To our sweet little Poguey Mahoney (aka Pogo, his government name from breeder).
For 17 and a half years, Poguey was so much more than a dog. He was my first “baby,” my companion, my comfort, and one of the most constant and loving presences in my life.
From the very beginning, Poguey became part of our family in a way that is hard to put into words. He was there through so many chapters of my life—through the happiest moments, the ordinary days, and especially through some of the hardest times. Somehow, without ever needing to say a word, he always seemed to know when I needed him. His presence brought comfort when I needed it most.
But Poguey wasn’t just MY dog. He belonged to all of us.
He became a beloved companion to our entire family and lived in my parents’ home (he did NOT like NYC— def a “jersey boy”).
He was especially important to my parents, but helped mom, as she lives with Alzheimer’s. In a world that has became increasingly unfamiliar to her, Poguey was something familiar. His presence brought her comfort, connection, and love. There was a special bond between them that will always be treasured.
And I can’t talk about Poguey’s life without talking about my sister Pauline and the incredible love she gave him. Pauline was always there for him. She took him to emergency vet visits when he needed help, cared for him through every difficult moment, and gave him an immeasurable amount of constant love and attention. She was there for the big things and the little things, always making sure he was safe, comfortable, and cared for.
Poguey was incredibly lucky to have Pauline, and I will always be grateful to her for everything she did for him. Her love was one of the many reasons he was able to have such a long, happy life surrounded by people who adored him.
And then there was the relationship he shared with Tadhg. Poguey was his companion, too—a part of his childhood and his memories, and a friend who was simply always there.
That is the beautiful thing about Poguey: he was there. For 17 and a half years, he was woven into the fabric of our family’s life. He witnessed our changes, our celebrations, our struggles, and our everyday moments. He gave us his love so freely and asked for so little in return. (But when he did ask, he’d smack you with his paw).
Losing him leaves an enormous emptiness (& quietness). It is hard to imagine our home and our family without him. But as painful as saying goodbye is, I am so grateful that we got to have him for so many years. Grateful for every cuddle, every look, every silly moment, every quiet moment, and every memory.
Poguey, you were my first baby, but you became so much more than that. You became a beloved fur-baby, fur-brother, fur-nephew & grandson, companion, and friend to our whole family. You helped carry us through difficult times, brought joy into our lives, and gave us a kind of unconditional love that only a dog can give.
Seventeen and a half years was still not long enough.
Thank you for choosing us. Thank you for loving us. Thank you for being there.
You will always be a part of our family, and you will always be my first baby.
Rest peacefully, sweet Poguey Mahoney McManus.
You were deeply loved, and you will be deeply missed. 💙🐾💔 now go cross that rainbow bridge and play with your big bro, Mac! 😘