A giant amongst little dogs, Isabel (Roo) passed away peacefully in our arms on July 22, 2020. While there are no words to describe how much her absence will be felt, she let us know at 17+ years of age that it was her time to go. She was so, so tired.

When we adopted Isabel in 2004 from a wonderful rescue that saves dogs from Puerto Rico, she was described as a VERY loving 10-month old. That was an understatement. This little girl was the sweetest of souls who taught us so much about life and how to show up in the world. She led with absolute kindness and a generous heart, something this world could use more of these days.

Isabel loved a good conversation, adventurous PNW hikes, snuggling with her cat BFF, Hazel (who is still with us), her annual Xmas stocking, visiting her Uncle Erik, running on the beach and barking at the waves, kayak and paddle board rides, cheese (and more cheese), Green Lake walks, agility and nose-works classes (she was incredibly smart and could sneeze on cue if you asked if she had a cold - seriously), dinner promptly at 5pm, bedtime at 10pm, laying in the sun at the Vashon cabin, hanging at breweries and cafes, playing with other dogs, fetching, being silly (running happy circles in the sand, wiggling around on her back), road trips, going to hotels (especially if they put out treats for her), the company of good friends, hanging in the backyard… in sum, she loved going anywhere we were and we loved being with her in return.

It’s so hard to imagine life without her, it’s fair to say we are heartbroken, but we carry on knowing Roo has made us better people. I hope we can go forward with the same kindheartedness that she did.