Axel the Doberman

Karma will always be our little girl 🩷

I feel like Karma is finding ways to stay connected to her brother, or at least that's what l'd like to think.

Axel would lay in this exact spot every single day, resting his body up against the couch with a view to the outside patio.

Karma would typically lay on the couch above him to stay close.

The other day I noticed she was in his spot and it reminded me of the second video that I took of Axel several years ago. I was immediately moved to tears feeling like he was there again.

I think we're all still grieving his loss in a big way, and how Karma feels is no different than us.

Thinking of you always Bubbs 🤎

Karma is always talking back!

Karma hasn’t quite been herself since losing her big brother, Axel, so we thought a beach day was exactly what she needed.

The beach was always one of Axel’s favorite places. He loved running into the waves and splashing around. Karma wants nothing to do with the water, but she had a blast running through the sand and chasing me up and down the beach.

Her beautiful pink tactical harness is from Rabbitgoo. They generously sent matching harnesses for both Axel and Karma, but we never had the chance to use them before Axel passed. Taking Karma on this adventure while wearing hers made the day feel a little more special.

Rabbitgoo offers a variety of colors and styles to fit every pup’s personality. Here’s a link to save 15%
https://www.rabbitgoo.com/discount/IGAXEL15

No matter the circumstances, nothing prepares you for how difficult it is to say goodbye to a beloved pet.

Axel was a happy dog, he loved all the things most dogs love... going for rides in the car, running in the park, cuddling on the couch, and just being around people and the ones he loved.

And he brought us so much joy in return. So seeing his name on a box in our bedroom will never be easy. I thought he had so many years left ahead of him. But life doesn't work that way, and we're left here grieving his loss.

We miss you so damn much Bubbs... things just aren't the same without you 💔

I miss our daily shenanigans. Doing ‘big stretch’ with me every morning and me trying to get your paws.

Sitting on the driveway after our morning walks so you could watch all the neighbors drive by.

Watching you lay out on the patio taking in the sun while I work from home all day.

Stalking us every time we walked through the door, then running over with a big smile.

Chasing dragonflies in the backyard and sitting on the top step of the pool because you were hot.

And cuddling on the couch every night while we watched tv.

I miss it all so much 💔

Grief has shown up in many different ways these past few weeks. I don't know what stage I'm in, but it comes on like a wave that can't be stopped... and I'm ok with that.

This sadness reminds me how much you were truly loved, and how much you meant to us. Now I'll spend the rest of my life missing you 🤎

Sometimes you just have to let it all out 🤎

About a year ago, we discovered that Karma likes to howl when | play the piano. But she is very selective to more emotional pieces of music only.

When I decided to learn 'To Build A Home' after Axel passed, Karma always sat by me while I practiced. This was the first time I recorded myself playing, and Karma knew it was time for a duet.

As I hit the chorus, she let out the biggest howls I've ever seen from her. I'm convinced she was singing for her brother, who she misses so very much.

This one was dedicated to you, Axel 🐾