Celebrating Dexter’s 14th Birthday (Early access for our Patreon community)

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Dexter, my best friend, is about to celebrate his 14th birthday! Can you believe it? I’m absolutely tickled pink. Dexter has been more than just a dog; he’s been an inspiration to me and everyone who has met him.

Little did I know how profoundly he would impact my life and bring my family closer together. He has a way of motivating us to enjoy ourselves, go on trips in our neighborhood every day for his socialization, and even go to regular dog training lessons. I fondly remember teaching dog training class while Grammy attended with Dex.

In his younger years, Dexter was a bundle of energy and shenanigans. We affectionately called him Leroy Brown because of his mischievous nature. He was a silly monkey and a stinkpot at times, but his love was limitless.

However, in 2012, life threw us a curveball when Dexter was diagnosed with Chiari malformation and syringomyelia. I thought our days of carefree fun were over, but boy, was I wrong! After a challenging first year, where we learned how to take care of his condition, we’ve been able to embrace life fully once again. Dexter’s resilience and spirit have been inspiring.

He’s not just my best friend, he’s also been my muse for a children’s book and even a children’s activity book that humorously explores his objection to baths.

This year, to mark Dexter’s 14th birthday, we’re doing something a bit different. Instead of baking a special dog Birthday cake for him at home, we’re hitting the road to Duluth to celebrate his big day with my sweet 3-year-old niece and the rest of the family. My niece and I will be baking a surprise snack for Dexter.

In the past, for Dexter’s first through fifth birthdays, we hosted a big event called “Dexter’s Birthday Bash,” which doubled as a fundraiser for Cavalier Rescue USA. While we’re not throwing a big party this year, I’d like to take this opportunity to ask if you could make a small donation in Dexter’s honor to support this wonderful Cavalier rescue. Every contribution counts, but if you’re unable to donate, that’s perfectly okay too.

Most importantly, I want to encourage each and every one of you to embrace life to the fullest with your pets. Cherish the special moments, big and small, and never take a single day for granted. Dexter has taught me that each day is a gift, and I’m so grateful to have him by my side on this incredible journey.

So, here’s to Dexter – my silly monkey, my inspiration, and the one who continues to remind me that love and joy can be found in the simplest of moments.

Happy 14th birthday, Dex!