Keira's home day marks the 10 year anniversary of Paws For Reaction

Keira's legacy: Remembering Keira on her home day

The day I brought Keira home was one of the happiest days of my life. This year marks the 10 year anniversary of Paws For Reaction. It breaks my heart that I made it to this milestone without her head resting on my knee and her droopy eyes looking up at me as I type this.

I feel Keira's energy with me every day; in the spring when the water finally warms enough to dip our paws, in the summer when the gypsy moths flutter around me on the trail, in the fall when I find her little witch hat among the Halloween decorations, and in the winter when Hazel clumsily snow-bounces to imitate her graceful sister. Her memory calms me in chaotic moments. It makes me smile. And sometimes it still makes me cry. Grief is a wound that never fully heals.

I was so fortunate to have her in my life. She was a gift. If it wasn't for Keira, I would not have Hazel. I wouldn't have the same lifestyle. I wouldn't have Paws For Reaction. I wouldn't have a career in the veterinary field. Ten years ago I really wanted a dog and was trying to determine the perfect dog breed for me. I began researching everything I needed to know about dog ownership and dog breeds. In doing so, I started writing things down, and that's how Paws For Reaction was born. Then I found Keira, and the blog evolved because of her. I was trying to find the perfect dog breed, but I ended up finding the perfect dog.

Keira, my gentle gyspsy, I miss you more than I can explain. I hope you know how much I loved you. You were my heart and soul. The pandemic stole so much time from me. Time I wish I could have spent with you. If I had known those would be the last few months of your life, I would have done things differently. It was torture having you ripped from my life, that was never the plan. We all made so many sacrifices during the pandemic to keep people safe. I don't regret keeping vulnerable people safe, but it hurt so bad and it fills me with so much regret. Time with Keira was my sacrifice, and it still tortures me to this day.

Today I'll try to remember the happy home day I had with Keira. The big kiss she gave me on the face. When my mum and I witnessed her snow-bounce for the first time. Laughing at how surprised Chaos was at Keira's sweet nature and disinterest in her. Her first flip over to show her tummy, her first couch snuggles, her first bedtime spoon. I hope she is watching me today as I cry. I hope she sees me kiss her clay paw print and dust her urn every week, and hear me tell her she's a pretty girl. 

Happy home day beloved Keira. Hazel and I miss you so much. Thank you for blessing me with this wonderful life you forever changed. And thank you for inspiring 10 years of Paws For Reaction. It's another way you left your paw print on the world. What a beautiful legacy.  

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