Tinka was living on the streets of Tampa, FL, and was about 5 months old when she came to live with me in January 2007. Little did I know that this sweet girl would be my best friend for the next 18 years. I may have rescued her, but she definitely saved me. She was always by my side. My Tinka saw me through two spinal fusions, two knee surgeries, a heart procedure, family deaths, sad times, and joyful times of celebration. To say it was my honor and privilege to care for her during her lifetime and into her senior years is an understatement. I would do anything in the world for her. She was always there to greet me when I came home, and she was always the first one I greeted.
Tinka had so many unique personality traits. She would hunt all of her stuffed mouse babies during the night and put them in her food dish for me to find in the morning. Sometimes one of those mouse babies would be placed on my pillow. Tinka loved spending time on her lanai and always found the sunbeam. She loved watching birds and squirrels and catching frogs and lizards that made their way onto the lanai.
Since Tinka went to heaven, my house is empty and so silent. It’s only been three weeks since we said our goodbye for now, and I say thank you for being my sweet girl and coming to live with me—you are the best kitty anyone ever had. I will always love my girl, Tinka, and I’ll see her on the other side.
Dr. Alex was absolutely wonderful and so gentle with Tinka and with me during the very difficult time of our goodbye. She explained everything so that I knew exactly what was happening and what to expect. I will be forever grateful to Dr. Alex and Caring Pathways for their care and compassion.