Yotee
I got Yotee as a very young puppy 13 years ago. She was tiny and timid and adorable. We had no idea what breed she was, but she looked to be at least part terrier. As she grew she came to love her sister Jellybean, who was one year older and a Shitzu/Lhasa cross. They spent all their years playing and exploring in their huge, grassy yard. They also traveled with me no matter if I was going to the post office or on a three hour trip to Boise to visit my grown kids. They knew all about hotels and elevators. In the last two months they both started going downhill. Jelly developed joint issues and was put down two weeks before Yotee. After Jelly was gone, Yotee was so sad and lost. She had struggled with a heart murmur for a couple of years and it seemed like she deteriorated everyday. Finally, after a long night of her fighting to breath, I knew it was time. Since I was in Boise, I didn't know where to turn. My friend told me about Gentle Goodbyes. They came by and helped me send Yotee across the rainbow bridge to rejoin Jellybean. It was a peaceful and comforting experience for her. I was able to take her back to Arco and bury her next to Jelly. Thank you so much to the good people of Gentle Goodbyes. I will recommend them to anyone who needs help with a pet in this situation. It made a sad situation feel like I was doing what was best for Yotee as she quietly passed away.
Funny
Funny you have been an amazing companion and friend for almost 17 years. We got you when I was 4 and you have been with me through my whole life. You watched me go to daycare, elementary school, junior high, high school and even college (a few times). You have been my comfort when I was sad and an overall amazing pet. You will be very missed but there will always be a place for you in my heart. I hope you are at peace now and you're happy. You'll be back home soon. I'll make sure to keep the window open so you can look out.
Stella,
From the moment you leaped into our lives, finding us at the pitbull rescue, until you left this life behind to chase squirrel in heaven with all four of your legs, you were a beautiful companion.
We will miss your gentle nudges when you wanted to snuggle, a belly rub or to be let outside to lay in the sun. Thank you for keeping us safe and protected from any harm that might have been at the front door. Someday we will see you again when it's our time to leave this life. Until then, run sweet girl run!!!
Vesta
I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to love you and have you as part of our family Vesta. Thank you for taking care of us and protecting our home. The bed is a little less empty without you. We love you so much and will never forget you. I hope you are running free in heaven. Hugs and kisses
Ringo,
The first time I laid eyes on you, I knew you were different, the way you looked, the way you acted, even the way you ate. I remember watching you gobble down that carrot, and in that small, simple moment, I realized you were something special. You had these tiny, unique quirks that some people overlooked or didn't understand, but to me, they were exactly what made you so lovable. You were there for me when I was little, so patient, letting me do anything without ever running away. You were never what others called 'perfect,' but to me, you were always the cutest, the most special. Even when you were loud, even when your cries would get annoying, I didn't know those sounds would one day be the things I miss the most. Now I'd give anything just to hear them again. Not everyone saw you the way I did, not everyone gave you the love you deserved, but I'm so grateful that I could. I loved you with everything I had, and I hope you felt that every single day. It hurts now, unbearably so, to see your bowl untouched, your leash still hanging by the door. I reach for you in the quiet moments, forgetting for a split second that you're gone. But then I remember you with clarity, the tilt of your head, the warmth in your eyes, the way you always nudged my hand for just one more scratch. You weren't just my dog, you were a piece of my childhood, a piece of my heart. And you always will be. Now go run free across the rainbow bridge, where your brothers are waiting for you.
Sherman
Sherman was my baby for 10 of his 11 years, and not a day went by that he didn't remind me what unconditional love looks like. He was the sweetest cat and the ultimate mama's boy-always wanting to be close, always full of love.
Life won't feel the same without him curled up beside me, but I'm so grateful for every moment we had together. He wasn't just a pet-he was family, my comfort, and my heart.
Cody
I much appreciate the sensitivity and professionalism displayed by Gentle Goodbyes. Cody was a sweet, dear, loving companion and quite simply a good dog. He accompanied us wherever we went and refused to be left out of any occasion. Many tears have naturally been shed by us, but also all our friends and acquaintances that knew Cody.
He's crossed the Rainbow Bridge and we're looking forward to joining him when the time comes.
Jersey Girl Howard
October 21, 2012-March 9, 2026
My Husband and I decided to wait until he retired from the Air Force to get a puppy. 20 years later, he retired and that was the year that she "found" us. We went to the breeder and there were ten, eight week old Labrador Retrievers running around. Everyone always told us, don't pick the first one! Well the first adorable little pup with a purple collar ran right up to my leg and right then, we knew she was coming home with us! We named her Jersey and it was the best decision we ever made! She loved jogging, going on walks, camping, swimming, her ball, eating, belly rubs, laying in the fresh cut grass. She just loved life and being with us! The unconditional love that she gave us for 13.5 years was such a blessing. When "that" day came, we made the call to Gentle Goodbyes. Those 2 "angels" showed up and were so caring and compassionate and made it so comfortable for our Jersey Girl. We loved on her and I sang her our special song "Who is the prettiest girl in all the land, She's our Jersey Girl" as she went to sleep and crossed the Rainbow Bridge. Our hearts are broken but we are forever grateful to everyone at Gentle Goodbyes for making the transition so peaceful for our sweet pup!
Maddie
You have been such a huge part of our lives for 12 years now Maddie. I am going to miss the morning songs you would sing to us. I will miss having to step over you because you were always in the way. I will miss picking your fuzz out of every meal I ate. I will miss people asking me if you are a wolf and then following it up by telling me that you are the most beautiful dog they have ever seen. I will miss the feeling of being protected and knowing that Ryker was always safe when he was with you. You were the most kind, intelligent and beautiful dog a guy could ask for.
Thank you for being the epitome of what it means to be, "man's best friend." You have many dog friends waiting to play with you in the beyond. We love you, and you will be missed by so many of us.
"RIP" Maddie Pants.
Bindi
Bindi came to us as a stray kitten and grew to be an amazing companion and working barn cat. When she was about 4 years old she went missing and after years of waiting we were convinced she had passed away- as many farm cats do. 3 years later her familiar face showed up at our front door, relatively unscathed- we were shocked but joyfully welcomed her home, crowning her the queen of the raccoons. She lived on our family farm for years after, and then moved with my mother when we sold the farm. A year ago I brought my old friend into my home to live out the rest of her time, and it was the most beautiful gift. Bindi was a quiet and steadfast companion to me my whole childhood, and then again in adulthood in her last season. 17 years of magic that I will never forget. I am so grateful for the team at Gentle Goodbyes for allowing her to pass with the grace and dignity that she maintained her entire existence.
Ace
2011-2026
Here's our beautiful Ace, just a week before his passing with beloved ball in the sunshine. Ace had a deep love for his ball and kirkland dog biscuits. Even just the sight of the box would stop him dead in his tracks. He also enjoyed swimming and walks. He would get so excited and worked up for walks that he'd physically shake. He got his first taste of snow when we moved to Idaho in 2019. He loved snowballs being thrown at him and he'd revert to a puppy when playing in it.
He loved his people dearly too, having a different love for each of them. He leaves us all behind heartbroken, but grateful for the long wonderful life he had. We are all better people for having being loved by him. His yellow lab sister, Bailey, is especially sad. She loved bossing him around and he was always tolerated it like the great guy he was. He's now over the rainbow bridge free of pain. I think he'll oversee biscuit operations in heaven, being the perfect guy for the job. He can now also chase the ball for hours on end without any physical limitations. Enjoy it, our sweet guy. We love you!
Sofee Sue
My loving and loyal companion, Sofee Sue, went to "Kitty Heaven" on 3/28/26; the day after her 17th birthday. I was lucky enough to adopt her from the Humane Society in Boise when she was 8 weeks old. It was love at first sight. When she was a year old, I entered her in a calendar contest sponsored by the Humane Society. It was no surprise she was chosen to be "Miss September." Proud momma moment! Sofee Sue rarely meowed, but the sound of her purring would fill the room. She was the smartest cat I've ever had and would follow my commands without hesitation. I think she understood every word I was saying. Big smile. Sofee Sue had a wonderful life and knew how much she was loved. I really miss her, but the memories I have with her will last a lifetime.
Shooter
He was truly the best dog who with everyone and wanted to be friends with every dog he met. He loved walks and the dog park, and he hated squirrels and cats. Affection was always on his terms, so when he wanted to cuddle, we always took him up on it. This loss is huge and we just don't know what to do with ourselves right now.
I find myself feeling a bit panicked at him not being here, and I realized we have lived with him almost the entire time we've been in our home. We got him 2 months after we moved in, over 15 years ago. He was a very important part of our family and we'll love and miss him forever.
I wrote a song a while back, and here is his verse:
Shooter
He's our O.G.
Shooter
Loves you and me
Shooter
What a scamp he used to be
Shooter
Used to run so fast
Shooter
How the time has passed
Shooter
Our love for you will last
Ruby
Goodbye to our special Rubilicious (Ruby).
You completed our family with your unconditional love, sense of adventure and beauty.
You will be missed by all, but especially by me.
You and I were soul mates from the first time your sweet puppy eyes met mine and we knew we were meant to fill each others lives with joy and love.
Our special bond will forever be a blessing in my life and I know we will remain together in spirit until we are reunited again.
This is when a lifetime of missing you starts but I wouldn't trade the dance we shared together for 14 years for anything.
"May the road rise up to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back,
May the sun shine warm upon your face ,
and the rain fall soft upon your fields,
And until we meet again,
May God hold gently in the palm of his hand."
Safe travels my beautiful brown-eyed girl.
Bruce Phillips
2011-2026
We adopted our sweet baby Bruce in January of 2013 from the Idaho Humane Society. He passed away peacefully with the help of Gentle Goodbyes at the age of 15. He was our cuddly, sometimes rambunctious adventure buddy, and my soul dog. I hope heaven is full of warm blankets and pillows, sunshine, hot concrete to lay on, and lots of cheese and peanut butter.
Griffey
2012-2026
Griffey loved to do anything with me. He was spirited, happy and loving. He love dog treats and did many tricks for them. I could put one on his nose and he would flip it off and catch it in mid air. At home he would follow me all over the house. He had a bed in every room. He loved rides in the campervan and walks. He loved the backyard where he loved to chase squirrels.
Griffey is preceded in death by his brother Regis who I am sure they are chasing squirrels in the great beyond.
Griffey was loved and will forever be in my heart.
Kali,
For 19 beautiful years, you filled life with warmth, comfort, and quiet joy. You were always happiest curled up in a lap, purring like a gentle heartbeat-your favorite place in the world. That soft, steady sound will always be remembered as the feeling of home.
You had a curious spirit, never afraid of adventure. Whether traveling to new places or turning a simple cardboard box into your own little kingdom, you found happiness everywhere. And somehow, you always managed to reach the highest spots-perched on top of cupboards, watching over everything like the queen you were.
Kali, you weren't just a pet-you were a companion, a comfort, and a constant presence through the years. Your purrs, your playful moments, and your quiet companionship will stay in our hearts forever.
You were deeply loved, and you will be deeply missed.
Brodie
Brodie was such a special part of our lives. He helped my husband and I through some really tough times. He was so smart and quite the athlete. He could catch anything you threw but he especially loved his tennis ball. He beat cancer and outlived three other dogs and put up with our young dogs ages 2 and 3. He was greatly loved and will be missed. Our sweet Brodie.
Mittens Stan
11/19/2007-03/07/2026
Mr. Mittens Stan: My best friend since I was 4. His personality shined so bright every day. Literally the definition of a grumpy old man. Bipolar, stubborn and incredibly mean and yet the sweetest boy of all. He fought cancer for 5 months and fought so hard to the very end.
18 Years with you. To know me was to know him: My lifelong best friend. Mittens Stan was such a character. He has given me more scars than I can count but he never failed to be my biggest protector. His personality made him loved by so many. Thank you sweet boy for fighting as long as you could. I love you always Mr. Man.
On his last day we did all of his favorite activities. A car ride, outside time, a whole can of sardine, whip cream cup, and time with his favorite people. I know he felt truly loved and I could not picture a better way for him to leave this world.
I will miss you ALWAYS my sweet sweet old man.
Murla
Our sweet girl Murla in her prime. She was the best four legged furry friend we could of asked for and the most amazing protector to our babies. She hated to snuggle when we first brought her home but learned to love it once our kids joined the family, she was the most gentle and loyal furry friend to us for so many years. You'll be missed by all Murla. April 30, 2012-March 8, 2026. Your in our hearts always our sweet girl.
Murray
This is our beautiful boy Murray. We rescued him as a kitten. We picked him because his purr was so so loud and constant. He was the runt of the litter and half the size of his brothers. When he got home he quickly exploded into a giant ball of fluffiness. He was a beloved member of our family. I'm certain he thought we were all the same species. Either we were all cats or he was human. It didn't matter though. We were one tribe. Together was his favorite place to be. He would join us for dinner time every night and if we were together in any room, he would be there too. Every night he would make the rounds with me to each child's bedrooms. Checking on them, tucking them in, and then going to his own spot for the night. He loved the playful chaos of the house with toddlers and welcomed in the age of teenagers as we all grew up together. He was everyone's best friend in our family. He loved the backyard and the birds and trips to the cabin to lounge by the fireplace. He was such a special special boy. I can still feel him in all the spaces and places in our home...his energy and movements so programmed into the everyday patterns of our lives. I miss him so much. Furry Purry Murray, you are so loved.
Tito
Tito aka the cookie monster! I rescued him from West Valley at 10 years old. He was deaf in one ear and living in a car. He became the staff favorite right away. He was a couple months short of 15 years old which is old for a pit. He was such a good dog its funny how we say rescue them but really they rescue us always ready to greet you when you get home from work demanding that daily walk and treats. lol wish they lived forever ugh its rough but at least he's not in pain or suffering and I know my red nose Gunner I lost in 2021 was ready and waiting to show him the way to the otherside. I will see you again one day Tito.
Hurley
March 21st 2013 - February 18th 2026
Hurley loved holding paws, car rides, his toys, pretending he was small enough to be a lap dog, and most of all food. But the thing he loved more than anything was his family and we were so blessed to feel his love the last 14 years. We will always remember how special of a boy he was. The most loyal and loving best friend we've ever had. The most constant thing in our family for the past 14 years. There will be a Hurley shaped hole in our hearts forever. We love you so much Hurley (aka Hurlean, beans, bear, mr. bear, bear, bear paws, Hurleaner, mister). Enjoy doggy heaven our angel, we will miss you forever
Paisley
In peace on 2013-2026
Paisley and I lost her human dad 8 years ago. We both mourned the loss deeply. She shed a light on me in those dark moments of grief. I knew she was hurting too so I made her a promise that we would live for her human. These last 8 years we have traveled and hiked around 9 states. Every road trip we took together I made sure there was somewhere she could swim and fish. She loved the water and fishing for minnows. We lived in the hills of northern CA, moved to a ranch in Texas where she got to chase deer and run on so many acres, to finally moving back to the mountains here in Idaho. Paisley gained a brother 4 years ago, as a family we would go camping almost every weekend. That became her happy place. I will cherish all of our time and memories we had together. We were each other emotional support souls. I pray that Paisley and her Human were reunited at the gates of Heaven. Thank you Paisley, you will always hold a place in my heart. May you rest in peace.
Anaconda
For fifteen beautiful years, Anaconda -- Ana for short -- filled our home with quiet comfort and steady love. She was the sweetest, gentlest, most wonderful cat anyone could ask for.
She had a calm presence that softened every room she entered. Whether she was stretched out in a sunbeam on her heated blanket, sitting with her crossed paws beside us on the couch, or running her colt-like zoomies, she made everything feel a little more okay.
Anaconda gave us nothing but love and loud purrs with occasional squawks for cat cookies. She was always Ana on her own terms, which somehow always felt like the right ones.
We miss the gentle rhythm she brought to our days. Fifteen years was a gift. Loving her was a gift.
Here is Stella's Tribute
6/25/2013 - 2/17/2026
Stella was the best Couch Hippo. She loved unconditionally until the day she passed. She was wicked smart and spoiled by her mom. She loved car rides, swimming, all food except cilantro and celery and road trips to the CA coast. We will miss her but know she crossed the rainbow bridge with grace thanks to Gentle Goodbyes.
Buddy
Saying goodbye to my sweet boy was one of the hardest moments of my life, but I am so deeply grateful for the incredible compassion shown by doctor and nurse.
From the moment they arrived, they treated both my dog and me with such kindness, patience, and genuine care. They created a peaceful, loving environment and gave us the time and space we needed to say goodbye. Their gentleness and empathy made an incredibly painful experience feel more comforting than I ever thought possible.
My dog was the sweetest soul - he loved making new friends everywhere he went. It brought me so much comfort knowing that even in his final moments, he was surrounded by warmth and kindness, and that he got to make two new friends at the very end of his life.
Thank you for treating my beloved Buddy with such dignity and for caring so deeply about both your patients and the families who love them. I will never forget your compassion.
Cookie
Thank you so much for taking care of our Cookie in her last moments. We are absolutely heartbroken and devastated at losing her - she was the best dog. She was a lover, a running partner, a great listener- very tuned into her parents, squirrel maniac, a best friend. She leaves a huge hole in our hearts. Here's a cute picture of her last New Year's Eve. Thank you for your care, as unfortunate as it was.
My girl, Tara
9/19/2012 - 2/6/2026,
Tara was the world's sweetest Bluetick Coonhound, melting stranger's hearts with her beautiful long ears everywhere she went. Each day she would excitedly announce to the entire neighborhood that I have returned home. She loved taking naps while laying in the sun, and eating too much chicken jerky, but her favorite thing in life was leading the way on our adventures through the Rocky Mountains and Owyhee Canyonlands, always with her nose to the ground. She is together again with her best friend, Hank, who I am certain has enticed her to chase after him on the heavenly foothills trails. I'll be with you and Hank again soon, I love you girl.
Chopper (Moore)
(2014-2026)
Big paws, soft fur, and the biggest heart.
He loved camping under open skies, running full speed, using his voice, and ending every day with cuddles. A total goofball who lived to make the kids, and adults... laugh and feel safe.
In our hardest seasons, Chopper was our comfort-steady, loyal, and endlessly loving. He was deeply loved, and he always knew it. We sure will miss him being sneaky when he tried getting our food, or even tried being a lap dog (he was dang near 100 pounds)
Rest in Peace, Chopper, you gentle giant. Forever part of our family.
Willie
On February 1st, Gentle Goodbyes arrived to help with a peaceful passing for Willie, he was 19 years old.
Willie came into my life 12 years ago when a friend, who was dog sitting for someone, found him severely neglected in that home. They surrendered Willie to my friend without resistance, he was very underweight, I adopted him that same week.
Since that time, he has traveled with me through SO much life. He had adopted me as his person, a VERY special role. I will never forget how wonderful it felt to be his comfort and his number one - how lucky I have been.
Willie was feisty as a young man, he had this tendency to get really inappropriate with other male dogs and oddly, they would instantly match his inappropriateness, haha! He also used to break into cupboards near the floor and make huge messes, I always found this just funny. As he aged, he slowed down. He became blind and deaf in the same year and managed it like a champ! It didn't seem to bother him at all, he gently used his nose to smell and guide himself.
Willie lived with myself and Royal (my three legged shephard) for most of the later years, but three years ago we joined another pack - my current partner, Scott, and his two small dogs (Friday and Farrah Pawcett). It was a ZOO. And all the dogs tolerated each other well. We have many pictures of them all snuggling with us and each other over the past three years.
As Willie aged, he began experiencing joint pain and dementia, which manifested mostly at night. Eventually, we had him on pain and sleeping medication 24/7. It occurred to me not too long ago that our last three dogs, between my partner and I, had experienced unexpected, instant, and traumatic deaths. I didn't want this for Willie. We decided to give Willie a peaceful death - once we made the decision it was like he knew. He was sleeping all the time by this point, one day we logged 23 hours that he slept.
Saying goodbye is ALWAYS hard, but knowing that he drifted off into his best nap at the time of his passing is something that will always bring me peace.
Willie changed my life, he was the best boy. He will always be missed, and he will always be loved by Scott and I.
Rosey
February 2015-January 2026
We went to a breeder where we were only going to purchase an English Cream Golden. My family was looking at all the pretty white ones and I wondered around to the other side and I saw this beautiful face looking at me. I picked her up and I snuggled her. I told my husband to (LOOK!). He said that one is cute! I said the puppy is a boy (green collar) and we are looking for a girl... the breeder said that it was a girl, they ran out of colors! I ran to my husband and said that she needs me! We picked to be ours! She always met us at the door with a toy in her mouth and talking! That is what I miss the most. She loved everyone! I will always miss her!
Baxter
My heart is breaking... today I let my sweet Baxter go to God. I gave Bax strict instructions to find my Mom and Charlotte. They will love on him until I get there! We have had so many adventures together! For 14 years he has been my constant friend. When I worked he went with me! He loved to fly and when we would pull up to the airport he knew another adventure was about to start. He had soo many little buddies and was loved by everyone he ever met. He was an amazing lil guy who came from a line of yorkies that did not bark! But when he was excited he would squeal. It made me laugh every time!
This is for Archie Vasquez.
Archie lived this saying, "Strangers are just friends I haven't met
yet." He loved people and his butt would wiggle like crazy when he had
a chance to say hi to someone. He especially liked kids and gave many
kisses. I found him at the Idaho Humane Society over 15 years ago. I
was there to see if they had any German Shepherds. He was in the last
kennel and he came up with that beautiful smile of his. I left but I
only got about half way home before turning around and going back to
pick up this beautiful boy. He loved to cuddle and get lots of love. I
miss him every day. I hope he is running free with my other two pups
that he grew up with and who have crossed the rainbow before him.
Spike
2011-2026
We miss our little buddy, he always warmed our hearts and certainly did a great job protecting Mom! The squirrels won't know what to do in the backyard this summer without him here to chase them. He enjoys playful dog, walking as a family and Todd did miss him so much but should be together there are friends. He likes to petting him and holding him as well, and love to play and naps too.
Love you Spike.
Pako
I adopted Pako from a shelter in April 2012. He was in a small cage with the saddest eyes, and it looked like he had been crying. I knew I couldn't leave him there. My little sister had been asking for a dog, and in that moment, I knew Pako was meant to come home with us, he was the perfect addition to our family.
Pako brought so much light and warmth into our lives. He was gentle, affectionate, and always ready to cuddle. He grew alongside me, quietly walking through every chapter of my life: college, marriage, pregnancy, and motherhood, always faithfully by my side.
Fifteen years with Pako will never feel like enough. He gave us a lifetime of unconditional love in the time he had, and that love will stay with us forever. We will miss him deeply, but we are endlessly grateful for every moment we were blessed to share with him.
Tucker
1/9/26 Our little ol' man, Tucker, crossed the rainbow bridge; he had an enlarged heart w/congestive heart failure. I adopted him from IHS and for 14 yrs he was a tireless ball fetcher; warned us when a car door would slam somewhere down the block, but ignored fireworks; nagged you for loves if you didn't give them as soon as you walked through the door; loved his puzzle; playing hide n seek, treats and even went kayaking once! But most of all, a snuggler full of unconditional love and our family loved our little neurotic ball of fur.
Otis
When I was told my dog had bone cancer I was devastated. I knew I was on borrowed time with him. I remembered the day he came out of his mom and I ripped open his sack and said we are keeping this one. From that day forward he was my best friend, my protector, and my shadow, and my everything. He made everyone feel so loved and was always so happy! Having to say goodbye to him was the worst day of my life. I was broken in every way possible. Dr Lieu came into our home and was so calm and amazing and gave us all the information we needed in such a calming tone it really helped.Otis you were my favorite Hello and hardest Goodbye. Your forever in my heart until we meet again!
Puck
2013-2026
Puck wasn't just a dog or a pet, she was a member of our family for 13 wonderful years. She came from an Amish ranch outside Ontario, Oregon, one of a large litter from hard working adult dogs and friendly people. Early lives are so important in molding a puppy's character. We drove home with her, quiet and small, in my husband's lap, and she was always especially bonded to him through the years. Her dog-clock kept track of days of the week, waiting for the moment that she would jump into the passenger seat of the truck and head to the mountain cabin--her absolute favorite place. Parks and foothills were great but the cabin was the place she dreamed about. No leashes. No fenced yards. Just the freedom to visit dog and people friends there and take naps in the sunshine. She loved long hikes in the Boise foothills, racing over the hills, sniffing every bush and blade of grass for exotic smells of unseen wildlife. So intelligent and gentle with deep brown eyes that saw and understood everything.
The photo shows months-old puppy Puck sitting in her favorite plant pot, thinking great thoughts about how she needed to manage those tempting not-dogs on the other side of the fence. In later years when she could no longer fit into the pot, she would sit in the same exact spot, still focused on the animal management job she couldn't ever do.
Jackson
He was a stock dog gently or ruff what ever it took to get the job done. Jackson could heard anything from live stock to chickens. I rescued him at 5 years old and for the last 10 years he was( never ) more than 20 feet away from me unless he was working for me 24 /7 . He was my best friend and I am sure I was his.
Blacky Dole
Blacky was a brute...but let's rewind some years:
When we got Blacky he was less than 6 months old, we were fostering him for a friend who was looking for a pet friendly house, that never emerged. And I'm glad.
He grew up to be 14 lbs with bright yellow eyes. He as tall, lengthy with a fine long black coat except for the white patch on his chest which is where he got the nick name "tuxedo kitty." He got along with our other animals well enough; but he was definitely THE boss. Every other cat on the block had to look over their shoulders. For the neighbors that had cats, there would be that cat's hair in clumps all over the owner's lawn. Yet he rarely came home with a scratch.
Blacky was the very definition of "cat." He let it be known when he wanted attention and when he had had enough. One pat too many would result in a growl after that a nice big scratch depending on his mood, always had to pay attention to the mood. My husband could get away with it, Blacky would throw some attitude, and Thomas would pick him up, rough up his fur and laugh. When he got put down, he would run away like his dignity just got hurt. In cat fashion he usually wanted his attention at around 3:30 in the morning, to get our attention he would stomp on our heads and purr loudly.
Blacky was the boss of the house, ruler of the block. He was our big, beautiful brute and will be missed always.