star status at our house!”

On another occasion, as we climbed a hill to exit the 12 Mile Coulee, I saw a mom and her young daughter [I figured she was three or four years old] waiting for us at the top—or more accurately stated, waiting for Gator! When we reached them, her daughter came over to pat and play with Gator while the mom and I chatted. I had never met the mother before and did not know that her daughter knew Gator. During our conversation, her mom told me, “You have no idea how many conversations around our dinner table are about Gator!”

She further added, “Gator was our community dog.”

Her comment brought a smile to my face.

My life and my house are not the same without him.
While I miss Gator dearly, I have many fond memories of him to warm my heart.

--
Fred from Tuscany.