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in celebration of our amazing and wonderful companions...

"Mickey"

I welcomed Mickey and his littermate Bianca into my life when they were 11 years old.  Little did I realize the love bombing that was in store for me!  Mickey would climb into my lap even if Bianca was already there.  He would flop over for belly rubs on the couch.  He would rest his little chin on my arm.  And he would walk up my body as I was lying in bed and shove his head under my book so he could tickle my face with his whiskers.

Mickey was a sweet, gentle soul who would follow me from room to room just so he could be near me.  He would crawl into any available lap and envelop the lucky recipient in a cloud of purrs and nuzzles.  And when the sun would go down, he would jump up on the bed and loudly insist that it was time for me to go to bed too so he could get his nighttime cuddles.

Mickey, I am heartbroken that you are gone but so grateful that I got to know you.  I’m especially glad that you and Bianca were there for me during the pandemic — I am grateful beyond words for your comforting presence during such a stressful time.  Goodbye, gentle boy.  Bianca and I love and miss you very much. 
-Lori S.

"Luliki"

Luliki came to us from the SPCA 20 years ago, and quickly found her way into our hearts – and tables, counters, closets, boxes, beds and sofas.  She was an intrepid little thing, who found a way to “escape” from the third floor window down into the garden below, raced around playing catch me if you can when it was time to come indoors, had insatiable curiosity on all matters edible and otherwise, and seemingly had at least 9 lives.  She was our constant companion as our kids grew up and left home, and our home is empty without her.  We were lucky to have her for 20 years and we miss her dearly.  Rest, my little sweetheart. 
-Miriam & Larry B.

"Pluto""

Pluto (2007-2022); at Oma & Opa’s cottage on Lake Huron, MI. Back in 2007, I was looking at a fuzzy picture of a puppy on a dog rescue website when I spotted my boy. I knew that second that I wanted him and the rest is history. Pluto is the sweetest dog I’d ever seen. He was just the best!!!! Anyone who encountered Pluto, couldn’t help but compliment his sweet nature. He loved other dogs, children and people. He was always so loving, calm, and patient. Unlike his sisters, he was so easy going we sometimes forgot he existed (not really, he always followed me). He loved to sprawl out in the middle of the action and keep an eye on everyone in the house. We called him fluffy alligator. I hoped my human children would grow up one day and be like him, after all how does a dog have so many amazing qualities? Even the best dogs get in trouble - when he ran off with a frozen bird wing (yes, a carcass), or when I would catch him eating poopsicles or poopjerky or when he would roll in the grass after I spent a couple of hours washing and grooming him. My golden boy!!!! I miss him so much; I feel lost without him. He was the last to pass away, just a few weeks after Leia. He watched his sisters pass away and yet gave us comfort. And in true Pluto style, having never been sick in his life he passed away in less than 2 days after being diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma.
​-Love you forever, Deepika, Marcus, Arya & Alisha

"Leia""

Leia (2007-2022); in Chicago during “snowmageddon”. Leia was my husband’s baby; she loved him so much that it made her crazy. She had separation anxiety and would bark at him for sneezing. She got into a lot of trouble – she escaped her crate and dug out his mattress TWICE, she once jumped off a second story rooftop, she once ate 2lbs of cashew brittle in one sitting (long story), she would dig through the trash and counter surf, and she was a big bully – loved to bully Pluto & Cleo. She was our crazy animal but we loved her so much. It took us years to diagnose her Addison’s disease and her health was not optimal during those years. She endured every discomfort and to her Vet’s astonishment always got better. We lost count of how many lives Leia had. She became mellow in her golden years. She became of a creature of comfort. She loved the home cooked meals mommy made and her bed was the best spot in the world. She would grumpily accompany us on our ski and camping trips. We miss her and her craziness so much.
-Love you forever, Deepika, Marcus, Arya & Alisha

"Cleo""

Cleo (2007-2021); in Chicago during her daily squirrel hunt. She was a lab to the core – loved food and people, tried to hunt any critter that moved, and in general she was very high maintenance. She once ate a half-dead squirrel and threw it up on my rug, got bit on the nose by an alley rat, got sprayed by skunks (twice), got her siblings in trouble by getting them sprayed by skunks, tried eating a toad, tried eating a slug, and swam until near-exhaustion to catch a duck. She was my munchkin and we loved her so much. She was the most docile dog I’d ever seen. She was very brave, recovered from her paralysis after she had an FCE in 2013 and went to live a full life for another 8 years. The last 6 months were difficult; she became paraplegic and her health slowly deteriorated. Her death hit me vey hard. She showed me how to deeply love and care for someone till the very end.
-Love you forever, Deepika, Marcus, Arya & Alisha

"Biscuit"

Biscuit c. September 2004 - 13th August 2022

Biscuit was an SF SPCA rescue.  We went to visit the adoption floor "just to look" for a mature, small, short-haired, non-vocal cuddler, and ended up coming home with a year-old, long haired herder with a big voice and an even bigger personality!

Bitsy (as she was then) was deemed a Chow-Chow/Aussie Shepherd mix but it didn't take long for us to realize she was a breed of her own, and we dubbed her an Australian Rascal!

Biscuit was funny and naughty in equal parts.  She loved to learn, and was a standout at all the classes we took with her, though her own unique interpretation of obedience would entertain to all who attended and taught that particular class… She adored Agility, and would hare around the course at an impossible speed.  Biscuit also excelled at Tricks, and her melodramatic take on "I've Been Shot" was positively Shatner-esque...

We worked from home and so Biscuit was with us 24/7.  She loved to doze in the office but when it was time to run errands, she was happy to get out and about too.  Despite the fact we both disliked shopping, there was nothing Biscuit enjoyed more than roaming Fillmore Street or 4th Street in Berkeley and absorbing the admiration she drew wherever she went.  In fact "what breed is your dog" and "what a beautiful dog" were phrases we literally heard on every walk we went on.  Her best trait was the fact she always behaved around food, and so was the best dog to take to restaurants.

It was tough to watch Biscuit age and lose her speed and ability to jump, but to the end she always managed to come up with new ways to make us laugh.  For the rest of our days we will remember all her exploits and the way she enriched our lives.  Goodbye my best girl .
-Diane P. & Robert D.

"Ray"

Our beloved Ray was equal parts adventurer and cuddler. He loved the wind and the fog and watching birds. When we had people over, he would join the conversation. He was tolerant of everybody and almost anything, and children loved him. He left an impression on everyone he met. Those of us that were lucky enough to live in his company can never forget him. Goodbye Ray Ray, our sweetheart.
-Edmund H.

"Jenny Boy"

Jenny was born in 2003 in Foster City at Project Bay Cat feral colony. He was a favorite of the feeding volunteers and because he was so pretty they thought he was a girl and named him Jenny. They asked me to keep his name and I did  even though it always confused everyone. 

He had become too friendly with strangers and they decided that the colony wasn’t a good place for him. 

I found out he was at a shelter waiting for adoption. Because he wasn’t cuddly or terribly trusting he was past up by people looking for a kitty. I brought friends to meet him hoping one of them would fall for Jenny but it was me that fell in love. Jenny rewarded me by slowly trusting me and eventually becoming a lap cat.  At 19 1/2 it was time to say good bye. Even though losing him is heartbreaking 
I am so grateful for all the time we had together. 

I am also grateful to A Gentle Rest for all their help and compassion. 
-Joanne M. & Neil S.

"Pabu"

I adopted Pabu in October 2020 as my first dog, a true COVID pup. He was a stray from the streets of Los Angeles and was assumed to be about 8 years old. Pabu and I bonded very quickly and became best friends during quarantine. It felt like working from home gave me enough time with Pabu to make up for missing the first 8 years of his life. 
 
Together we shared many road trips, beach days, and neighborhood strolls. We explored Big Sur, camped in Yosemite, and in 2021 he made the move up to San Francisco with me. Adjusting to the hills was difficult for both of us, but Pabu quickly learned to love his new life in San Francisco. He was a huge fan of the parks and enjoyed our regular walks to Ghirardelli Square. If I’m honest with myself, his favorite part of our walks was definitely all of the food he could scavenge around the neighborhood (a street dog at heart), but I like to think it was because he got to spend time with me. 
 
Ultimately, Pabu’s life was cut short from a progressing brain tumor. He powered through for as long as he could and is absolutely the strongest dog I’ve met. While I wish I’d had more time with Pabu, I have no doubt that the time we were gifted together was just as special to him as it was to me. He was my best friend, and I believe we were placed in each other’s lives for a purpose. I’m a better person today because of my time with Pabu. :)
 -Chase R.

"Kenzie"

.Kenzie was the sweetest girl and so very loved by our family and friends. Affectionately known as KK, she loved to run on the beach, chase sticks, but most of all, snuggle as close as possible to her family. Kenzie was known as the "seat snipper" because she loved to steal your place on the couch the moment you got up...always craving the warmth of her human family. Rest in peace KK - we miss you so very much.
December 10, 2010 - June 25, 2022
-Liz B.

"Plumo"

My kitty, Plumo, was a gentle plump kitty who always talked to you and let you know how she felt. When I would call her name, she would answer me from wherever she was.  She liked her daily routines and every morning loved to go outside and walk a circuit around the garden making sure all was well in her domain. She also had her favorite spots to bask in the sunshine.  Plumo also liked to be near me, preferably snuggled against me while I was reading on the bed.

She and her sister, Rosie, were adopted from a dear friend of mine when he passed away. They were 4 years old at the time and lived with me until they both passed recently at 18. Rosie got sick unexpectedly and passed late in May. Rosie was a small round kitty and was very wise and always looked you directly in the eyes, until she withdrew inward close to the end.

Plumo was diagnosed with cancer early in May and passed yesterday July 3.  She was no longer her large plump self and was now boney and had difficulty walking. As a major affront to her dignity she had fallen down the basement stairs a few days ago and I needed to be on guard against further falls. Sadly, her much loved excursions in the garden needed to be closely supervised and she couldn’t walk far because she was so weak and would collapse. Yet Plumo had a strong spirit and was alert until the end….her body just gave out and this puzzled her. When she couldn’t do something, she would wait a minute and somewhere find the energy to try again..she kept trying to do things she could no longer do. She was a dear sweet kitty and I miss her very much.

First of all I am grateful for the quick response time of “A Gentle Rest”.   There is a point at which you know it’s time for your beloved pet to go and you don’t want them to suffer any longer than possible.  There are vet appointments available every day of the week at “A Gentle Rest” which is a blessing.

 Also, we were able to do the transition in my garden which was Plumos favorite place.
Dr. Rozycki was very gentle and kind with Plumo. She felt no pain and I held her close to me and kissed her and talked to her the whole time. It was very peaceful and not rushed. Dr. Rozycki was also very considerate and respectful of me and my friend and what we were feeling. Even though I acknowledge the impermanence of all living things and did not want my beloved kitty to suffer any longer, it was difficult and sad to say goodbye. But It was not at all stressful for my kitty who simply went to sleep and passed on in my arms. I am very grateful to Dr. Rozycki and I highly recommend “A Gentle Rest”
-Mary B.

"Snoopy"

 Snoopy
May 15, 2009-June 15, 2022

Snoopy, you were the best dog that we could have ever hoped for, but you are so much more than a dog to us. You are our beloved child, our cherished companion, and the heart of our family. We'll always treasure all of the fond memories of you being here at our side enjoying your favorite things to do like going for walks to explore our neighborhood, rolling around in the grass at the park, hunting flies, cuddling under a warm blanket, and eating your favorite treats and foods. Thank you for 13 years of love, friendship, companionship, and a happy home. Baby, Doggie, Little Beagle, you will always be in our hearts and we know that we now have a little guardian angel beagle watching over us in heaven. We love you, Snoopy!
-Alberto K. and Jose M.

"Mochi"

"And just like that, life will never be the same. 

It’s with a very broken heart that we share that Mochi crossed the rainbow bridge June 14, 2022.  Surrounded by sunshine, a gentle breeze, a bed of flowers and in his favourite place to be: home with us 

He was found as a stray in Oakland and scooped up by Muttville into their hospice program due to his array of medical ailments.  But his failing health and the fact that he was living out his ‘golden season’ with us these past 7 months is not how he will be remembered. 

He will be remembered for his love of belly rubs. How wide his eyes got whenever he heard the crinkling of a treat bag (or our own snacks!). His little tail that would always wag whenever he saw me.  How he always needed me to be in his line of sight or it would be the end of the world.  The cute grunts and barks and noises he would make.  The endless sploots whenever he came across cool floors.  His burrowing into blankets and love of cuddles.  How he would pause and take in nature whenever we went for a walk or hung out on our front steps.  His attempts to chase birds. How his belly would rise and fall with every breath he took.  The anxiety he would have in the car as he drooled on my lap and let me know he was scared to be abandoned.  How smart he was when we took him to training class.  The confidence and sass he had walking into any room and telling the big dogs he’s unafraid of their shenanigans. 

And ultimately, his pure hearted joy. 

Even amidst health challenges, he smiled through it all.  Not the ‘fake it till I make it’ type of joy - but true joy that was so contagious he would make random people smile as they passed him by at the store or on walks.  That’s the life wisdom we’ll forever remember from Mochi - that this world can feel scary and uncertain and heartbreaking…that life is full of ups and downs but that it is also for living it each day as if it were your last. 

We love you, Mochi.  You are forever sharing joy and finally free. 
-Emily T. and Mark K. 

"Angel"

Our sweet girl Angel crossed peacefully over the rainbow bridge on May 20, 2022 surrounded by family and knowing just how loved she was. She was the kindest, sweetest soul and offered so much love to her family and was always ready to shower loved ones with kisses. Her shy yet spunky personality made her easily loved by all and she was always ready to put a smile on someone’s face with her funny little antics. Her favorite things to do in the entire world included looking for any kitchen scraps that may have fallen, searching for treats in her snuffle mat, napping in her giant calming bed, being carried to the park in her backpack (like a queen), and snuggling with her mom. She was the biggest foodie and always made sure to secure some extra treats by using those big puppy dog eyes of hers. She moved to San Francisco in early 2021 and spent the last year of her life exploring the bay area with her mom and doggie sis. She was deeply loved her whole life and 14 years was simply not enough time with our precious girl. Our home feels empty and broken without her but the love and memories that she was able to give us will live with us forever. She will be profoundly missed by her pawrents, grandpawrents, family, her doggie siblings Lucky, Lola, Pepe, and cousin Apple. We’ll miss you so much, gordis. 
1/23/2008-5/20/2022
“I loved you your whole life. I’ll miss you for the rest of mine.”
-Esbeydy, Cesar, Vianey & Matthew P.

"Roxy"

She was more than a dog or best friend. She was everything to me and it breaks my heart to go on without her. I feel broken without her. Roxy had been in my life longer than I had a mother in my life but she helped fill that void. Whenever I was stressed, sad, or coping with something she would brighten my day and make everything better. She was the most gentle soul and impacted so many people. I will miss everything about her. I will miss our hikes together as well as just sitting together. I will miss giving her belly rubs and her smile. I'll even miss her snoring at night and her bark when she needed help getting up. Towards the last few years of her life when she was in a room alone, she'd always find a room where I was because she love being around people. We used to call her FOMO. I love you Roxy, forever & always. Her presence is missed every day. 
​-Tara & Raj K.

"Zoe"

We adopted Zoe from Wonder Dog rescue when she was 3 yrs old. At the time, Wonder Dog was only fostering Boston's, but they'd taken in Zoe and we were in love at first sight of her picture and description online. Zoe was a skinny little girl rescued from a farm in Bakersfield, where she spent a lot of time alone in a yard. When we arrived at Wonder dog, we took her on a walk through the city and immediately signed the papers and took her home. During our 14 years with her, Zoe loved walks to Glen Canyon, the Marin Headlands and her favorite…eating dead crab at Fort Funston.  She was silly, determined, smart and just so sweet.  Her playful digging of sheets and pillows, wrestling, and contented noises will always be remembered.  We will love you forever, Zoe!
-Justin & Alison R.

"Tinker Bell"

Tinkerbell was loved by her family Anabel, Aldrin, Brad, and Carmen. She was a rescue from Hurricane Katrina and lived a full, happy life until she was almost 17 years old. She was the sweetest, kindest dog, who's main goal was to be around the people she loved and to get belly rubs. She probably ate better than most humans, as her family would share fresh home cooked meals with her. Her favorite was pasta. She was friendly to everyone and was famous in her neighborhood for it. She was the best dog her family could have ever asked for and will live on in the wonderful memories they share with her. We love you Tinkerbell <3. 
-Carmen P.

"Layla"

Layla has gone to the stars
Thank you for giving us so
much love during this
-Cathy S.

"Richard"

Richard the dog came to us in 2009, chosen by our son because of his photo on a last-chance website. Intended as a companion for their aging dog, Richard wasn't ready for family life, and he came to us. We promised he would be trained by love. The following 13 years we shared our life with a being of extraordinary evolution as he became the dog he was meant to be, known fondly as Richard of Russian Hill. He learned to trust us; little kids loved holding his leash; he taught puppies not to be afraid of big dogs; he went everywhere with us. We will honor Richard by continuing his four walks per day, following his calm example to be true in our relationships.
-Wendover and Marc B.

"Daisy"

May 30, 2016 - April 22, 2022

You left us too early after a severe but short illness.
You were not only our pet but part of the family.
You welcomed us home at the door and were always there for us.
You will always stay in our hearts as the cheerful and friendly cat you were.
You loved scratching the couch, playing with your white shoelace and waking us up every morning asking for your food - we'll miss everything about you.
Your favorite spot on the couch is empty now, where you loved to sleep, but our love for you will never fade.
No amount of time can erase the joy you brought us every day.
Rest in peace, faithful friend.
-Reinhard K. and Shannon K.

"Betsy"

What a blessing you have been in my life and what we shared in our 11 year journey. Time quickly passed from when I found you as a kitten on a busy suburban street with your mother and siblings. I was going to find you a wonderful home but you quickly made it known that "I" was your person. You became a term coined in rescue work as a foster fail. You were always a human focused cat, comforted by constant touch and affection. I have never been loved with ease and simplicity. Our lives intertwined so beautifully.
 
In your last days, you were surrounded by the ones who have loved and cared for you. Each saying their own sweet goodbye. Giving you kisses as you lay in your bed. In the days since you have been gone we share your memory with every hug. 
 
There was a peace about you that day. A peace you had given me daily. I still feel your comfort. The light of your being was always in your eyes; the sparkle, the sunshine....all of it. I miss that from our daily routine. I will remember something about you that will make me smile with delight and slowly leave me like a needle. Having to take inventory of emotions that are coming in like ebbs and tides. Adjusting to the new normal without you. 
 
In moments like this I understand who God is and what death is. I know it is a necessary arrangement; the law of the universe. 
 
Rest In Peace Betsy
 
With Love from all your Dads,
-Jeff, John, Michael, Mike and Tony

"Lucy"

"After almost 15 wonderful years together, we said goodbye to our sweet Lucy on Saturday evening.  We feel blessed to have nurtured the love and trust of such an intuitive and special little soul.  Lucy was our constant companion and playmate for more than half of our marriage, and a major source of comfort through challenging times.  Her passing has left a big hole in our hearts. 
We have spent the last few days reflecting on the countless good times we shared with her, the things that made us laugh, the things that warmed our hearts, and especially what Lucy taught us about ourselves, about relationships, and about life.  We thought we'd share them with you because we think they'll give you insight into why we loved her so. 
*Take a break to play at least twice a day
*Exercise until your tongue hangs out
*Don't pass your water bowl without taking a drink
*Don't settle for kibble if you know  there is something better in the fridge
*It's okay to be afraid to go to the doctor, but don't run out the door before getting the biscuit
*Cuddle close with your pack
*When someone is down, just curl up next to them and keep them company
*Have a healthy respect for the big dogs, but don't let them push you around
*A quick sniff is often all that's needed to distinguish friend from foe
*Chase what you desire with abandon
*A nudge on the leg with your nose is more effective than a bark when you need attention
*Be enthusiastic every time you see the people you love
*Just hanging out in the grass is a good way to spend a sunny day
Thank you for all the love and support you've shared with us - it helps a lot. 
-Love, Gina & Roger

"LuLu"

"What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; all that we have loved deeply, becomes a part of us"
 LuLu was loved from the first moment I saw her, was loved every minute of her life, and continues to be loved to this day. She was a beautiful, sweet cat. True to her Siamese heritage, she was regal and vocal. She always had a response to anything asked of her, often a multiple meow sentence. She enjoyed sitting on the windowsill and chatting with the birds. She loved lying in a sunny spot on the bed or couch and snoozing. She would lay flat on her back with her legs sticking up and falling open, exposing her stomach in what was called her splay- it was quite a sight to see. She was sweet and shy, and would never misbehave. She was so beautiful, anytime someone would see her, they would rave over her beauty. I was so proud to have her as my cat. She spent her first 10 years with her best friend Bruno. He will be waiting for her at the rainbow bridge- she will never be alone! Rest easy now my sweet, beautiful girl, I will love you always, my sweet LuLu Bean. You are a precious jewel tucked inside my heart forever.
-Paula D.

"Nina"

Nina was beloved from the time she arrived as an 8-week old puppy.  She was a 10-pound Havanese who loomed much larger in personality.  She was spunky, joyous and generous – with people.  She never understood that she was a dog, quite frankly, and so never cared much for other dogs.  She was the alpha of our pack, endlessly bossing around our maltipoo, Beau, whom we got three years after she arrived.  She also tried to boss my son, who was six when she joined the family.  Even in her old age, she managed to be the center of attention and would impatiently tap her right toe when it was time to eat or go out.  She is missed, so much, but her passing was an incredible gift to her and to our family.  We cannot thank Ari enough for his kindness in helping us do what Nina needed – to go quietly and peacefully. 
-M. Patricia T. 

"Miro"

Last week I said goodbye to my dear Miro. How is it possible for a 15 pound fur ball to steal your heart? The last 16 years of my life were totally enriched by having him in my life. (He was likely 2+ years old when I adopted him, which puts his age at 18+.)  Miro’s back story - He was abused and randomly dumped on a front lawn of a friend back in 2003. My prior kitty of 14 years had passed away a few months earlier and I had told everyone "when the right kitty comes along, I'll know." My friend said "I know a cat you need to adopt." And she was right. The friend had naming rights and named him "Miro" as he reminded her of the paintings of the Spanish painter, Miro. The first few years with Miro were extremely difficult - he suffered from serious anxiety from his prior abuse. He ran for shelter upon hearing any male voice. Any attempt to touch him would likely result in biting or scratching. But over the years, he learned that not all men are horrible. With the help of my male friends, Miro learned to trust men. I asked them to walk into the house and not talk and then be nice to Miro. Only once he accepted them did I give the okay to start talking. In addition, Miro decided he was a 99% outdoor cat, but was also the lowest cat in the pecking order and took beatings regularly (and WAY too many vet visits to help keep him in good shape). (For the record, it was Miro's choice to be 99% outdoors at this time, he REFUSED to stay indoors.) It took literally years, but eventually Miro became a total snuggle bunny. While I was living in London in 2006-2007, Miro moved in with my dear neighbors - or (more accurately), he assumed that his personal staff extended into the next house and just moved between houses as the mood struck him. When I moved to San Francisco in 2007, I entrusted the neighbors with the responsibility of shipping Miro from Melbourne to San Francisco. My neighbor said "you very nearly did not get your cat back." He had won them over and it was hard to let go. Upon arriving in San Francisco, Miro became a nervous wreck again - in total terror after a horrible international move and new surroundings. He hid in a duffel bag of clothing for about 6 weeks (coming out for meals and restroom breaks). Once in San Francisco, his true snuggle bunny self came out - becoming more of an indoor cat and more of a cuddler. He touched so many people's lives over the years. Those who knew him in recent years are astonished when I tell them about his early days. My main point (for this long essay) is that love can overcome so many things - including a terrible abusive past, which is no fault at all of the subject of the abuse. Miro really should be a poster child for rehabilitation of animals who were previously abused. I hope people think about this the next time they are thinking of adopting an animal. Those who have had a terrible past are in such need of love. And once they receive love, they are able to radiate it as well.
-Phaedra F.

"Winnie"

Winnie was a sweet, gentle soul who had a great love of family.  She came into my life as a stray mama cat with her five kittens in need of fostering.  She was a doting and caring mother, and all her babies eventually found forever homes.  Winnie was so special that I decided to keep her as my own.  She soon became the light of my life.  Her favorite activities were catching ping-pong balls, watching sunsets, taking naps, and giving belly massages to her humans after dinner time. 
I miss you my sweet Hun Bun and love you always.  Wait for me at the Rainbow Bridge, and someday, we will cross it together.
Many thanks to Dr. Ari Rozycki for being my rock while making the oh-so-difficult process of letting her go from this Earth, a bit easier.  I am forever grateful.
-Diane W.

"Penny"

Penny was my companion and best friend for 18 years.  She was very sociable and loved being the center of attention.  Every morning  she would awaken us with meows and paw taps, and every evening  she greeted us at the door with meows and head butts.  She loved sitting on laps, lying in the sun, playing with her stuffed mouse and begging for table scraps.  We have many wonderful memories of our sweetest girl.  We miss you Penny, and we will love you forever.
-Susan B. and James C.

'Bodhi'

Our beloved Bodhi passed on his own one month after being diagnosed with high grade lymphoma. True to his compassionate nature, he left us a day before we were planning on saying our final goodbye at home, sparing us the burden of euthanasia. Bodhi was a SPCA- certified therapy cat who possessed the deepest, purest, most gentle soul. He was so much to us— soulmate, teacher, refuge, sage, thoughtful observer, prince of patience… His light illuminated all whose lives he touched. And there were so, so many…
We know that wherever his journey next takes him, Bodhi will surely be continuing his healing work.
Rest in peace, our beloved of blessed memory. We will always feel your paws on our hearts.
-Rachel K. & Andy L.

'Beavis"

Beavis was my silly and adventurous best friend. We climbed mountains in Colorado, went backpacking in Utah, and swam in the ocean off the California coast. He was a fetch machine, and would do anything for a piece of cheese! He lived a long, happy life with his brother Cooper. Always by my side, it hurts that he is no longer here. I love you. I miss you.
-Bexy

' Tyra'

In loving memory: Ms. Tyra Jane Bunny.
She left this world peacefully at home last night at the age of 14. She was a diva who did not do well with children. Her favorite activities were paper, peacock feathers, lazer light and zombie puppets. She often chatted at the pigeons and slept in boxes. She enjoyed sounds of the rainforest and eating Twix. - Love you Little girl!
-Meghan W. 

'Bruno'

"How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard"
Thank you for 18 years of unconditional love and companionship.  You will always be my smart, handsome boy.  I love you and will never forget you Bug Bug, you are always in my heart. 
-Paula D. 

'Bibi'

Bibi loved making new friends. She had just enough energy for a nice loud bark when you arrived, which was her preferred greeting. She was a sweet and happy girl who changed both our lives when we met her ten years ago. We had a million funny nicknames for her. She was beyond special to us both, we loved her dearly and there's nothing we wouldn't ever have done for her, including letting her go when she needed to. She was unique, and amazingly weird and always had the ability to make us laugh. She like her dad, had a great love of delicious food. She loved napping in the sun and being out and about on a walk. Steph and I are each full of such rich memories, that she will always be close to us and never forgotten. 
-Matt N.S. and Stephanie L.

'Dock'

Who Saved Who? 
Rescued from the docks of Oakland when he was about 2 years old. We always figured we saved his life back on that day. But, looking back he left a much larger impression on us. Teaching us patience & gratitude. Whether a bad day or a trivial problem,  he seemed to ease & wash away with his presence & the simple want of your touch. In the end Dock we love & miss you dearly, but, are so grateful to have known you for 14 years. So many beautiful & fun memories to remember you by. We are sincerely thankful for you Dr. Ari Rozycki for your compassion & for being there for our family at such a difficult time & at such a late hour.
- Brian & Thyra

'Beeper'

Dr. Rozycki's professionalism, compassion, and understanding during our time of difficult decisions was excellent. Email response to questions were promptly answered and once he arrived at our apartment, Dr. Rozycki explained with care and diplomacy the process which would take place. His bedside manner was gracious; the final moments spent with our feline friend were not rushed or hurried. We are grateful that Dr. Rozycki provided a serene environment for us.
-Jennie H. and Jeff S.

"Beau"

Peter and I want to thank you for taking care of Beau yesterday.
Your compassion for him and us was so appreciated.
You have a gift.
Beau was our gentle and handsome British Shorthair. He enjoyed the garden where he was amused by the antics of two much younger brothers. He commanded the house and our hearts for 13 loving years!
-Nancy S.

"Molé"

Molé was a tiny, fierce and feisty feral kitten when we got him.  He was very sweet, but he was quirky and had personal space issues -  if you got your big, scary human face up next to his you might get a swat; his biggest nemesis was the floor SWIFFER and he spent a lot of time hissing to tame it.  He was happiest when he was out in his jungle - our backyard.
It took years for him to finally relent and allow us into his world.   It probably went against all his instincts, but he eventually deemed us worthy.  We felt very privileged to get "nose-bumps" and to have him seek out a warm lap. And the long journey to that place made it feel that much more special when we arrived.
Ironically, Dr. Rozycki was Molés vet as a kitten and saved his life.  14 years later, Dr. Rozycki was there again to ease his passing.  We're so grateful.
-Chris & Roxanne G.

"Kuro Chan"

I have endless memories of Kuro Chan in his 18 1/2 years with me.
He was loving and loved by many; he was also a great hunter and loved the outdoors claiming his territories and turning himself into a fierce intimidating panther like. Though indoors he was just a little kitty cat so well behaved and loving. I will always have him in my heart & memories.
Xo,
-Edo

"Tumbleweed"

Hi Dr. Rozycki,
Thank you so much for your kind letter.  It was so nice to receive.  It made me happy to hear that you could tell how much Peter and I loved her.  I really do miss her dearly.  You're right, her stay wasn't long but it surely was unique. We fell in love with her very quickly.  I thought I would include a picture or two in case you would like to use them on your website. I'm attaching a "before" picture from when Peter found her in December and a few of my favorites. :)  Thanks for your patience with me. She was the first pet that was truly mine and it was hard at the end.
Thanks again,
-Teresa M.  

"Mr. Boots"

Dear Ari,
Thank you very much for coming over to our home to help our beloved cat, Mister Boots.  Your service and professionalism made it much easier to say good-bye to him.  Having him pass in the comfort of familiar surroundings lessened the stress for the both of us.  I felt very much at ease during the time you were there.  Thank you for taking your time to explain every step and allowing me the moments alone with him afterwards.  I will recommend your service to others if they ever have a need for this.  The house is very empty now after 16 1/2 years with Mister Boots and his mother, Miss Mama, who passed away November 2012.
- Douglas R.

"Sassy & Squeeky"

Our Last Gift...
Saying goodbye to Squeek (black) was difficult enough, but having to say goodbye again to his partner Sassy of 17 years, only 3 1/2 months later, was even more difficult.  We knew Sassy missed Squeek and must have had a broken heart and needed to be with him.  It brought some comfort knowing they would be together again.  Dr. Ari was there for us both times with kindness, compassion and was patient to give us our last moments together.  We are so grateful this service is available in the comfort of their home.  Forever in our hearts...
- Brenda & Larry J. 

"Mina"​

Dear Ari,
Thank you so much for helping to give our beloved cat, Mina, a more peaceful death on such short notice and after regular business hours. It is clear that your dedication to the peace and comfort of animals goes far beyond being simply a profession. You came to her aid on such short notice when no other house call vets would, and my husband and I are eternally grateful to you for that. Your generosity with your time has touched our lives in a very meaningful way.  Very best wishes,
-Courtney & Eric W. 

"Cheetah"

Dear Ari,
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful card.  I really appreciate the wonderful job you did with Cheetah.  His passing was perfect.  It's a comfort to know that he didn't suffer and that his last moments were peaceful.  
- Lori S. 

"Rusty"

Our 13 year old dog, Rusty, had health issues that caught up with him late one night. We called Dr. Ari Rozycki who quickly arrived at our home and was patient and empathetic with us; kind and compassionate to Rusty and his companion, Roscoe. We gathered around our beloved family member while Dr. Rozycki gently and peacefully led Rusty into his next life; it was the ultimate loving act for our friend.  
-Billie H. 

"Cosmo"

Dr. Rozycki was our vet throughout our pet's life - almost 17 years.   We were so pleased that he was there at the beginning and at the end.  Deciding to end Cosmo's life was deeply sad and very difficult.   Knowing Ari was there to help us through this process eased the pain in unimaginable ways.   He is gentle and kind and trusting and was truly invested in creating the most comfortable environment for Cosmo. 
-Jennifer S.