08/18/2026
“Dear FLL,
I’ve been meaning to reach out because I wanted to thank you from the bottom of my heart for giving me Riley, a pup from Merlot and Hero, back in 2014. Riley was my best friend, my constant companion, and truly my whole world for almost 12 years. She was the true definition of a soul dog. I lost her on July 11th, just 2 weeks shy of her 12th birthday, and there are really no words to describe how difficult it has been. My heart feels incredibly empty, and I am still trying to figure out how to navigate a world without her in it.
When I think about Riley, though, I am reminded of just how incredibly lucky I was to have her. She gave me 12 years of unconditional love, companionship, laughter, comfort, and memories that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I will forever be grateful to the FLL family for bringing her in to my life.
….Thank you again for giving me the greatest gift I could have ever asked for. Riley may no longer be here beside me, but she will always be a part of me, and I will love her for the rest of my life.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Brenna”