Some pet owners are accustomed to arriving home from work to find their furry companions waiting for them. For Roman, an optometrist in Chicago, Illinois, who also runs a medium-sized transportation business, his dog Toby is usually there waiting. As a result, Roman often looks out the window upon returning home from work, anticipating Toby’s greeting.
This heartwarming and consistent routine lasted for eleven years. However, Roman recently faced a very challenging situation: Toby, his faithful dog of many years, passed away.
The happy dog that used to wait for him at the window is no longer there.
Even after Toby has been gone for some time, Roman still instinctively looks up at the window when he returns home from work each day. It’s all in vain, as he can no longer see his beloved pet waiting there.
Fourteen years ago, when Roman first met his dog Toby, Toby was just two years old.
At the time, Toby’s messes in Roman’s living room made Roman think Toby was a troublemaker. The two didn’t get along well at first.
Clever Toby is a very affectionate dog. He often acts mischievously and plays tricks to get Roman’s attention. Roman finds this frustrating and frequently argues with Toby over small issues.
Roman’s fiancée eventually convinced him to be more lenient with Toby, suggesting he should “just treat Toby like a human child.”
Consequently, Roman tried to adjust his behavior towards Toby. Surprisingly, the dog seemed to understand and reciprocate, as if he sensed the change.
Over time, Toby and Roman developed a deep bond that went beyond a typical relationship between a man and his fiancée.
A few years later, Roman broke off the engagement and decided to leave the house to Toby, as he couldn’t bear to stay without her presence.
Throughout the years, only Toby has remained a constant presence in Roman’s life as his friends and family have changed.
Because of his years with Toby, Roman never felt lonely.
As an optician, Roman typically works 8 to 10 hours a day. Toby eventually became accustomed to the routine of Roman’s workday.
He would lie by the window, waiting for Roman to come home.
As soon as Toby saw Roman’s car pull in, he would jump with joy. Then, he would eagerly bobble his head while waiting for Roman to open the door.
Even if Roman only stepped out for a short time and returned, Toby would be just as happy.
Every year, through the days and nights of spring, summer, fall, and winter, this waiting continued.
Each year, Toby faithfully waits for his owner to return home.
In Roman’s eyes, Toby is an exceptional dog who can never be replaced. Toby is friendly and gets along well with people, especially children.
Unfortunately, Toby suffered from dilated cardiomyopathy and had been through numerous surgeries. By October 2018, he had been diagnosed with stage 4 cancer and renal failure after undergoing three major surgeries.
By February 2019, Toby’s condition had deteriorated so much that he could no longer swallow.
Not wanting Toby to suffer any longer, Roman and his friends said their goodbyes. Roman decided to take Toby to the vet for euthanasia.
Toby has long been considered gone.
However, Roman couldn’t help but look out the window, feeling as though Toby was still there, always present.
Toby brought Roman the best companionship anyone could wish for, striving to make his life as joyful and vibrant as possible. Toby was much like any other lovable pet in the area; although they might cause some trouble, they remain cherished friends.
Over time, they become our dearest companions and, in many cases, even part of our family.
