Mabel came into our lives in the spring of 2016, a tiny bundle of soft ears, bright eyes and endless curiosity. From the very beginning, she had a gentle way about her. She never needed to be the loudest in the room, but somehow she always became the heart of it.

She loved being close to her family. Whether she was curled up beside the sofa, waiting patiently near the kitchen, or following us from room to room, Mabel always wanted to be wherever we were. Her presence was calm, loyal and comforting.

Walks were one of her favourite things. She loved woodland paths, open fields and anywhere with leaves to sniff through. Her ears would bounce as she trotted along, and she always seemed happiest when the whole family was together.

Mabel had her funny little habits too. She would tilt her head whenever someone said the word “walk”, knew exactly where the treats were kept, and had a way of looking at you that made it almost impossible to say no. Her favourite toy was a worn-out pink rabbit that stayed with her for years.

As she grew older, Mabel became even more precious to us. The quiet moments meant the most — her head resting on our lap, the sound of her paws across the floor, the way she looked back on walks to make sure we were still there.

Mabel was more than a pet. She was family, comfort, routine, laughter and love. She gave us so much, and her memory will always remain part of our home.