Miley Jean

A Lifetime of Lessons from Miley:



1. A Rough Start Can Always Be Restarted

I was a wild puppy-and I stayed that way for the first few years of my life. Some would say I was bad. Like... bad bad. I fought with Charlie. We had to be constantly separated. But my humans were patient. They kept working with me so we could coexist. Eventually, he became my brother-not my rag-doll play toy. Growth takes time. Love makes it possible.



2. Spiteful Is No Way to Live

When I got mad, I wasn't subtle. I'd pee on pillows. Or on the brand-new dining room table. I had feelings, okay? But I learned that wasn't fair. It's much better to get along and soak up all the pets, belly rubs, and love. Forgiveness feels better than revenge.

3. You Need Healthy Boundaries

Because I wasn't the best behaved early on, I was kenneled-and I hated it. I chewed through every cage they bought me. Even the one built like an armored car. One time, when they came home from vacation, I had chewed through the kennel and part of the wall. Imagine their surprise. What they didn't understand at first was that I didn't want to be kenneled. Eventually, we figured it out. It took communication on my part... and understanding on theirs.

4. Forgiveness, Changed Behavior, and Love

My humans showed me gracious love every single day. In return, I showed them I could do better. I earned my freedom. I earned their trust. And I loved them fiercely for never giving up on me.

5. We Don't Thrive in Chaos

I never liked loud cheering during sports. Or when Matt popped open a package. Or when Kristen had a tool in her hand and an expletive on her lips. Open windows and slamming doors? Hard pass. Abrupt chaos wasn't good for me. Calm comfort was my jam. Peace matters.



6. Be the Purest Form of Happiness and Silliness

My humans always said I was the happiest dog in the world. I was. And honestly, it was because of them. If you ever want to make someone laugh, grab a ball and toss it across the room. Joy is simple like that.

7. Seek the Sun and Warmth

Literally-just open the door and sit in the sun. When my humans couldn't find me, they knew I'd helped myself to a patch of warm sunshine. There's healing in warmth. Always choose it when you can.

You're free to go now, Miley.

Our Mi Mi. Big Momma. Brindle babe.

Go find all the sun and warmth.

But most of all, go find Char. He's been waiting for you-and I know you can't wait to give him some heck again.

We love you. We'll miss you. We are so heartbroken.

Thank you for the unconditional love and loyalty. It’s been an honor growing old with you.

10 out of 10 recommend rescuing dogs.

Because deep down... we all know who rescued who.

Miley Jean Hayden-Mitchell

3/6/2012 - 2/12/2026