In Loving Memory of Dallas



Dallas came into our lives when the world felt heavy, bringing a lightness and love we didn’t know we needed. He had already faced more challenges in his early days than most animals ever should. The year a hurricane devastated the southern United States, Dallas was one of the countless pets transported north to find refuge. That Thanksgiving, after a trip to Boston, I made a decision that changed everything—I adopted Dallas. I thought I was giving him a second chance, but in reality, he gave us so much more.



From the very first moment, Dallas became the heart of our home. His love was boundless, his care unwavering. He had this way of knowing exactly what you needed without a word being said. I didn’t want him to feel lonely when no one was home, so I adopted Maximus to keep him company. Dallas embraced his new little brother effortlessly, showing a kindness and patience that was uniquely his. Together, Dallas and Max brought warmth, laughter, and a sense of completeness to our family.



For seven unforgettable years, Dallas was more than just a cat. He was our guardian, our comfort, our joy. He had this uncanny ability to sense when someone was down, and he’d be there, offering silent support that spoke louder than any words. At night, he patrolled the house as if he were keeping watch over us, making sure everyone was safe and sound. His presence was magnetic—you couldn’t look at Dallas without smiling. His warmth wrapped around you like a hug you didn’t know you needed.



This past September, Dallas left us without warning, and the pain of his loss still feels unbearable. That morning was just like any other. He ate breakfast, wandered around the house, and found one of his favorite hiding spots. When I came home later, I searched for him, expecting to see him emerge, full of his usual curiosity. Instead, I found him lying peacefully, as if he had simply decided it was time. He was still warm but had already gone. He left this world quietly, without pain or suffering, the same gentle way he lived his life.



The weight of losing Dallas is overwhelming. I never imagined I could feel this kind of grief for a pet, but Dallas was so much more than that. He was family. During the pandemic, he became the star of our household Zoom calls. Teachers and coworkers alike adored “El Gato Dallas,” who always found his way into the frame to make sure everyone was on task. And just weeks before his passing, as I set up new office furniture, he was right there, inspecting my desk as if giving it his final approval. That memory will stay with me forever.



It’s hard to make sense of why he was taken so soon. I often find myself looking out the window, hoping to feel his presence. The house feels emptier without him. There’s a silence now where his comforting energy used to be. But even in his passing, Dallas continues to inspire.



In his memory, we’ve opened our hearts to other cats in need. Hercules, who waited 14 long months in a shelter after losing his owner, joined us first. And then Brutus, a sweet soul who had been overlooked at PetSmart, found his forever home with us. While these cats have brought new joy and companionship, no one can ever take Dallas’s place. We also wanted to keep Maximus happy because we know he feels our pain for losing you.  Now he is the OG in the house and has to become the big brother Hercules and Brutus. As you did for him. 



Dallas, you were so loved and are missed more than words can express. You left a mark on our hearts that time will never erase. I choose to believe you were called to something greater, that you’re now in heaven bringing comfort to others, just as you did for us.



Rest in peace, my dearest friend. The love and light you brought into our lives will never be forgotten. Thank you for the gift of your presence, your warmth, and your unwavering love. Until we meet again, you will always be in our hearts.