Jan 21, 2026

Not every story we encounter is one of success and triumph. Sometimes, it’s about the journey, the love shared, and the memories created, even if the time together is brief. This is the story of Esther, a resilient spirit who touched our hearts deeply.

Esther came into our lives not as a planned companion but as a stray. She wore a tattoo from our spay and neuter return program. Despite her history and the challenges she faced, she returned to us at a time when she needed help the most.

When Esther came in, she was over the age of 15, an impressive feat. However, her age brought with it significant health issues. She had severely deteriorated teeth and a large tumor near her anus, both of which required immediate attention. Despite these challenges, Esther’s gentle spirit shone through, captivating all who met her.

In an effort to give Esther the best chance at recovery, we placed her in an amazing, quiet foster home. Our hope was that she could regain her strength and enjoy a few more years filled with love and comfort. Her foster family embraced her with open arms, providing her with a warm, loving environment to call home.

Sadly, Esther’s condition didn’t improve as we had hoped. Even with pain management medication, she struggled to find comfort and was unable to thrive. The realization that she was in pain and not improving was heartbreaking, but it was important to ensure her final days were filled with love and dignity.

Though our time with Esther was short, the impact she had on our lives was profound. We’re grateful that she was able to spend her final days in a caring home, surrounded by warmth and compassion. Her memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew her, reminding us of the importance of kindness and empathy.

Rest in peace, dear Esther.

You are missed more than words can express, and your story continues to inspire love and compassion for all creatures in need.