02/07/2026
Our hearts are broken.
A tribute to Kenzo from his mom:
Last week, I set Kenzo free. If there was ever a dog who found me when I needed him most, it was him. He was 16 months old when he was dumped on the side of a highway in Rosamond. When I adopted him, it was clear he had survived abuse, neglect, and had a rare spinal infection that left him in significant pain. More than once, I thought I might lose him.
But the opposite happened.
We fought our way toward a life that felt softer and more flexible; one that allowed us to heal. Kenzo came into my life while I was grieving multiple losses, the end of a bad relationship and during a time when I was desperate for connection. Kenzo didn’t hesitate. He let me in. He poured into me as much as I poured into him.
Outside of home, Kenzo was anxious, fearful and reactive. He wasn’t a dog I could bring to brunch and that was fine. I never tried to fix him. I learned him.
I built him a smaller, gentler world where he could thrive:
Early mornings.
Tucked-away corners of parks.
Playing ball, off-leash.
On his hard days, I told him he was perfect just as he was and by doing so, I finally believed I was too. For five years, we learned each other and created a rhythm and synergy, rooted in mutual commitment and understanding.
He kept me present. I kept him secure.
Kenzo was diagnosed with terminal lymphoma in the beginning of January. He was 6 years old. In his final weeks, we lived one day at a time. We didn’t need to cram in meaning because we’d lived it. We spent every day doing what he loved:
Ball.
Relaxing in the backyard.
Upside-down couch naps.
Car rides.
Pancakes.
In-N-Out.
Ice cream cones.
The house feels quiet. My heart hurts. Kenzo was my protector, my anchor, my constant; my dance partner in a life that we figured out as we went. The magnitude of my grief reflects how expansive this love was. What an honor.
I’d choose it again. I’d choose Kenzo again. Every time.
Kenzo, Reiko, Emi and I are so grateful for the love, visits, treats, flowers, generosity and support that have embraced us. Thank you for loving my boy with me. Thank you, Beverly and Rottweiler Rescue, for trusting me with this special soul.
Kenzo forever. And ever, and ever and ever 🖤.