10/06/2025
On this World Pet Memorial Day, we invite you to take a moment to honour all of the beloved pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge. Reflecting on the joy, comfort, and unconditional love our pets brought into our lives is a beautiful way to keep their memory alive.
This was Dr. Faith Banks' dog, Riyal. Joining the Banks family in her final year of life, she fit right in with their two other Bernese Mountain Dogs, Elsie and Maple. Riyal was almost 14 years old when her family needed to move out of the country and they struggled with the decision of what to do with her. Through a series of connections, a call was made to Dr. Banks and what started out as her agreeing to take Riyal for a short period of time, quickly changed to keep her permanently.
Riyal’s mobility was quite poor when she arrived but she was soon put on a variety of medications to aid with pain from osteoarthritis. Her quality of life quickly improved as did her sociability within the family. She was a much loved old lady in their house.
Riyal enjoyed sleeping, chewing doggie treats, lying outside with the wind blowing, getting bum scratches and going for rides in the car. She loved attention from people and was always in the centre of group eager to be loved upon.
As Riyal approached her 15th birthday, her mobility declined and several other issues became more serious prompting Dr. Banks to make the decision to say goodbye. It was done at home, on her bed, after a big plate of food (all the things she couldn’t eat because of her skin allergies) was given to her. She very gently fell asleep and passed with love and dignity. She was taken to Faithful Pet Memorial for water based aftercare. Dr. Banks chose some special memorial items (ink paw print and a palm sized stone with her ashes inside). The Banks family was honoured to give Riyal a loving home at the end of her life.
Please join us in remembering your furry friend by sharing their name and a favourite memory in the comments below.
