Niko. My sweet old boy. We said goodbye after almost 13 years together. I lost my sunshine. This was the hardest thing I have ever done in my life. Your little body was tired, you fought so long for me. You were such a little fighter. You will forever be my best friend. My constant. My yellow. My happiness. My sunshine in all the days. We had so many adventures together. Hikes, walks in your doggy backpack, plane rides, beaches, boats, bike rides, walks, sleepy time, snuggles, football Sundays, vacations, kisses, car rides, parks, laying in the sun, looking at the lights in the sky, naps- to be honest what didn’t we do? You came everywhere I could take you. I even snuck you into hotels and restaurants. But, my favorite thing of all was just being with you. Your presence was soothing to my soul. You loved to give wet stinky kisses. You were a little guy but you sure did know how to take up a queen size bed. You also loved to sing, you are my sunshine was your favorite song. I’m not sure my heart will ever be the same. You came into my life when I needed you most. From college to engagement you were by my side for all the big things and little things in between. I rushed home from work everyday just to see you. You made our house a home and I feel empty without you. You showed me the definition of unconditional love and happiness. Your little paws left a big imprint on my heart. I am not sure how to live my days without you, but I know you’ll be there, all around me. I will miss your smell and your fri-toes. I will miss your little noises you made, I wish I could bottle you up. I will miss the sound of your little paws on the hardwood. I will miss how soft you were, so fluffy! I will miss how you would bark and spin when it was time for bed- or potty. You always loved the wind in your hair, you loved to lay in the sun and smell the breezes, you loved to lay in the bark mulch. Sleepy time was always your favorite. You fought so hard for so long, even when your little hips went bad you still loved life so much. I hope you’re running so fast up there in heaven. You gave the best little hugs. You always winked at me with your cute little brown eyes. When I went to pick you up you always went onto your back legs like your front arms were reaching for me to pick you up. The little white spot on your chest, your brown little paws, your crooked little bottom teeth, your white beard. You loved to use your voice and sing songs and tell me you loved me. You loved being by the water, but not it in. I wish I could relive these moments for 1000 more years with you. 13 years of unconditional love and memories that I will cherish for a lifetime. My favorite hello and my hardest goodbye. I love you, Niko.
In Memoriam: Niko
By Krista, published on March 25th, 2025"Heaven at homes staff was friendly and consoling. They walked us through each step of the process and didn’t make us feel rushed. They were patient and understanding. They took gentle care of our sweet boy. "