It saddens my heart to write this week, because due the burden of my years and sickness, it became too much for my frail body to handle, and the end of my physical life has come. I wish to bury my last living words into the minds of my readers. When remembering me, you will suddenly know that I am there, as you read my words and I ask you to listen to them as a memorial to me.
      I have little in the way of material things to leave. Dogs are wiser than men, you know. They do not base their lives upon things. They do not waste their days hoarding property. They do not ruin their sleep worrying about how to keep the objects they have, and how to obtain the objects they do not have. They place their trust in others. They forgive and love unconditionally.
      There is nothing of physical value I have to bequeath except my love and my faith. These I leave to all those who have loved me, to my Masters, who stood by me, comforted me, loved me all the days of my life, I know will mourn me most; to Mia and Paco my sister and brother, who showed me such kindness and will wonder where I have gone and to whom I ask to care for my family and friends; to my dear loving friends John and Dee who were my camping buddies; and to my dear Howard who kindly took me for daily walks when he came to the office -- But if I should list all those who have loved me, the list would never end. For to everyone that visited and brought me treats, I thank you, all the way to the end of my wagging tail. Perhaps it is vain of me to boast, but I was always an extremely lovable dog.
      I ask my Masters and friends to remember me always, but not to grieve for me too long. In my life I have tried to be a comfort to them in time of sorrow, and a reason for added joy in their happiness. It is painful for me to think that even in death I should cause them pain. Let them remember that while no dog has ever had a happier life (and this I owe to their love and care for me). I could barely see, or hear, or walk too fast, but was treated with so much kindness and love, I thank you all.
      It is hard to say good-bye, but my body had become too ill to carry on. It is a sorrow to leave, but not a sorrow to die. Dogs do not fear death as men do. We accept it as part of life! What may come after death, I believe I’ll see my fellow dog pals and friends whom have gone before me, and that there is a Paradise where one is always young and playfull; where there is no pain just a meadow to stroll in, a stream to swim in and an unlimited suppy of tennis balls to chase! And lots of time to remember the joyous days on earth, and the love of my family and friends. I am at peace at last! Perhaps, after all, this is best.
      One last word of farewell, Dear Masters and friends. Whenever you think of me, say to yourselves with regret but also with happiness in your hearts at the remembrance of my long happy life with you: “Here lies one who loved us and whom we loved”. No matter how deep my sleep I shall hear you, and my thoughts and words will forever live on, for my spirit will always be wagging a grateful tail. For the truth wins and will always remain …. cause ‘Gretta Knows’.