Smiling Dog

History

History / context

The Story of Eevee Since October 2016, Eevee has been by my side. I was put on disability, and he has been with me day and night—except for when I had my appendectomy. I remember seeing an ad for him and knowing instantly he was my dog. My sister and I went to reserve him because I knew I had to have him. When I first visited, he crawled into my neck and curled up, basically hugging me. It was an instant connection. His name was already chosen, and it fit perfectly; he had big, giant ears and a fluffy mane around his neck, just like the Pokémon Eevee. He also had so much energy. He used to run in circles at the park, and when he was on his leash, he would hop across the street. During walks, he’d run ahead, hide in the grass to wait for me, and then take off again. As my social anxiety worsened and my agoraphobia set in, I trained him to be my service dog. That gave me the right to bring him everywhere: restaurants, stores, taxis, and hospitals. The only time we were apart was during my surgery, but even then, my mother brought him to the hospital every day in a bag to visit. He got so used to the schedule that as soon as my father got home, Eevee would jump right into the reusable grocery bag, knowing it was time to go see me. When I finally came home, he pouted for about a week, but he stayed right by my side. Eevee is more than a dog; he is my soulmate, an extension of who I am, and he once literally saved my life. When I was struggling, he brought me solace, comfort, and happiness—he mended my heart. He is 12 now and still very healthy, but I am terrified of the thought of losing him. That’s why I got Smoochy. Smoochy is only two, and his energy has brought Eevee back from being lethargic. Eevee still has his moments, like the time he destroyed a bag of litter and spread it all over the floor! He was also a silent dog until he was six months old. I remember walking him while wearing headphones when a big Doberman behind a fence barked and made me jump. Eevee let out a bark bigger than I thought possible to assert his dominance and protect me. It was amazing how powerful he could be despite his size. I would do anything for him. I’ve even taken off my own winter jacket during unexpected storms to wrap him up and keep him warm while pushing him in his carriage. He is my child and he completes me. When I see people online talking about losing their pets, I still think of my old dog, Billy, and it hurts. I can’t imagine a world without Eevee. Part of me wishes I could go before him just so I wouldn’t have to face that pain. I just don't know what I'll do.

Why this image matters

The story behind it

History / context