10/11/2025
Yesterday I held Ollie as he peacefully crossed rainbow bridge after a vibrant 17 years of life. The day before he sat by my side as I celebrated my 41st birthday. The unavoidable cycle of life and death. A sacrifice we must make in order to truly live is accepting the letting go that comes with it. Admittedly, I’m not great at that part. But Ollie wouldn’t want me focusing on the sad stuff, so I will focus on his life…
Oliver was a quirky & spunky little guy. He came to me 6 years ago as an urgent foster placement. Already having 3 dogs at the time, I did not anticipate another permanent resident, but Oliver had other plans. Being smaller than the cats did not stop him from solidifying his place in the family. He especially loved Frosty, who became his BFF (to my surprise and I think to Frosty’s also ha).
He enjoyed chasing his tail, playing with the other dogs and welcomed other foster dogs. He loved to p*e on things and refused to comply with house breaking. Fortunately he was equally as content wearing his diapers in the house.
He loved his grandma and would be very upset if she didn’t pick him up immediately and hold him while she was visiting. He also loved one of my clients and openly voiced his complaints if another animal tried to get their attention. In fact, he did not have any issue voicing how he felt and expressing his needs. Something I will remember.
As he got older and slowed down he loved his routine. He took his job of being my shadow seriously. Every virtual session he was lying next to me. The emptiness in the room will certainly be felt next week. Now, his paw print and fur will remain in that room with me. Although I know he’s still there by my side. Just in a different way.
Run free Ollie. I know Frosty & everyone else was waiting for you on the other side. 🌈 🐕
