Memorials

Tate was convinced he was human, and an aristocratic one at that. We were really grateful he felt he deserved to be showered with attention and praise, because he suffered a fair amount of abuse before he came to us. His veterinary records listed previously broken ribs and teeth gone bad from biting at the bars of a cage he was kept in too much. So the fact he came out of that experience loving people and interaction was a blessing.

He very much helped us heal, too. We had just lost another dog, and were also navigating our older daughter heading off to college. So he helped my wife, younger daughter and me, as well as his adopted canine brother, get through those adjustments. 

He liked anyone he met, but he was especially devoted to my wife. He was always at her side. When she grew too sick to work, which coincided with the beginning of the pandemic, he was in heaven, spending five years constantly in her company. On walks together, visiting loved ones together, watching TV together, with her as much as he could be. He was always gentle and learned to be a compassionate companion, cuddling her even more on bad days.

When she eventually began hospice care in our home, he continued his care. If she couldn’t go on a walk with us or a car ride, he would run immediately to her on our return, like he wanted to tell her about his adventures, and like even that short separation was too much. When her last day with us came, Tate lay on her leg, chin on her knee, comforting her as she prepared to leave this place.

Tate and I had about three months to help each other cope with that before he became ill, too. We tried several treatments that all failed to help him. It became clear the kindest thing to do for Tate was end his suffering. It was such a relief when our veterinarian told me about Paws at Peace, and the ability to let Tate make his transition in our home.

Dr. Katy treated Tate and me both with so much compassion and dignity. She explained everything that would happen, and she didn’t rush it. What could have been traumatic wound up actually being a positive, if still emotional, experience.

As much as I will always miss him, it helps incredibly to know he was able to pass here where his favorite person did, and he was happy and comfortable. I imagine him running immediately to her, just like he did when we finished any other adventure. And he doesn’t hurt anymore.

We love you so much, Tater Tot. Until we meet again ...