Pet Memorial
On August 31st, my constant companion and best pal, Haiku the Chikita (Chow-Akita mix), became an angel. We had spent his entire 15 years on this planet together except for the first 6 weeks which are a mystery since he was found wandering the California desert as a tiny pup. During that time, we created a bond that will last beyond his lifetime since Haiku truly lived his canine life to the fullest: dipping paws in both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, scenting in 14 U.S. states, indulging in room service at hotels from the Pacific Palisades to Myrtle Beach, helping me demonstrate pet first aid techniques at conferences, on television and for magazine photo shoots as well as serving as a pet product tester for my blog. Haiku had his picture taken by Lassie’s Star on the Walk of Fame and in front of the Hollywood Sign. He explored the ‘bat caves,’ made famous in the 1960s “Batman” TV Show, and wet his whistle in the famous Cafe Lafitte in Exile after a long walk through New Orleans’ French Quarter. Foremost, Haiku got to be a dog, running, playing, eating, resting, chasing and barking. He met other creatures along the way: horses, a tortoise, an owl, bunnies, cats, crows and a rattlesnake up close (but not too close like his sister did) and had the joy of being the baby brother to two older canines. He seemed to flourish in later years being doted upon as the only child, each experience connecting us more deeply. I strongly feel that seeing sights, tasting flavors, sniffing scents and other ongoing mental stimulation was key to my best buddy remaining in the moment for more than 15 years (that’s 95 to us humans). A highlight that melted my heart, occurred at an outdoor restaurant during Haiku’s first stay at a hotel. A young boy came up to my best buddy asking if he could pet him. When I responded in the affirmative, the boy touched Haiku’s soft fur and exclaimed, “He’s my dream come true.” What an incredible thing for anyone to say about another being! Nothing could make me prouder of giving my best buddy a life well lived. I miss him terribly, but hope he’s getting plenty of belly rubs and pumpkin cookies wherever he is until I can once again provide those things for him along with a great big kiss on his nose. Tribute for Haiku, My Dream Come True!
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