A Gentle Rest

19/12/2024

*In Loving Memory of Mika**

In a Seattle shelter, love bloomed anew,
Mika, our treasure, with a heart so true.
A Corgi-Labrador, with short sturdy legs,
Adopted by Tiffany, where joy never begs.

At four years of age, our bond was a spark,
From that very first glance, she lit up the dark.
Named Olivia, but Mika she became,
With nicknames like Mikeekers, forever the same.

Not one for the toys, but oh, how she’d gaze,
At dogs on the screen, lost in happy days.
When joy filled the air, her tail spun with glee,
A helicopter whirring, so wild and so free.

With kisses aplenty and tippy-taps too,
Her love was a language that spoke pure and true.
Tasty treats were treasures, celery forests her bliss,
In dog parks she thrived, in each wag and each kiss.

Though swimming wasn’t her game, she taught us to wait,
One plunge in the lake became a humorous fate.
A work assistant, with laughter she’d bring,
Caught on camera, a trash can thief in full swing.

Mischievous Mika, the best of them all,
In costumes each Halloween, she stood proud and tall.
A hotdog in bun, a witch with a grin,
Her sweet gentle sass made us all want to win.

For fourteen and a half years, she graced our days,
Nearly ninety in human years, in so many ways.
Now peacefully resting, surrounded by love,
With Tiffany, Christine, and family above.

So, here’s to dear Mika, our darling sweet friend,
In our hearts forever, her spirit won’t end.
Though she’s crossed to the stars, her joy will remain,
A legacy of laughter, forever our gain.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
12-15-24
San Mateo

26/11/2024

**In Loving Memory of Jax**
Tribute from A Gentle Rest, Dr. Ken Gorczyca Rest
Easy Jax 11/24/2024 🌈🐶❤️💔🐶 In a world of wagging tails and joyful barks, Lived Jax, the Springer Spaniel, a beacon of sparks. With a coat of black and white, vibrant and bright, He brought endless joy, a true heart’s delight. Adopted early and kept by Mike’s side, An energetic spirit, with love as his guide. From Chrissy Field to Lake Tahoe’s embrace, He swam with pure joy, a smile on his face. Chasing the ball was his favorite game, but retrieving it back? He never played that same. When happiness struck, his body would sway, His tail knub would wag fiercely, brightening the day. A gentle nudge with his muzzle, a kiss sweet and true, In moments of love, he knew just what to do. Though not fond of canine strangers, just his loyal pack, He found love with Brittany, and there was no lack. He helped raise dear Millie, teaching her grace, With lessons of resilience, he found his place. A howler of joy, with a spirit so grand, His laughter and loyalty forever will stand. Little Leo, his grandmother’s endearing name, In car rides to Tahoe, he played life’s sweet game. Sixteen glorious years, or ninety-four human, Surrounded by love, his journey was proven. At home, in peace, he laid down to rest, With Mike, Brittany, and Millie, the ones he loved best. So we celebrate Jax, our loyal, sweet friend, In memories and love, his spirit won’t end. We will miss you Jaxy boy! The house is already way too quiet and I already miss your water spills! We love you! Goodnight San Francisco! 🌉🌈💔🐶

19/11/2024

https://www.houstonpublicmedia.org/articles/shows/houston-matters/2024/11/18/506412/please-dont-feed-the-dog-thanksgiving-table-scraps/

Veterinarian Dr. Lori Teller shares some pre-Thanksgiving suggestions in this month's chat about pet care.

12/11/2024

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/senior-pets

Older pets may develop age-related problems. Good care allows them to live happy, healthy, and active lives in their senior years.

25/10/2024

24/10/2024

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/halloween-pet-safety

Don't feed your pets Halloween candy, especially if it contains chocolate or xylitol (a common sugar substitute); Make sure your pet has proper ID...

24/10/2024

In Loving Memory of Cam

In the heart of our home, a gentle soul lay,
Cam, the Greyhound, now rests at the end of his day.
From the tracks of Florida to Massachusetts’ embrace,
He came as a companion, bringing love to our space.

Pat C Ambushed, a name that held pride,
With victories in racing, but fate chose to guide
Him to a life where he learned to be free,
A cat-like spirit, so graceful, so carefree.

With black and grey fur, a coat soft as night,
His soulful eyes sparkled, a comforting light.
When happiness bloomed, he wore a sweet smile,
Head bumps and snuggles, his love was worthwhile.

Yet in moments of sorrow, a gentle shake would show,
The depth of his heart, the feelings would flow.
With laughter he gifted us, a counter surfer bold,
Eating a pot roast, a story retold.

At Fort Funston, his joy knew no bounds,
Long, lanky legs dancing on soft, sandy grounds.
He wandered like a doe, graceful and free,
A creature of nature, wild spirit, and glee.

Once met by antelope, with curiosity they met,
In that moment of magic, our hearts won’t forget.
Sixteen wonderful years, nearly a century human, a life full of grace,
In our memories, Cam will always find a place.

Surrounded by love, Miguel and Stephen near,
With Laurent and Dolce, his siblings so dear.
He slipped into peace, a journey complete,
In the warmth of our hearts, he’ll never know defeat.

Farewell, dear Cammy, our gentle, sweet friend,
In the tapestry of love, your spirit won’t end.
With every fond memory, your legacy stays,
A reminder of joy in our hearts, all our days.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
10-14-24

05/10/2024

Researchers have developed a tool that can aid owners and veterinarians in assessing an elderly dog's frailty. The tool -- when coupled with simple assessments of body and muscle condition by the veterinarian -- can predict likelihood of short-term (within six months) mortality and provide important...

02/10/2024

In Loving Memory of Molly

In Daly City, on a hopeful day,
A grey cat named Molly found her way.
With a glance that sparked a love so bright,
Mary Beth knew it was love at first sight.

Adopted with her sister, sweet JoJo by her side,
Molly, once Sweetie, now wore her name with pride.
In a world of Beatles, she became The Molz,
Mollycat , Special K, answering our calls.

Her full name, a melody, soft and sweet,
Molly Katherine Sweetie Squishy Rockwell-Walliesa, indeed.
On St. Patrick’s Day, her birthday we’d cheer,
For those beautiful green eyes that brought us near.

With wand toys in paws, she danced through the air,
Chasing dreams and shadows without a care.
Her favorite treats, meats and popcorn delight,
A gentle tap on the shoulder, “Hey, don’t ignore me tonight!”

When joy filled her heart, she'd roll for a rub,
With head butts of love, she’d fill our hearts snug.
She taught us a lesson in love so pure,
In laughter and joy, she made our hearts soar.

“Oh, this isn’t the forbidden table!” she’d say,
Jumping up high onto a box, bringing smiles to our day.
If only she spoke, she’d ask for a popcorn treat,
And thank us for giving her life so sweet.

At sixteen and a half, she lived full and grand,
Ninety-six human years, a life we’d all planned.
On a hot San Francisco day, she took her last breath,
Surrounded by Steve and Mary Beth’s love, she found peace in her rest.

Dear Molly, our treasure, your spirit will stay,
In hearts full of memories, you'll never fade away.
Thank you for the laughter, the love, and the cheer,
Forever in our hearts, you’ll always be near.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
10-1-24

02/10/2024

In Loving Memory of Berkeley

In the heart of San Francisco, a treasure was found,
A tiny fluff ball, joy and love abound.
Berkeley, our dear, with energy so bright,
Your spirit brought warmth, a pure delight.

With nicknames like Berky, Turkey, and Yoda,
You danced through our lives, a whimsical ode-a.
Frisbee in paw, or chasing a ball,
Your laughter-filled moments enchanted us all.

Adventures at Ocean Beach, exploring the shore,
Fort Funston’s trails, oh, how you’d adore!
A foodie at heart, for human treats you’d plea,
A snuggler by night, curled up next to me.

Your tail, a motor, when happiness bloomed,
With kisses and love, our hearts you consumed.
Seventeen states you ventured, so bold,
Some journeys by air, where stories unfold.

You taught us of patience, of courage and grace,
A tripod cancer survivor, you embraced every place.
Dressed as a pumpkin or a queen with a crown,
Wonder Woman, baseball star, never a frown.

Inquisitive spirit, friendly and true,
If only you could speak, oh, what tales you’d construe!
“Where’s my next treat? Let’s explore once more!”
Your zest for life opened every door.

At thirteen years old, you lived rich and free,
Eighty in human years, you thrived joyously.
Peacefully resting, in sunlight you lay,
With Kate by your side, and grandmother Barbara nearby, you drifted away.

Beloved Berkeley, our hearts you will fill,
In memories cherished, your spirit will thrill.
Though you’ve crossed over, in love you remain,
Forever our pup, until we meet again.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
9-27-24

26/09/2024

In Loving Memory of Chloe

In Berkeley’s warmth, a treasure found,
A black and white beauty, forever unbound.
Adopted at one, but named Ricotta no more,
Chloe she became, a spirit we adore.

Sassy and playful, with a heart full of cheer,
Pretty Girl, Sweetie, our joy held so near.
Feather toys danced as she leapt through the night,
A foodie at heart, she brought pure delight.

With her meows echoing through every hall,
Adventurous spirit, she would conquer them all.
The yard was her kingdom, the mice she would chase,
Our regal princess, she owned every space.

A renal survivor so brave, with fur soft as dreams,
She taught us of love, of life’s gentle beams.
Cuddly on her terms, wise and assertive,
Her essence, a gift, so beautifully preserved.

Pumpkin her buddy, in memories held tight,
She missed him dearly, till his urn returned home that night.
At twenty-one, or 119 human years, our queen took her rest,
Peacefully at home, where she felt truly blessed.

So, here’s to dear Chloe, our love ever true,
A legacy of joy, in everything we do.
Though her paws may be still, her spirit will soar,
In our hearts forever, Beautiful Girl we adore.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
9-17-24

18/09/2024

In memory of Piggy, our dear friend,
The black and white cat, on whom hearts depend.
From the ASPCA in NYC he came,
With big ears and lanky, he stole our hearts' flame.

Lauren saw him first, love at first sight,
A bond that would flourish through day and through night.
Tim welcomed him home, their first furry delight,
With zoomies and mischief, he brought joy and light.

Traveling far, from Chicago to Rhode Island sea,
In first-class he flew to California, as regal as can be.
A study assistant, a shadow so near,
With a head bump and purr, he spread warmth and cheer.

Maui was accepted, little sibling so sweet,
Together they ignored each other, their bond was complete.
He taught us of love, of laughter and play,
A hunter of bugs, he'd brighten each day.

With nicknames aplenty—Pig Pig, Iggy Pop,
He’d fetch like a dog, never wanting to stop.
Though not a lap cat, he grew to be near,
A loyal companion, with nothing to fear.

Oh, how he’d run, with a bag on his head,
A furniture scratcher, where mischief was bred.
He lived through the years, a hundred and one,
A fierce, curious spirit, now his journey is done.

Surrounded by love, as he took his last flight,
Lauren and Tim held him close through the night.
Dear Piggy, sweet Piglet, in our hearts you remain,
A legacy of laughter, love, and a touch of pain.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
9-15-24

05/09/2024

In Loving Memory of Bella

In a cozy home, where love was found,
Lived Bella, the Chihuahua mix dog, whose joy knew no bound.
With long, flowing fur, a red hue so bright,
She brought warmth to our days, our hearts' pure delight.

Adopted at ten, with a spirit so free,
She leaped into life, a sweet jubilee.
With Jazmin and Biachi, her family so dear,
In a menagerie of love, she had nothing to fear.

Oh, how she ran, like a seesaw at play,
In Jackson Park’s embrace, she’d frolic all day.
Her powerful nose led her on countless hikes,
Each adventure a journey, as she chased and was liked.

Her laughter erupted when she’d play with her toy,
That silly opossum, oh what a joy!
Jazmin’s true shadow, they shared every night,
In dreams filled with love, everything felt right.

When happiness struck, her tail would take flight,
Wagging like a motor, a heart full of light.
Loyal and loving, with a calming embrace,
She taught us all patience, in her gentle grace.

From car trips to LA, to Vegas so bright,
Every mile shared was a moment of light.
With soulful eyes that held stories untold,
Everyone adored her, a heart made of gold.

In sweaters for Christmas, she’d prance with such flair,
A herder at heart, with love everywhere.
Now she rests peacefully, in the warmth of our home,
Surrounded by family, no longer to roam.

Dear Bella, our treasure, your spirit will stay,
In the laughter, the love, in each memory we play.
Though you’ve crossed to the rainbow, your light will remain,
In our hearts, sweet Bell Bell, until we meet again.

Dr. Ken Gorczyca
9-3-24
San Francisco

04/09/2024

Grizzly Bear - 10/21/09 - 8/31/24
aka Grizz, Rizz, Baby Girl, Baby Seal Eyes, Fur Bomb, Stump Nubbler, Wiggle Butt, Dancer Prancer

You came into our lives by chance. We raised your litter with your mama, Nana, from 4 weeks old. You were born in the briar patch of dirt, scrubland, and hippies. You resembled a quiet little pot-bellied piglet. The first time Alex saw you, he knew you were the one. To be ours forever. His little "Nottweiler" with your natural bobtail.

Your favorite things in life were food and snacks, hiking and camping, and digging in the snow. Rope toys, jolly balls, sticks, and logs. Clean sheets and freshly made beds with pillows to lie your head upon. Riding in the trucks and cars with your head in the breeze your ears flapping in the wind. Running in the surf at the beach. Digging holes there and stealing balls from Teddy, your best buddy and constant companion. You were always pushing him around. He needed that, he needed you.

You were so tough and strong and sweet and gentle. You were the "pillow" dog I'd always dreamed of. When you'd rest your head on me, I'd feel immense love and joy. You were a good friend to our daughter, Kaya, and always there when she needed you. You were her protector and her friend. You helped to raise her puppy, Dakota, as your last giving act.
You loved to bark for joy and dance when we danced. You were so goofy and full of good energy. You never had a bad day. Your spirits were always high.

I will miss your little wagging bob-tail, your snuggles, the fun adventures we had, and sharing a life with you everyday. I will always remember you fondly as one of my best friends and closest companions.

Run free! Till we meet again. We love you Grizzly Bear ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
-Jenn & Alex B.

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