Side by Side: A Farewell to Harley and Duke

Yesterday, our world became a little quieter. Our two beloved dogs, Harley and Duke, crossed the rainbow bridge together — just as they had lived every moment of their lives, side by side.

For months, Harley’s health had been fading. We knew the day would come when we would have to say goodbye, yet love makes it nearly impossible to let go. You keep hoping for one more day, one more tail wag, one more morning filled with familiar warmth. As we prepared to say farewell to Harley, Duke — his lifelong companion and brother in every sense of the word — began to fade too. It was as if their bond was unbreakable, even in their final days.

We chose to give them one last perfect weekend. The backyard became their sanctuary — a place filled with soft light, the crackle of a small fire, and the scent of their favorite treats. There was chicken and peanut butter, belly rubs and laughter that trembled through tears. We held them close, whispering over and over how deeply they were loved. And when the time came, they slipped away peacefully, together, cradled in our arms.

Letting them go shattered our hearts, yet we find solace in knowing they left this world exactly as they had lived in it — side by side, loved beyond measure.

Now, when we close our eyes, we picture them running free once more — young and strong again, tails wagging in perfect rhythm. Somewhere beyond our reach, Harley and Duke are chasing each other across endless fields, two souls forever together, forever home.