Maggie Ledbetter

Maggie was truly a bundle of love, joy, and energy, with a personality that made her the best companion anyone could ever dream of. Maggie has been a very special member of our family since January 25, 2009 until she unexpectedly left us last week after a sudden illness. She was always a very small Shih Tzu, weighing 8 pounds at the most, so people always thought she was a puppy. Maggie had several nicknames, but our favorites were Sweetie, Squirt, Shorty, and Squirt-Os. Maggie was a prissy little girl, always strutting around, especially after getting a new hairbow at the groomer. She would often pose like a little ballerina with her left foot turned out. With her short legs, she couldn't climb more than two stairs, but she loved being carried around and held. Indoors, Maggie enjoyed playing tug-of-war, chewing bones, playing fetch with her ball and her toys that squeak and crackle. When she wasn't playing, she would either be at the front door watching over the yard or resting in your lap being petted. Outdoors, Maggie enjoyed exploring and sniffing around the neighborhood, bouncing around with larger dogs who soon learned she was the boss, and chasing off deer, squirrels, birds, cats, and any other wildlife she encountered. On nice days, she also enjoyed sitting on the porch or in the driveway watching over the neighborhood while listening to all of it's sounds. Maggie had a unique special bond to each of us, loving us all unconditionally. We could always count on Maggie to be waiting by the door barking excitedly when we got home, quickly alerting us to anyone or anything outside, waiting patiently in the kitchen while we cooked, relaxing on the bathmat while we showered, comforting us when we weren't feeling well, and wanting a bite of whatever we were eating. Her favorite foods were chicken, turkey, potatoes, eggs, macaroni & cheese, peanut butter, biscuits, pancakes, and ice cream, but not all at the same time. Maggie was able to see many places and meet lots of people, as she always enjoyed being with us. She loved convertible rides, running errands while going into any store that she could, watching the rabbits and gerbils at pet stores, and visiting the bank, pharmacy, and restaurant drive-thrus. Sometimes she wouldn’t wait for an invitation, but would eagerly lead us to the car to go wherever. Maggie never met anyone that didn't instantly want to pet her or take her picture. Even though she was never excited about going to the vet, she always enjoyed the care and special attention that she received from all of them there. Maggie's incredible charm would undoubtedly brighten up any room. She had an irresistible furry face with big beautiful eyes and a tiny wet nose. Holding and petting her was the most relaxing thing. We'll never forget seeing the joy in her eyes and hearing her cute little noises. Home isn’t the same anymore since she's no longer around in everything that we do. She helped us to be better people and showed us love, always. Maggie was our sweet little girl, she will forever have our hearts, and we will always cherish the love, happiness, and memories that we shared together. Our Sweet Little Maggie, we'll always love you and miss you... ~Your Family and Friends~