Where do I start? From day one, you were something special. You were my first pet—my best friend who never left my side. I remember when I first got you, I thought you were a girl and named you Dolce. Your mother gave up on you and your sister, and when I got the call saying the female had passed and I had the boy, I was heartbroken. But I was also blessed, knowing I was able to save your life.

But Nikko… you saved my life. When I could’ve given up, I had you to look to—to make sure you were taken care of. When I was sad, you were there. When I was frustrated, you calmed me down. You never judged me. You loved me exactly as I am

We moved all over, and even though there was a time I couldn’t be with you, I came back for you. From that moment on, we were never separated again. I miss our nightly cuddles. I miss hearing you yell at me all day for food. I miss seeing your little face when I’m in the bathroom, and the way you’d stick your paws under the door or shake it just to get my attention—to be close to me. I miss you so much, Nikko.

You played such a major role in my life, and I’m truly honored that I was blessed to be your mommy. You taught me that it’s okay to be me. You taught me to stand firm in my beliefs, and so much more. Thank you, Nikko, for the amazing 14 years we had together. It started with you in my hands, and it ended with you in my arms. I love you, forever and always. —Mommy