Charlie

Charlie was a force of nature wrapped in a 12-pound beagle mix. What he lacked in size, he more than made up for in personality, determination, and an absolutely legendary howl that could be heard three blocks away.

Adopted from the Austin Animal Center at age two, Charlie came to us with a mysterious past and an unshakable love for adventure. Every walk was an expedition, every squirrel a worthy adversary, and every meal an event worthy of celebration. He had the nose of a bloodhound and the heart of a lion.

Charlie was also the gentlest soul with children. He’d let our granddaughter dress him in doll clothes and push him around in a stroller without so much as a whimper of protest. That patient, loving nature made him everyone’s favorite.

At 14, Charlie’s legs grew tired, but his spirit never did. He spent his final days surrounded by the people who loved him most, eating all the treats his heart desired. Charlie taught us that the best things in life come in small packages. We’ll miss that howl forever.