In her 13 years, Shaska (meaning star, for the full 5 point star on her chest), went from an energetic, adventurous and wild puppy, to a sweet, gentle and always still independent girlie. She touched the hearts of many in her calmer adult years, working with St. John Ambulance as a therapy dog. Shaska absolutely loved her job, sharing her special head hugs and calm sweet presence with everyone, whether children in a reading program, university students at exam de-stress events, or brightening the days of people also in their calmer twilight years while visiting nursing homes and care facilities.

Shaska had been with our family through many new adventures, it was both very difficult and very special to say goodbye after so many treasured memories together. For the past few years, every day had been a gift after we determined Shaska had a growth in her abdomen. She retired from St. John’s Ambulance, but never really missed a step, always still her happy, smiling self. We kept treasuring each day, providing all the comfort and medical support we could, while quietly preparing our hearts to say goodbye when the time came.

Our intention was to say goodbye as a family at home, a last little moment together to say thank you for the amazing life we’ve shared. Of course, things don’t always go as planned - our family said goodbye at a 24 hr emergency veterinary clinic, and we are very thankful for the care and support we were given. These events did help stimulate Dr. Kayleigh to do something for other families who may want to make this choice to be together at home when the time comes, and to help make it available to as many families as possible. And so, All Your Heart Vet Services was born. Since they truly never leave our hearts, and they fill our whole life with love while they’re with us.