Saying a Sad Goodbye to Keira

Tribute: In loving memory of Keira 2007-2020

Yesterday I lost my best friend, Hazel lost her big sister and the world lost a gentle soul. I had to make the difficult and sad decision to say goodbye to Keira today. Keira was so much more than the dog I used for photos and testing products on Paws For Reaction. She was the first dog I ever owned and a huge member of our family. She was the love of my life. She had a long and happy life, and I was so fortunate that she spent most of it in perfect health. Sadly, she became very ill, very fast, and she didn't deserve to be in pain. 

Keira was a once in a lifetime dog who touched so many people’s lives. I was blessed to have her in my life for the past 8 years. The first time I met her I fell in love. I knew that she was supposed to be my dog. I welcomed her into a family that loved her so much and gave her a happy life. But what she gave me was so much more. My life was changed because of Keira. She inspired me to start this blog. She is the reason I got Hazel. She kept me active and connected to nature. Keira's unconditional love got me through terrible losses and depression. 

Keira was the most loving, genuine, sweet, smart, gentle, and well-behaved dog I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. She was a gift. I’ll miss her snow bouncing, her generous paws, her refereeing her sister, giving her belly rubs, and watching her explore nature. She was so adventurous. Her happy spirit could fill a room. Everything feels empty without her. I'm so glad that she had so much love in her life from my family, friends, coworkers, and the many pets she knew- especially her sister Hazel.

Working years in veterinary medicine, I've supported clients through countless euthanasias but it doesn't prepare you to be on the other side. Making the decision to bring peace to a suffering pet is the hardest thing I've ever had to do. I couldn't have been more supported by the veterinary team at Pembroke Animal Hospital. It was a long way to travel for Keira's final moments, but she was surrounded by people who loved her. She found her peace at home, in a place with familiar smells and faces, with a team of techs and a doctor that truly care for her. She wasn't alone, and neither was I.

Keira was remarkable in that she touched the lives of every person she met. She spent the last four months with my aunt, who fell in love with her instantly just like I did. She will be missed by my whole family. But most of all Hazel will miss never being able to give her sister kisses one last time. Hazel learned so much from Keira. When Keira became my dog she was meek and scared. It's hard to believe she became the confident, fearless dog that taught Hazel how to be a dog. She taught Hazel how to be brave. She taught her manners. Hazel will never forget her.

I have no idea what my life looks like without Keira in it. My heart is broken beyond repair. Hazel and I will always have an empty space in our hearts. She was such a beautiful soul. The world is a little less bright without her. I love you Keira. I’ll miss you forever. You were the best dog in the world.