Au revoir to Dora, a very special dog

With a heavy heart but immense gratitude, I share the passing of Dora (also known as Ora). She was an incredibly loving dog who brought boundless joy and happiness into our lives. She left us peacefully, free from pain, and though she is no longer here, she will never be forgotten.

Dora was my first dog of my own, and she left an unforgettable mark on my life. She will be missed every single day.

Thanks to Animatch, I was able to give her the love, respect, and forever home she truly deserved. I am profoundly grateful to you both, Helen, Sherri, and all the dedicated team for your unwavering commitment to giving these dogs a second chance—providing them with love, care, and the opportunity to thrive. Dogs give us far more than we could ever ask for. They brighten our days with unconditional love, enthusiasm, and affection, no matter what challenges life brings. They are not just pets; they become family, forever woven into our hearts.

If that weren’t true, why would their loss affect us so deeply? Why would we miss them so intensely? Dora wasn’t just my dog—she was my guardian angel. When I was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, I struggled to accept its limitations and to manage my blood glucose levels. My body couldn’t recognize the early signs of hypo- or hyperglycemia—but Dora could. She sensed every change and would nudge me persistently until I checked my blood sugar. At night, she would jump onto my bed to wake me when my insulin pump’s alarm went off, and if my blood sugar was high, she would lick my hand and push my arm with her paw.

Dora was more than a companion—she was my personal diabetes caretaker, my four-legged blood glucose monitor. Because of her, I learned to manage my condition better and to prioritize my health. She made me realize that I needed her just as much as she needed me.

Her love and devotion were truly extraordinary, and though she is no longer by my side, she will always remain in my heart. The 12 years I shared with her and her beloved sister, Nikki (also known as Flicka, 2012/06/01 - 2022/04/16), were some of the best years of my life.

Photo:  Dora right with sister Flicka who left this earth in 2022.