When Loving Them Means Letting Go: Tikka’s New Chapter

A Life Turned Upside Down

Life has a funny way of throwing changes at us when we least expect it. Recently, my personal life took a turn I never could have anticipated — after nine years together, my partner and I have decided to part ways.

As anyone who has been through a major separation knows, it’s not just about dividing possessions. It’s about untangling a life that was built together — a home, routines, and yes, even the family we built with our pets.

Tikka's Journey With Me

Many of you will remember Tikka. She came into our lives last summer as a foster after being removed from a horribly neglectful situation. When she arrived, she needed everything: weight gain, muscle building, confidence, basic training, and most importantly, someone to show her compassion and trust.

We spent countless hours together, working on potty training, making multiple trips to the vet, and slowly but surely building up her emotional well being. Watching her transformation has been one of the most rewarding but also demanding parts of my life.

Realizing Hard Truths

But even with all that progress, Tikka has always been a high needs girl. German Shorthaired Pointers (GSPs) aren’t a breed for the faint of heart — they operate at two speeds: zero or one hundred, with no in between. They need daily structure, exercise, and a level of stimulation that demands time and energy.

Between my rapidly growing business and now navigating a complete change in my home life, I had to face a painful truth: I could no longer give Tikka the life she deserved. Despite my best efforts, she was spending far too much of her day cooped up in a kennel. And as someone who is deeply passionate about the quality of life for all pets — not just my clients’ but my own — I knew this wasn’t acceptable.

Finding the Perfect Fit

After heavy reflection and many difficult conversations, we agreed that it was in Tikka’s best interest to find her a new home — one that could provide her with everything she needed to thrive.

If you’ve ever loved a GSP, you know how important it is for them to have the right environment. So, I specifically sought out a family who understood the breed. And as if the universe wanted to reassure me that I was making the right decision, the perfect family appeared almost instantly.

Not only were they experienced with pointers — having had three over the years — but they currently have one at home. And the best part? Their dog's name is Trigger.

The moment I heard that, it felt like fate. Tikka and Trigger — a perfect pairing, almost like it was meant to be.

A Bittersweet Goodbye

Letting Tikka go was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. But it was never about what was easiest for me — it was about what was best for her. I owe it to every pet that crosses my path to prioritize their happiness, dignity, and quality of life, even when it breaks my heart.

Tikka now has the opportunity to live her best, fullest life with a family who deeply understands her needs and can give her the time and attention she deserves. And I will continue to carry with me the reminder that doing right by our animals sometimes means making the most selfless decisions we can.

Their well being will always be my top priority — because every pet, whether in my care or my home, deserves a life filled with love, purpose, and joy. Please join me in celebrating Tikka's new chapter.