(616) 498-1316
Memorials » Current Memorial

In Memoriam: Romeo

By Cassie Balfour, published on June 21st, 2024
"We had a wonderful experience with Heaven at Home. It was such a relief to ensure that Romeo's last moments took place at home, surrounded by pillows, toys and snacks in his favorite part of the house. The vet who took care of Romeo was excellent: professional, communicative and empathetic. She even brought an anti-anxiety gel that relaxed Romeo before he got his first shot (a blessing, he hated shots). From booking to picking up Romeo's remains, each person we encountered was deeply kind and helpful. Thank you for making something so hard a little easier. "

A bilingual short king, Romeo answered commands (when he felt like it) in English and his mother’s native Spanish. Loving and dazzlingly handsome, Romeo nonetheless knew how to set boundaries with his many admirers. He loved ear scratches and belly rubs from his family, but touching his paws would result in a withering side eye and a dignified strut away. Never one to be hemmed in by offensive stereotypes, Romeo learned multiple new tricks in his old age. He even managed to train one of his weak-willed caregivers into giving him a treat each time he came back inside. What? He deserved each one.

He loved ground beef and bacon almost as much as he hated thunderstorms (which he would weather in the arms of his family). On his last day, Romeo was carried outside to sit in the sun on the edge of the forest he spent nearly 15 years exploring. A banana and brioche boy, he happily munched on his favorite snacks right up until he passed surrounded by the people who adored him.

Aliases included: Poporocho, Momeo, Schomio, Gnomeo, “a little sheltie,” Mr. Ears and Mr. Snout. Romeo was dearly loved. His family has spent every day since he left looking around corners for the little sheltie who filled every room he entered.