#Rogue. October 13, 2012 - April 12, 2026
October 13, 2012 - April 12, 2026
After she was hospitalized for two days I knew in my heart she wouldn't make it until the end of the year. I bought her fresh raw foods from the fancy pet store. I spoon fed her when she couldn't feed herself. I carried her to go to the bathroom and picked her up when she could no longer jump onto the couch. I turned on lights and sometimes I shouted because her eyes and her hearing weren't what they once were. She was my Tiny Tiny Rogue. The tiniest of the tiniest.
I saw her for the first time in this huge cage at the shelter. A cage so big it could have easily held 2 or 3 pitbulls. I had fallen in love with her when this creepy man came up and started to talk to her. I immediately motioned to my friend to get the shelter staff so I could adopt her. No way she was going home with anyone but me. She was the sweetest little puppy I had ever met. So gentle. So loving. So calm. She didn't make any sounds for about 2 years and even after that she only made noise when she was playing. She loved getting dressed. She loved car rides. She loved people. She loved being the center of attention.
I held her while the doctor injected her. I missed her before her body even went limp. I kissed her and rubbed her head the entire time. I told her I loved her and I didn't know what I was going to do without her. Even though I knew this day was coming it still hit me hard.
The original X-Pups Pack has now been reduced to just Storm. My cat-dog empire wouldn't have happened without them and when the final one falls I hope I don't fall with her.
@xpupspack @deharo70
Losing a pet like Rogue is an experience that many pet owners can deeply relate to. The bond formed over years of companionship often turns a pet into a family member, making their loss profoundly emotional. While caring for Rogue, simple acts such as spoon feeding her fresh raw foods and assisting her with mobility communicated love beyond words. Pet adoption has its unique emotional rewards and challenges. When adopting from shelters, meeting a dog like Rogue—calm, gentle, and affectionate—can be life-changing. It's worth noting that many shelter animals, even when placed in large cages, possess immense potential for love and loyalty. Shelters may be intimidating, but they hold many gems looking for forever homes. Rogue's silence for most of her early years and limited vocalization afterward highlights how diverse dog personalities can be, from quiet to playful. Dressing her up and taking car rides showed how small joys can brighten their lives and strengthen bonds. Supporting a senior or a sick pet pushes owners to new levels of care and patience. Carrying Rogue, turning on lights to comfort her, and gently encouraging her expressed empathy that eased her final days. This dedication is a powerful testament to how far people will go for pets they love. For those who have experienced similar losses, finding comfort in sharing stories and cherishing memories helps with the grieving process. Remembering Rogue as “the tiniest of the tiniest” keeps her spirit alive and honors her impact. If you are considering adopting a shelter dog, keep in mind the lifelong commitment it involves. The story of Rogue reminds us that adopting is not just saving a dog—it’s gaining a loyal companion whose memory will always hold a special place in your heart.
