The Pup Who Chose Me: Ollie’s Story and Why This Giveaway Means So Much
Thirteen years ago, I lost both of my parents within six months of each other. I was in my mid-20s, feeling lost, spiraling a bit, and searching for something that would help me find my footing again.
In what can only be described as an uninformed, unresearched, and impulsive decision, I decided I needed a dog.
The very next day, armed with nothing more than a Craigslist ad, I rented a car, made a quick stop at Petco, and drove 45 minutes to pick up my new pup. I had planned to bring home a little one named Ruby, but when I arrived, another tiny pup came bounding straight up to me. I had heard the phrase “they choose you,” and that is exactly what happened.
Next thing you knew, Bear (as he was called then), came home with me. My two very patient and gracious roommates at the time helped me name him Ollie, short for Oliver Twist, because of the way he would beg for food with those big “please sir, may I have some more” eyes.
Ollie was... a handful. He destroyed one too many shoes, an air mattress, my couch, laptop, phones, books, magazines… and the list goes on. He absolutely refused crate time, unleashing the most annoying bark-cry until I gave in. And if he got mad, he would purposefully pee inside just to make a point. Friends politely declined having him over to their homes.
Despite it all, he was my greatest love. He came with me everywhere, even bar hopping, because I was in my mid-20s, so why not? He was with me through every chapter — moving all around Massachusetts, a stint in Atlanta, and all of life’s changes.
He always made it very clear who in my dating life he did not like. When he met my now-husband, Toby, there was no question. He was the one for us. Ollie was, however, less than thrilled when he gained a golden retriever sister, Ellie, who quickly grew much bigger than him.
In the years that followed, life shifted. Toby and I got married, bought a home, welcomed our son Jack amidst fertility struggles, and most recently, added a 95-pound chocolate lab named Rex to our family. Through it all, Ollie remained my constant.
In his final months, we carved out special “only child” time just for him — walks, cuddles, outdoor restaurants, and even a little getaway where people absolutely fawned over him. We are so grateful we had that time. He gave us 13 years of unconditional love and joy, and he will be forever missed.
I wanted to share this story because so many of you have shared your own about your beloved pets in the comments of our giveaway post. It is such a reminder of the power of connection. That is the heart of what I hope The Carrick Bend can be — a community that celebrates life’s moments, the good and the bad, with empathy, love, and a little beauty.
Thank you for opening your hearts and sharing your stories with me. It has been so heartwarming to read about your own special fur babies. I hope we can continue to lift each other up and keep this beautiful spirit of community going.
Love and light,
Courtney
