10/29/2026
Today was a day filled with mixed emotions. ❤️
A few weeks ago, Ann reached out to ask if I had any retired females available. Back in 2019, she had adopted one of our former moms, Zoe. Sadly, Zoe passed away this summer from cancer at the age of 12.
Ann shared that she initially didn't think she wanted another dog. But as the weeks passed, she realized just how empty her home felt without a four-legged companion. Having been a widow for many years, she knew how much that companionship meant to her.
A couple of weeks ago, Ann made the drive down to meet a few of our dogs. And wouldn't you know it, one in particular stole her heart.
The funny thing is, I wasn't planning on placing this girl. But something in my heart gave me a little nudge.
I asked Ann to give me a couple of days to think about it, and she graciously agreed.
That special girl was Miss Yara. ❤️
As many of you know, Yara came back to me after my dear friend Joe passed away. Since then, I've wrestled with what to do with both Yara and Ovi. I've had an ongoing internal battle between what I felt Joe would have wanted, what was right, and ultimately, what was best for the dogs.
Last week, Yara and I went to visit Joe's mom, Judy. I shared my thoughts with her, and receiving her blessing meant more to me than I can put into words. She agreed that this opportunity could be a phenomenal fit for Yara.
You see, Yara is a homebody at heart. She loves lounging around, sleeping on a comfortable bed, and enjoying all the little creature comforts of being a full-time house dog. She's calm, easygoing, low maintenance, and happiest simply being near her person.
And as much as I love her, I haven't been able to give her that full-time lifestyle.
Miss Nika is our main house dog, and while we certainly rotate dogs through our home, Nika has earned her permanent spot. Yara deserves that same kind of life, with a person she can call her very own.
Today, before Ann arrived, I loaded up Yara and Ovi and took them to the cemetery to visit Joe and his dad.
I stood there and told them both that I thought this was the best thing for Yara.
And let me tell you, I haven't cried that hard in a very long time!
There were so many emotions wrapped up in that moment. Sadness, guilt, love, memories, and the overwhelming feeling of wanting to do right by someone who meant so much to me.
But when I left, I felt something I hadn't felt about this decision before.
Peace.
I knew in my heart that I was doing the right thing.
I even had a little heart-to-heart with Ovi, who seemed to understand more than I could ever explain. When we got home, he wrestled around with Yara for a bit, then voluntarily trotted back to his kennel to hang out with Harbor.
Sometimes I think dogs understand far more than we give them credit for.
About an hour later, Ann pulled into the driveway with the biggest smile and so much excitement.
And in that moment, something really struck me.
Yara wasn't simply leaving for a new home.
She was beginning a new chapter, with a new purpose.
She has a new job now. Not one that requires training, titles, or accomplishments. Her job is simply to be there. To be someone's shadow, someone's comfort, someone's reason to smile, and someone's best friend.
And Ann? Well, her house won't feel quite so empty anymore.
Two hearts that have experienced loss are about to bring a whole lot of happiness back into each other's lives.
And that's pretty darn special. ❤️
Congratulations, Ann, on your beautiful girl. I hope Yara brings you years of smiles, laughter, companionship, and maybe even a little mischief.
As for me, I'm sure going to miss that wiggly butt.
Joe, I hope I made you proud. ❤️
