Dakota Joan

Today, we had to say goodbye to Dakota Joan(Kota Baby) . After years 13 of loyalty, love, and unforgettable memories, it was her time. Making this decision was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do but loving her meant choosing peace over seeing her in pain. It meant protecting her when she couldn’t carry the weight anymore. Dakota wasn’t just our dog — she was family, a true Alaskan Malamute through and through. Strong. Independent. Opinionate, sassy (oh let me tell you!) She carried herself with that steady, powerful presence that only a Malamute has — grounded, proud, and completely aware that this was her house. And when she had something to say, everyone knew it. Her awoo woo (just call them awoos) weren’t quiet little sounds, they were full fledge announcements....Especially when she needed to go potty. She would burst into that dramatic WOO, AWOOO WOO, seeing her smile, and start trotting toward the door like, “Well?? Let’s go peasant.” No waiting patiently, she made sure you understood the assignment. It was urgent, it was loud and proud, and it was completely Dakota. She would talk back. She would argue her case. She would sing when the mood hit(aka treat time or when she smelled the range going). Her deep vocals filled this house so many times, and now that silence feels bigger because of it. And when it came to food especially the treats and homemade cookies her mama made just for her and she was locked in. She knew the smell before they were even fully cooled. Another favorite treat was her mamas home made soup, she would have ears up, eyes focused, entire soul invested. Those cookie treats and soup weren’t just treats; they were love made just for her, and she knew it. She was there for everything, milestones, quiet evenings, loud days, hard seasons, joyful ones. She watched over this home in her own steady, stubborn, loyal way especially keeping her other dog siblings in check. Tonight, the house feels different. No paws pacing toward the door. No sudden potty awoos breaking the silence. No smiling Kota Baby face making demands like she ran the house. But her spirit hasn’t left. Her strength. Her voice. Her dramatic announcements. Her cookie radar. Her love. All of it lives on in us. Roam free, Dakota. No more pain. No more suffering and endless homemade cookies that mama made waiting for you. You are deeply loved. And you always will be.

Rest Easy, We Have Your Watch Now Kota Baby.