Tika

by Rachel
(Summit, NJ)

Tika came into my family's life when I was 9. My father had wanted a dog for a very long time and my mother had finally caved. Tika was an exuberant boxer who was 1 1/2 years old. My father died in 9/11 eight months after we got her. My mother, older sister, and I all were grieving in our own ways for long periods of time. But Tika was always there to cheer us up, no matter what.

She died of a massive heart attack several months ago, and today would have been her 13th birthday.

She was the most amazing dog I have ever met. Always gentle and attentive. I owe my sanity to her. And I know that she is happily chasing frogs in doggy heaven right now.

Thank you, Tika, for getting me through an (otherwise) extremely lonely childhood. I think you knew how loved you were. You were my partner in crime. I love you and I hope you are peacefully with Dad right now. Thank you for giving our family ten years of humor, company, and most importantly, compassion.