10 years ago I posed the question: are you my puppy?

A scrap of rescue fluff lept into my arms. At 11 weeks she was all limbs and a bandage on her leg – which would grow to be the scar I have kissed each day to remind her that she is safe.

Happy 10th Gotcha Day my precious pup pal Bella. Thank you for choosing me. Thank you for a decade of unconditional love. Thank you for wagging your tail so fiercely when you see me that your snout wobbles. Thank you for always running to get a toy to present me with when I get home – whether I’ve been gone 5 minutes or much, much longer.

How incredibly lucky I feel that we are family and that I have had your love for 10 years so far. I am glad for it, and for you, every single day. So are your little brother and sister.

I love you more with each grey fur that sprouts on your snout and you are more beautiful to me with each passing day.