My sweet boy Squirrel was the most intense, aggressively affectionate, obsessively loyal, grudge-holding (only against me) pup I’ve ever had the honor of knowing. He imprinted on me like no other—he was my lifeline, my protector. He barked at my husband when he kissed me and would search nonstop if I was out of his sight. He was the only dog I've met who didn't just tolerate hugs—he loved them fiercely and demanded my love with an almost aggressive intensity.

Squirrel was my death row dog, scheduled to be put down the day I brought him home on March 9, 2023. He saved me in ways I can't fully explain, pulling me out of my darkest places and protecting me from harm more than once.

Tragically, while living in a backyard tent, but permitted to have the dogs inside, but this specific day on Saturday September 20th, while I was trying to get to the jewelry buyer people, Squirrel was intentionally let out by someone who knew exactly how anxious he gets without me. Against my specific instructions, he was released, and in a desperate search to find me, he was hit by a car and taken from me far too soon.

I’m devastated beyond words. It’s like the light has been snuffed out, like blowing out a candle. None of it feels real, and every day I hope to wake up from this nightmare. My son Dakota broke down when he heard—the pain of losing his dog Doug, who looked just like Squirrel and may have been his dad, is still raw. My husband is devastated, unsure how to cope but wants to honor his memory by taking Squirrel’s favorite toys to the cremation. My friend Jessica called Squirrel my “buoy in a dark ocean,” because he kept me afloat when everything felt overwhelming. Everyone who loved Squirrel is hurting deeply.

I have been homeless, struggling to find safety that includes my pets because shelters force surrendering them—and I couldn’t imagine giving up my forever companion. Now, I’m asking for help to cover Squirrel’s cremation so I can bring my boy home and give him the goodbye he deserves. If you can’t help with funds, please share my story.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for honoring the fiercest, most loving dog I've ever known.