We Miss You Charlie the Dog

“It is with a very heavy heart, but a lot of memories and smiles, that I say we recently lost Charlie the Dog. He did not suffer. His final days were filled with steak, ice cream, walks in the woods at Fair Hill, lots of hugs, and surrounded by his best friend and family. He had an amazing life. This little fellow came into my family’s life in 2009, and immediately after, he entered the Hillside family. Charlie was the heartwarming heartbeat of Hillside. The original idea of Charlie as the face of Hillside happened by accident. Since then, we see his face everywhere. I never imagined it would turn into what it did. Over the years he became a minor local celebrity. I am incredibly proud to have been the lucky boy that drove Charlie around. He would hang his head out the window at traffic lights and was often greeted by first name from an excited child (and sometimes adults).

It’s difficult to share this news with everyone, but it has been very easy and exciting to share his life and travels with you, his welcoming and loving extended family. Charlie and the Hillside family have always felt very close with all of our neighbors, customers, and friends. Thank you for your love and pictures, and thank you for letting us into your homes and hearts.

Charlie was a major highlight in my life. I know how much I love dogs, but never imagined a dog could have such an impact. Charlie made me a better and happier person. He brought joy and adventure to my life. He made me social in situations when I was not normally social. We did pet therapy visitation with PAWS for People and Charlie knew how to have fun while he worked. He was a staple in our office almost everyday, as many of you already know. Charlie went with me to visit and thank customers for their business. Over the years we accumulated photos of the hundreds of families we visited, which I hope to make a gallery from soon.