Ozzie was the kind of kitty that makes you a better human. In his nearly 18 years, he was always the kindest, gentlest, sweetest boy. He was independent but very sensitive. Not ever the one to hang out where the action or people were but would ensure he was the first to greet me in bed each and every morning and be there near the door to say hello upon my return home. He often had whole conversations with me, always chatty. In his younger years he loved rattle mice and the red rings from gallon milk jugs. He even played fetch! He often played with his favorite toys at night on the stairs (no matter the house we lived in) leaving the evidence in the morning. As he got older he preferred sunny windows, warm blankets, the top of the couch cushions and his cozy collection of kitty beds. He loved his big sister Sam and eventually his little sister Allie. He was truly the best brother to them both. He loved chips, turkey and turkey bacon human food in addition to his own. He loved his treats and would knock them down as he wanted them from the top of his scratching post like a gum ball dispenser, the way we managed to keep his shorter sisters out of his stash. He was an aggressive kisser, talking and licks were his love language. He was a lover of cat nip of all kinds. And even as his age progressed and his health declined, he never stopped being the easiest, sweetest, most gentle of souls. From the moment I met him to his last breath he was the perfect balance of gentle and strong.

I am grateful to the village of veterinary medical professionals who gave us so much time together. Twin Pines Medical team in Bothell, his acupuncturist Dr Cory Gross and his cardiology team including Dr Maran at Olympic Veterinary Cardiology. Together we helped Oz defy the odds for several years. I am so grateful for the gifts of health and time you have him…us.

Thank you to all those who work in the veterinary medicine space, pushing through challenges and compassion fatigue. What you do matters.