Stitch

Stitch has been my best friend since I was a kid. We got him from my uncle when he was just 1 year old. My cousin’s name was Lily, so he was named Stitch as in, “Lily and Stitch”.

He’s been the sweetest dog, and has taught me so much. He was a family dog growing up, until my parents divorced and he went to stay with my dad. He was a loving companion to my dad, who was disabled and couldn’t walk very well. Stitch’s color for his harness and everything was red, because my dad was a big Utes fan. Eventually he came back to me and my mom’s house, and I started taking over his care about 2-3 years ago.

About 1 year ago, I moved out with him and my other dog. He opened up so much. Despite having dementia and arthritis, he became so playful. Every time I’d get home from college classes or work, he’d do these little hops to greet me. He even started playing with one of his chews, and would get the zoomies!

His favorite food ever was tomatoes. Years ago, my family would grow tomatoes and he’d try to eat them straight off the vine whenever he got the chance. Stitch loved to be outside, especially when it snowed. He was also pretty stubborn, and would not let you continue walking until he’d sniff the same spot for 5 minutes. He taught me to slow down and take in my surroundings, to enjoy life.