Yesterday, we said the hardest goodbye to our beloved dogs, Harley and Duke, as they crossed the rainbow bridge together. Harley had been declining slowly over the past year, and although we knew this day would come, it never felt like the right time. When his condition worsened last week, we made the heartbreaking decision to let him go. We promised to give him one final week filled with love, comfort, and everything he enjoyed most.

Just days after making this choice for Harley, Duke’s health, which had also been fragile, suddenly declined. It became painfully clear that if Duke stayed behind, the loss of his best friend would break his spirit. They had spent their lives together, side by side, and we couldn’t bear the thought of separating them in the end. Though it tore us apart, we knew letting them go together was the most compassionate decision.

On Saturday night, we created a cozy and warm evening by the fire in our backyard. We shared laughs, stories, and gave Harley and Duke all their favorite treats. It was a night filled with love and tenderness, but still, it never felt like enough. On Sunday, we treated them to McDonald’s chicken nuggets and ice cream — a small joy to end their journey with happiness. As we held them close in our arms, they passed peacefully, surrounded by warmth and love.

Saying goodbye to Harley and Duke was the most painful choice we’ve ever had to make, but it was also the kindest one. We told them how much they meant to us and how thankful we were for every moment together. Now, the house feels empty, but our hearts are full of the love they left behind. Harley and Dukey, we miss you more than words can ever say. You were loved your whole lives, and now we’ll spend the rest of ours missing you.