Cricket, a 14-month-old wirehaired pointer, was cast aside as "worthless" in Gov. Kristi Noem’s memoir. After misbehaving, Noem led her to a gravel pit and shot her, stating, “I hated that dog.” On the same day, she also wounded and killed a goat she disliked. Cricket’s story reflects a deeper call for compassion and responsibility to those who rely on us. May her memory inspire a kinder, more understanding world. Cricket, forever.