Pet Memorial
Remembering Our Lifted Stars...
Letting go of a pet is hard, and our team wants to help ease your pain. Submit a memorial below to commemorate your beloved furry friend.
– Roderick R, September 2024
He was my baby boy, best friend, love bug and cuddle buddy.
There are 14 years of stories to sift through but the one that stands out the most is Monty stole a loaf of bread from the kitchen and as his grandma was cleaning up the mess, he went back to steal the other loaf of bread. At that point, I couldn’t help but laugh and be amazed at how smart he was.
The house now feels empty without his physical presence. The excitement when I get home is now gone but I’m furever grateful for our time together.
My sweet boy, you are free from pain. Run wild and free, and eat all the pastries your little belly desires.
Mommy loves and misses you so much. Until we meet again, Bubba.
– Christina L, September 2024
– Nancy G., August 2024
From the moment we welcome you into our home, you filled our hearts with unconditional love, loyalty, and boundless happiness.
You were more than just a pet; you were a cherished member of our family.
Your playful spirit, gentle nature, and unwavering companionship brightened our days and comforted us during our darkest times.
Whether it was your excited greetings at the door, your comforting presence by your side, or by the way you always knew how to make us smile, you left an indelible mark on our hearts.
Your favorite spots in the house feel empty now, but the memories we shared will never fade.
We will forever cherish the walk in the park, the joyful games, and the quiet moments of cuddling. your paw prints are etched in our hearts, and your legacy of love will live on.
Snoopy my dear fur-baby though my heart is heavy with grief, I find solace in knowing that you are at peace, running free in a place where there is no pain or suffering.
Thank you for the unconditional love and happiness you gave me.
Rest in peace my snoopy. until we meet again at the rainbow bridge.
Dad misses you.
I love you so much.
– Michael L., August 2024
– Victoria D., August 2024
– Mark P., August 2024
Living until an estimated 15 years old, it was only in the last year of his life that age really caught up to him but he was the goodest boy to the very end, and I’m forever grateful to the staff at Lifting Stars and especially Dr. Jeff for their compassionate assistance in helping me ease his passing.
Until we meet again my sweet boy xx
– Carmen P., June 2024
Samish was 14. We could tell something was wrong in the spring, The day Samish was diagnosed with cancer, we were absolutely devastated. In our hearts, we knew we couldn’t let him suffer. Dr Olivia helped us and helped Samish through that fateful day. Her care, compassion, patience and understanding was greatly appreciated; more than she will ever know. We can never thank her enough
We know Samish spent his entire life loving us and we will now spend the rest of our lives missing him. Boo Boo, until we meet again, we love and miss you. We are still heartbroken by your passing but we know you are swimming and running again free of pain. ❤🌈🕊
– Trish V., June 2024
Yuki came to me when she was just slightly over one year old. Her previous “owner” (does anyone really “own” a cat?)
Yuki was a Snowshoe and her prior owner was Japanese. Yuki is Japanese for snow.
I was blessed to have her for almost 10 wonderful years. Dr Jeff was so kind and gave Yuki a very peaceful passing.
– Patricia L, May 2024
In 2020 they decided to sell their home and move Susan’s mom, Audrey, into a new house, so they could all be safe together during the pandemic. Moo Moo was a good “therapy” cat and enjoyed being in a happy bubble of people with multiple beds to nap on.
James gave her the nickname “kitchen shark,” as she circled anyone rattling a dish and stared intently until her humans would feed her. She had an incredibly healthy appetite! If James didn’t get up early in the morning to feed her, she would stomp on him in bed. She had an amazingly accurate, internal clock that told her when her additional noon and evening feedings were required.
Her daily routine included inspecting every room in the house and exploring open doors and small spaces – leading to one memorable occasion when she went missing overnight but was found in the morning, sleeping happily on a cereal box in a kitchen cupboard.
Susan worked from home and later retired to take care of her mom, and the two of them doted on Moo Moo during the day. Moo Moo was a good “boss” cat, who liked to supervise Susan working on her computer. She enjoyed playing with a string and packing paper, birdwatching, and chirping at the hummingbirds at the feeder. She also loved sunbathing on a sunny patch of carpet, or on the outdoor deck when the weather was warm.
The evenings belonged to James. Moo Moo would be the first to hear his approaching footsteps and would eagerly wait at the front door. They would enjoy a “welcome home” petting, preferably on one of Moo Moo’s favourite rugs. She loved sprawling in front of the fireplace, or perching on the sofa behind James and Susan’s heads while they watched TV.
When Moo Moo developed inoperable bladder cancer, she took comfort nestling in Audrey’s bed and cradling next to her. She had a last cuddle with Audrey before the time came for Dr. Olivia to give Moo Moo a compassionate, pain-free farewell. It took all of Susan’s strength to take Moo Moo from the arms of her 83-year-old mom, who patted and kissed the cat, saying “see you in heaven soon.”
The family is eternally grateful that Lifting Stars ensured Moo Moo did not suffer needlessly, and she died peacefully, resting close to the fireplace with Susan and James by her side. They had only five precious years with sweet Moo Moo but will cherish the memory of their little cat companion forever.
– Susan, James, and Audrey, February 2024
Luna wasn’t a lap cat but she liked to lay beside us and get her head and neck scratched while she snuggled. Being brushed wasn’t her thing, but bring out the small vacuum cleaner and she was there right away to be groomed. One of Luna’s favorites was getting kisses on top of the head as she gave small nudges in return and her purring would take on such a deep and reverberating loving sound. This was almost always followed by Luna giving small nibbles on the tip of my nose, which was truly a thing of beauty.
Luna had a unique personality that was all her own, and I am grateful to have shared our lives together. We know how big a role we play in the lives of our companions. The role they play in our lives is often greater than we can ever imagine.
Luna was laid to rest on Jan.11, 2024 after almost 15 years, as her battle with diabetes and other ailments took their toll on our beautiful companion. Until our souls meet again Luna, always loved and always cherished.
– David M., January 2024.
– Brad and Nancy, January, 2024
– Kelly H., March 2023
Valerie B., February 2023
We are heartbroken that he’s gone but so very, very grateful for the joy, love, and companionship he brought whilst allowing us to be his forever family.
It has been physically painful to not have him in our home as we miss the sound of his nails on hardwood, the vocal chat as his meals were prepped, the very specific “arroo” to let us know he wants in, and his ears down with a helicopter tailspin upon seeing our return.
Dougall had many friends and admirers – four-legged and humans too. He was an amazing host to his pals when needed, sharing his (our) bed and his toys and space with no complaints. He always wanted to take the lead in a jaunty manner in his younger years but as time passed was slower and less able but always keen at the onset to head to the park, sniffing everything and marking his way along.
Ellen K., February 2023
Cru is the most beautiful, intelligent, lovable PWD there has ever been in my humble opinion, We thought seriously about cloning him in Japan but we felt that would be an ethical violation and we decided, there can only be one Cru ever. Cru, we all agreed could read our minds anytime he chose to – it was uncanny. He would spend every summer at our lake cabin east of Prince George and swim right up to this past summer. We never left him ever without being surrounded by family and friends who loved him. He had his own Instagram page too- LoElliottCru.
Cru was active right up until a very short time ago and he, in his wisdom, basically told us in so many ways that he was ready to depart this Earth. It was difficult but we had the tremendous support of a wonderful and caring veterinarian which allowed us to all be with Cru in our home as we said goodbye. Cru was made very very comfortable which provided all our family with reassurance and comfort knowing Cru was in the very best of hands.
We shall miss this wonderful dog dearly.” — Robert E., 2023.
Leanne M., December 2022
Teresa & Brad, November 2022
Vania Pacheco, October 2022
We would spend endless hours exploring the beaches, parks and trails in Kitsilano, and she became a fixture. She would often spend overnights and weekends with us at our home, which became her second one. I would pick her up after work, which was early morning, and she would spend the day, often going home after dinner, in the evenings, just before her owner got home.
Ramona was a beach girl (and she could surf !), having been born in Costa Rica and spending the first few years there, giving birth to two puppies when she was about two years old. When Emma and Ramona returned to Canada, she lived in Ottawa with her parents before coming to Vancouver to university.
I have so many memories of Ramona, but some of the most memorable ones are of her at the beach, where she would run and play with her favourite stick, carrying it proudly as she ran and selected a spot to dig and bury it. She was a ferocious digger, and I often said she could dig a hole that any Rottweiler would be proud of! I recall one day at Jericho when I was enjoying the sun and looked around, wondering where she had gone. Then I saw a plume of sand flying up down the beach and discovered she had dug so deep she was down in the hole with her stick. I stood laughing so hard…. and I can visualize it to this day!
Ramona was a feisty girl, independent, but she had a soft side too. She was a therapy dog to my husband, who had major surgery, and when he came home, she would climb up on his chest and lay across his wound area as if to help heal his scar. This was truly amazing, I thought.
When Emma finished her dentistry at UBC, she got a job in Sechelt, and I got to visit Ramona there before she decided to return back East, to Ottawa, after a year. This was a very sad time for me, having to say farewell to our dear little friend, who was a part of our family.
We kept in touch, and she enjoyed a couple of visits back to Vancouver, and it was at one of these visits that she got to meet our rescue dog “Coco,” who is a chocolate brown colour, like Ramona, a cross between a Chihuahua, Dachshund and some Jack Russell. They got along OK and spent the last four years of Ramona’s life as “sisters” when we were asked to officially adopt Ramona when her owner could no longer keep her. How could I say no?
I recall that evening when I met her at the airport, opening her travel crate, and she jumped into my arms. My heart skipped a beat or two, I can tell you! When we got to our house, she got out of the car, ran up to the door, and when it was opened, she ran straight up the stairs without a backward glance. She was HOME…….
She fitted right into our lives and went on trips with us to motor racing events all around B.C. and into the USA. She remained active, and we had so many fun times, especially dressing up on special events, such as St. Patrick’s Day (her birthday), Easter, and Halloween when we all dressed up in a theme and were legendary in the neighbourhood. Ramona was a good girl “off-leash,” and when we reached the corner of our street, I would let her off, and she would run in her funny little skippy style down to our driveway and peel off and wait at the front door for Coco and me to get there. Coco had lost her sight to glaucoma, so she had to walk on a leash, and she would often bump into Ramona, who would just carry on and not get upset.
Ramona was diagnosed with congestive heart failure in the last month of her life and battled on till the end, walking independently and even having a beach morning in her last days. We had a coffee party for her on her last morning at our favourite coffee spot, Casereccio, and a whole lot of her doggy friends and their owners joined in the fun. She was very lively that day, she always liked a good party, and she had ham and chicken and treated galore! It was such a nice send-off for her. She had a last walk around the block with her little friend Gypsy, and my heart sank as he walked down the block towards the house for the last time and waited at the door, but she could not do the stairs anymore in her final weeks and waited to be carried up.
It was a glorious sunny afternoon when Dr. Jeff came to help her on her final earthly journey. He was so kind and gentle and respectful of my feelings, for which I am so grateful. And so we shared our last cuddle, and she slipped away peacefully as I looked into her wonderful, expressive eyes for the last time. She was privately cremated at “Until We Meet Again,” and her ashes are shared in an urn; we will scatter the others in her favourite places when we can all get together again.
I have put up a tribute to her on a big tree at the end of our driveway for all who pass by to see. And we share her farewell with you all below.
My farewell to everyone who knew me, from”RAMONA” ”
March 17th 2005 – Sept 27th 2022
(Aged 17 1/2)
I left this World, on the wings of Angels, in the arms of my best friend and Mum, Sue, and crossed the Rainbow Bridge on a glorious, sunny afternoon, Tuesday, September 27th, 2022.
I’M FREE
Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free. I left behind some misery.
My days of youthful agility
Were no longer a possibility.
My weak joints and cloudy eyes,
were longing for the heavenly skies. Before I lost all my dignity,
You let me enter eternity.
Do not grieve for me.
You’ve set me free.
Just remember how I used to be……
——————————————-
Dogs come into our lives,
leave pawprints on our hearts, and we are forever changed.
Love, Sue, Gerry and your friend “Coco” -Sue P.
This little man knew how to be comfortable. Chico would swoon when wrapped up and warm in his favourite faux fur.
‘Punky’ loved to sleep in bed with his Mom. At only 2 kg, she was terrified of squashing him so surrounded him with pillows to keep him safe. One night he went missing, only to be discovered way over under his Mom’s pillow, trying to be closer to her. What a sweetie!
Forever remembered, forever loved💕
Gaeron C, September 2022
Shane & Carolyn, September 2022
There was never a time that Peaches wasn’t purring. Her favourite spot to sleep was curled up on my chest or next to Kacey. She would always rub her face against mine or bump her head up to get a forehead kiss. By the age of 5, both Kacey and Sadey had passed, and we moved east to Milton, Ontario – eventually Oakville a year after. Peaches’ new friend in Ontario was a 6-year-old Siamese named Caesar – they didn’t get along at first but eventually learned to co-exist. For such a young cat, Peaches had some very bad teeth and ended up getting most of them pulled! With only six teeth left on her bottom-front jaw, her cuteness only increased due to the resulting ‘old-man-face’ she would now make involuntarily.
After Peaches turned 8, she said goodbye to Caesar as we left Ontario and moved to Burnaby, British Columbia, where we eventually found out that Peach had developed diabetes. The insulin injections, thankfully, only lasted a few months as she went into remission and was put on a strict vet-prescribed diet. Being on wet food and having barely any teeth did not stop Peaches, and she made it VERY well known throughout the household whenever she was hungry. Her meows turned into rhythmic ‘meow-hums’ when she scuttled along after me as I went to fetch her next meal.
She was an extremely playful and silly cat. She didn’t need any fancy or expensive cat toys; all she needed was a laser pointer or a piece of string, and she was entertained with no end in sight. During her 11th year, Peaches had a lump (benign) removed from her mouth; she mysteriously caught bronchitis and began suffering from chronic constipation. After a worrisome visit to the emergency, a new ingredient was added to her regular diet – stool softener! For a time, Peach was back to her plain-old, silly self, including her not knowing how to cover up her own poos in the litter box.
Around her 12th birthday, we adopted a new friend for Peaches to play with – a Pomsky puppy named Nova! Sadly, we thought we had many more years of Peaches in our lives, but Peach had developed an even bigger lump in her mouth which turned out to be OSCC. We were devastated to learn that we wouldn’t be able to save her as all the nearby oncology departments were back-logged, and the tumor had already spread into her jawbone. Peaches lived out the remainder of her days with her friend Nova and – with the help of strong painkillers – was able to enjoy being spoiled with treats and delicious foods she normally couldn’t have from her previous diabetes. She got all the extra pets and cuddles and loved being brushed.
Peaches was such a good kitty. We held her tiny paw as she left us, and we’ll never forget her. Even though she was only 12, she had traveled all over Canada, watched me go through three relationships, and helped me cope with the breakups as well as the deaths of loved ones. She was my anchor. I’m glad I was able to give her a life full of love and silliness. She’ll always be my little baby.
Harrison & Hannah, September 2022
Helen & Vlassis, August 2022
After his arrival, we wrestled with what his new name would be. It was then we saw a videoabout a family who named their dog “Hastings.” Choosing a street we lived beside was ano-brainer. From then on he was Fraser Dog.
Fraser not only lit up our lives but often those of strangers we met walking down the street.
People would often stop to tell us what a beautiful dog he was. Fraser was even in histemperament and was gentle in the presence of children and other dogs.
He became the beloved companion of Angus, the mischievous Westie belonging to Stacey’sparents that pre-deceased him last September. They would always chase around our yard whentogether, though Fraser hardly let him catch up.
We have so many fond memories of his near decade in our lives. The time we brought him home, our travel together one time to the Okanagan (he didn’t like car rides much), the times wehugged him, and the thousands of walks exploring our neighbourhood together. Fraser becameour community ambassador by letting us strike up so many conversations with others in the ‘Fraserhood.’
During summer, Fraser would take over a patch of our garden we fenced off for him, digginghimself a pit to lie in the dirt to keep himself cool. It is here we will spread his ashes, foreverbonding him to our home and to our hearts.
Farewell, Fraser, you handsome boy.”
Stacey, Sophie & Mike, August 2022
Smokey was named for the faint brown tabby markings that gradually faded into a sleek, silky black coat as he grew into the kindest, gentlest house panther. His own anxieties diminished but never really went away, which may be why he had so much empathy for other animals and people. We continued to foster, and when we had very sad, frightened kittens who really needed love or support, Smokey would wrap his arms around them in a giant bear hug until they felt reassured and safe. He and Freya essentially adopted our third kitty, Sage, when he returned subdued and disheartened after a failed adoption.
Smokey was a true “nurse cat,” staying glued to the side of anyone who was ill or upset and showing great compassion. If you were in need of comfort, he would snuggle in by your side or sit behind you, placing a gentle paw on your shoulder and purring into your ear. Smokey loved to have his belly scratched and would respond with his unique five-point hug, where he would wrap all four legs and his tail around your arm while he purred. He never demanded anything and was always very grateful for everything he was given.
Smokey loved his people more than anything. He would quietly follow us from room to room, finding spots where he could sit close by and wait patiently for pets. While I played my electronic drums, he would sit beside me on an end table, either watching with fascination or somehow managing to nap through the practice. He was very pleased to have us both home much more than normal during the Covid outbreaks. He became an active participant in many Zoom meetings, much to the delight of all those attending, showing a keen interest in library governance and going down in Zoom history when he threw up an impressively large and noisy hairball just off camera during one departmental meeting. We’re grateful that he had the opportunity to bring a little extra joy to so many people during such a difficult time.
Even during his final short illness at only 11 years old, Smokey never complained and gave the quietest purrs for pets right up until the end. We are grateful beyond words to Dr. Jeff and Lifting Stars for how they supported us through his last day and helped make an unbearable experience as bearable as it could be. Smokey left us gently, peacefully, and in safe hands that carried him away with the utmost care and respect. We will miss him forever.”
Kay and Jen, June 2022
I am very grateful and thankful for Dr. Berkshire and his staff for helping Charlie on his journey across the rainbow bridge. Dr. Berkshire was so calm, respectful and patient. He gave me all the time I needed to say goodbye to Charlie and was so very gentle with him. I will miss you forever Charlie bear and hope we will meet again someday.”
Janelle L., February 2022
Just after 2:00 PM on January 7th of 2022, my wife and I said a tearful goodbye to our beloved family member Jessie O’Callaghan Kerr as she peacefully crossed the rainbow bridge in the comfort of her own home, surrounded by her loved ones and under the kind care and supervision of Dr. Jeff from Lifting Stars Pet Homecare.
Jessie entered our lives in the Summer of 2010 when we first spotted each other from across the room at the Vancouver SPCA. She was five years old, had been abandoned twice, and was incredibly shy. As soon as I saw Jessie, I turned to my wife (then fiancée), grabbed her hand, and walked her toward the beautiful calico kitty. My wife and I formed a very special bond with Jessie as we spent the time to slowly gain her trust enough to scratch her neck, pet her nose, and eventually hear her heart-warming purr. On Jessie’s cage was a heart-breaking description that read “I’m beautiful, but I don’t know it.” From that exact moment, I knew that we were the forever family to love and care for her, showing her how truly beautiful she is.
At the time, Jessie preferred to be the only cat in our household. She absolutely loved affection, but only if it were on her own terms. Jessie was very timid and was frightened easily by sounds, motions, and any changes made to her environment. We were eventually relieved to find a daily medication that we could give to her to help with her severe stress and anxiety. In the Summer of 2013, we added another fur-baby to our family. This time, it was a rescue kitten named Lily. Jessie was very hesitant to be around Lily at first, but over time they became inseparable.
Being a kitty with special needs, Jessie has had a huge impact on our lives by teaching us how to be more patient, understanding, empathetic, and compassionate. We will miss her every single day but are comforted in knowing that she will forever be in our hearts, memories, thoughts, and conversations.
We love you, Jessie. Forever and always,
Your forever daddy and mommy, Doug and Heidi, and your little sisters, Lily and Hilo”
— January 2022
In 2020, Cosmo was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma in her spleen. Although surgery to remove the spleen bought us “bonus time” with our favorite girl, we knew it would only be a matter of time before her cancer returned. Seven months later Cosmo began to slow down, having mobility issues, and difficulty eating. We were carrying her and hand feeding her, knowing that despite our best efforts, we were increasingly unable to maintain her quality of life. Even though we knew she wasn’t enjoying life like she used to, it was still extremely difficult for us to determine whether or not it was her time to go. Although it’s selfish, we wished that we could have Cosmo in our lives forever. Cosmo was, and will always be, irreplaceable.
At this time, we arranged an appointment with Dr. Jeff for a quality of life assessment. Our meeting with him was extremely helpful. He shared our pain with us, including his own story of losing his dog to cancer, and helped us determine signs that would tell us it was time to let go. Things that were especially helpful was 1) knowing that we don’t want her quality of life to go to “zero” and 2) knowing that the accommodations we were making for her (like hand feeding) was the ultimate sign of care, not a way of keeping her alive for selfish purposes.
Later that week, we decided it was time to let Cosmo go and Lifting Stars was able to schedule something within 24 hours. I cannot emphasize enough how invaluable it was to hold her until her last waking moments, all in the comfortable environment of her favorite dog bed. In those moments, Dr. Jeff wasn’t just a vet, but someone who cared about Cosmo just as much as we did.
Cosmo was smart as a whip, stunningly gorgeous, the matriarch of our family, and made each moment a bright one. She was such a strong girl that gave us everything she had until the very end. We miss her so much but have been told that the magnitude of grief is a measure of the love you had when your pet was still alive. We feel so lucky to have had such a powerful love and will cherish the memories forever. Thank you Lifting Stars for making those final memories good ones, we don’t know what we would do without services like yours.”
Erika & Geoff, January 2022
Yogi had been dealing with a collapsing trachea and breathing issues his entire life, and even after 2 emergency stent surgeries and a week-long stay in the ICU, the stents ultimately kept failing and we knew it just was not meant to be.
Honestly, on the day that Dr. Jeff came to our house, I was in such deep pain and sorrow I do not have a clear recollection of what he looked like, or much of what was discussed. However, I do remember very clearly how gentle and calm Dr. Jeff was, and how he never rushed any of his words or actions when interacting with us and Yogi.
At a time when we were overcome with so much emotion and sadness, I am so very grateful for Dr. Jeff because he allowed us to walk our little Yogi across the rainbow bridge in the safety and peace of his own home, with his mommy and daddy holding his little paws.
Above anything in this world, Yogi absolutely loved food and eating; he never understood that human food was not for him. Countless times I would come home to find him sitting on his little perch in front of the window with an empty bag of chips, or treats, or anything he could sniff out.
He did not care for the company of other canines or 4 legged creatures, but he loved car rides and road trips and just going anywhere as long as he was with us.
Now that he is free from pain and “worldly” rules and limitations, I like to think that he is always trotting close to me, leash free, with a little backpack filled with all his favourite foods and treats.
He was the best little boy, and we will never ever forget him or the permanent imprint he left on our lives. Mommy and Daddy love you Yogi. “
Howie & Jenny, November 2021
Spooky was the most affectionate, gentle sweet cat with a big personality and my constant companion and who was with me through so much. I will miss my little Spooky forever — love you so much little buddy. Rest in peace. May 2006 to Nov 19th 2021”
”Mummy “ Marion W., xxx; November 2021
Mama had loads of personality for being such a little cat! Though she only weighed 6.5 lbs, she had huge preferences when it came to food, schedules, company & grooming. She enjoyed napping on many varieties of fluffy pillows and her favourite perch was in a tiny pink flamingo pillow. Mama not only enjoyed her own food but also demanded servings of our people meals whenever we gathered. She enjoyed, in particular, petitioning for food from my sister Janine with her incisive pterodactyl squeaks. When Mama was displeased she communicated her feelings loudly, earning the nickname Poocaso. Fortunately, Mama was also an intensely loving, affectionate cat who loved daily brushing to the point of drooling, snuggling with me and being carried around in my arms so she could participate in every conversation / Zoom meeting / in-person or on-screen social activity.
In August 2021 her health changed quickly over a few short days and we received confirmation that her lung cancer had progressed. At the age of approximately 17.5 years, this would mean that her time with us was extremely short. We had 4 days of a “Mama-Moon” where we got to live our best lives together. I didn’t leave her side and was able to offer her her favourite foods to enjoy, if only even for a sniff. She was visited by the important people of her life including Sherry and Aaron. Finally, Mama took her last breaths in her pink flamingo, in my arms in the presence of her other servant, my sister Janine and the wonderfully compassionate Dr. Jeff.
I sorely miss her 5am breakfast wake-up antics and her attentive, adoring company. She brought so much joy and love to me and many people in her lifetime. Mama, I’m grateful for your friendship and our glamorous cat lady love affair. You’re in my heart forever.
Deep thanks to Dr. Jeff and his incredible team for their tender, compassionate, skillful care in the days leading to Mama’s last breaths. I will be forever grateful to you all for your loving expertise and gentle support. Special thanks to Sherry & Aaron for their loving care of Mama before she came to me. Finally, deep appreciation to Janine and the Phamily for adopting Mama as their own along with all my friends and companions who fell in love with her during our time together.”
Sincerely, Joan, August 31, 2021
In June 2020, she started having full-body seizures which worsened over time. Fortunately those were able to be controlled using medication.
On August 7, we’ve noticed several tumors under her tail. We quickly took her to Canada West Veterinary Specialists & Critical Care hospital in Vancouver for emergency treatment. After several exams and tests, she was diagnosed with Lymphoma. Because of her age, removing tumors surgically was not an option and for the same reason we did not want to put her through Chemotherapy. She was provided Gabapentin & Prednisone, but we were told that our time with her was limited.
She gave us almost 15 years (3 weeks short to be precise) of unconditional love. We wanted to make sure her last days were comfortable and happy. We spoiled her — lots of her favourite food, took her favourite places, and met her favourite people.
We did not want her to suffer at the end, so we asked you to release her at home. This was the very last gift that we could give to our girl. Jenny peacefully passed in our arms…
Jenny enjoyed her last walk at Mundy Park that morning with her sister Jonna and our good friend, Samson, Jake and Pebbles. Jenny also finished her special breakfast and went to bathroom before Dr. Berkshire arrived. She was such a good girl.
We wanted to thank Dr. Berkshire for his compassionate and professional help in the end. We were a real mess but his dignified and respectful approach allowed us to get through this.
We know that only time can ease our pain, but we miss her terribly…. She was a gentle, sweet and kind girl. She had to put up with two puppies (Jina who passed in 2018 due to Lymphoma) and Jonna. She was always so nice to her sisters.
R.I.P. sweet girl Jenny until we meet again.”
Love, Alex & Akemi, August 2021
Rachael, Patrick and Georgia, August 2021
Dr. Berkshire was better at helping us with this terrible necessity than we could ever have imagined. His gentle, calm, caring, informative, and professional handling of Nellie’s end of life process was so very much appreciated. His compassionate telephone staff was exemplary as well, allowing me my tears while trying to explain our situation with Nellie that day. We highly recommend Dr. Berkshire and his team if others find themselves and their pet in this very sad situation.”
Glen and Lori, June 2021
Vonnie and Bill, May 2021
David A., April 2021
There’s still this pervasive narrative in our society that ‘it’s just a cat’ or ‘just a dog’- please know that any person who understands this incomparable bond understands you – and the profound loss and pain in having to say goodbye. These relationships are so joyful, uncomplicated and secure – of course it’s a devastating loss.
I miss you with all of my heart gorgeous girl, you did such a good job love. Rest In Peace Catface, you’ve earned it. Love you and forever grateful, your mummy.”
Kelly L., April 2021
Jess & Jeff, February 2021
A bundle of love on the edge of disaster
Reaching out to us, to our souls, a beacon in the storm
The years you gave us filled our hearts with joy and tenderness
Sometimes when the stars line up just right, an angel appears
Goodbye to our sweet angel, Bella
Sharon & Tor, February 2nd, 2021
Dr. Jeff Berkshire, January 2021
Atsushi & Masumi, November 2020
Nicked him! Here he is caught in action. No doubt laughing his face off because the last time he got ‘me’ really good. I was cleaning out my favourite bag and found a dried up carcass of a rat in the bottom! Must have been a few months old and travelled with me to some of the best hotels! Yikes!”
Alannah, July 2020
I would describe Kes as a very shy, one person cat. She tolerated other people and other cats, but when you got to know her, she was as gentle as can be. She liked to climb up on me and purr, and occasionally groom me. She would meow and purr at me and demand petting, snuggles and of course her favorite thing. Food. When Kes was about 7, I had to put her on a diet because she was extremely overweight. I switched her from dry diet to moist grain free and the weight steadily came off until she was a much healthier size. Kes enjoyed near perfect health most of her life, her geriatric blood work always came back perfect. Which is why putting her to sleep was so hard. Her arthritis was no longer manageable. She was also starting to suffer from cognitive decline.
Kes was a very very vocal cat. She meowed for everything. Sometimes, she’d even wake up from a dream and meow for pets. She meowed for food, attention, comfort, even catnip! Kes had a clock in her tummy. I would feed her controlled portions at specific times each day. If she ate at 5:00 pm, she’d meow at 4:59 pm to let me know it was almost time to eat, even waking from a sleep! Now that she’s gone, I miss seeing her in all the places she’d be in. On the big rug downstairs. Waiting for me at the top of the stairs (To feed her healthy snacks!). Meowing with her head between the railing demanding supper. Snoozing in her bed. On her perch looking outside, chirping at birds. Rubbing her cheek on the wall at the bottom of the stairs waiting for me to come down and feed her. Sleeping in her other cat bed downstairs.
I am eternally grateful to Dr. Berkshire for his tender compassion in handling her and making sure her exit from this life was painless and peaceful. She will be forever loved and forever missed.”
Kes’ meowmy, February 2020
Feisty, regal, and a huntsman to the end…you chose us from the hay bales in Nelson at a time in our lives when we sorely needed it…our candle in the dark. How very goosebumpy it was for me to discover only weeks ago that your nickname Bougie means candle in French.
We helped him pass to the spirit world at home…it was as peaceful as possible with Israel Kamakawiwo’ole softly singing ‘Somewhere Over The Rainbow’ and with the help of the incredible Dr Jeff Berkshire. We could not have hoped for a more compassionate, genuine, loving and respectful farewell and will forever be grateful. Thank you Dr Jeff.
Forever in our hearts funny little Valentine”
The Marello Family, February 2020
The Thomas-Cartwright Familiy, December 2019
Leslie, Rick, Jamie and Cam, December 2019
Jacquie & Gordon, & Holly, December 2019
Terry S., October 2019
Gunner came to us from Iowa when he was four months old. He was one of the remaining 3 from a littler of 12, and we feel very privileged to have had him in our lives,and hope that we provided him with all the love and understanding, walks on the trails, swims in the river, that he could wish for.
Gunner was always so happy to see us when we came home from grocery shopping and would burrow his head in every bag to see what tasty treats might be hiding within. We would laugh every time and give him great hugs and kisses and a treat would always follow. He was much loved for the calm and gentle boy that he was; everyone that he met became very fond of him and all were saddened to hear of his passing.
We think about him every day and feel his loss very deeply. Gunner passed away peacefully in our home with his head in my arms whispering to him that he would always be loved and cherished and would forever be in our hearts.
Thank you so much Dr. Jeff for your compassion and guidance through this difficult time. We wanted our boy Gunner to pass away peacefully in our arms and we were able to give that to him. The decision to let him go was a difficult one, he left us far too soon and we miss him terribly; we miss everything about our boy but mostly his presence. Gunner made us laugh every day and gave us great joy every minute
Janice & Gordon, October 2019
Pedram A., Artist credit: @tiny.toad, October 2019
Ruth & Mervyn, July 2019
Lynn & Ian, July 2019
The Hawkins Family, July 2019
The Vaders, May 2019
Doris & Jesse, April 2019
Kim, Don & Taylor, April 2019
With all my love and kisses,
Toby S. (Dad pet parent), March 2019
Toby S. (Dad pet parent) and your cat brother Tyson, January 2019
Christine & Al H., December 2018
Kawi held many volunteer positions over the years. His role as an in-house rooster made alarm clocks obsolete. He also served as an assistant bed-maker, professional cuddler, Instagram meowdel and grocery bag inspector. He was a persistent artist with many talents, including early morning opera singing and improv comedy.
Kawi found something to purr about everyday. His many passions included, boxes, treats, garbage bin tipping, his hu-mum, wildlife (especially bird videos on YouTube), unrolling bathroom tissue, his “my little pony” toy and catnip bananas. Kawi’s extra toes, gray goatee and persnickety cattitude made him unique but he will be remembered most for the comfort, smiles and lessons he brought to his family.
He saw mountains and ocean, trains and tugboats, flew first class, tasted cheese, spilled wine and chewed grass. Kawi knew what it meant to be cherished and loved unconditionally. He will be missed more than any words could possibly explain.
Special thanks and appreciation to Dr. Berkshire and Lifting Stars Pet Home Care.”
Sherry & Curtis, November 2018
Jennifer C., November 2018
Tears fall onto my keyboard as I feel the pain from last Friday of you slipping so peacefully out of the bondage of an aged body.
I remember the day I found you in Sechelt. You weighed one pound of fur and you crawled through a sea of poodles in the pack of various ages. I sat on the floor cross legged and you were bound and determined to be my girl as you struggled over my ankles to get to my center. You were next to me for 17 years. I don’t remember having you wear a leash for more than 10 times. I will remember you tearing around in circles on my lawn so happy. I will treasure you dragging a stuffy three times your size up the steps to bed.
I will always treasure your nose on my eye lashes.
I am so very blessed for how you taught me sweetness in your calm ladylike fashion.
I come through the door now and miss you singing opera. I called it that even though I knew you were so upset that I left you home because it was too hot to take you with me.
I walk in our woods every day still and picture you trotting beside me.
God bless you and keep you until I see you again.
Snuggle with the angels.
Mommy, September 2018
Mommy & Daddy, June 2018
“It came to me that every time I lose a dog they take a piece of my heart with them, and every new dog who comes into my life gifts me with a piece of their heart. If I live long enough, all the components of my heart will be dog, and I will as generous and loving as they are” — Author Unknown
Brigitte & Lawrence
You no longer greet us
As we walk through the door
You’re not there to wag your tail
Nor to make us laugh anymore
Life is not the same without you
You were far more than a pet
You were our little girl, our cherished friend
A precious gift from God that we’ll never forget
It will take time to heal
For the silence to go away
We still imagine you close
And miss you everyday
You were such a great companion
Constant, loyal and true
Our hearts will always bear
The sweet memories left by you
Elaine and Darryl
His Dad
Christine & Al H., December 2018
Susan S.
Noella N.
You moved in and you stayed. You ate, slept and quietly grieved the loss of your previous home. You were the youngest in the family and lived a low profile until the day when it was just you and me. How things changed. You found your Siamese voice, loud, persistent and with clear intent. You developed your long list of wants, needs and demands: open the front door, the back door, the window, the front balcony door, the back balcony door, brush me (several times a day), give me fresh food, light the fireplace, put more wood on the fire, get off the phone, tell that visitor to get out of my chair, go to bed right now so we can have our fifteen minute, under-the-covers-cuddle, get up in the middle of the night, light the fire and keep me company, get off the computer, put that book down and pet me.
You announced when you came in from an outside excursion, you announced when you were going upstairs, and you announced when you were going for a nap. You expected an answer. You persisted – you would not be ignored.
You hunted; you patrolled your yard and tangled with any and all intruders. You followed the sun and disliked cold and rainy days.
You were my baby when you slept in the pram or cuddled at bed time. You were the-man-of- the-house when you ordered me around. You were Ricky day to day…but always you were my King Richard, the head of state…unique, psychic, jealous, loyal and handsome. An adorable and loveable character always in my heart. And yes Ricky, we will meet again.
Carole W.
He arrived in Vancouver in 2001 with his companion Kristull Egyptian Beauty or “Ruby”. They were the first silken windhounds in Canada. Ron and I had no idea what we were getting into when we met them at a home about an hour from Vancouver, but we knew we loved them at first sight.
Ash and Ruby, the Canadian pioneers, will now be running side by side across the rainbow bridge celebrating their reunion, having been separated by Ruby’s untimely death three years ago.
We are joined in sadness by the many who loved Ash, some who called him The King, many who knew him as a quiet shadow, and all who came to know silken windhounds through his patient and loving presence. Ron and I, along with Tango, Taj and his friends miss him so. Rest in peace, dear boy, and run like the wind with Ruby.
Harriett L. and Ron E.
Tigre’ my precious lynx point Siamese
At 6 weeks you entered my life like a fresh spring breeze
With cute rabbit feet, big pink ears and striped tail
A fur ball of white, pink nose and blue eyes crystal pale
With the passing of years, those eyes turned sapphire blue
And your gorgeous lynx markings darkened to a deep mocha hue
You grew to like catnip, golf balls and fake mice
And we darned almost lost you not one time, but twice!
We’ve lodged in four homes through travels, decore and packing
With you hiding in suitcases, boxes and wrapping
I would orchestrate renos while you played the Saint
Tracking through wood stain, soil and buckets of paint!
I’ve watched you grow in proud delight;
Learning to jump, open doors and pretend to fight
For a time we shared living with Gordon and Luna
Where we learned to share vittles, toys, fireplaces and tuna
You’ve been played with and cuddled not only by Kim
But your loving Grandparents as well; Sheila and Jim
You’ve lived up to your pet names – Sultan, Pumpkin, Spudger, Sweet Pea & Jeeves; but the best of them all is our Mr. Teegs!
You’ve taught me of calm and quiet repose
And I’ve cherished your softness and wisdom of soul
What adventures we’ve shared, spring, summer, fall; all three
With reflection in winter, while trimming the tree
After 22 years, you’ve touched much of my life
Laughter, milestones and tears, successes and strife
We’ve enjoyed many moments my dear little friend
I know you must leave, but the love will not end
It’s time for goodbye and for us to part
But your love will live on, here inside my heart
Kim L.
Kevin & Karin L.
Matt Z.
Jocelyn H.
April 25, 2012
Jeff B.