He was actually adopted this past Tuesday. That’s really quick considering I brought him in on Saturday morning and they didn’t have him listed until Sunday afternoon. Plus, they are not open on Mondays.

As much as it still hurts me, I find peace in the fact that he is not sitting in the kennel alone. He is not a kennel dog at all. I’m happy that he has found someone who will love him like we did. He really got the short end of the stick and deserves a loving home.

When I found out he was adopted, it hit me like a ton of bricks. It made it all real. Deep down, I was hoping something would happen that he would be able to come back home to me. It wasn’t a realistic thought, but it seemed to help me cope. So when I knew he was adopted, I knew the chance was super super slim that I would ever get him back. That was hard to realize. But deep down, part of me hopes he runs away and finds his way back to me. I’ve seen the news stories..lol. I’m also going to randomly check the website to see if he’s been relisted. As much as I love him, he can be pretty naughty. In case his new family can’t handle his crazy Bichon antics, I want to make sure I get the chance before he gets adopted again. Again, it’s a nice thought for me, but not for him. I think I’m just telling myself these things to help cope better.

Now that I’ve had a few days to process it all, I can control my emotions more. I still get sad, especially at night, but I’m able to take a few deep breathes to work through my feelings. I’m to the point that I can talk about him with friends without turning into a bawling baby. That is a big step from just 4 days ago.

I’ve got Bentley’s picture scattered around the house, at work and I’m on my phone. When I get lonely for him, I know I’m not far from his smiling face. Yes, I do have pictures where Bentley is smiling. One of my favorite traits of him.