A Gentle Rest

27/08/2024

In memory of Toby❤️

The Doghorn of Polk Street is no more. Known throughout San Francisco’s Russian Hill neighborhood for his trademark bay, Toby the Basset Hound could be heard for blocks as he demanded stoplights to change faster during his multitude of daily walks.

Some compared his howl to the sound of the city’s foghorns, while others likened his bark to that of the Pier 39 sea lions. Tobias “Toby” Hinckle-Mittelstaedt was aged 16 ¾ years and was a lover of pillows and outstanding service from humans.

In his younger days, he outran his Chocolate Lab sister Nessie and led their flying zoomies and wrestling matches at home, the beach at Crissy Field, and many city parks. Despite standing only 14 inches tall, Toby was a highly-skilled burglar, stealing food off of tables, desks, and countertops four times his height to the marvel and outrage of his family.

Long before he lost his hearing, Toby pointedly ignored calls of “come,” “heel,” and “leave it” but delighted in applause and treats for his Paw shakes and rolls. He marched to his own drummer and suffered no fools. A lover, not a fighter, Toby got along well with every dog and human he met, always ready to share a meal, a playdate, or a nap.

He loved roast chicken, ear scratchies, being photographed, cuddles, naps, howling with fire engine sirens, tug of war, running, and meeting new friends. He detested riding in cars, going to the vet, swimming, being told what to do, and humans stopping to chat when he was on parade. He never understood humans’ fascination with babies, puppies, and holiday costumes though he tolerated them all with his trademark eyeroll.

Toby was a rescue who was said to have been found running, abandoned on a road in San Jose. He was adopted by San Francisco journalist Warren Hinckle and Linda Corso and their Corgi mix Delilah until Warren’s health failed and Toby came to live with Pia and her family. Toby was a pallbearer for Warren’s funeral in 2016.

Toby, Toebbers, Toblerone, Tobias, Toetoe, Mr. T, TT was predeceased by Warren Hinckle, Nessie, and Delilah and will be missed every day by his family, Pia Hinckle and Chris, Lucien, Fiona, & Simone Mittelstaedt, Linda Corso, Hilary Hinckle, Ava & Max Cane, Warren Hinckle IV; Freckles the cat; and many adoring friends, caregivers, dog walkers, groomers, and fans in the neighborhood and beyond. Hug your hounds.

27/08/2024

❤️ Rocky ❤️

Today we said goodbye to our sweet boy Rocky had big paws, big purrs & the biggest heart. We raised him since he was 5 weeks old and were lucky to have 16 years with this special guy.

He was majestic, goofy, kind to all creatures he definition of chill and he showed us he loved us every day. I loved being his mom.

Rocky was the original Leavenworth. He loved our backyard, scratching his 2 trees, watching the fish, lounging like a king. He made his way into the hearts of our neighbors… popping out of closets unexpectedly, swooping in for catnip, getting nicknamed “The Dude” by Liho who knew him as the cool cat who’d lounge on the high branch over their yard…and when Simmons left home for a long stint, we later found out Rocky knew where he was & had been visiting him the entire time.

He had a knack for sprawling out anywhere, he could make the most uncomfortable spot look relaxing… we once got him a fish tank and he used to lay on top of it with his tail completely in the water. Classic Rocky. In his spry days he loved chasing the laser til he panted, his giant puma paws moving in a frenzy.

Rocky LOVED to eat & he had a bloodhound’s nose for food. He’d alert us to chow time by jangling necklaces or shoving things off the nightstand… then he’d lift his head out of his dish and he’d be covered in gravy (or catnip or bonito flakes).

Rocky loved water & it rained for him yesterday. He lounged out there all day - he really liked to get soaked. Most nights he would crawl into bed with his mane dripping wet, after he would zone out with his face dunked right in the water bowl.

Rocky was all peace & love, he’d wake us up with purrs & headbutts, he never got in cat fights and he showed us affection constantly. Rocky’s move was to crawl up on my chest and lay down with his face in my face - he’d put his paw on my cheek or around my neck or on my shoulder before he went to sleep, it was our thing & it melted me every time.

RIP Rocco, you made us very happy little bud. ❤️
-Kelli H. & Dax E.

22/08/2024

In Loving Memory of Thumper, Our Beloved Companion

On the bustling streets where California meets Hyde,
A salt and pepper terrier, with nowhere to hide.
At just six months old, love struck like a spark,
Katherine found Thumper, her joy in the dark.

With nicknames aplenty—Lulu, Buddha, Mimi, Peggy, and more,
A watch dog with heart, she stood at the door.
Though fetching was not her game of delight,
Stuffed toys were treasures, her joy in the night.

In nature’s embrace, on trails she would roam,
Rolling in grasses, she felt right at home.
Snuggled in blankets, a warm loving friend,
A lap dog who kissed, with love that won’t end.

Her tail would motorize, a true sign of glee,
With stomps and with spins, she danced wild and free.
In her sparkling eyes, happiness shone bright,
A snuggler, a protector, her love was pure light.

The beach brought her dread, much to our surprise,
Yet laughter erupted, as she followed her nose,
To trash cans in parks, where her curiosity chose.
A people lover, indifferent to canines,
In patience she taught us, her spirit divine.

Oh, Thumper, dear healer, with a heart full of cheer,
You once nibbled flip flops, a memory so dear.
If only you spoke, you’d say, “I love you, Mom,
Is there more turkey? Let’s savor the calm.”

On your final day, in the warmth of our home,
Surrounded by love, you were never alone.
With Katherine and Valerie, close by your side,
You passed peacefully, our sweet furry guide.

Though we say goodbye, your spirit remains,
In laughter and memories, your love still sustains.
Dear Thumper, our joy, our snuggler, our light,
In the hearts of your loved ones, you’ll shine ever bright.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
8-12-24
San Francisco

22/08/2024

In Loving Memory of Joey

In a cozy corner, a princess did dwell,
Joey, our darling, with stories to tell.
A gift of affection, so tiny, so sweet,
From a week-old babe, she danced to her beat.

With fur like a whisper, in shades of soft grey,
She filled our hearts on her very first day.
Grumpy yet playful, with sass in her stride,
A lap cat at heart, but only with pride.

Oh, how she would graze on her favorite delights,
Cheese and butter, her culinary heights.
A voice like a songbird, she'd call for a hug,
With love in her eyes, she'd snuggle and snug.

In ten little homes, she made her own space,
Each room was a kingdom, each corner a grace.
But travel? Oh no! She’d scream all the way,
From LA to San Francisco, she’d have her say.

With a cowboy hat perched, she'd pose just for laughs,
Teaching us patience, and love's gentle paths.
When grumpy, she'd hiss, and in shadows she'd hide,
Yet with every soft purr, her heart opened wide.

Now, Joey, dear Stinky, with memories so bright,
You left us in peace, on that soft pillow light.
With Katrina and Jon holding you near,
In our hearts, sweet princess, forever you'll be here.

So here’s to the laughter, the love, and the grace,
To our playful, fierce Joey, who brightened our space.
Though you’ve crossed the rainbow, your spirit will stay,
In the whispers of memories, you light up our way.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
8-17-24
San Francisco

21/08/2024

Tupac
6/16/2012-8/4/24

We had to say goodbye to our sweet and handsome boy, Tupac, due to chronic kidney failure. We could always count on him to give us unconditional love and affection, and his presence will be missed.

Tupac first lived in Arizona with a family friend who had several cats and dogs, and later on, children as well. To offer some relief to the family and find a pet companion, my fiancé Jack, adopted Tupac 5 1/2 years ago. Tupac quickly became his little sidekick and best bud. During Jack’s longer trips, Tupac would stay with friends, who always enjoyed his company and were even inspired to get cats of their own.

Jack ventured out to San Francisco, California for 3 months during the pandemic. During that time, Jack and I met. As our relationship progressed, Jack made the decision to permanently move to California with Tupac. Initially, Tupac was living in an airbnb for months and was content making the bedroom his own.

Eventually, Jack and I moved in together and Tupac was introduced to my dog, Stella, and his new home! Though it took some adjustment, he quickly adapted and loved his new home and the ability to move freely throughout, even losing a bit of weight. Some of his favorite things to do were soaking up sun patches, napping under our bed, spending time with his people, and giving lots of cuddles!
In his final weeks, Tupac found joy on our balcony, often sitting and observing his surroundings.

We will miss his gentle purrs, morning greetings, and evening snuggles. Life will not be the same without our sweet 2P, but we will always remember the comfort and joy he brought into our lives. He taught us valuable lessons and reminded us to appreciate life’s blessings.
Rest peacefully, our sweet boy! You will always hold a special place in our hearts!

-Gina, Jack, and Stella M.

07/08/2024

In Memory of Billie

In a world where love began to bloom,
A tiny pup brought joy to every room.
With fur so soft, and eyes yet to see,
Maya found her heart in Billie, wild and free.

At six weeks old, he stole her heart,
A little menace, a true work of art.
He claimed the bed from the very first night,
Whining sweetly, a companion so right.

Named Billie for the spirit he bore,
With ball obsession, he’d always want more.
Long walks in the sun, agility games,
At the beach and Lake Tahoe, he'd make his claims.

Snowflakes danced as he pranced with glee,
A joyous howl echoed, so wild and free.
Food was his passion, a true gourmet,
“Things that Billie eats,” we’d often say.

Maya’s first dog, a love ever true,
Tamir and Todd loved him too, as all others do.
Goofy and silly, with a curious gaze,
He brightened our lives in so many ways.

In a wedding tuxedo, he posed for the day,
With laughter and joy, he’d dance and play.
Never lost, always found in our hearts,
At eighty-eight years, he played his part.

Now peacefully resting, surrounded by love,
Billie, dear friend, take your place up above.
If you could speak, we know you’d convey,
“Thank you for a great life, I’m happy today.”

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
7-30-24
San Francisco

07/08/2024

US researchers say findings challenge view that cats are antisocial and suggest bereavement may be universal

31/07/2024

In loving memory of Charlie, the chocolate Labrador,
Whose presence brought us joy, forever to remember.
Adopted into our lives at 8 weeks old, a cherished companion,
A bond formed instantly, a love that would deepen.

Mellow and gentle, he stole our hearts,
Named after Charlie Brown and Grandpa, a work of art.
With nicknames aplenty, Bobo, Baba, and more,
Charlie Bear, Baby Cakes, names he proudly wore.

A swimmer of waters, from beach to river,
Ocean Beach, Chrissie Field, his spirits would quiver.
Social and friendly, a lover of all,
People, dogs, and cats, he would happily call.

A snuggler in bed, a lap dog so dear,
Providing comfort and warmth, always near.
Using his eyes and nose, a language unique,
Communicating with love, no need to speak.

Rarely a bark, but a wag of his tail,
Kisses and prancing, his joy would prevail.
Looking into your eyes, love shining bright,
Bringing happiness and laughter, day and night.

Food-driven and indulgent, he had his delight,
Costco chicken and steak, his appetite so right.
Goofy and eccentric, he spun with delight,
Before exiting the door, a comical circular sight.

Car travel was his passion, head out the window,
Feeling the wind, his spirit would grow.
Ocean Beach and Chrissie Field, his favorite places,
Alerting us to dolphins, seals, and whales' traces.

He taught us about love, unconditional and pure,
A lesson we'll cherish, forever endure.
Granddad Mike and his beach adventures so grand,
Grandmom Phyllis adored his soft ears, always at hand.

Life of the party, his presence brought cheer,
His birthday celebrated, year after year.
Dressed together as a hotdogs, he made Halloween fun,
Antlers for Christmas, a festive spirit he'd become.

If he could speak, he'd ask for chicken, steak and walks,
With his buddies, he'd stroll and engage in sweet talks.
Everyone adored Charlie, his spirit so bright,
A true companion, a source of pure delight.

At 88 human years, he peacefully passed,
Surrounded by love, the memories will last.
Carrie and Chris, his devoted parents by his side,
Phyllis nearby, offering comfort and pride.

Rest in peace, dear Charlie, your spirit now free,
In fields of joy and love, eternally.
Forever in our hearts, you'll forever reside,
Our beloved chocolate Labrador, forever by our side.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
7-26-24
San Francisco

23/07/2024

In loving memory of Valentina,

A furry friend with a heart of gold,
Valentina, a dog so bold.
From a surprise pregnancy she came,
A mix of Labrador and German Shepard, her name.

She was the biggest of the litter,
A tan-black beauty, not a quitter.
Anna and Helen welcomed her with glee,
A bear, sea lion, or dog? We'll never agree.

Valentina, or Valley as she was known,
Valley Girl, with love she was shown.
She loved to play fetch, oh what a delight,
Chasing after balls, morning and night.

Her first swim in the Russian River,
Chasing a boat with a dog, her heart a giver.
From her Labrador genes, a love for the water,
She swam regularly, like a Labrador otter.

Car trips to New Mexico, oh how she adored,
Exploring new places, never getting bored.
When happy, she'd bring a toy with a wagging tail,
Her joy and excitement, she could never fail.

But fireworks, she despised with all her might,
Shaking and trembling, a fear she couldn't fight.
Yet, she was the alpha of the dog pack,
Keeping everyone safe, never turning back.

She helped raise Rosie, her canine sibling dear,
Teaching about love, so pure and clear.
Unconditional love, she knew it well,
A lesson she taught, in her gentle spell.

She brought laughter as she watched popcorn pop,
Staring at the microwave, never wanting to stop.
And when given a treat of popcorn, oh what bliss,
Her tail wagging like a motor, pure happiness.

She was sweet, mellow, and always calm,
Loyal and protective, her love like a balm.
Surfing at Ocean Beach, she once dared,
Chasing deer into the forest, she always cared.

A hunter of squirrels, she loved to roam,
In the wild, her spirit would feel at home
She was drawn to men, with a kind and gentle heart,
A companion to all, never wanting to part.

Halloween was her favorite time of year,
Dressing up as Frankenstein, spreading cheer.
A pizza, a hula skirt, and so much more,
Valentina's costumes, a joy to adore.

She lived a long life, ninety human years,
Filled with love, laughter, and no fears.
Peacefully at home, surrounded by love,
Anna and Helen, her parents, watching from above.

Rosie, Linda, Irene, Richard, Elise, and Emily,
Family and friends, bidding her farewell tenderly.
Valentina, you will be deeply missed,
But in our hearts, your love will persist.

Rest in peace, sweet Valentina,
Forever in our hearts, you'll remain a star.

- With love, Anna and Helen

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
7-21-24
San Francisco

20/07/2024

The Formosan Mountain Dog

In loving memory of Antonio, the tan Formosan Mountain Dog,
Whose journey began when we saw him on the internet, a love at first sight agog.
Found tied to a tree in Taiwan, he made his way to us through SFO,
An old soul with a kind heart, polite and potty trained, a joy to know.

At just two years old, he entered our lives and brought pure delight,
Living up to 99 human years, his presence brought warmth and light.
With a dog walker five days a week, he roamed with his pack, Exploring the wonders of Fort Funston, his happiness never lacked.

Food driven until his last meal, he adored chicken and cheese,
But swimming and rain were not his cup of tea, if you please.
Aloof and serious, with a pervasive air of grace,
He showed affection on his own terms, with a gentle embrace.

A minimal wag of his tail when content, he cherished being a lap dog,
A snuggler who would lean into you, his love like a warm fog.
But when unhappy, he would pout and give you the eye,
Teaching us to live in the moment, to cherish time passing by.

He prepared us for a future of creating a family with kids,
Helping us to raise both Ingrid and Eli with love, as they grew amidst.
A gateway to friendships, he brought people together with ease,
Mellow and easy-going, his presence put hearts at peace.

If he could speak, he would say, "I am a mystery, stoic and true,"
And though he once got lost for 12 hours, Colby found him in the dark, it's true.
At Halloween, he would dress up, with bow ties and sunglasses, a sight to behold,
And once, he even became a longhorn, his spirit brave and bold.

In the end, he passed away peacefully, cradled in Jean's loving lap,
With Colby nearby, his loyal companion, in a gentle and tender wrap.
Antonio, you will be missed, your memory forever in our hearts,
A faithful friend who brought us joy, even when we were apart.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
7-13-24
San Francisco

18/07/2024

Rue Trabucco
7/12/12 - 7/15/24
We found Miss Rue on the internet, she was born to a breeder “Black Mountain Pugs” in Fresno. We were able to see her and her litter mates in videos online. Her breeder brought us to meet her and her littermates at SFO airport so we could meet her and make a decision on which pug to adopt. But it was always the little runt of the litter, Rue. We already had a pug at home named Bailey who was just waiting for this new little buddy. The first day Rue came to us she had to stay with our friends Sally and Diane because we had a family wedding. They both wanted to share watching her! Julia named Rue for the little girl in the Hunger Games. And Rue really was a little warrior.

Rue quickly became “Rue Rue”. She was a spunky, smart as a whip 1 lb. Puppy. A tiny little jewel. She loved dog training classes and often sat alongside the instructor becoming the example of how to do a trick. She was the teacher’s pet.

Rue loved our cat Tigger, any other dog we owned was really afraid of Tigger and would steer clear of his claws but not Rue. She boldly ran to him and would play with his tail biting it with her sharp puppy teeth. He loved her and they often laid together on my bed.

Rue was so adorable that my older daughter Kelly would often dog-nap her and keep her for weekends. She even brought her to a parade and to parties with her friends. My younger daughter Julia’s friends also adored Rue and she was included at all the parties they had. I am so heart warmed that on her very last weekend, she got a second wind and was with all of Julia’s friends, enjoying them all.

When Rue was three we adopted Jamie and they became fast friends, except when it came to food. Rue never wanted to share food and so even though Jamie was much bigger than Rue, she fought to the tooth for her food. Both dogs loved to watch TV and would bark at all the animals (which was distracting to us human viewers.

Kevin and Julia loved taking the pups to the beach for walks.

When Rue was three she became a “Furry Friend”, pets that were trained and allowed to visit patients in hospitals. Rue did this for a couple of years but then started to resent leaving a comfortable bed with a person that was giving her tons of affection.

Rue and Jamie would sleep me with every night until she decided to jump off the bed and her Vet said we needed to confine her to more limited space where she couldn’t hurt herself.

Because she was so well behaved, we would take her with us to hotels, like the Hyatt in Monterey and the Hotel Sofitel in Foster City.

In her last year, her Vet found that her abdomen had distended and that because of her age, she would not be a candidate for surgery. He told me to give her the best life we could as long as she was comfortable and we did. She passed on July 15, 2024 in my arms, eating treats until she fell into a deep sleep. As she passed, the sun broke through the clouds. The Vet, Dr. G placed a rose quartz crystal on her heart and struck buddhist chimes, lighting paleo Santo and placed her in a basket, covered her with a blanket, just as we did when we first got her.. She had a very peaceful passing.
-Joan T.

18/07/2024

17/07/2024

Junior obituary
July 13, 2024
Our sweet boy Junior departed this world on July 12, 2024, a few days shy of his 15th birthday. Junior gave us pure joy, unconditional love, spontaneous fun, therapeutic routines, and taught us many life lessons.

Junior came into our lives as a two-month old kitten that was so small we quickly named him Junior. We immediately bonded with him in his room at the SPCA as he climbed up our necks to inform us that he was our cat now. As a kitten he was a real climber - up blinds, up the shower curtain, or perching atop steep bookshelves. His loud meows and strange chirps were so funny they earned him the nickname “squawk,” which quickly became his permanent name. He loved sneaking into our closets and burrowing so deep into them that we would spend hours looking for him. He was a loyal little brother to his big sister and mother figure Scully cat for ten years until she passed away in 2019.

Junior was so affectionate and was always up for a good snuggle. He nestled himself on our pillows at bedtime and he loved to crawl under the covers in bed to snuggle with us in the morning, always making it difficult to get out of bed to start our day. His habit of sitting on our chests and nosing and licking our faces while we could hear him purr and feel his breaths was truly therapeutic and always recharged our batteries. It was his way of reminding us that we were his humans and we were more than happy to submit to his warm, furry affections.

Junior loved to cackle at birds through his perch by the window and he had a huge fan club of passersby who would admire him from outside. He was an artist who would always find the most perfectly aligned and centered spot on the bed to sit, making our room look like a beautiful artwork. He would always find new positions to create such appealing compositions that filled our phones with beautiful cat pictures. He had beautiful markings, the softest and warmest fur that we loved to sniff in like a drug, and an unusually long tail that poked through his chest when he sat in his “tucked in” position. He loved to disrupt our computer work from home and made frequent appearances in our Zoom meetings.

Junior spent all of his days with us in the same cozy apartment. It became his territory which he patrolled with grace while always watching out for his little brother and blind cat Wally. Junior learned a lot from his big sister Scully and he grew into a patient guide, mischievous playmate, and faithful grooming buddy to little Wally even while he was quietly battling lymphoma himself in his last years. While his final years were marked by constant medication, scary vet visits, and frequent sickness, Junior persevered and never withheld his love and affection.

Junior taught so much to his humans, Leslie and Chris. Living life in the moment, unapologetically enjoying “me” time, accepting and embracing others rather than trying to change them, compassion and empathy toward others, how to care-give and accept care, and above all courage and grace in the face of setbacks and health challenges. Junior fought his cancer with strength and grace and outlived his diagnosis by nearly two years, and we are forever grateful for this time with him. We are equally grateful for Junior having the strength to tell us very clearly when he was ready go when we could not imagine saying goodbye. Words cannot describe how grateful we are to A Gentle Rest and Dr. Gorczyca for the wonderful experience they gave us that celebrated Junior’s life and gave him peaceful passage in the comfort of his home.

We are truly devastated without Junior’s calming and soothing presence in our life. Our home feels eerily quiet and empty and the world seems so joyless without him. But we can feel his spirit with us and his final lesson will be to live not without him but with his enduring love and memory. Farewell sweet Junior aka little Squawk, we know you are finally at peace and we thank you so much for all you gave us.
-Leslie K. and Chris F.

11/07/2024

Bear Bear Schulz

In loving memory of Bear, the red-brown large breed dog,
Whose journey began when Linda saw his Facebook photo,
It was love at first sight, though Chris had doubts,
But soon enough, Bear won all their hearts without a pout.

Bear became a cherished member of the Schulz family,
Helping raise Kristen, Ryan, and Jennifer with glee,
He was known by many names, Teddybear, Bear Bear, Buddy,
A handsome companion who loved nature so deeply.

A big foodie at heart, Bear adored meat and cheese,
Bringing joy to the family gatherings with his eager pleas,
He was the glue that held them together with care,
Through travels to Tahoe and back, he was always there.

When happy, his tail would wag with delight,
He'd grab his leash and jump, ready for a playful flight,
But when unhappy, his head would hang low,
A gentle soul who taught us to find peace and let go.

Bear was a watchful guardian, always on the alert,
Yet, he was also a snuggler, a leaner, and a comfort,
He longed to be a lap dog, seeking warmth and love,
His presence brought tranquility, like a hand in a glove.

He had a silky coat and a temperament so great,
Loving all dogs and people, never showing hate,
An escape artist, he'd find his way to the neighbor's side,
But his heart belonged with the Schulz family, his pride.

He dressed up for holidays, bringing laughter and cheer,
A reindeer with antlers, an Easter bunny, spreading cheer,
From sunglasses to matching nighties for a Christmas photo,
Bear embraced each moment with a spirit that'd glow.

In the comfort of his home, under his favorite tree,
Surrounded by the Schulz family, he peacefully set free,
Even from afar, one joined the farewell on Zoom,
As Bear devoured chocolates, his final sweet bloom.

He lived a full life of 12 years, or 84 in human years,
Leaving behind memories, laughter, and joyful tears,
Bear, you were more than just a beloved pet,
You were a cherished member of the Schulz family's duet.

Rest in peace, dear Bear, in the eternal embrace,
May your spirit soar freely in a heavenly space,
Thank you for the love and happiness you shared,
In our hearts, your memory will forever be cared.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
7-9-24
San Mateo

07/07/2024

Cali
2007-2024

Cali, the Calico from California, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2024, just one month shy of her 17th birthday.

Cali came into my life shortly after I graduated high school, when her grandma thought it would be a good idea for me to adopt a kitten from a litter that was dumped on a friend’s lawn in Antioch right before I headed off to college. There were several kittens to choose from but I could not pass up the most beautiful girl with unique orange, black, and white markings and big green-blue eyes staring up at me. We lived at home for Cali’s first year of life, where she enjoyed sleeping between her grandma’s legs at night and eating her grandpa’s plants, which resulted in her being nicknamed “trouble maker” and “terrorist.”

Cali and I then embarked on quite the adventure - she became a world traveler having lived in 2 states and 5 cities in 3 major metropolitan areas over the course of her life. We first moved down to Long Beach for college in December 2008, West Hollywood in June 2011, across the country to New York City in 2014, and back home to the Bay Area in October 2020. Cali could not have been happier to get out of her dark and cramped NYC apartment that faced a wall and into her more spacious, sun filled SF apartment where she spent her last 3 years sunbathing on her very own window bench with views of the Bay Bridge, trees, and birds. While she was named Cali due to her Calico coat, she was a true “Cali girl” in all aspects.

In addition to sunbathing, Cali enjoyed playing with her plethora of toys, posing for photos (even entering a modeling contest in 2022), joining mommy’s Zoom meetings, running back and forth in the hallway, knocking things off tables, watching SF Giants games (afterall, she is wearing their uniform), chit chatting, climbing on anything and everything from the refrigerator to the headboard, and following her mommy around.

While feisty, spicy, and fiercely independent, Cali was completely obsessed with me after having it be just the two of us most of her life. She would run to the door every time I came home, lay on my chest and nuzzle my face whenever I laid on my back, curl up and be my little spoon when I would lay on my side, jump on my lap when I work from home, and would sit and wait on the bath mat every time I took a shower.

Having been Cali’s mommy from ages 18-35, she was truly the love of my entire adult life. Rest in peace my sweet, beautiful, angel baby. I will love and miss you forever.
-Jessica K.

06/07/2024

Lucky, the Yellow Lab

In a world of tails wagging and toys to play,
Lived Lucky, the Labrador in yellow and gray.
Adopted by Therese and Aunt Michelle, he found his home,
A furry friend, a companion, never to roam.

Accident-prone, he stumbled upon a bee,
But Lucky Luck, he was, for he was filled with glee.
He swam in waters quiet and serene,
And once, he proudly retrieved a boat paddle, so keen.

With seals, he frolicked in the ocean so wide,
Hiking the Presidio trails, he'd stride with pride.
At Ocean Beach, he and George dug holes in the sand,
A duo of mischief, a bond so grand.

Food motivated, his tail would wag,
Bringing toys to play, like a tail-wagging flag.
But when unhappy, his tail would go down,
His eyes would speak, a frown turned to a frown.

Unconditional love and loyalty he taught,
Nature's beauty, he reveled in, never a thought.
Famous around town, he'd roam the streets,
Birthday parties and Christmas gifts, a joyous feat.

Barhopping in the Marina, he'd explore,
Once stealing a picnic lunch, a sandwich to adore.
On Halloween, he'd dress as a lion, fierce and bold,
Superdog he became, a hero to behold.

Raising George, his best friend, he would be,
A protector, a guide, as loyal as can be.
In Arnold, he chased a bear away,
Ensuring George's safety, come what may.

Vacations to Clear Lake, Santa Cruz, the Russian River,
He traveled far and wide, his spirit a giver.
Twice lost on journeys of his own,
In Arnold and Jenner, yet he found his way home.

In his old age, he basked under his favorite tree,
In the Grove, with Michelle and George, carefree.
On a hot San Francisco day, he peacefully passed away,
Under the sun's warm embrace, forever he'll stay.

Lucky Luck, the Labrador, brought joy and cheer,
A loving companion, always near.
His legacy lives on, in memories we keep,
A faithful friend, forever in our hearts, so deep.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
7-2-24
Stern Grove